From Friday 29 November, visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon are invited to step back in time and see Shakespeare’s Birthplace in a new light with intimate Candlelit tours of the historic house. The Candlelit tours will take place over a period of three weekends, bringing festive cheer to all those who visit.
This year, visitors are invited to experience Christmas as the Shakespeare family may have in the Tudor period with special Candlelit tours of the iconic 16th-century building on Henley Street.
‘’During Shakespeare’s childhood, Christmas, also known as Christmastide, was celebrated over 12 days, beginning on 25 December, ending on the Twelfth Night, 6 January. For Shakespeare and his loved ones, the 12 days were filled with social activities, such as carol singing, dancing and games. Popular games played during the festive season included Blind Man’s Buff and Hide-and-Seek – games many still play today.’’
Commented Emily White, Curator at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust (SBT).
Visitors will be transported back in time as the building where young Shakespeare celebrated Christmas with his parents and siblings, will be dressed in traditional decorations suitable for the season, including greenery garlands of ivy and holly, and mistletoe.
The decorations are in place until Twelfth Night, Monday 6 January, signalling the end of the festive period at Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
‘’As with festivities today, a Tudor Christmas saw traditional decorations such as mistletoe, ivy and yew displayed in family homes. In some households you may have been lucky enough to smell aromas of mace, nutmeg and cinnamon as you walked through the front door.
‘’However, one significant difference from celebrations today is that there were no Christmas trees during Shakespeare’s childhood.’’
Added Emily.
Step Back in Time at Shakespeare’s Birthplace
From the moment they arrive, visitors will be immersed in the traditions of a Tudor and Jacobean Christmas as they are guided through the Birthplace after dark, under magical candlelight, as it would have been during Shakespeare’s lifetime.
Upon arrival, visitors will be transported back in time with the sounds of live, traditional Tudor music in the SBT’s Famous Beyond Words exhibition space. As they listen to the talented musicians, guests will be greeted by a costumed guide who will welcome them with a warming drink of mulled wine.
Following a cosy reception of mince pies, mulled wine and music, visitors will be handed their own LED candles before being led by a costumed guide through the historic Birthplace. During the tour, guests are invited to speak to the guides and learn about the array of festive traditions of the Tudor and Jacobean period and the fascinating history of the timber-framed building.
Finally, visitors are invited to round off their evening with exclusive retail therapy at the iconic Birthplace Shop. Visitors are invited to indulge in tasters of the SBT’s exquisite, locally produced gifts including its new signature edition Shakespeare Gin, wines, chutneys and much more.
‘’Following the success of previous years, we are thrilled to be bringing back our special Candlelit tours, inviting more visitors to join us and explore the fascinating traditions of a Tudor and Jacobean Christmas.
‘’Our exclusive after-hours tours provide a unique chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world, experience the magic of a Tudor and Jacobean Christmas, and uncover the history of the house that influenced William Shakespeare. These tours are not to be missed, so book now to avoid disappointment!”
Added Samantha Smith, Head of Operations at the SBT.
Candlelit Christmas at Shakespeare’s Birthplace is taking place across three weekends on 29 November – 30 November, 6 – 7 December and 13 – 14 December, with time slots available between 5pm and 7pm. Tickets start from £9.75 for children, £12 for concessions and £15 for adults, with pre-booking advised.
For more information on Christmas at the Shakespeare family homes, please visit shakespeare.org.uk/christmas/.