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To see or not to see: follow Shakespeare around England

He may have died 400 years ago but Shakespeare's legacy lives on around England

April 7, 2016 11:23
Windsor Castle: Shakespeare wrote The Merry Wives of Windsor, which was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth  and performed at this venue

ByAnonymous, Anonymous

3 min read

The great William Shakespeare aka The Bard of Avon, will be commemorated across England this year to mark 400 years since his death in 1616. During his short 52 years on earth he penned stories that are still loved today. Here we round-up some of the best ways to celebrate Shakespeare's life and works, and where to discover the untold stories of England's Bard.

Shakespeare's birthplace

Shakespeare was the son of a wealthy tanner and glove maker. Their family home in the picturesque and vibrant town of Stratford upon Avon, was the largest in Henly street. The half-timbered property survives as a museum. The story goes that American Fairground Mogul PT Barnum attempted to buy it in 1847, planning to ship it to the USA. A consortium involving Charles Dickens bought it for £3,000 so it could remain in England. Today the parlour, hall, and bedrooms are furnished as they may have looked in 1574 and the garden features many of the plants that are mentioned in his plays. Sometimes there are on-demand performances by wandering costumed actors.

Shakespeare.co.uk