Shakespeare in the Royal Library
Marking the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, this display draws on material in the Royal Library, including works of Shakespeare collected by the royal family, accounts of performances at Windsor Castle, and art by members of the royal family inspired by Shakespeare's plays.
It will examine aspects of the playwright's life, work and influence, and celebrate his longstanding connection with Windsor and the royal court.
Shakespeare in the Royal Library is part of the Shakespeare400 series, marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death in 2016. Through a connected series of public performances, programmes, exhibitions and creative activities in the capital and beyond, partners will celebrate the legacy of Shakespeare during the quatercentenary year.
Exhibition Highlights
William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
Mr. William Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies : published according to the true originall copies.
John Norden (c. 1547-1625)
A Description of the Honor of Windesor.
Events programme
School sessions
2016 - Shakespeare 400th Anniversary
Why not join in with this year's 400th anniversary celebration of William Shakespeare's legacy by visiting us at Windsor Castle
The Many Lives of Shakespeare
In this interactive creative writing session our published author will draw on real works of art and archival documents displayed in the exhibition
Shakespeare: Play on Words
This engaging storytelling and role play session brings Shakespeare's works alive for pupils in Years 1, 2 and 3.
Shakespeare: Court in the Act
Delivered by an immersive theatre production company, this drama workshop uses one of Shakespeare's most famous and fun plays
Map & directions
By car
There is no visitor car parking at the Castle, so we recommend you use public car parks in the town centre. Details about parking in Windsor town centre can be found on www.windsor.gov.uk
By train
The nearest train stations are 'Windsor & Eton Central' or 'Windsor & Eton Riverside'.
Both stations are a short walk (less than 10 minutes) to the Castle but from Riverside station you will need to walk up a steep hill.
Visit National Rail Enquiries for times and fares.
By coach / bus
Windsor Express buses operate regular services to Windsor town centre:
- Route 702 runs from near Victoria Station in central London
- Route 703 runs from Heathrow Terminal 5
Find more information on the Windsor Express website.
Tour companies operate excursions to Windsor Castle from many London hotels. For details, please ask your hotel concierge.
