Name: Royal Shakespeare Company
Rating: 5.0

Royal Shakespeare Company

Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6BB, UK

1-99 Years

1619
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Description

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) is a world-renowned theatre organisation based in Stratford-upon-Avon. As one of the best things to do with kids in Stratford-upon-Avon, this performing arts venue offers more than just stage productions; it is a hub of interactive history and creative workshops. Families can explore the iconic riverside theatres, take guided tours, and engage with the rich heritage of William Shakespeare in an accessible, family-friendly environment.

General entry to the building itself is free, allowing families to wander the foyers and explore various public displays. Tickets for specific theatre productions, guided tours, and special events vary in price, with many child-friendly options available. It is recommended to check the official website for current performance pricing and event schedules.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, the Royal Shakespeare Company provides an immersive, educational experience that makes classic literature and stagecraft accessible for all ages. With its riverside location, interactive exhibitions, and family-focused itineraries, it serves as a premier destination for a cultural day out in Warwickshire.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

Interactive Exhibitions: The venue hosts permanent and rotating exhibits like The Play's The Thing, which is free and designed to be fun for all ages.
Educational Day Out: Through workshops and family-friendly tours, children can learn about the history of theatre, set design, and costume creation.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The site includes a dedicated Riverside Cafe, a rooftop restaurant with a children’s menu, and accessible facilities throughout.
Immersive Tours: Choose from backstage tours, costume hire tours, or the tower climb for a unique perspective on the theatre's inner workings.
Creative Spaces: Areas like Susie’s Cafe Bar at The Other Place offer board games and a relaxed environment for families to unwind.

What to See

The Tower: Take a lift to the top of the theatre for spectacular views of the town and the River Avon, followed by an exhibition on the descent.
The Play’s The Thing: This permanent, free exhibition features interactive displays and curious historical items that help children understand how a play is brought to life.
Costume & Prop Displays: Located in various foyers and workshop areas, these displays allow children to see the craft behind theatrical magic.
Dressing-Up Box: A popular free activity on level two where children can try on period-style headwear and costumes for photos.
Riverside Areas: Enjoy the scenic views and outdoor spaces along the River Avon, which provide a great backdrop for a family picnic.

Facilities

Toilets: Public toilets and accessible facilities are available throughout the venue.
Buggy Parking: Available on-site; inquire at the information desk upon arrival.
Food Options: The Riverside Cafe and Rooftop Restaurant are on-site, offering children’s menus and high chairs.
Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible with lifts to all levels, wheelchair seating in theatres, and hearing loops.
Gift Shop: A shop on-site sells books, themed souvenirs, and gifts related to Shakespeare and the theatre.

Pro-Tips

Arrive Early: The building is free to enter, but popular tours and workshops fill up quickly; book online in advance to secure your spot.
Use the Lifts: The theatre has lift access to all levels, which is highly recommended for families with pushchairs.
Check Performance Schedules: If you aren't seeing a show, try to visit on a day when there are no performances if you prefer a quieter environment, or visit during a show day for the full theatre buzz.
Blue Badge Parking: There is limited parking for Blue Badge holders at the rear of the venue; standard parking is available at nearby council car parks.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love:

The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes the theatre feel like a public space rather than an intimidating institution.
The free entry to the building and specific exhibits provides excellent value for money.
Staff are consistently described as helpful and knowledgeable, especially when engaging with children.
The diverse range of activities, from high-energy workshops to quiet riverside views, caters to different age groups.

What Visitors Don't Like:

The main public car parks can be a significant walk away, which can be challenging with young children.
Tour availability can be limited, and some popular workshops sell out well in advance of the date.
The historic nature of the town and some venue areas can feel crowded during peak school holiday periods.

What to see

Detailed Inventory of Exhibits

RSC Stage Models: Scale replicas showing how different sets are constructed for specific productions.
Historical Costume Collection: A rotating display of garments ranging from the 1800s to modern-day show costumes.
The Tower Exhibition: Displays charting the history and architecture of the theatre buildings.
Actor’s Secret Changing Spaces: Areas viewed during backstage tours that reveal where performers prepare.
Technical Control Room: A look into the nerve centre of a live performance where lights and sound are managed.
Band Box: A designated area to learn about the role of live music in theatre.
Scenic Workshop Props: A collection of items built by skilled carpenters and engineers for various plays.
The Other Place Studio: A space often used for experimental performances and family workshops.
Interactive Theatre Games: Found within The Play's The Thing, these teach children about stagecraft.
Period Headwear: Various crowns and hats available in the dressing-up area for creative play.

Beyond the Main Attraction

Shakespeare’s Birthplace: Visit the iconic house where the playwright was born, located a short walk away.
Holy Trinity Church: Explore the final resting place of William Shakespeare, situated along the river path.
River Avon Boat Trips: Take a leisurely cruise on the river to see the town from the water.
Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm: A nearby indoor attraction that is perfect for younger children.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: A historic thatched farmhouse located just a short distance from the town centre.

New for 2026

Game of Thrones: The Mad King: A new stage epic making its world premiere at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre this summer.
Enhanced Summer Tours: Expanded backstage and costume tour schedules running throughout the 2026 season until September.
Polka Theatre Collaboration: A series of brand-new storytelling adventures and sensory workshops for babies and children aged 0–4.

Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.

Website

Contact

Video

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

For information regarding private event bookings and potential party hosting, please contact the Box Office via email at [email protected].

Monday to Saturday: 9am - 11pm.

Address: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6BB, UK

Post Code: CV37 6BB

Council: Stratford-on-Avon

County: Warwickshire

By car: Stratford-upon-Avon is a short drive from Junction 15 of the M40, giving good access to the M42, M5, M6 and M25. Our postcode is CV37 6BB.
Cycling to the RSC: The theatre is accessible via the National Cycle Network Route 41 and there are bicycle racks outside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre building. You can get help planning your journey from cyclestreets.net.
Car parks: There is a large choice of fee-charging car parks in Stratford-upon-Avon.