This week the UK Government introduced a new tier system to categorise different areas by different COVID alert levels. As London is due to move into a high (tier 2) category this evening (16 October 2020), we wanted to do a quick blog for you that explains the changes and what they mean for your visit to our tours or half-term workshops and events.

At the moment, the Globe Theatre is welcoming visitors to Globe Theatre Guided Tours and a small number of workshops and story tours as part of our Telling Tales festival.

In terms of London now being within this ‘high’ local COVID-19 alert level, for anyone visiting us who lives in London (or any other medium or high level area), your booking is not affected at all. Under the new guidance for ‘high’ areas, attractions and venues can remain open.

As a venue currently only running a small number of events and tours in an open-air space, with strict social distancing measures in place, and a limited number of tickets available, we’re confident that our procedures meet Government guidelines.

Bookings are subject to our normal terms and conditions which means that we won’t refund tickets if you decide not to attend.

But, if you or any of your household are feeling unwell, showing Coronavirus symptoms or have been told to self-isolate, please do not visit us and we can arrange to move your ticket(s) to another date.

For all bookings, the ‘rule of six’ applies (we have a max. number of tickets per transaction as 6, anyway). You do not need to bring any proof of being in a household or bubble with the other ticket-holders on your booking – it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with the ‘rule of six’ guidance and practice social distancing at all times.

If you’re travelling to Shakespeare’s Globe from a very high alert area (rather than a medium or high) please get in touch so we can discuss your options.

If you have booked for a tour or event in the Globe Theatre, you will always receive an email from us, prior to your visit, that details everything you need to know – from where to go when you arrive to what COVID safety measures are in place. You can also visit our main COVID page for full guidance. If you’re visiting the Swan Bar & Restaurant, read the relevant section on this COVID page or visit Swan’s website and contact them directly if you have any specific enquiries or wish to book a table.

Please note that this blog was written at 2.00pm on Friday 16 October 2020 – with individual areas and guidelines subject to change at any time, please always refer to the below GOV.UK links for the most recent information.

• Local COVID alert levels: what you need to know
• Restrictions in your area
• Specific guidance if you’re in a medium, high or very high area

Also see all blogs from us about reopening in one place here.