Guided Tours

Journey through our award-winning venue with one of our passionate, knowledgeable guides to uncover the theatrical heritage of Prescot and its unique connection to Shakespeare. 

Curious about why Shakespeare North Playhouse was built, why Prescot was chosen, or how we won Theatre Building of the Year 2023 at The Stage Awards and RIBA North West’s Building of the Year 2024? This tour has all the answers! 

Regular tour dates are available for individuals or groups smaller than 10.

Enjoy rare, behind-the-scenes access to our technical gallery and over-stage areas, offering a unique view of the stunning Shakespearean Cockpit Theatre like few have seen before. 

Discover how we light the performance space to create the perfect atmosphere and explore the unique challenges of staging performances “in the round” in our beautifully crafted oak-framed theatre. 

Note: Due to the nature of this tour, participants must be comfortable with heights and fully mobile, as we will visit areas typically accessible only to theatre professionals. 

Experience our beautiful, award-winning Shakespeare North Playhouse through the lens of love as understood by The Bard himself. 

Explore Shakespeare’s lovers on the page and stage, and fall for the special details in our building, from evocative sculptures to exquisite carpentry—all before being swept away by the charm of our oak-framed Cockpit Theatre. 

Revealing the remarkable story of a Merseyside woman who found herself entangled in a web of hysteria. This captivating journey starts with a presentation about Stewart-era superstitions and the accusations and persecution which led to the infamous Pendle witch trials. 

Fully immersed in the 17th century, we’ll show you round our award-winning Playhouse, explaining its history and Prescot’s own dramatic links to Shakespeare. 

Calling all little explorers! Step into a world of theatre magic and see what secrets are hiding behind the scenes. 

Perfect for kids (and grown-ups too!), this fun-filled tour takes you on an exciting journey through our amazing theatre. Follow clues, explore hidden corners, and discover the stories that bring the stage to life. 

Our Theatre Explorers Tours run all year round — keep an eye out for our special seasonal editions, like spooky tours at Halloween or festive fun in December! You can find these in our “What’s On” section to book directly or get in touch with us to create a tailored experience for your group. 

To Be and To Be: Queer Lives on Stage takes you on a journey from the gender-fluid performances of Shakespeare’s day to the vibrant drag and queer theatre scene of modern Merseyside.

Through a lively presentation, you’ll discover the untold stories of gay, bi, and trans performers who helped shape theatre, onstage and behind the scenes, while exploring the roots of drag culture, including the enduring legacy of the pantomime dame.