Take a tour of Shakespeare's Birthplace by candlelight this Christmas

FORGET the tinsel, plastic trees and baubles, the home of William Shakespeare will feature more natural decorations this Christmas as part of a series of special festive events.

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is bringing back the traditions of a Tudor and Jacobian Christmas to help visitors experience how the Bard may have celebrated during his childhood.

There will also be the chance to visit the Birthplace after dark on a candlelit tour.

Emily White, acting curator at SBT, said: “We sometimes forget just how many traditions at Christmas come from the Victorians.

“When Shakespeare was growing up there wouldn’t have been Christmas trees or decorations as we know them today. Instead, it was a more reflective and religious festival, which took place over many weeks.

“The Shakespeares could well have dressed their home with winter greenery including mistletoe and holly and you may well have smelt the familiar aromas of mace, nutmeg and even cinnamon.”

Which is why the Birthplace has been decked in decorations that would have been appropriate for this time of year in the late 16th century. The decorations will remain in place until Twelfth Night.

Christmas the Shakespeare’s Birthplace is running until 2nd January, with candlelit Christmas at Shakespeare’s Birthplace taking place 8-10th and 15-17th December between 5pm and 7pm. Tickets from £9.75 for children, £12 concessions and £15 adults.

For more information and to book, visit www.shakespeare.org.uk.