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Shakespeare & John Masefield: The Power of Place

Butcher Row House Museum, Burgage Hall, Church Lane, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1DW

  • 17 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Talk

What connects William Shakespeare, John Masefield and the places they called home? This illustrated presentation will explore the shared literary and cultural connections between Stratford-upon-Avon and Ledbury through the lives and legacies of two o

Discover how Shakespeare inspired Masefield, how Masefield shaped Stratford's cultural life as Poet Laureate, and explore archive material, photographs and collection highlights that reveal the enduring relationship between these two remarkable places. Featuring an additional guest speaker (to be confirmed) and a display of archival material.

his event forms part of Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture. It is also part of Masefield Matters, a National Lottery Heritage Fund-supported programme celebrating the life, work and legacy of Ledbury-born Poet Laureate John Masefield ahead of the 150th anniversary of his birth in 2028.
The programme has been developed in collaboration with colleagues at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. It reflects a shared commitment to exploring the literary and cultural connections between Ledbury and Stratford-upon-Avon.

By bringing together research, archive collections and local stories, the event offers an opportunity to discover more about our shared literary heritage. It celebrates the power of heritage to strengthen connections between people, place and community.

Timings

Thursday 17 September:
14:00-16:00 & 16:15-17:15

Location & directions

Butcher Row House Museum, Burgage Hall, Church Lane, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1DW

Directions:
The hall is on the ground floor and fully accessible from the High Street. The Butcher Row House Museum can also be accessed from here, avoiding the cobbled lane. Event Times Thursday, 17 September 14:00–16:00 - Rolling Talks (4 talks throughout the afternoon) 16:15–17:15 - An online and in person conversation with Reverend Dr Paul Edmondson (local specialist) and colleagues from Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
Contact on day:
Emma C
Telephone number:
+441531632306

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Additional information

Max number of people:
50

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