City of Westminster in Greater London, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)

Shakespeare's Head

Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, March 15, 2018

1. Shakespeare's Head Marker

Inscription. The Shakespeare's Head, which was built in 1735, was originally owned by Thomas & John Shakespeare, who were distant relatives of the poet.

In its early days, the tavern stood on the boundary line that divided the lands of the Mercers Company from those of the Abbot of Abingdon, and nearby was a small estate known as Six Acre Fields. During the Victorian period, the field was a site of tie riding school, belonging to major Henry Foubert, whose name is commemorated by neighbouring Foubert Place.

The present day Shakespeare's Head overlooks Carnaby Street which was once the site of an 18th century street market and is now one of the worlds most famous shopping precincts.

Dominating its northern end is the pub inn sign, which is a reproduction of Martin Droeshout's portrait of Shakespeare when the poet was at the pinnacle of genius. On another part of the building is Shakespeare's life size bust, which appears to be gazing down at the busy street below. A close examination of the bust will show one of the poets hands is missing. This occured during World War II when a bomb dropped nearby.

Erected by Greene King.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1735.

Location. 51° 30.821′ N, 0° 8.368′ W. Marker is in City of Westminster, England, in Greater London. Marker is at the intersection of Great Marlborough Street and Foubert's

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Place on Great Marlborough Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 29 Great Marlborough Street, City of Westminster, England W1F 7HZ, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. White Horse (within shouting distance of this marker); The Jimi Hendrix Experience (about 150 meters away, measured in a direct line); Paul McCartney (about 150 meters away); Don Arden and “Small Faces” (about 150 meters away); Canaletto (about 180 meters away); Charles Bridgeman (about 180 meters away); Broad Street Pump (about 180 meters away); Dr. John Snow (about 180 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in City of Westminster.

Also see . . . The Shakespeare's Head. Indiana University Archives' 1961 photograph of the same corner, showing a much grimier pub, and Shakespeare dressed in brown, rather than blue. (Submitted on July 13, 2018, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.)

Additional keywords. Soho

Shakespeare's Head Marker - Wide View image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, March 15, 2018

2. Shakespeare's Head Marker - Wide View

The marker is visible here just to the right of the corner of the building, under the awning.

Shakespeare staring at the crowds in an offhanded manner image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, March 15, 2018

3. Shakespeare staring at the crowds in an offhanded manner

Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on July 13, 2018, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 292 times since then and 30 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 13, 2018, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.