On the 23rd of April 2024, the Oxford Preservation Trust’s annual Shakespeare Birthday Parade will return in commemoration of the birth of one of history’s most influential writers- 16th century playwright William Shakespeare.

This year, the procession will start outside Oxford Castle & Prison, heading down the historic Queen Street and up Cornmarket, which has special Shakespearean significance.

Nestled within number 3 Cornmarket Street is the Oxford Preservation Trust’s ‘Painted Room,’ which is lies within the façade of the 14th-century timber-framed Crown Tavern. The tavern itself used to belong to Shakespeare’s good friend, John Davenant, and- if the authentic Elizabethan wall-paintings, ancient brickwork within the fireplace, and oak wood panelling weren’t Shakesperean enough- the Painted Room also housed William Shakespeare himself during his travels between London and his home in Stratford-upon-Avon.

In past years, the parade has consisted of literature-fans, donning Elizabethan gowns and uniforms, marching towards the Painted Room, accompanied by musicians to complete the early modern atmosphere. For 2024, the festivities will continue, hopefully with more engagement than ever.

In talks with Maura Todd, a keen Shakespeare fan who attended last year’s procession, she said: “The atmosphere was incredible.”

For a visit inside the Painted Room, the Oxford Preservation Trust’s website gives guidance about group and private bookings. The Painted Room is also open during the Preservation Trust’s annual open doors event.