The Globe Theatre in London has introduced two beers inspired by the Elizabethan era, offering visitors and enthusiasts a taste reminiscent of the period when William Shakespeare lived and worked. The historic Southbank venue has begun selling an 8% barrel-aged braggot and a 7% Shakespearean porter, both crafted to evoke the flavors and brewing techniques of the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

The barrel-aged braggot, produced by Hive Mind—a Wye Valley-based meadery—combines honey and grain, fermented together and aged in oak casks. The makers describe it as light, medium-dry, with notes of toasted oak, delicate smoke, and a subtle honey aroma. The Shakespearean porter, named Big Smoke, is a dark ale brewed with honey sourced from Hive Mind’s bees and smoked malt over beechwood. Its flavor profile is characterized by smokiness and honey undertones. The porter draws inspiration from historic London porters and the traditional beekeeper’s hive smoker.

These beverages are sold in 375ml bottles, with the braggot priced at £6.50 and the porter at £5. Both can be ordered online for delivery within the UK. While the prices exceed what would have been typical in Shakespeare’s time, the drinks aim to provide an authentic experience for those interested in Elizabethan culture.

Beer was a central part of everyday life during Shakespeare’s era, with historical records indicating that individuals commonly consumed about two pints daily, and manual laborers often drank twice that amount. Most ales available then were lower in alcohol content, but stronger varieties were typically reserved for taverns and alehouses. A 1577 survey recorded over 16,000 such establishments across England and Wales, averaging one for every 250 people.

Proceeds from sales in The Globe’s online shop support the maintenance and programming of the theatre, which welcomes approximately 1.25 million visitors annually. The open-air venue seats 1,570 and offers performances, workshops, lectures, and guided tours. The Globe’s ensemble also tours internationally, promoting Shakespeare’s work worldwide and engaging in educational initiatives with schools and communities.