Open-air Shakespeare returns to York House Gardens, 13–18 July
1 July 2026 · By Boroughly editorial — AI-assisted, human-reviewed.
The Richmond Shakespeare Society's much-loved summer production is back in York House Gardens, Twickenham, from 13 to 18 July 2026, with this year's show being The Merry Wives of Windsor.
It is one of Shakespeare's most purely comic plays — Sir John Falstaff, cash-strapped and overconfident, attempts to charm two Windsor wives simultaneously, only to find they are considerably sharper than he bargained for. The result is a summer evening of mischief, mistaken identity and outdoor theatre at its most enjoyable.
The Fountain Gardens at York House make for a particularly atmospheric setting, and the format invites an unhurried evening: bring a rug, a picnic and the family. Children tend to get on well with Falstaff — the physical comedy travels well across ages.
Performances run across six evenings. Ticket and booking information is available through the council's events listing — it is worth sorting in advance as the open-air run often sells out. Richmond Council events page