2016 Shakespeare 2 Pound Set BUWilliam Shakespeare was born in Stratford Upon Avon. He was christened on 26th April, 1564, but his exact birth date is unknown. Shakespeare is often regarded as one of the greatest poets and playwrights that ever lived. During his lifetime he wrote 154 sonnets and 37 plays, including Macbeth, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night's Dream. Shakespeare died on 23rd April, 1616 at the age of 52.