The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust came into existence after the purchase of Shakespeare's Birthplace in 1847 in order to preserve it as a national monument. The Trust is a registered charity (No. 209302), incorporated by Act of Parliament. Its main objects are:

- to promote appreciation of Shakespeare's works

The Trust's Education Department offers educational activities at all levels, arranging courses and lectures, and providing study facilities. The Trust also promotes exhibitions, concerts and an annual poetry festival as well as special events.

- to maintain the five houses in or near Stratford-upon-Avon directly connected with the dramatist and his family

- to provide a museum and library of books, manuscripts and records of local historic interest with particular reference to Shakespeare, but including many others relating to the history of Stratford and its locality

The Trust's headquarters, the Shakespeare Centre, next door to Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, houses the Trust's Library (which includes the archive of the Royal Shakespeare Company), Records Office, both of which are open to all with a genuine interest, and the Museums Department.

The Trust is self-financing and receives no government or other subsidy. The Friends of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust link together those who wish to support the Trust in its work and to further its objects by providing financial assistance.