Shakespeare 400: History, Heritage & Faith – commemorating the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s death – will feature a copy of Shakespeare First Folio (1623), loaned by the V&A Museum in London, and a first edition of the King James Bible (1611), courtesy of Cambridge University.

The exhibition, running from mid April to the end of June, will provide visitors with the rare opportunity of seeing the two iconic texts on display together.

Dame Judi Dench will open the exhibition on April 21. The celebrated actress will share her passion for Shakespeare and her Christian faith. Tickets for the evening event are £17.50/£15.50.

A number of events will also run in tandem with the exhibition – including theatre performances, film screenings (Henry V with a pre-screening discussion with actor Michael Maloney), music performances, and talks.

St Mary’s will play host to the “Good Queen Bess Fest – Elizabethan Weekend on May 28 to 30 in collaboration with neighbouring Kenilworth Castle, Lord Leycester Hospital and Charlecote Park.