Built in 1725 by the Bristol builder John Strahan as a pair of attached Georgian-style houses, it was converted into a pub in 1777 at which time it supplied refreshment to dock workers at the adjoining port.

[2] The building dates from 1725 and was built by John Strahan as a pair of attached Georgian houses that would have been occupied by merchants.

No 68 Prince Street was commissioned by John Hobbs and bears a pediment carved with two falcons or 'hobbies' reminding posterity of the origin of the house.

[2] The Shakespeare was designated as a Grade II*-listed building on 8 January 1959, being an example of a pair of attached merchant's houses in the Georgian style.

The construction is of limestone ashlar, with brick chimney stacks and party wall, and a pantile-covered roof.