National Theatre
The Royal National Theatre, home of the National Theatre Company provides both free and paid entertainment every day
The Royal National Theatre, commonly referred to as just the National Theatre, was opened in 1976 as the new home of the publicly funded National Theatre Company. They were previously based in the Old Vic Theatre from their beginnings in 1963.
The theatre is of modern concrete architecture and houses 3 separate auditoriums. The main auditorium is the Olivier Theatre which is named after Laurence Olivier, the first artistic director for the theatre. It features an open stage from which seating for 1160 spectators fans out. The Lyttelton Theatre features a proscenium arch design which seats up to 890 guests. And finally the Cottesloe Theatre is a smaller studio space which holds up to 400 depending on the configuration. On the riverside there is a courtyard that is used for outdoor performances during the summer. There is also a free summer festival held there each year.
The theatre's foyers and terraces are open to the public and feature restaurants, bars, exhibition space and a theatrical bookshop. Tours of the backstage are available throughout the day and live music is played in the foyer at 5:45pm and prior to performances. There is no cost for this.
For more information about the Royal National Theatre as well as shows and schedules visit their official website.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesNational Theatre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Address: London SE1 9PX, UK
Phone: 020 3989 5455
Official Website: National Theatre
National Theatre Reviews
Rated out of 5
Went to see Ballet Shoes in Theatre at the National Theatre and it was beyond spectacular I loved every minute of it!
We booked our tickets in advance, and I would definitely recommend doing the same as shows can get busy. The performers and artists were incredible, and everyone was so lovely, including the staff who made the whole experience even better.
Even if you’re not usually a theatre-goer, I would highly recommend giving a show a try. It’s such a wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy live performances.
Sumi - 3 weeks ago
I went to see War Horse tonight which I really loved due to the historical accuracy and the wonderful horse puppetry. The whole story was beautifully crafted and captivating. I really love how the National Theatre uses minimal sets but a lot of props and imagery to capture people’s imaginations. It feels like a “less is more” approach which works wonders.
The seating in the theatre can be a little bit tight but our view was excellent and made us feel right in the depth of the action. The national theatre looks modern and really impressive.
I will definitely come and visit the National Theatre soon.
Ellis - 2 months ago
Really enjoyed visiting the National Theatre.
It’s an impressive building with a great atmosphere — lively, welcoming, and full of energy. There’s always something going on, and it feels like a proper cultural hub rather than just a theatre.
The spaces are well thought out, with plenty of areas to sit, have a drink, and take in the views of the river. It’s a lovely place to spend time even beyond the performance itself.
Everything felt well organised, and the overall experience was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
Y M - 4 months ago
Open public place with a nice cafe where they serve the Shoreditch Grind Coffee and you have a lot of seatings areas. Can also work remotely and meet with other people and go through their love shop to buy some of the best plays I have ever seen!
Isabella - 2 months ago
One of my fav in London. You can have a wee pre show dinner or drink inside and enjoy your evening. Nice staff and fantastic view of the stage any stall or gallery seat. Amazing experience. A place where you can meet your dreams! (Feat A.T.)
Mariapaola Zanichelli - a month ago
Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines | Waterloo Station | 5 Minutes |
| Circle and District Lines | Embankment Station | 5 Minutes |
How to get to National Theatre by Tube
The National Theatre is just a little north of Waterloo Station. Exit onto Waterloo Road and walk to your left (north) along Waterloo Road. Stay to the right of the BFI Imax Theatre and stay to the right of the approach to the Bridge. The theatre is just before the River Thames on your right hand side.
From Embankment Station on the Northbank simply walk across the Hungerford bridge. The National Theatre is on the far side to your left.
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Photo Gallery
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Nighttime view of the Royal National Theatre and the Southbank cc licensed photo by Dimitry B. -
Foyer inside the National Theatre cc licensed photo by Miguel Teixeira
