London National Theatre

The basics

The National Theatre’s concrete façade looms over the Thames waterfront, making it an unmistakable—if a bit plain—sight to behold during a walking or biking tour of the neighborhood or a Thames River sightseeing cruise.

Visitors can go it solo by catching a show at one of the three auditoriums (Olivier, Lyttelton, Dorfman) each offering unique experiences, from the grand proscenium arch of the Olivier Theatre to the more intimate settings of the others. They can also soak in the free exhibitions, peek backstage along the Sherling Backstage Walkway, or hang out in the Lyttelton Lounge. Those wanting to dive deeper into London history can join one of the guided London National Theatre tours, which include architecture tours, costume tours, and backstage tours.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance to the theater, the Lyttelton Lounge, and the Sherling Backstage Walkway is free.

• Free Wi-Fi is available on-site and there are charging stations in the Lyttelton Lounge.

• A selection of bars, cafés, and restaurants where you can purchase food and drink are located on-site.

• The theater is fully wheelchair accessible.

• Other London landmarks near the National Theatre include the London Eye, Royal Festival Hall, Hayward Gallery, and Tate Modern.

How to get there

The National Theatre is located on the Thames waterfront in London’s South Bank, and it’s easily reached from the Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines) or the Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines) tube stations, both set across the Thames via a pedestrian bridge). The theater has its own car park, although fees apply and drivers must also pay the London congestion charge.

When to get there

Head to the National Theatre at night to watch a performance; the imposing building is most impressive after dark when it’s dramatically illuminated. Or, spend an afternoon touring the property and plan to stay for lunch.

Watching a Show at the National Theatre

The National Theatre’s ever-changing lineup includes more than 20 new productions each year; past hits include West End favorites such as War Horse and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time; classics like Shakespeare’s Hamlet and The Tempest; and contemporary musicals like Wonder.land.

Ways to explore

Most people visit the National Theatre for a show at one of its three theaters: the large fan-shaped Olivier, the traditional Lyttelton, and the more intimate Dorfmann (where quirkier performances tend to feature). Tickets are available online or at the box office, and it’s worth booking ahead in the summer.

London South Bank walking tours and theater tours often include an exterior visit to the National Theatre on their itineraries. Tour commentary tends to touch on the figures involved in its creation and development, such as Laurence Olivier, who was the National’s first director.

Accessibility

All theaters have wheelchair-accessible spaces, elevators, and ramps, and the building itself has a step-free drop-off area for taxis and a ramped entranceway.

Age limits

Under-18s cannot enter The Understudy bar or the outside areas after 9pm. Most shows aren’t appropriate for young children, so check guidelines ahead of booking.

What to pack

A small bag, as larger ones must be left in the coatroom.

What to wear

Many London theater-goers like to dress up, but there are no rules.

Not allowed

No photography or filming in the auditoriums

Amenities

Bookshop, coatroom, eateries (bars, cafés, restaurants), restrooms with baby-changing facilities, Wi-Fi

Address

The London National Theatre is on central London’s bustling South Bank, right next to Waterloo Bridge, across the river from Somerset House, and a short walk from the London Eye.

Driving

You need to pay the London Congestion Charge and the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) fee, if applicable for your vehicle. Paid parking is available within the site’s underground parking lot.

Public transportation

Take the tube to Waterloo station via the Bakerloo, Jubilee, or Northern lines, which is a 10-minute walk away. If you arrive by boat, disembark at Embankment Pier and cross the river. The 59, 139, and 188 buses from central London all stop at Waterloo.

Best times to visit

Most people visit for a show, but if you come for the restaurants or bars, lunchtime until 6pm is when the building is generally quieter.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are less busy in the building. If you want to grab a cheaper ticket for a show, visit the theater’s website on Friday afternoon: Friday Rush tickets for next week’s performances are on sale at a discounted rate from 1pm.

Best months to visit

The South Bank area in front of the theatre is at its most vibrant in the peak summer months between June and August.

Special events

In July, the National Theatre hosts the River Stage festival with outdoor performances, live music, and street food.