London Nightlife

National Theatre

National Theatre Review

When this theater opened in 1976, designed by Sir Denys Lasdun, Londoners weren't all so keen on the low-slung, multilayered Brutalist block. Prince Charles described the building as "a clever way of building a nuclear power station in the middle of London without anyone objecting." But whatever its merits or demerits as a feature on the landscape, the Royal National Theatre's interior spaces are definitely worth a tour. Interspersed with the three theaters, the 1,120-seat Olivier, the 890-seat Lyttelton, and the 300-seat Cottesloe, is a multilayered foyer with exhibitions, bars, and restaurants, and free entertainment. Musicals, classics, and new plays are performed by a top-flight company. Some shows offer £12 ticket deals.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd., South Bank, London, SE1 9PX | Map It
  • Phone: 020/7452--3000 box office; 020/7452--3400 information
  • Cost: Tour £8.50
  • Hours: Foyer Mon.-Sat. 9:30 am-11 pm; 75-min tour backstage up to 6 times daily weekdays, twice on Sat., often on Sun.
  • Website: www.nationaltheatre.org.uk
  • Tube: Waterloo.
  • Location: South Bank

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