Old Vic Theatre

The Old Vic Theatre has featured superb performances for nearly 200 years

Front facade of the Old Vic Theatre
Front facade of the Old Vic Theatre cc licensed photo by Peter Broster

The Old Vic Theatre was first established in 1818 at which time it was called the Royal Coburg Theatre. In 1880 it changed ownership and became the Royal Victoria Hall. Beginning in 1914 the theatre began running a series of Shakespeare plays. Heavily damaged by the air raids of 1940, the theatre was re-opened in 1950.

The Old Vic Theatre Company was established in 1929. In 1963 the company was dissolved and replaced by the National Theatre Company which played at the Old Vic until opening their own theatre across the river in 1976. The Old Vic continued to host both classic and new dramas. In 1985 it benefited from a substantial restoration. In the year 2000 the building was purchased by a charitable trust.

Well known American actor Kevin Spacey has been the artistic director of the new Old Vic Theatre Company since 2003, bringing new life and a mixture of British and American talent to the stage. He personally appears in one or two shows each year.

The Old Vic can accommodate an audience of a little over 1000 guests. For more information about the Old Vic Theatre as well as shows and schedules visit their official website link below.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Old Vic Theatre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Address: 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB, UK

Phone: 0344 871 7628

Official Website: Old Vic Theatre

Old Vic Theatre Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Fabulous theatre near Waterloo station. Excellent production values and a range of shows. Discounts for over-60s and regular offers make this great value. Drinks are pricey. Small cloakroom too (chargeable) Card only payments throughout.
Steven Rhodes - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Lovely theatre always high quality plays. Most recently watched James Corden and Anna Maxwell Martin in The constituent and can’t recommend enough. No bad seats in the house. The cheaper “obstructed views” tickets are perfectly fine as you can see from my photos!
Teresa Silveira - a month ago

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5 Star Rating The Old Vic, located near Waterloo Station, is one of London’s most iconic and historic theatres, renowned for its rich history, exceptional productions, and vibrant cultural presence. As a cornerstone of London’s theatre scene, The Old Vic offers an experience that blends the charm of its storied past with the dynamism of contemporary theatre. The Old Vic’s history is palpable as soon as you step inside. Established in 1818, the theatre has played a crucial role in the development of British theatre, with its ornate, traditional interior adding to the sense of occasion. The auditorium's intimate atmosphere allows audiences to feel closely connected to the performances, making every visit a memorable experience.The Old Vic is celebrated for its top-tier productions, ranging from classic plays by Shakespeare and Arthur Miller to modern works and innovative reinterpretations. The theatre regularly attracts some of the finest talent in acting, directing, and design, ensuring that each show is of the highest quality. Whether it's a classic drama or a cutting-edge new play, the productions are consistently compelling and well-executed. The Old Vic is not just a theatre but a community hub. It offers various outreach programs, workshops, and educational initiatives, making theatre accessible to a broader audience. This commitment to inclusivity and education enhances its reputation as a cultural institution that values and invests in its community. Situated just a short walk from Waterloo Station, The Old Vic is easily accessible from anywhere in London. Its proximity to public transport and the vibrant South Bank area makes it an ideal destination for a cultural outing, with plenty of nearby dining and entertainment options. While The Old Vic’s productions are generally worth the price, tickets can be expensive, particularly for popular shows. This might make it less accessible for some audiences, especially those looking for more affordable entertainment options. Although the theatre’s historic design adds to its charm, it also means that some of the seating can be less comfortable by modern standards. Certain areas of the auditorium, especially in the upper levels, have restricted views, and the legroom can be tight, which might affect the overall experience for some patrons. The Old Vic’s age means that its facilities, while adequate, aren’t as modern as those found in newer theatres. The restrooms, in particular, can be crowded during intervals, and there’s limited space in the foyer area, which can make it feel congested during peak times. Overall Its a treasure of London’s theatre landscape, offering high-quality productions in a historic and charming setting. While it comes with some minor drawbacks, such as the cost and seating comfort, the overall experience is one of cultural enrichment and artistic excellence. For theatre lovers and visitors to London, The Old Vic remains a must-visit destination that captures the essence of British theatre tradition.
Amigo Raaza - a month ago

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4 Star Rating Old Vic is one of the best theatres in London! This time we came to see The Real Thing, which was great, but I’ve been hundreds of times and it’s always good ❤️
Anita - a week ago

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5 Star Rating We have always wanted to go to the Old Vic, and seeing the Christmas Carol over the holidays seemed like the perfect time. It was!!! We were literally able to talk to the actors, the stage was that close to the audience. I don't think there is a bad seat, period. We were on main floor adjacent to one of 4 walkways where actors past on way to center stage. But the 2 balconies were also quite close. A intimate setting that really works. And the presentation of the story we all know was so creative. The 4 of us loved it! I won't give things away but suffice to say, but the staging, acting and music was very special.
Rodger Beard - 3 months ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Northern and Jubilee and Bakerloo LinesWaterloo5 Minutes

How to get to Old Vic Theatre by Tube

From Waterloo Station exit onto Waterloo Road and go to your right (south). The Old Vic Theatre is a short walk ahead on the southeast corner of Waterloo Road and The Cut.

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