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Playing now Cloud 9
at National Theatre – Lyttelton
Caryl Churchill's play about gender, power and desire, from colonial Africa to 1970s London.
- Booking to 13 Jan 2027
- Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
- Waterloo (nearest station)
Mixed Featured theatre
National Theatre
South Bank
Photos
1 / 7Photo: Julian Herzog (Website) · CC BY 4.0 · source
About National Theatre
A concrete landmark housing three theatres — the Olivier, Lyttelton and Dorfman — on the South Bank.
National Theatre is in South Bank, close to Waterloo station.
At a glance
- Address
- Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
- Area
- South Bank
- Nearest station
- Waterloo
- Type
- Mixed
- Seats
- About 1,100
- Opened
- 1976
- Website
- nationaltheatre.org.uk
What's on at National Theatre
Playing now Opens 13 Nov The Jungle Book
at National Theatre – Olivier
A big, theatrical staging of Kipling's story at the National Theatre.
- Opens 13 Nov 2026 · booking to 6 Feb 2027
- Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
- Waterloo (nearest station)
Closing soon Some Woman
at National Theatre – Dorfman
A new play by Helen Edmundson, starring Anne-Marie Duff.
- Booking to 21 Nov 2026
- Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
- Waterloo (nearest station)
Opens 2 Dec The Rise and Fall of Little Voice
at National Theatre – Dorfman
Jim Cartwright's play about a shy girl with an extraordinary singing voice.
- Opens 2 Dec 2026 · booking to 3 Jan 2027
- Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
- Waterloo (nearest station)
Run dates last checked 18 Oct 2026 against the theatre's published listings. Productions can close, extend or change cast at short notice, so confirm with the theatre before you book.
Frequently asked questions about National Theatre
Where is National Theatre?
National Theatre is at Upper Ground, SE1 9PX, London (South Bank).
What is the nearest station to National Theatre?
The nearest station is Waterloo. Use our journey planner for live directions from wherever you are starting.
How do I get to National Theatre by public transport?
London's Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR, buses and trains all serve the capital, and contactless payment works across them. Enter your starting point in the journey planner for the quickest route.
What is on at National Theatre?
Productions listed here include Cloud 9, The Jungle Book, Some Woman, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. Programmes change, so check the theatre's website for the latest.
How do I buy tickets for National Theatre?
The safest way is the theatre's official site (nationaltheatre.org.uk) or its box office, which avoids inflated resale prices and unofficial sellers.
What time should I arrive at National Theatre?
Aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before curtain-up. Doors usually open around 30 minutes before the performance, and latecomers may be asked to wait for a suitable break.
Is National Theatre accessible for wheelchair users?
Accessibility varies, especially in historic buildings. Many theatres offer wheelchair spaces and some step-free access, but you should contact the box office in advance to confirm what is available for your needs.
Is there a dress code at National Theatre?
There is no formal dress code at most London theatres. Smart-casual is common and many people dress up for the occasion, but comfortable clothing is fine.
Can I bring children to National Theatre?
It depends on the production. Each show sets its own age guidance, so check the age recommendation for the specific show when booking.
Can I get food and drink at National Theatre?
Most theatres have bars and sell drinks and snacks before the show and at the interval, and many let you pre-order interval drinks. Facilities vary, so check with the venue.
Is there a cloakroom at National Theatre?
Storage is often limited in London theatres, and large bags or luggage may not be accepted. Travel light and check the theatre's guidance if you have large items.
How big is National Theatre?
National Theatre seats roughly 1,100 people, so most views are good, though seat choice still matters.
Is there parking near National Theatre?
Parking in central London is limited and expensive, and congestion and low-emission charges can apply. Public transport is usually the easiest way to reach a theatre.
When did National Theatre open?
National Theatre opened in 1976, though many theatres have been rebuilt or renovated since their first opening.
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