Located in the Waterloo district of London, not far from the centre of the city, the Olivier Theatre is one of the three auditoria comprised by the Royal National Theatre. Inspired by the design of the ancient Greek theatre in Epidaurus, the venue was made available to theatre enthusiasts in 1977. Named after the outstanding actor and artistic director Laurence Olivier, the Olivier Theatre has a capacity of 1160 people. The building was subjected to a major refurbishment in 2007.
Venue Details
Getting there
Seeing as it resides in the centre of the Waterloo district, the Olivier Theatre is easily accessible via all methods of transport.
By train and tube: Train and tube travellers will be glad to hear that the Olivier Theatre is just a six-minute walk from the Waterloo train station, which serves the lines Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City.
By bus: The venue is right next to the Waterloo Bridge South Bank bus stop N, which serves the bus routes 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, and 521.
By car: As a driver, you’ll find it very easy to reach the Olivier Theatre, as it’s situated in the proximity of the Waterloo Bridge/A301 main route.
International: Those who come to London via plane will be delighted to learn that it takes approximately 36 minutes to drive from the London City Airport to the Olivier Theatre. Another alternative for those who land at this airport is the DLR tube.
Parking facilities
The National Theatre has a private car park which can be used by its patrons. Inside, there are multiple spots reserved for Blue Badge Holders.
Access for people with special needs
Accessibility facilities for people with disabilities offered by the Olivier Theatre include lifts, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and accessible toilets. Moreover, the presence of guide dogs is allowed.