The National Theatre is situated on the south bank of the River Thames in London, just minutes from Covent Garden and the West End. Sometimes referred to as 'The National' or 'The Royal National Theatre', it sits at the end of Waterloo Bridge, close to the National Film Theatre and the Festival Hall.
The National Theatre actually consists of three theatres which opened between 1976 and 1977. The largest of these is the Olivier Theatre, which contains the famous 'drum revolve' or rotating stage. The Lyttelton Theatre has an adjustable proscenium, meaning a forestage or orchestra pit can be easily added. The Cottesloe Theatre is the smallest of the three but also the most flexible, and hosts a range of productions from classical masterpieces to experimental theatre.
The National puts on both new plays and classics, and you can usually choose from seven or eight productions at any one time. In addition to the platform performances you can take backstage tours, listen to free musical concerts in the foyer, see exhibitions about the history and workings of the theatre, and enjoy free outdoor entertainment and riverside events.
You can book tickets for theatre performances at the National Theatre online, where you can also find out about free concerts and performances on the theatre's website. The nearest tube stations to the National Theatre are Waterloo and Southwark, or you can walk over the Hungerford Bridge from Embankment.
With our weekend bed & breakfast packages you get exclusive special offers and discounts at some of London's finest galleries, theatres, restaurants and tourist attractions. Click here to find out more.
Radisson Edwardian hotels in this area
If you're looking for a Radisson Edwardian hotel in London that's close to the National Theatre, you'll be spoilt for choice.
The Mayfair is a 5 star hotel located in Stratton Street in London's exclusive Mayfair. This historic building, opened by King George V in 1927, recently underwent a £70 million refurbishment. The result is an oasis of contemporary chic, with sofas and chairs by Fendi, chandeliers by Baccarat, and paintings from St Petersburg. The May Fair is superbly located for the sights of London and is close to Green Park tube station. It also has its own attractions in the form of the award-winning Amba Bar and Grill, the May Fair Bar and the Palm Beach Casino. The Mayfair is equipped with a luxury spa, complimentary wireless broadband and a 24 hour business centre, so whether you're planning a trip for business or pleasure, this hotel is sure to please.
The Radisson Edwardian Hampshire Hotel is a 5 star hotel in Leicester Square, the heart of London's theatreland. It offers grandeur and comfort, with mahogany-panelled walls, classic art, and bedrooms decorated with English fabrics and marble. The Hampshire's location, on the corner of Leicester Square, makes it an excellent base for exploring London, and it has a lively bar and restaurant serving the finest modern British and Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel has complimentary wireless Internet access, a 24 hour business centre and a fitness centre, so whether you're in London to work or to play, the Hampshire makes the perfect place to stay.
The Radisson Edwardian Leicester Square Hotel is a new 4 star hotel in St. Martin's Street, just off Leicester Square. Tucked away in a quiet backstreet, this intimate boutique hotel offers all the benefits of a central location just off London's theatreland. Its luxurious rooms offer sleek black slate bathrooms, Bang & Olufsen plasma TVs, and beautiful Baccarat lighting. The hotel has a bar and restaurant, a fitness centre, a 24 hour business centre, 24 hour room service and complimentary wireless internet access. If you're looking for a relaxing hideaway in a central location, the Radisson Edwardian Leicester Square Hotel is the one for you.
The Radisson Edwardian Mountbatten Hotel is a 4 star hotel in Seven Dials, Covent Garden. This discreet, boutique hotel is a byword for understated elegance, and its public areas feature silk chenille fabrics, 'leopard' hide chairs, Phillipe Hurel chocolate leather sofas and a collection of framed Japanese artefacts. The Mountbatten has a business centre, fitness centre and complimentary wireless access. The hotel's deluxe facilities and prime location make it the perfect London base for the business or leisure traveller.
The Radisson Edwardian New Providence Wharf is just what you need. This luxury 4 star hotel in Fairmont Avenue is situated just ten minutes walk from Canary Wharf and the underground station, and it's close to London City Airport and the City. The hotel's rooms offer contemporary design, natural lighting and air conditioning, with breath-taking views of the River Thames and the city of London. The hotel has a riverside café, a cocktail bar, and a restaurant and a fitness centre, so you won't be short of things to do. If you're here on a business trip, you'll find the hotel is fully equipped with a 24 hour business centre and wireless Internet access.
