National Theatre (Lyttelton)
OFF West End
Inner London

National Theatre (Lyttelton)

Capacity890 Seats
Seating Tiers3 Levels
Venue SizeMedium

About The Venue

The Lyttelton Theatre, a key venue within London's iconic National Theatre complex, opened in 1976 and is celebrated for its superb sightlines and acoustics. Designed by Denys Lasdun, this traditional proscenium arch theatre offers a classic theatrical experience within the brutalist architectural masterpiece. Its comfortable auditorium and versatile stage host a diverse programme, from classic revivals to new contemporary plays.

Seating

The Stalls is the ground-level seating area, offering a direct and immersive view of the stage. The Lyttelton features a good rake throughout the Stalls, ensuring generally clear sightlines over the heads of those in front. Front rows (A-C) are very close to the stage, providing an intimate experience but may require looking significantly upwards, which can be uncomfortable for some during longer performances. Mid-stalls (rows D-M) are often considered prime seating, balancing proximity with a comfortable viewing angle. From row N backwards, the Stalls are situated under the overhang of the Circle, which can partially obscure the very top of the stage for taller sets or projections, particularly from row P onwards. Legroom is generally good, with aisle seats offering additional space. Side seats in the front few rows may have slightly angled views of the stage.

Toilets

Men's and Women's: Ground floor and Circle level; Accessible: Right of Stalls entrance/level, rear of Lyttelton Cloakroom.

Bars

Rennie's Bar (main foyer/ground floor); Circle foyer bar; Lyttelton Long Bar (main foyer/ground floor); Atrium Café (ground floor); Grind (ground floor, 3 steps up).

Cloakroom

Ground floor, Lyttelton Stalls Foyer, opposite main lifts, side of Bookshop; £1.50 per item; Opens 60 minutes before performances.

Box Office

Ground floor, opens 90 minutes before performances for in-person ticket collection.

Stage Door

Around the corner, near the Dorfman entrance, on Stage Door Avenue, on the east side of the National Theatre, opposite the IBM building.

Location

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National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX

Directions

The National Theatre is located on the South Bank of the River Thames. The nearest Tube and Overground station is Waterloo, which is served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City Tube lines, as well as National Rail services. From Waterloo Station, exit towards the South Bank and walk along the river for approximately 5-10 minutes. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby on Waterloo Bridge, Stamford Street, and Waterloo Road.

At this Venue