
The Olivier Theatre is the largest of the National Theatre's three auditoriums, opened in 1976 as part of Denys Lasdun's iconic Brutalist complex on the South Bank. Named after Laurence Olivier, its unique drum-shaped design features a thrust stage, allowing for an intimate yet grand theatrical experience. This adaptable space is renowned for staging large-scale productions, from classical drama to contemporary works, making it a cornerstone of London's cultural landscape.
Share this theatre
Seating
- StallsDirect, immersive views with a great rake, but front rows (A-D) mean craning your neck.
- CircleSuperb overview of the stage and set; often considered the Olivier's best seats.
Stalls
As the Olivier's lowest and largest section, the Stalls offer direct, immersive views of the stage. Denys Lasdun's distinctive fan-shaped design, combined with a significant rake, ensures excellent sightlines over the heads of those in front, even from the very back.
Central seats provide the most comprehensive perspective. If you're in the front rows (A-D), be prepared to look up for action happening at the very top of the proscenium.
Side seats towards the front might offer a slightly angled view, but the wide stage design generally keeps severe restrictions at bay. You'll find legroom typically generous throughout, and the seats are comfortable and upholstered.
With no pillars or structural obstructions, restricted views are minimal, mainly limited to those extreme front or side angles.
Circle
Often considered among the best in the house, the Circle is the first elevated tier above the Stalls, offering a superb overview of the entire stage. Its fan-shaped design and excellent rake ensure clear, unobstructed sightlines from virtually all seats on this level.
You'll appreciate the full theatrical picture, including set design and blocking, without feeling too far removed from the action. Central seats in the front half are particularly prized for their balanced perspective.
Legroom is generally good, comparable to the Stalls, and seating is comfortable and upholstered. Access is typically via stairs or lifts.
Restricted views are extremely rare here, thanks to the thoughtful design.
See the view from your seat
SeatPlan has photographs taken from individual seats at the National Theatre (Olivier), alongside a full seating plan and reviews from people who sat there. Worth a look before you commit to a restricted-view seat.
View seat photos and planAffiliate link — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Staying nearby
The nearest hotels to the National Theatre (Olivier), for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.
- Strand Palaceabout 10 min walk
- The Z Hotel Covent Gardenabout 15 min walk
- citizenM London Banksideabout 15 min walk
Hotels.com affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Prices and availability are shown on their site.
Facilities
Toilets
| Gents | Ladies | Access. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stalls | Gents on Stalls | Ladies on Stalls | Accessible on Stalls |
| Circle | Gents on Circle | Ladies on Circle | Accessible on Circle |
Accessible toilets are also available on Level 1 (cloakroom area).
Free for access equipment or medical supplies. Bags larger than 50 x 30 x 20cm must be left in the cloakroom.
General ticket collection is 09:30 – 23:00, Monday to Saturday, at the main box office in the entrance foyer. Olivier specific ticket collection is approximately one hour before performance starts at the box office on the second floor foyer.
Stage door
Around the corner, near the Dorfman entrance (east side of the National Theatre building).
Location
National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX
Getting there
nearest first
- 5–7 min
Waterloo
BakerlooJubileeNorthernWaterloo & City
Numerous bus routes serve the South Bank area, with stops directly outside or very close to the theatre.
Step-by-step walking directions
The National Theatre (Olivier) is located on the South Bank. The nearest Tube station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines), which is approximately a 5-7 minute walk. Waterloo East is the nearest Overground station, also a short walk away. Numerous bus routes serve the South Bank area, with stops directly outside or very close to the theatre.







