Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
OFF West End
Inner London

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre

Capacity1250 Seats
Seating Tiers1 Level
Venue SizeMedium

About The Venue

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, established in 1932, is one of London's largest and most beloved outdoor venues, nestled within the beautiful Regent's Park. It offers a unique, immersive theatrical experience where the natural surroundings become part of the stage design. Renowned for its diverse programming, from classic plays to contemporary musicals, it provides a magical atmosphere, though performances are subject to the elements.

Seating

The Regent's Park Open Air Theatre features a single, steeply raked auditorium designed in an amphitheatre style. This significant incline ensures excellent sightlines for most people, even from the rear, as there are no traditional architectural obstructions like pillars or balconies. Seating consists of individual, durable, and weather-resistant seats, typically made of plastic or a similar material suitable for outdoor conditions. While functional, they are not plush, and cushions are highly recommended for comfort, especially during longer performances; these are often available for hire on-site. Legroom is generally considered adequate across the auditorium, with no specific rows notorious for severely restricted space, though taller individuals might find it snug in some areas. Views of the expansive stage are generally excellent throughout due to the steep rake and the open nature of the theatre, with the natural backdrop of Regent's Park trees often integrated into the set design. Potential restricted views are minimal: extreme side seats might offer a slightly more angled perspective of the very edges of the stage, and while the rake ensures good visibility from the rear, the stage will appear smaller. The open-air nature means performances are subject to weather conditions; rain can impact comfort and, in heavy downpours, visibility, though performances usually continue. Umbrellas are generally discouraged during performances as they obstruct views, with ponchos often sold or recommended. Sound can be subject to ambient noise and wind conditions, though the theatre employs a high-quality sound system to mitigate this.

Toilets

Male, female, gender neutral, and accessible toilets available on site, located just outside the auditorium, opposite the picnic lawn.

Bars

Multiple bars, including the West End's longest bar, located on site. The main bar area is covered and serves pre-theatre and interval drinks.

Cloakroom

Not available. Patrons must keep belongings with them.

Stage Door

Located on the Inner Circle. From Baker Street tube, exit onto Marylebone Road, turn left, walk past Madame Tussauds to York Gate (follow diversion signage due to York Bridge closure). Turn left onto the Inner Circle, walk past Regent's University and The Garden Cafe. Walk past the Theatre Exit Gate, and the Stage Door Gate is on your right.

Location

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Inner Circle, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4NU

Directions

The theatre is located within Regent's Park. The nearest Tube stations are Baker Street (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines) and Regent's Park (Bakerloo line). From Baker Street, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk through the park. Follow the signs for the Open Air Theatre. Several bus routes also serve Baker Street.

At this Venue