The Vaults Theatre

The Vaults Theatre is a unique, subterranean arts venue nestled within the labyrinthine railway arches beneath London's Waterloo Station. Renowned for its immersive and experimental productions, it transforms its industrial, brick-lined spaces into captivating worlds for theatre, art, and events. Its distinctive architectural setting provides a gritty, atmospheric backdrop, making each visit an unforgettable journey into unconventional performance.

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Seating

Flexible Performance Spaces

The Vaults is a unique, multi-space venue located in a series of railway arches and tunnels beneath Waterloo Station. It does not feature traditional fixed seating levels like Stalls or Circles. Instead, each production customises the space, meaning seating arrangements, if any, are entirely temporary and variable. The stated seating capacity of 200 is a general maximum for a seated configuration, but many productions are immersive, standing, or promenade experiences with no fixed seating.

Seating Quality & Legroom: When seating is provided, it typically consists of temporary chairs, benches, or stools. Comfort and legroom vary significantly based on the specific production's design and the type of temporary seating used. people should expect a more utilitarian seating experience compared to traditional theatres.

Views of the Stage: Views are highly dependent on the specific vault used and the production's staging. Many shows are immersive, meaning the 'stage' can be all around the audience, or the audience may be moved through different spaces. Traditional proscenium arch views are rare. Sightlines can be dynamic and may be partially obstructed by architectural features of the tunnels (e.g., pillars, low arches), or other audience members, especially in standing or promenade productions. The experience is often designed to be intimate and unconventional.

Architectural Layout: The venue's layout is characterised by its raw, industrial aesthetic – exposed brickwork, concrete floors, and varying ceiling heights. The atmosphere is often dark, atmospheric, and immersive. Audience members may be required to stand, walk, or navigate uneven surfaces. Accessibility can be challenging due to the underground location and the nature of the tunnels; specific accessibility information should always be checked with the venue for each individual show.

Potential Restricted Views: Due to the non-traditional nature of the space and often immersive staging, 'restricted views' are less about specific seats and more about the dynamic nature of the experience. people should be prepared for varying perspectives and potential partial obstructions as part of the immersive design, rather than fixed 'bad seats'.

Staying nearby

The nearest hotels to the The Vaults Theatre, for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.

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Facilities

Toilets

Accessible toilets are located in the Vaults Theatre foyer and in The Food One (bar area), left after entry.

Bars

3

Location

Open in Maps

The Vaults, Leake Street, London, SE1 7NN

Getting there

nearest first

  • 4 min

    London Waterloo

    National RailBakerlooJubileeNorthernWaterloo & City
  • 4 min

    Waterloo East

    National Rail
  • 10 min

    Lambeth North

    Bakerloo

Bus stops on Lower Marsh, County Hall, and near Lambeth North Station serve routes including 12, 11, 53, 76, 77, 139, 148, 159, 381, 453, C10, N53, N109, N155, N381.

Step-by-step walking directions

The Vaults Theatre is located beneath Waterloo Station. The nearest Tube and Overground station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City lines, and National Rail services). From Waterloo Station, follow signs for the South Bank exit and then Leake Street. The entrance to The Vaults is on Leake Street, a vibrant street art tunnel.

At this venue

Past productions