Royal National Theatre
South Bank, London SE1

Britain's leading theatre is housed in a concrete complex on the South Bank. After 200 years of debate regarding a national theatre in 1963 the company was formed under Laurence (later Lord) Olivier, and the huge building, designed by Sir Denys Lasdun, opened in 1976. 

The Royal National Theatre has three auditoriums offering choice from the classics to the most contemporary productions.  The largest of the three theatres is named after Olivier, while the Cottesloe and the Lyttleton commemorate administrators. 

The Olivier has a large open platform and presents big shows, the Lyttleton, with its traditional proscenium arch, stages medium-sized productions and Cottesloe, with flexible studio space, is an venue for smaller shows. 

The Royal National Theatre is currently being redeveloped as part of the south bank project.  New investment will improve staging, scenery, sound and lighting and outside a totally new exterior performance space, 'Theatre Square' is being created.    

Backstage tours of the National are available, led by well-informed guides.Tours are daily, Monday to Saturday. The tour lasts about one hour, and there is a charge. Book on 020 7452 3400.

Free events, often for children are held.

Bars and restaurant, including the Terrace Cafe on floor 2.

The building is open Monday to Saturday, 10:00-23:00

Tel: Box Office: 020 7452 3000, Information 020 7452 3400