Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: theatre (46) good (23) great (23) Christmas (17) staff (16) seats (16) view (15) friendly (14) stage (14) play (12)
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  • 5/5 vasilis t. 2 years ago on Google
    Old Vic was an exquisite experience. The play (Christmas carol) was unbelievable. The actors, the atmosphere, the music, the lights the effects. It was the second time for me watching it and I will definitely go next year. Well done!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nina B. 1 month ago on Google • 526 reviews New
    It's OK as far as Theatre's go. There is good leg room in the theatre itself, and visibility is decent (we were stalls row L), although we were missing the people in front, which helped greatly. It was very cold in the theatre. We had a constant draft under our legs. I don't know when small, medium, or large options for wine came in, but that is definitely a rort. I prefer when a glass of wine was just that. The staff were friendly and helpful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 prettyxcool 1 year ago on Google
    Love this Grade II listed building, and it's recently been renovated too, so everything fresh and new. Also more ladies toilets so less queues! The plays are always good ones to see.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rodger B. 2 months ago on Google • 487 reviews New
    We have always wanted to go to the Old Vic, and seeing the Christmas Coral over the holidays seemed like the perfect time. It was!!! We were literally able to talk to the actors, the stage was that close to the audience. I don't think there is a bad seat, period. We were on main floor adjacent to one of 4 walkways where actors past on way to center stage. But the 2 balconies were also quite close. A intimate setting that really works. And the presentation of the story we all know was so creative. The 4 of us loved it! I won't give things away but suffice to say, but the staging, acting and music was very special.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nasir K. 5 years ago on Google
    An exceptional venue that puts on innovative plays and shows. Well worth a visit to get away from the overly glossy west end shows. We came to watch A Monster Calls. I had already read the book and watched the movie but I would say that this may have been the best adaptation yet. A great inventive use of lighting, music and a pared down minimalist set really bought the emotionally affecting performes to life.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A.K. Y. 3 years ago on Google
    This small, old theater is beautifully restored and sits spitting distance from the Waterloo Station. We were able to catch a couple of shows here and it looks like every seat is solid good one. The bar downstairs is a feast itself and well worth checking out.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Phil M. 1 year ago on Google
    Went to see Mike Bartlett's satirical 'The 47th' twice at The Old Vic. Bertie Carvel's virtuoso performance simply brilliant. But this review is about the theatre not the play. The old place, once tired and worn, has been given a luminous makeover and is a joy to visit now. Inside decor and bars on each floor make it invitingly hospitable. The staff are lovely people... polite, friendly, sociable. I will go more often now (provided the management maintain the quality repertoire!)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great play. The view from my seat was good, right at the back, and the acoustics are good. The legroom could be better. Lovely park across the road while you're waiting.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emerald M. 2 months ago on Google • 262 reviews New
    Went to see the Christmas Carol which I have wanted to do for 5 years. WOW WOW what an amazing performance by all the actors,actresses and stunning theatre "Christopher Eccleston" was a powerful performance. I came away feeling Christmassy, emotional, overjoyed and so happy at last I got some tickets. 🥂🍾❄️⛄️🎄🎁

  • 5/5 karen M. 1 month ago on Google • 219 reviews New
    An amazing building and fab theatre. Easy to get to from Euston on the Northern line. I got off early so that I could walk across the bridge and see the stunning views of London. We had a great view even though we were at the back. And we saw an amazing show. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 London Double T. 3 months ago on Google • 187 reviews New
    Hands down one of the best shows I've ever been to! The Christmas Carol was absolutely brilliant and The Old Vic venue was incredible and what a treat all around. Nice friendly staff, an easy walk from Waterloo Station and was such a pleasant experience, a weekday was brilliant just for this. It's on every year and no surprise! What a treat! Solid A***** LDT x

  • 4/5 Z H. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to see a Christmas Carol with kids, which was entertaining. The theatre allowed for audience members to sit in the round and the whole experience was very immersive. Only issue was the Victorian sized stalls that were quite crammed, but I suppose it suited the play… There was also an inventive Christmas installation by art students that lit up the hallway.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard K. 1 year ago on Google
    An absolutely lovely theatre. Looks amazing inside and out. Staff very helpful. We went to see A Christmas Carol in 2022 and it really was a fantastic experience. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christian M. 8 months ago on Google
    Had the chance to go and see Groundhog Day at the old Vic. The show was amazing but so was the venue. Seats are good value with a seat available for every budget. We were very fortunate to get 1st row on the dress circle. Toilets at the top or the bottom. Free water which is a nice touch. For anything else, it’s always better to book ahead. The location is perfect for out of towners, about 150m from Waterloo station. Lots of good places to eat before but most will be shut by the time you are done so eat before. No dedicated parking but didn’t expect it either considering it’s location. Would highly recommend the Old Vic and this particular show too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul S. 9 months ago on Google
    Superb experience watching Groundhog Day musical. Easy booking. Straightforward entry. Good bar service. Air conditioning about right. Would be happy to wake up to it all happening again tomorrow!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katie W. 4 months ago on Google
    This annual return to see 'A Christmas Carol' was just as brilliant as the previous year's. The whole cast and crew create this festive atmosphere and an important message for us all. Will never fail to cry a few tears, it's a glorious production in a wonderful theatre.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deb S. 5 years ago on Google
    We saw en excellent production of A Christmas Carol. It did not disappoint and we loved the charm of the old theatre.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniela S. 1 month ago on Google • 106 reviews New
    One of the nicest theatre venues in town! Old Vic has tradition and is in a great location with easy access and surrounded by great cafés and restaurants, perfect for that pre and post show sit down. We went to see their latest musical 'Just for One Day' about LiveAid with beautifully performed iconic music of the 80s and were not dissapointed. Great story! Uplifting music! The staff is friendly, the bar well stocked, the performances good! This one gets full marks from us!

  • 5/5 Richard K. 2 months ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    A Christmas Carol was such a brilliant performance at the beautiful Old Vic theatre. Thoroughly enjoyed the performance and the excellent cast. It is definitely a must see during the season. Some unexpected twists and tweaks to the story made it exciting to the end.

  • 5/5 John W. 4 months ago on Google • 34 reviews
    The Old Vic is Fabulous! My wife and I saw A Christmas Carol there in November 2023. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. After being seated, we were treated to minced pies by a hostess in period dress. The Actors are all professionals and are very talented. There are some surprises throughout the play that add to the overall experience. My wife and I loved the Old Vic and the play! We would make it a Christmas tradition if we lived in the UK. We hope to return next time we visit London.

  • 5/5 Nick B. 5 months ago on Google • 23 reviews
    One of our favorite spots we visited while in London. The staff is superb, the ahow was great, and the venue was timeless. If we ever get a chance to go back I absolutely will.

  • 5/5 Fernanda F. 4 years ago on Google
    A gem of theatre in London. Beautiful bars, amazing inside and confortable seats.

  • 5/5 Debbie O. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely theatre. Endgame was brilliant!

  • 5/5 Liz N. 4 years ago on Google
    Fabulous theatee

  • 5/5 Daleep S. 4 years ago on Google
    Always interesting program of plays and never disappoints.

  • 5/5 Cato H. 4 years ago on Google
    Great show and reasonably priced tickets. Plus, I valued the gender-neutral facilities

  • 5/5 Leora k. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful theatre!!! Its both large yet intimate and located close to Waterloo Station. There are a ton of bars and restaurants nearby for pre-show eating and drinking. We sat in the stalls towards the back and still had a wonderful view!

  • 5/5 Kimberley M. 1 year ago on Google
    Went here to watch Jitney, which was amazing. Super comfortable seats great view of the stage (Row K seat 14) and the bar isn't too pricey either. Really good trip out , helpful staff and is wheelchair friendly.

  • 5/5 David K. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful theatre

  • 5/5 Mark S. 2 years ago on Google
    A beautiful theatre which has the versatility to change the staging depending on the production. Just seen A Christmas Carol and the 'in the round' setting was really special and enabled all the audience to get closer to the action!

  • 5/5 Richard M. 1 year ago on Google
    Listening to Graham Norton (Virgin Radio) this morning, we heard him extol the virtues of this play to such an extent that, less than four hours later, we are walking in to the Old Vic theatre near London Waterloo East, virtually clutching our stalls seat tickets. Update: innovative and very funny comedy about PC culture and human nature. Recommended, especially if you've ever sat through Zoom meetings...

  • 5/5 Stu R. 1 year ago on Google
    By far my favourite theatre in London! Great views, great shows and a number of great bars. Seen many shows there over the years (Monster Calls, Groundhog Day etc) and cannot recommend enough. Saw Eureka Day with Helen Hunt last week which was an absolute comedy treat. Take a chance and see something new...you won't regret it.

  • 5/5 Sarah W. 1 year ago on Google
    Fabulous production of A Christmas Carol bringing the story to life with great stage effects. Fabulous for all ages. Exciting to watch and highly entertaining. Newly refurbished with multiple bars for interval and more toilets so less queuing! Love how accessible the Old Vic is from Waterloo station - just a shame about the train strikes wrecking our journey home on a non-strike day with no notice.

  • 5/5 Ronny W. 8 months ago on Google
    Superb evening watching 'Groundhog Day'. Fantastic musical - very funny. However: Seats in Dress circle on the side (Row Y, seats 5 &6) were VERY awkward, the whole row of seats is installed too far from the banister to be able to lean forward. But the show made up for the awkward seating arrangements.

  • 5/5 Jack T. 7 months ago on Google
    Really nice theatre. Felt very clean and modern inside, with enough room to not feel squashed during the intermission. The view of the stage was great, even from the back of the Bayliss Circle. Nice clean toilets with fast queues. Overall, a great theatre which I'd happily return to again.

  • 4/5 Alex B. 9 months ago on Google
    Great theatre and the air con on such a hot day was amazing. The Show - Groundhog Day was excellent, funny creative and touching, with great performances from the cast, including Andy Karl back in the lead role. The only thing was that the rake in the stalls does not look steep at all, we were in row D and a tall man sat in front of me, luckily the stage was high so I only moved my head about when someone was in that spot. Maybe putting each chair behind in between in the seats in front would help, some are but some aren't.

  • 5/5 julie b. 6 months ago on Google
    Came to see Pygmalion which was great even tho piano music drove me crackers! Pretty comfortable seats with enough room. Bars on each level but limited drinks on higher levels. Worth pre ordering drinks for half time as we only had 15 mins. Can take drinks to seats as long as no glass so wish I'dsupped it quicker. My champagne didn't taste as good when had to put it into plastic glass 😕 Our view was great and think most offer decent views as long as not on sides

  • 4/5 Naran M. 8 months ago on Google
    Good view from D25 Lillian Baylis circle. If you like musicals or the film version you will enjoy this production. Tim Minchin wrote the score and I presume the lyrics. If your familiar with his work, you will recognise his style in the music. Given that we were in the cheap seats, we had an amazing view. The old vic has never looked so good, and i can truly say this as my first visit to this theatre was in 1974 to see Spring Awakening!

  • 5/5 Wayne ODell (. 4 months ago on Google
    Really lovely theatre and dead easy to get to in London. Huge stage allows for imagination in the direction and productions in the round. Seats are Small and have hard handles seriously obese patrons should check that they will fit in the seats Very friendly they’re bbeeleeeeseee

  • 5/5 Garry J. 3 months ago on Google New
    My daughter and I watched "A Christmas Carol" at the Old Vic, last night. They put on one of the top 5 theater performances I have ever seen. The stage is innovative. In addition to the shape, and people sitting all around, characters remove and replace parts of the stage floor for live use as stage props! They also involve the audience throughout. Near the end, they even had the audience help them set up props for a scene, from our seats, in a fun and innovative way. The performance was top notch and kept the audience engaged, even though we all knew the story. On top of all of that, the acoustics in the Old Vic are amazing. The icing on the proverbial cake were the delicious Mince Pies that were offered to attendees. Well done!

  • 5/5 Chris 3 years ago on Google
    One of my favourite London Theatres. Always a great show on, lovely staff, never had a bad view on stage even with restricted view tickets.

  • 5/5 Peter B. 4 years ago on Google
    Great old Victoria theatre

  • 5/5 Lea L. 3 years ago on Google
    Had to sort out some issues regarding tickets I booked for a popular play and the box office staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The phone cut off during the call and after I sent them an email with my phone number, they called me back straight away without having to wait in line on the phone again. The team members working on shows are also very friendly and I’m always happy when I get to see something at the Old Vic!

  • 4/5 m 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely place, been there hundreds of times. Check out our food review channel on YouTube at MRTASTIES

  • 4/5 Constantinos A. 3 years ago on Google
    Love going here. Staff are great, seats are not bad, especially by theatre standards.

  • 5/5 Ellen C. 3 years ago on Google
    I came to this venue for the first time for Endgame in February and I was so impressed, we had 'cheap seats' but the view was fantastic! The venue itself was really nice too. Was looking forward to coming back at the end of this month for similar seats for a comedy show but postponed due to Covid lockdown, hopefully will be back soon!

  • 4/5 Mrs A. 3 years ago on Google
    Very small bar area with limited seat. Lots of bar type stools which frighten the life out of me, I have mobility issues, although I imagine space is limited in this old building. The actual theatre & stage area is typical of old style entertainment. Taxi dropped us off right outside & we managed to get a taxi outside when we cane out, which was great for us. Please I visited & very pleased to say I’ve watched a play in the old vic.

  • 4/5 Luca B. 3 years ago on Google
    Location"De-Lovely"

  • 5/5 Leo A. 3 years ago on Google
    Best theatre in London

  • 5/5 Vik D. 4 years ago on Google
    Never had a bad seat here, easy to navigate and quick service. Nice, renovated bar downstairs. As good as any theatre in the city and well located close to Waterloo Station.

  • 5/5 Temirlan A. 3 years ago on Google
    Hi from me (Temirlan, Walking Dead fan. I'm from Kazakhstan) to Andrew Lincoln!

  • 3/5 Fran B. 3 years ago on Google
    The loos were outside and were not nice kind of portaloo plastic but for many. A massive queue for the ladies but that is usual. So if you are going use one of the many pubs or cafe loos. Technical issues stopped the play for 20 minutes. I would recommend seeing "A very expensive poison" Play I would rate 5 stars. They made it funny but got over the seriousness of it all. A very delightful but surreal experience.

  • 5/5 Rebecca B. 4 years ago on Google
    A really brilliant theatre, I've been there many times and every production I've seen has been amazing! You get a good view from most of the seats whatever floor you end up on. The bars on each floor are lovely as well.

  • 5/5 Ashley C. 5 years ago on Google
    The play we saw, A Monster Calls, was spectacular. The theater was beautiful. The seating... was a little challenging. But frankly, the whole thing was wonderful.

  • 4/5 Kate G. 5 years ago on Google
    Wonderful theatre with imaginative and thought-provoking productions. Well worth a trip to South Of The River (or a great local in my case)

  • 5/5 Michael and Julie B. 4 years ago on Google
    Famous historic Grade 2 listed theatre in a great location adjacent to Waterloo Station. Now run as a not-for-profit producing theatre, it is the home to some superb professional performances, set amongst beautiful ornate surroundings. There is an intimate feel to the shows, the staff are friendly, the bar is spacious and the food is good. Highly recommended to visit!

  • 4/5 Bill L. 4 years ago on Google
    It's a very well run theatre I think. Much nicer Experience than the touristy places in the West end.

  • 5/5 Carly O. 5 years ago on Google
    We saw a Christmas story here and it was spectacular! The seating threw me off when I was booking the tickets, but it was wonderful for the show. It seemed like everyone in the theatre had a great seat. Would love to come back and see another show here.

  • 5/5 Max R. 4 years ago on Google
    Top quality shows

  • 4/5 Evelyn C. 4 years ago on Google
    Saw the Endgame here. The venue itself was beautifully decorated. However, seats condition can be improved.

  • 5/5 Charlotte P. 4 years ago on Google
    Love this place!!

  • 5/5 James M. 4 years ago on Google
    Love The Old Vic. Great not- for- profit theatre that always had a great bill board. Right by Waterloo Station. Great seating, good food and drinks. We saw our dear friend in an understudy run of 'Endgame'. Wonderful actors.

  • 5/5 Line A. 4 years ago on Google
    Great performance, friendly staff.

  • 5/5 George C. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful, timeless and emotive. One of London's greatest venues.

  • 5/5 Liam 4 years ago on Google
    Very intimate theatre! Really good facilities, staff, and bar areas. Looking out for the next show that I can come and see

  • 5/5 Graham P. 4 years ago on Google
    For all theatres how.much you enjoy the evening depends on what the play is. However, the Old Vic in general has good casts doing good, normally modern classic, plays. The auditorium is flexible and I've seen several plays 'in the round' as well as more standard arrangements. Interior decor is classic theatre and views are good from every seat I have been in. There is more space between the rows than most of the west end theatres and bars on every floor with toilets, some non-gender specific, on three of the four. You can order your drinks for the break on the App and get a discount but bars usually have enough staff to make the wait not too long. Very well located fo transport just 3 minutes walk from Waterloo station. On the corner of Waterloo Road and The Cut with plenty of places for pre- theatre meals or post theatre drinks. You should have an enjoyable evening and a theatre I would recommend.

  • 5/5 Elena V. 4 years ago on Google
    This unique theater was easy to find. Quick to access the tickets. The staff was friendly and helpful!! The performance was stunning, best experience so far here in London! Definitely recommend to see ‘End Game’! Daniel Radcliffe was superb to watch him act. Got a bit nervous when the ladder almost fell, but he was quick to stop it. Maybe that was part of the acting, anyways it was good and safe. Thank you for a memorable experience! Definitely coming back🙌🏻

  • 5/5 alan w. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful adaptation of Xmas Carol. Always good productions very diverse and entertaining. The building although one of the older theatres in London is interesting and has a very cosy atmosphere.

  • 4/5 Martin C. 4 years ago on Google
    Good plays, but bar could raise its act

  • 4/5 chowt c. 4 years ago on Google
    Do not bother booking side seats in baylis circle, except maybe those furthest from stage, they really aren't kidding by severely restricted view. Fortunately got moved (didn't ask), restively comfy seat with good view

  • 5/5 Marcel L. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Nice theater. In some places you have a very poor view. Therefore choose good places (Original) Schönes Theater . Auf manchen Plätzen hat man eine sehr schlechte Sicht. Daher gute Plätze auswählen

  • 5/5 Ian M. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful traditional theatre space with interesting programme of shows.

  • 5/5 jacki w. 4 years ago on Google
    Clean and tidy , staff polite and friendly. Great seats near the stage could See and hear everything. Acting great orchestra also great . Nice theatre.

  • 5/5 Stacey-Leigh D. 4 years ago on Google
    Great theatre and there additional youth and education services are 10/10 for going above and beyond.

  • 5/5 Robert G. 4 years ago on Google
    A theatre of legend with lovely welcoming helpful friendly staff. If like Me your over 6’ it’ll be somewhat cramped but if you have an incredible production to watch it’s worth a little discomfort. Food and drink......... best purchased in either of the supermarkets along the road unless you have a mortgage advisor with you. This is not unusual in theatres of course.

  • 5/5 Elaine M. 4 years ago on Google
    Love this theatre

  • 5/5 Mary 2 months ago on Google • 1 review New
    Welcoming, atmospheric, everyone seemed so ready to help and make our first theatre trip here amazing. The performance of A Christmas Carol was simply out of this world; a delightful experience for all the senses with a spectacular cast. As a family, we loved it.


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom

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