Bristol Old Vic: England's Oldest Continuously Working Theatre
England’s oldest continuously working theatre, Bristol Old Vic blends historic Georgian charm with vibrant contemporary arts on King Street.
Bristol Old Vic, located on King Street, Bristol, is the oldest continuously operating theatre in the English-speaking world, founded in 1766. Renowned for its Georgian architecture and historic horseshoe-shaped auditorium, it has survived centuries of social upheaval and evolved into a vibrant cultural hub with a rich legacy in theatre education and innovative productions.
A brief summary to Bristol Old Vic
- King St, Bristol, BS1 4ED, GB
- +441179877877
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular shows to secure seating in the historic horseshoe auditorium.
- Explore the adjoining Coopers’ Hall foyer to appreciate its ornate 18th-century architecture.
- Visit during refurbishment exhibitions or heritage tours to learn about the theatre’s rich history.
- Check out performances by the Bristol Old Vic Company and emerging artists in the New Vic studio theatre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the First Bus services 1 or 2 from Bristol city centre, which run frequently and stop near King Street. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2–£3. Note that services may be less frequent on weekends.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Bristol Temple Meads railway station, about 1.5 km from the theatre. From there, enjoy a 20-minute walk through the city centre along accessible pavements. Alternatively, take a taxi from the station, which takes 5 minutes and costs about £6–£8.
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Car
Driving to Bristol Old Vic is possible but parking nearby is limited and often paid. The closest public car parks are at Broadmead or Cabot Circus, about a 10-minute walk away. Expect parking fees of £2–£4 per hour. Traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
Bristol Old Vic location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Bristol Old Vic
Foundations of a Historic Theatre
Bristol Old Vic first opened its doors on May 30, 1766, originally named the Theatre Royal. Conceived by fifty wealthy shareholders who funded its construction, the theatre was designed by James Saunders and supervised by local architect Thomas Paty. Its Georgian architecture features a distinctive horseshoe-shaped auditorium, modeled with inspiration from London's Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Initially, the theatre operated under legal restrictions imposed by the Licensing Act of 1737, leading to its entrance being hidden behind terraced houses to evade authorities. It was not until 1788 that the theatre was granted a Royal patent, allowing it to perform full-length plays openly.Architectural Grandeur and Preservation
The theatre is a Grade I listed building, recognized for its architectural and historical significance. Its façade, described as 'debased Palladian,' is adorned with four Corinthian columns. The adjoining Coopers' Hall, built in 1744 and incorporated into the theatre complex in the early 1970s, adds to its grandeur with ornate chandeliers and elegant detailing. Over the centuries, the theatre has undergone several refurbishments, including a significant redevelopment in 1972 that introduced the New Vic studio theatre, making it the first regional theatre in the UK to have its own studio space.Surviving Turbulent Times and Community Support
Throughout its history, Bristol Old Vic has endured challenges including the Bristol Riots of 1831, when nearby fires threatened its existence, and the threat of closure during financial difficulties in 2007. The theatre’s survival has been largely due to strong community support, exemplified by public appeals in 1942 to save the venue and a remarkable turnout of over 1,000 locals in 2007 to prevent its closure. These efforts culminated in major refurbishments, most notably the £12 million renovation completed in 2012, which restored the theatre’s original geometry and enhanced backstage facilities.A Centre for Artistic Excellence and Education
Since 1946, Bristol Old Vic has been home to the Bristol Old Vic Company and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, the latter founded by Laurence Olivier. The school has trained numerous renowned actors, including Daniel Day-Lewis, Olivia Colman, and Jeremy Irons. The theatre continues to produce a diverse range of performances, from classic plays to innovative new works, and has nurtured a vibrant artistic community through outreach, education, and artist development programs.Modern Revitalization and Cultural Impact
In 2018, a new front-of-house building designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects Haworth Tompkins was unveiled, blending historic and contemporary elements. This transformation created inviting public spaces, uncovered original 1766 walls, and introduced new event venues and a studio theatre to support emerging artists. The theatre embraces its complex history, including its links to Bristol’s past, and commits to inclusion and diversity through ambitious programming and community engagement.Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Bristol Old Vic stands as a testament to resilience and cultural vitality, having entertained over seven million spectators across more than 250 years. It remains a beacon of theatrical innovation and heritage, continuously inspiring audiences and artists alike. Its unique blend of historic charm and modern creativity ensures its place as a cherished landmark in Bristol’s cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.2 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
0.2 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Old Post Office
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Bristol Bridge
0.3 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.3 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
The Nails
0.3 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Medieval Vaults
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.3 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
0.3 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Fermentation Buildings
0.4 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.4 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Prince Street Bridge
0.4 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.5 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.5 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Unmissable attractions to see
TimeTrail
0.1 km
Step into history with TimeTrail, an immersive live-action adventure on Bristol’s historic King Street that challenges your wits and teamwork.
Welsh Back
0.1 km
Historic waterfront street in Bristol, blending maritime heritage, abolitionist history, and vibrant cultural life along the Floating Harbour.
Floating Harbour
0.1 km
Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
Queen Square
0.2 km
A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant British dining in a stunning former banking hall at the heart of Bristol’s Old City.
The Centre
0.3 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Bristol city centre
0.3 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
St Nicholas Market
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan crafts, and global street food in a charming Georgian arcade.
Watershed
0.3 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Narrow Quay
0.3 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Bristol Ferry
0.3 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.3 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Pero's Bridge
0.3 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.4 km
Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
Harbourside
0.4 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Essential places to dine
Aqua Welshback
0.1 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.1 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Pasta Ripiena
0.2 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Adelina Yard
0.2 km
Modern European fine dining on Bristol’s historic Welsh Back, where seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes create an intimate, Michelin-recognized experience.
Pieminister
0.2 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.2 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
Under the Stars
0.2 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.2 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
No.1 Harbourside
0.3 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
The Bristol Stable
0.3 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
The Ox
0.3 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Will's doss pit
0.1 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
my a2space
0.2 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Over Here
0.2 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
This Feeling
0.2 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.2 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
uchi clothing co
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.3 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.3 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Urban Fox
0.3 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Blaze
0.6 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.6 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Something Elsie
0.6 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.6 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Ganesha
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kongs of King Street
0.0 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Small Bar
0.1 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Revolution Bristol
0.2 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Clockwork Rose
0.2 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.2 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
The Boardroom
0.2 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.2 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
The Library Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
Flight Club Bristol
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Rummer
0.3 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol's dazzling cocktail bar on Corn Street, blending royal elegance, masterful martinis, bottomless brunches, and electric nights in the heart of Old City.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Bristol
0.2 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
0.3 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
PRYZM
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Basement 45
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.5 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.5 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Antix
0.6 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Silk Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
The Loco Klub
0.8 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
The Pearl NightClub
1.0 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
La Rocca
1.0 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.0 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
1.1 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
