The Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre, Newport
Newport’s vibrant professional theatre and arts centre with diverse performances, galleries, studios, and riverside café.
The Riverfront is Newport’s premier professional theatre and arts centre located in the city centre on Kingsway. Opened in 2004, it offers two theatres, a visual art gallery, dance and recording studios, workshop spaces, and a licensed café overlooking the River Usk. The venue hosts a diverse range of performances including drama, comedy, opera, dance, and film screenings, alongside exhibitions and community workshops.
A brief summary to The Riverfront
- Kingsway, Newport, NP20 1HG, GB
- +441633656757
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the schedule in advance to catch a variety of performances including theatre, dance, and film screenings.
- Visit the basement exhibition to see the medieval ship remains discovered during the theatre’s construction.
- Use the accessible facilities and request assistance or hearing loop devices if needed.
- Enjoy refreshments at the licensed café overlooking the River Usk, especially during warmer months on the outdoor terrace.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Newport city centre with surrounding areas, stopping near Kingsway where The Riverfront is located. Typical journey times from central Newport bus station range from 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Services run frequently but check schedules for evening shows.
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Train
Newport railway station is about 1.5 km from The Riverfront, reachable by a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Newport to Cardiff, Bristol, and other regional hubs. Taxi fares from the station to the venue typically range from £5 to £8.
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Car
Driving to The Riverfront is convenient with nearby public car parks in Newport city centre. Parking fees vary but expect around £5-£10 for a few hours. Note that availability can be limited during major events, so arriving early is advisable.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Newport, The Riverfront is easily accessible on foot via mostly flat, paved streets. Walking times from the city centre range from 10 to 20 minutes, suitable for most visitors including those with mobility considerations.
The Riverfront location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Riverfront
A Hub of Artistic Expression in Newport
The Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre stands as Newport’s only professional presenting theatre and arts venue, centrally located on Kingsway near the River Usk. Since its opening in October 2004, the centre has become a vibrant cultural landmark designed by Austin-Smith:Lord architects. Its deconstructivist architecture blends modern design with functional spaces, creating an inspiring environment for both artists and audiences. The venue was constructed with care to preserve historical finds, including the excavation of a 15th-century medieval ship beneath the theatre’s orchestra pit, now displayed in a dedicated exhibition space.Versatile Performance and Creative Spaces
The Riverfront houses two main theatre spaces: a 482-seat auditorium that hosts a broad spectrum of performances such as comedy, drama, opera, dance, and live music, and a smaller 128-seat studio theatre that offers more experimental and intimate shows, as well as film screenings. Beyond performance, the centre supports creativity through its visual art gallery showcasing local and visiting artists, a dance studio offering classes from salsa to youth theatre, and a recording studio used for music and DJ workshops. Multiple workshop and conference rooms further enable community engagement and artistic development.Facilities and Accessibility
Spread over three floors, The Riverfront is fully accessible with lifts and level access to key areas including the main theatre, studio, café, and gallery. There are nine wheelchair spaces in the main theatre and eleven in the studio, along with accessible toilets on multiple floors. The venue supports visitors with hearing loops, audio-described performances, and British Sign Language interpretation on select shows. Assistance dogs are welcome, with arrangements available for their care during performances.A Social and Cultural Gathering Place
The Riverfront’s licensed café and bar overlook the River Usk, providing a relaxed setting for visitors before and after shows. An outdoor terrace enhances this experience, connecting guests with the scenic waterfront. The venue also hosts a variety of workshops, events, and educational programs aimed at fostering community participation in the arts. Its lively atmosphere makes it a focal point for cultural life in Newport.Historical Significance and Architectural Highlights
The discovery of a medieval ship during construction added a unique historical dimension to The Riverfront. The ship, dating from around 1465, is considered a find of national importance comparable to the Mary Rose. The centre integrates this heritage through a subterranean exhibition, blending history with contemporary arts. Architecturally, the building’s striking modern design and riverside setting create an iconic landmark in Newport’s urban landscape.Engaging Experiences for All Visitors
Whether attending a professional theatre production, exploring art exhibitions, participating in workshops, or enjoying film screenings, The Riverfront offers a diverse cultural experience. Its commitment to accessibility and community involvement ensures that it remains a welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds, enriching Newport’s artistic scene and providing memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mercure Newport
0.2 km
Modern 4-star comfort with stunning city views and a prime central location in Newport’s vibrant heart.
Newport Cathedral
0.7 km
Historic Norman cathedral atop Stow Hill, blending ancient architecture with vibrant worship and cultural events in Newport, South Wales.
City Bridge
1.9 km
A modern steel arch bridge in Newport, blending elegant design with vital transport links across the River Usk.
Man of Gwent
3.4 km
Explore the Man of Gwent, a unique bus stop in Newport, where local culture meets everyday life in a vibrant urban setting.
Stable Block, Tredegar House
3.9 km
Explore the elegant 17th-century Stable Block at Tredegar House, a testament to the Morgan family's equestrian heritage and architectural grandeur.
East Usk Lighthouse
5.7 km
Historic 1893 skeletal lighthouse guiding ships at Newport’s River Usk entrance, nestled in a tranquil RSPB reserve with scenic estuary views.
Twmbarlwm
8.2 km
Explore Twmbarlwm’s ancient hillfort with breathtaking views, rich history, and legendary tales atop South Wales’ iconic ridge.
The Glen Yr Afon House Hotel
14.0 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at The Glen Yr Afon House Hotel, a premier destination in Usk, perfect for relaxation and culinary delights.
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
15.5 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff
16.5 km
Dive into adventure at AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff, where teamwork and excitement come together in thrilling escape challenges for all ages.
The Cardiff Buddhist Centre
16.5 km
Experience tranquility and spiritual growth at The Cardiff Buddhist Centre, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Cardiff.
James Howell's House
16.7 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Cardiff International Film Festival
17.0 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
HMP Cardiff
17.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
The Gathering - Cardiff
17.0 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Unmissable attractions to see
Steel Wave
0.1 km
Explore Newport's Steel Wave: A Historical Landmark Showcasing the City’s Maritime Heritage and Architectural Beauty.
Friars Walk Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Newport’s city centre, blending modern retail with family-friendly entertainment.
Westgate Hotel
0.2 km
Historic Newport landmark and vibrant arts venue hosting cultural festivals in a charming heritage building.
Newport City Footbridge
0.3 km
A sleek, illuminated pedestrian bridge linking Newport’s riverbanks with stunning views and modern design.
Kingsway Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A central, practical shopping hub in Newport offering diverse stores, cafes, and community events in a convenient undercover setting.
George Street Bridge
0.8 km
Newport’s iconic first cable-stayed bridge, blending historic engineering with stunning views over the River Usk.
Belle Vue Park
1.2 km
A meticulously restored Victorian gem where heritage, nature, and family recreation converge in Newport's urban landscape.
TK Maxx
1.8 km
Discover designer fashion and homeware bargains at TK Maxx Newport, your treasure trove for up to 60% off top brands in a lively retail setting.
Newport Transporter Bridge Visitor Centre
2.0 km
One of the world's rarest transporter bridges, spanning history and engineering at the tidal heart of Wales.
Tredegar Fort
2.7 km
Explore the commanding Iron Age Tredegar Fort hilltop with panoramic views over Newport and the Severn Estuary.
Tredegar Park
3.0 km
Explore a grand 17th-century mansion set within 90 acres of stunning gardens and parkland in Newport’s historic Tredegar Park.
Amffitheatr Rufeinig Caerllion / Caerleon Amphitheatre
3.3 km
Step into history at Caerleon Amphitheatre, Wales’s best-preserved Roman arena where gladiators once fought and 6,000 spectators gathered.
Fourteen Locks Canal Centre
3.4 km
Industrial heritage meets natural beauty at Wales' most spectacular canal flight.
Caerleon
3.5 km
Explore Caerleon’s exceptional Roman fortress, baths, and amphitheatre—one of Britain’s best-preserved glimpses into ancient legionary life.
Newport Retail Park
3.5 km
Newport Retail Park offers a comprehensive shopping and leisure experience with free parking and a wide range of retailers just southeast of Newport town centre.
Essential places to dine
NP20 Bar and Kitchen
0.2 km
Stylish all-day dining and cocktails in the heart of Newport at Mercure’s NP20 Bar and Kitchen.
Pierre's - Newport
0.2 km
French-inspired all-day dining in Newport's vibrant shopping heart
Salt & Pepper Tavern
0.3 km
Experience authentic Romanian cuisine in a warm, inviting tavern at Newport’s bustling Commercial Street.
Drago Lounge
0.3 km
Lively riverside restaurant and bar in Newport’s Friars Walk Mall, blending eclectic local charm with inclusive dining options.
Gem 42
0.6 km
Experience inventive modern European cuisine with generous tasting menus and warm service in the heart of Newport.
Vittorio’s
0.8 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine in a warm, family-run setting at Newport’s beloved Vittorio’s.
Fratelli Newport
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Fratelli Newport, a vibrant culinary jewel in the heart of Newport.
Re D'oro Ristorante
1.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in Newport’s Maindee with homecooked classics, warm service, and a cozy atmosphere.
Bana Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting at Bana Restaurant, Newport’s cultural dining gem.
Marenghi's Restaurant
2.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Newport’s Chepstow Road.
Harvester Borderer Newport
2.4 km
A lively, family-friendly British bar and grill offering fresh, hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Newport.
The Usk Vale Restaurant
2.5 km
A welcoming country-style pub in Newport offering hearty traditional meals and great-value drinks in a cozy, friendly setting.
The Stone House
3.0 km
A welcoming grill and pub in St Brides, Newport, offering British classics, family-friendly dining, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The Priory
3.6 km
Charming boutique hotel in historic Caerleon offering tranquil gardens, comfortable rooms, and quality dining in a peaceful setting.
The Snug Restaurant & WOOD-FIRED PIZZERIA
3.6 km
Cozy up with authentic wood-fired Italian pizzas and homemade dishes in the heart of historic Caerleon.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
New Look
0.1 km
Trendy and affordable fashion for women and teens at New Look, nestled in Newport’s lively Friars Walk Shopping Centre.
Newport Market
0.2 km
Discover Newport Market, a vibrant indoor hub blending diverse food, independent shops, and lively cultural events in the heart of Newport.
The Wardrobe
0.2 km
Discover curated menswear and timeless style at The Wardrobe, Newport’s boutique for quality clothing and personalized service.
The Arcade Collective
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the charming historic arcade of Newport’s vibrant city centre.
The Outlet
0.4 km
Affordable fashion in the heart of Newport’s Kingsway Shopping Centre with friendly service and great value.
Primark
0.4 km
Discover stylish, affordable fashion and homeware at Primark Newport, your go-to shopping destination in the heart of Newport’s Kingsway Centre.
New Pastures Home
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted candles, crystals, and metaphysical treasures in Newport’s cozy and creative gift shop, New Pastures Home.
Do You Believe? Bridal & Prom Boutique
0.8 km
Newport’s premier bridal and prom boutique offering personalized service and a stunning collection of gowns for every princess.
Mendalgief Retail Park
1.8 km
A dynamic retail park in Newport offering diverse shops, great bargains, and family-friendly shopping in a convenient, accessible setting.
28 East Retail Park
2.2 km
A modern and spacious retail park in Newport offering a wide range of shops, family-friendly facilities, and excellent accessibility.
Crafty One
2.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan crafts in a welcoming boutique setting at Crafty One, Newport's charming gift shop on Keats Close.
Spirit of Awen
3.6 km
Caerleon's original crystal and spiritual sanctuary, brimming with treasures and genuine wisdom.
Flaunt Home & Gifts
3.8 km
Discover unique homeware and stylish gifts in the heart of historic Caerleon at Flaunt Home & Gifts.
What! Stores
4.2 km
Budget-friendly discount retailer with extensive home, garden, and hardware selections in Newport
Cwmbran Centre
7.4 km
Cwmbran Centre: Your vibrant shopping and community hub in South Wales with diverse stores and festive events year-round.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Windsor Castle
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming British pub in Newport’s city center, offering classic fare, full bar service, and a friendly atmosphere for all.
The Potters
0.1 km
A vibrant freehouse in Newport’s city centre, blending vintage charm, hearty home-cooked meals, and the city’s largest live music venue.
BAR.CODE
0.2 km
Where street food innovation meets premium cocktails in Newport’s lively Rodney Road hotspot.
Madame JoJo's
0.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife with live music, cabaret shows, and creative cocktails at Madame JoJo's iconic High Street venue.
Hogarths
0.3 km
Experience a grand Victorian gin palace in Newport with over 120 gins, local ales, lively sports, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
McCann's Rock N Ale Bar
0.3 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant rock and ale scene at McCann's Rock N Ale Bar, where great music meets quality drinks in a lively setting.
Slipping Jimmy's Bar&Grill
0.3 km
A lively grill and bar in Newport offering slow-smoked ribs, house-special burgers, and vibrant live music in a central city location.
Pen & Wig
0.3 km
A beloved Newport pub known for quality ales, a lively beer garden, and the city’s best Sunday carvery in a warm, welcoming setting.
Mojos
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Newport known for daily karaoke nights and late-night entertainment in a casual, social setting.
The Cellar Door
0.7 km
A cozy micro pub in Newport offering real ales, ciders, and a warm community atmosphere in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting.
The Lyceum Tavern
1.4 km
A cozy and quirky traditional pub on Malpas Road, offering friendly vibes, classic drinks, and a welcoming local atmosphere in Newport.
The Ship & Pilot
1.6 km
Experience authentic British pub culture and local ales in the heart of Newport at The Ship & Pilot, a charming nautical-themed pub.
The Ridgeway
1.6 km
A stylish pub in Newport blending retro charm with modern comfort, renowned for quality drinks and welcoming service.
Blaina Wharf
1.6 km
A lively, family-friendly riverside pub in Newport offering classic British carvery and a welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Rainbow Bar
2.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Caerleon, Newport, known for colorful décor, creative drinks, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Stow Hill Rooms
0.3 km
A stylish Art Deco nightclub and function venue in the heart of Newport, blending vibrant nightlife with versatile event spaces.
Vibez
0.3 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Vibez Superclub, where pounding bass and late-night energy create unforgettable weekend parties.
Hush Newport
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant Saturday nightlife at Hush Newport, Baneswell’s hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of Newport.
The Globe
15.8 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
Pulse
17.1 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
17.2 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
17.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
17.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
For Your Eyes Only
17.6 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Metros
17.6 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Revolution Cardiff
17.6 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
Retro
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
17.7 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Clwb Ifor Bach
17.7 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Kapu
17.7 km
Cardiff's tiki cocktail haven: exotic drinks, tropical vibes, and nightlife energy from afternoon to the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
