Menier Chocolate Factory: London's Intimate Theatre in a Historic Chocolate Factory
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Menier Chocolate Factory is a renowned theatre located in a Grade II listed former chocolate factory in Southwark, London. Established in 2004 within a beautifully preserved 19th-century industrial building, it offers an intimate 180-seat auditorium known for innovative productions, including plays, musicals, live music, and comedy. The venue also features a bar and retains much of the original factory’s architectural charm, making it a unique cultural hub with a rich history tied to the Menier family's chocolate manufacturing legacy.
A brief summary to Menier Chocolate Factory
- 4 O'Meara St, London, SE1 1TE, GB
- +442073781713
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance to secure preferred seating in the intimate 180-seat auditorium.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early to enjoy the bar and settle in before the performance.
- Use nearby car parks such as NCP Kipling Street or Union Car Park on Great Suffolk Street; the theatre is in the congestion charge zone.
- Request wheelchair-accessible seating or assistance when booking to ensure a comfortable visit.
- Check the theatre’s website for current show listings and membership benefits for discounts and priority booking.
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 Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge station (served by Jubilee and Northern lines), approximately a 6-minute walk to the theatre. Alternatively, Borough station on the Northern line is about a 7-minute walk. Frequent bus services run along Southwark Street. Travel time from central London is typically 15–25 minutes. No ticket surcharge applies beyond standard fares.
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Car
Driving to the Menier Chocolate Factory involves entering the London congestion charge zone; expect to pay the daily charge. Limited on-street parking is available nearby, but several public car parks such as NCP Kipling Street and Union Car Park on Great Suffolk Street offer hourly and daily rates typically ranging from £5 to £20. Allow extra time for traffic and parking, especially during peak hours.
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Walking
From London Bridge station, a flat and accessible 6-minute walk along well-paved urban streets leads you to the theatre. The route is suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers, with pedestrian crossings and street lighting throughout.
Menier Chocolate Factory 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 Menier Chocolate Factory
A Sweet Industrial Heritage Transformed
The Menier Chocolate Factory building dates back to the late 19th century, constructed between 1865 and 1874 by the French Menier family, famed chocolatiers who expanded their operations to London. The five-storey brick factory, noted for its Gothic-style and lavish architectural detailing, was originally a bustling chocolate production site until its closure in the 1980s. The structure was granted Grade II listed status in 1996, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. After years of dereliction, the building was sensitively converted into a theatre in 2004, preserving original features such as exposed brickwork, cast-iron columns, timber beams, and large windows, which contribute to its distinctive industrial charm.An Intimate Venue for Innovative Theatre
The Menier Chocolate Factory theatre is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, with a seating capacity of approximately 180 on a single floor, bringing audiences close to the stage for an immersive experience. The flexible auditorium accommodates various staging formats, including in-the-round and thrust, enhancing the dynamic nature of its productions. Since opening, it has become a vibrant venue for plays, musicals, live music, and stand-up comedy, often showcasing award-winning and critically acclaimed shows such as "Sunday in the Park with George," "La Cage aux Folles," and "Sweeney Todd." The theatre is led by artistic director David Babani and maintains a reputation as one of London’s most innovative fringe venues.A Cultural and Culinary Experience
Complementing the theatre is a bar located within the building’s former chocolate packing room, offering a selection of drinks and Menier chocolate treats. Although the on-site restaurant is currently closed, the bar provides refreshments during performances, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The venue is committed to accessibility, featuring step-free access, accessible toilets, and wheelchair spaces in the auditorium, ensuring it welcomes diverse audiences. The theatre’s historic setting combined with contemporary cultural programming creates a unique blend of heritage and modern creativity.Architectural Significance and Conservation
The building’s architecture is a rare example of a well-appointed Victorian industrial warehouse, featuring brick with stone dressings and intricate facade detailing that once served as advertising for the Menier company. The rear of the complex includes additional warehouse structures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adjacent to a railway viaduct. The refurbishment maintained key architectural elements such as timber trussed roofs, cast-iron columns, and original staircases, while introducing modern amenities like lifts. Situated in Southwark’s Thrale Street Conservation Area, the Menier Chocolate Factory contributes positively to the historic industrial character of the neighborhood.A Hub for Arts and Community
Beyond theatre, the Menier Chocolate Factory building hosts office spaces, art galleries, and has been a backdrop for films and photo shoots, making it a lively mixed-use cultural destination. It has garnered awards including the Peter Brook/Empty Space Up and Coming Venue Award in 2005, reflecting its impact on London’s arts scene. The venue’s programming and historic ambiance attract visitors locally and internationally, making it a must-visit for theatre enthusiasts and those interested in London’s industrial heritage.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Menier Chocolate Factory enjoy a cozy, welcoming environment where every seat offers a close connection to the performance. The preserved factory features create a warm, atmospheric setting that blends history with contemporary art. The venue’s location near London Bridge and Borough stations places it in a vibrant urban area, while its intimate scale provides a contrasting sense of retreat and focus on the arts. Seasonal programming, special memberships, and occasional exclusive events add to the dynamic visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.5 km
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Historic England
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Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
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London Stone (remaining part)
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Monument to the Great Fire of London
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An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
113 Cannon St
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A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.9 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Custom House
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Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
The National Firefighters Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
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Lombard St
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Explore the iconic Lombard Street, London's 'Crookedest Street,' featuring stunning architecture and charming gardens in the heart of the city.
20 Fenchurch St
1.1 km
Iconic London skyscraper with a unique top-heavy design, featuring the Sky Garden — a free public rooftop oasis with panoramic city views and dining.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
1.1 km
Medieval guild church with Wren's only 'true spire'—a 950-year sanctuary in the City's financial heart.
South Bank Community Area
1.1 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Victoria Embankment
1.1 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.1 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
Red Cross Garden
0.2 km
A historic Victorian pocket park in Southwark offering tranquil green space, heritage cottages, and a wildlife pond in the heart of London.
Borough Yards
0.2 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
George
0.3 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
Borough Market
0.3 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.3 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.3 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
Winchester Palace
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.4 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
Southwark Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
St George the Martyr, Southwark
0.4 km
Discover St George the Martyr, a historic Georgian church in Southwark with over 900 years of rich history and architectural heritage.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
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Step into Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre, hidden in a church attic, and explore the raw, pre-anaesthetic world of 19th-century surgery and herbal medicine.
Bankside
0.4 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
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Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Lantern Ghost Tours
0.4 km
Discover London’s haunted past with Lantern Ghost Tours, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric pub stops near London Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.0 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Madison
1.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Restaurant Story
1.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.2 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
14 Hills
1.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
1.3 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
1.5 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.5 km
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Wahaca Southbank
1.5 km
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Ping Pong Southbank
1.5 km
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Strada Southbank
1.6 km
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Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.6 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
wagamama southbank
1.6 km
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Troia Southbank
1.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
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1 Poultry
1.0 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.0 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
One New Change
1.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.1 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
1.1 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
The Royal Exchange
1.1 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Tower of London Shop
1.1 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Sugar And Style
1.2 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Traders Gate
1.2 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.2 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
The Giftree London
1.4 km
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Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.6 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Twinings - The Strand
1.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old School Yard
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Doggett's Coat and Badge
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Nine Lives
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.9 km
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Lyaness
1.0 km
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The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.1 km
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The Bootlegger
1.1 km
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Black Parrot
1.3 km
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Punch Tavern
1.3 km
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Demon, Wise & Partners
1.3 km
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The Understudy
1.4 km
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Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
1.5 km
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Bar @ 26 Leake Street
1.5 km
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honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.5 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Corsica Studios
1.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
1.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Heaven
2.1 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
London Best Night Clubs
2.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Carwash Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
E1
2.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
XOYO LONDON
2.4 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
2.4 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Intimate
- Unique
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
