Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, London's Intimate Jacobean Candlelit Theatre
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Nestled on Bankside in London, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is a meticulously crafted indoor theatre inspired by Jacobean playhouses of Shakespeare’s era. Opened in 2014, it offers an intimate setting with a capacity of around 340 seats arranged in a pit and two galleried tiers. Lit predominantly by over a hundred beeswax candles, the Playhouse immerses visitors in a historic atmosphere enhanced by its stunning painted ceiling featuring the moon goddess Luna. It hosts a year-round programme of plays, concerts, and workshops, making it a unique cultural gem beside Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
A brief summary to Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
- Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT, GB
- +442074019919
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book seats in the pit or front rows of the lower gallery for the most immersive and clear views of the stage.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance to enjoy the unique candlelit atmosphere and settle in comfortably.
- Visit the painted ceiling depicting the moon goddess Luna—an exquisite detail inspired by 17th-century art.
- Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in the lower gallery with companion seats; notify the box office when 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 Blackfriars Station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the Playhouse. Frequent trains run on the Circle and District lines. Bus routes 381 and RV1 also stop nearby. Tickets cost £2.50-£6 depending on zones.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London takes about 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20. Drop-off is available close to 21 New Globe Walk.
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Walking
From nearby Southwark or London Bridge stations, walking to the Playhouse takes 15-25 minutes along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for most mobility levels.
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse 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 Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
A Living Tribute to Jacobean Theatre Traditions
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse stands as a modern yet faithful homage to the indoor theatres of early 17th-century London. Conceived as part of Shakespeare’s Globe complex on Bankside, it opened in January 2014 after careful design inspired by original blueprints attributed to John Webb, Inigo Jones’s assistant. Unlike an exact replica, the Playhouse captures the spirit and architectural essence of Jacobean playhouses, particularly echoing the historic Blackfriars Theatre where Shakespeare’s company performed from 1609. Its green oak timber frame and brick shell create a warm, authentic environment that transports audiences back to Shakespeare’s time.Enchanting Candlelit Ambience and Artistic Details
One of the Playhouse’s most captivating features is its lighting: over 100 beeswax candles illuminate the space, casting a soft, flickering glow that recreates the original theatrical experience before electric lighting. Above, the intricately painted ceiling depicts the moon goddess Luna surrounded by cherubs and stars, a design inspired by a 17th-century mural from Cullen House in Scotland. This celestial artwork, created by artist Zaza Opperman and her team, adds a dreamlike quality to the venue, enhancing the intimate atmosphere and connecting visitors to Jacobean artistry and symbolism.Intimate Seating and Audience Experience
The Playhouse accommodates approximately 340 patrons across three main seating areas: the pit, lower gallery, and upper gallery. The pit offers bench seating close to the stage, providing an immersive and engaging viewing experience, though with limited legroom. The two galleried tiers form a horseshoe shape around the stage, with individual seats offering better comfort and elevated vantage points. The lower gallery includes wheelchair-accessible spaces with companion seating, ensuring inclusivity. The venue’s intimate scale means every seat feels close to the performance, fostering a strong connection between actors and audience.Modern Innovations Within a Historic Framework
Though steeped in tradition, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse incorporates modern technology discreetly. Its sophisticated ventilation system and safety measures allow performances to proceed under candlelight with confidence. The theatre also features an attic winch system enabling special flying effects, inspired by historical mechanisms but enhanced with 21st-century technology. These innovations blend seamlessly with the historic design, allowing the Playhouse to host a diverse programme of plays, concerts, and educational events throughout the year.Cultural and Historical Significance in London’s Theatre Landscape
Named after Sam Wanamaker, the American actor and director who founded Shakespeare’s Globe, the Playhouse fulfills his vision of an indoor theatre complementing the open-air Globe. Situated in the vibrant cultural hub of Bankside, it neighbors the Tate Modern and the National Theatre, contributing to London’s rich theatrical heritage. The Playhouse’s seasonal main programme runs from October to April, with additional events in summer, making it a year-round destination for lovers of classical drama and historic performance styles.Artistic Legacy and Visitor Engagement
The Playhouse opened with a revival of John Webster’s Jacobean tragedy The Duchess of Malfi, setting a precedent for high-quality productions that honor early modern theatre. Its design and programming invite visitors not only to watch performances but also to engage with the history and craft of Shakespearean theatre. The venue’s atmospheric setting, combined with its authentic features and modern comforts, offers a unique cultural experience that deepens appreciation for theatrical traditions and the enduring legacy of Shakespeare’s works.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.2 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Historic England
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.6 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.6 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.6 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Queen Anne Statue
0.7 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Victoria Embankment
0.7 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.8 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
South Bank Community Area
0.8 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Pudding Ln
0.8 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Lombard St
0.8 km
Explore the iconic Lombard Street, London's 'Crookedest Street,' featuring stunning architecture and charming gardens in the heart of the city.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.8 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shakespeare's Globe
0.0 km
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
Bankside
0.1 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.1 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Tate Modern
0.2 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Millennium Bridge
0.2 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
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.
St James Garlickhythe
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
Borough Yards
0.4 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
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.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Queen Victoria St
0.4 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.5 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
Borough Market
0.5 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
College of Arms
0.5 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.5 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.0 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
14 Hills
1.2 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.3 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
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.
Wahaca Southbank
1.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.4 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
1.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.4 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Restaurant Story
1.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
St. John
1.4 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Strada Southbank
1.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.8 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.9 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Sugar And Style
0.9 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Hay's Galleria
0.9 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower of London Shop
1.2 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
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.
Twinings - The Strand
1.3 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Smithfield Market
1.3 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Barbican Shop
1.4 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
The Store X
1.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.4 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.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.5 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.6 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.7 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.8 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Black Parrot
0.9 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Bootlegger
1.0 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Old School Yard
1.0 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.1 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.1 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nine Lives
1.1 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Understudy
1.2 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Old Bank of England
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.4 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.4 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
1.4 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
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
1.5 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.
Corsica Studios
1.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
London Best Night Clubs
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Carwash Nightclub
1.9 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Heaven
1.9 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.0 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
XOYO LONDON
2.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
2.2 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- 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
- 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
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly