The Cockpit Theatre
London's oldest in-the-round theatre, championing bold new work and timeless classics in intimate Marylebone.
The Cockpit is London's oldest purpose-built in-the-round theatre, nestled in Marylebone near Edgware Road and Marylebone stations. This intimate 220-seat venue champions innovative theatre, from experimental productions to classic revivals, supported by a welcoming bar stocked with reasonably priced drinks and theatrical memorabilia. A hidden gem for theatre lovers seeking authentic, cutting-edge performances in a characterful setting.
A brief summary to The Cockpit
- The Cockpit, Gateforth St, London, NW8 8EH, GB
- +442072582925
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the bar area with its comfortable sofas and theatrical memorabilia; the welcoming atmosphere sets the tone for your visit.
- Check the diverse programming calendar in advance—the venue hosts everything from experimental theatre to jazz nights and opera, so there's something for varied tastes.
- Take advantage of the in-the-round seating; every seat offers an intimate connection to the stage, so don't worry about sightlines from any position.
- If you require accessibility support, contact the venue directly before your visit; staff are proactive in accommodating individual needs.
- Combine your theatre visit with exploration of Marylebone's independent shops, galleries, and restaurants—the neighbourhood rewards wandering.
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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Underground (Tube)
Marylebone station on the Bakerloo Line is the closest, approximately 6 minutes' walk from The Cockpit. Alternatively, Edgware Road station serves the Bakerloo, District, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines and is about 7 minutes' walk away. Both stations provide direct access to central London and connections across the network. Journey times from central locations typically range from 10–25 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Marylebone area, including routes 6, 16, 18, 98, 332, and 414. These buses connect The Cockpit to various parts of London and offer a scenic alternative to the Underground. Journey times vary depending on traffic and your starting location, typically ranging from 15–40 minutes from central areas. Buses run frequently throughout the day and evening.
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National Rail
Paddington and Marylebone rail stations are both within walking distance (approximately 10–15 minutes). These stations serve regional and intercity trains, making The Cockpit accessible for visitors arriving from outside London. From Paddington, connections to Heathrow Airport are available via the Heathrow Express (approximately 15 minutes).
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Bolt, etc.) can deliver you directly to Gateforth Street. Fares from central London typically range from £8–£18 depending on traffic and time of day. Evening performances may experience longer wait times and surge pricing during peak theatre hours.
The Cockpit location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Cockpit
A Historic Theatre in the Round
The Cockpit stands as London's oldest purpose-built, free-standing in-the-round theatre, a distinction that underscores its unique position in the capital's performing arts landscape. Located on Gateforth Street in Marylebone, this intimate venue has been carefully designed to create an immersive theatrical experience where audiences sit on all sides of the stage, fostering an immediate connection between performers and spectators. The in-the-round configuration transforms every seat into a premium vantage point, eliminating the traditional hierarchy of theatre seating and democratizing the viewing experience.A Hub for Experimental and Diverse Theatre
The Cockpit has earned its reputation as a champion of bold, innovative theatre. The venue presents a diverse programming calendar that ranges from experimental new works and rehearsed readings to celebrated classics and genre-spanning productions. Recent seasons have featured everything from thought-provoking contemporary plays to operatic performances, jazz evenings, and multilingual festivals. The theatre actively supports emerging artists and established companies alike, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise struggle to find stage time in London's competitive theatre landscape. This commitment to artistic risk-taking and cultural diversity makes the venue a vital part of London's fringe theatre ecosystem.Intimate Atmosphere and Welcoming Spaces
Beyond the auditorium itself, The Cockpit offers a charming bar area that serves as a genuine social hub. Furnished with deep, comfortable sofas and adorned with jazz memorabilia and local theatrical artefacts, the bar creates an inviting pre- and post-show gathering space. The venue is known for its reasonably priced drinks—house wine and craft selections remain affordable—and genuinely welcoming staff who take pride in creating an accessible, inclusive environment. The theatre has made particular efforts to accommodate visitors with accessibility needs, including dedicated disabled parking directly outside the entrance, accessible facilities throughout, and staff trained to provide personalized support.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of Marylebone, The Cockpit benefits from excellent transport connections. The venue lies within a short walk of both Marylebone and Edgware Road Underground stations, with multiple bus routes serving the area and nearby rail stations at Paddington and Marylebone. This central location makes the theatre easily accessible to Londoners across the city and visitors exploring the West End. The surrounding neighbourhood offers additional cultural attractions, restaurants, and shops, making a theatre visit part of a broader Marylebone experience.A Venue for Hire and Community Engagement
Beyond its public performances, The Cockpit offers flexible spaces available for hire, accommodating rehearsals, photo shoots, film productions, and private events. The venue's adaptability and professional infrastructure make it attractive to theatre companies, independent producers, and creative professionals seeking an intimate yet technically capable performance space. The theatre also hosts regular community events, including monthly scratch nights, rehearsed readings, and themed performance series, fostering ongoing engagement with local and visiting artists.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
London Central Mosque
0.6 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
The Paddington Partnership
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
3 Abbey Rd.
1.0 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
5 Abbey Rd.
1.0 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
Sussex Gardens
1.3 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
1.4 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.6 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Speakers' Corner
1.7 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
1.8 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
The Old Police House
1.8 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Speke Monument
1.8 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Space Apart Hotel
1.8 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Roosevelt Memorial
1.9 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
38 Grosvenor Sq
2.0 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Norwegian War Memorial
2.0 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lord's Cricket Ground
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of cricket at Lord's Cricket Ground, the world's oldest and most famous cricket venue in London.
The Fan Bridge
0.7 km
A captivating kinetic footbridge at Paddington Basin that opens like a Japanese fan, blending engineering brilliance with artistic design.
Paddington Basin
0.7 km
A modern canal basin in west London where historic waterways meet sleek architecture, waterside dining, and a relaxed urban vibe.
St Mary's Church, Bryanston Square
0.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St Mary's Church in Bryanston Square, a must-visit historical landmark in London.
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
0.8 km
Step inside the legendary detective’s Victorian home and immerse yourself in the world of Sherlock Holmes at 221B Baker Street.
221B Baker St
0.8 km
Step into the legendary Victorian home of Sherlock Holmes at 221B Baker Street, London’s iconic address of mystery and literary heritage.
Grosvenor Casino, The Victoria
0.9 km
Experience premier gaming, fine dining, and vibrant social scenes at London’s iconic Grosvenor Casino The Victoria on Edgware Road.
The Wonderpass
0.9 km
Discover The Wonderpass, a vibrant and artistic pedestrian underpass at Baker Street that turns a simple crossing into a captivating cultural journey.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
0.9 km
Iconic bronze statue near Baker Street celebrating Sherlock Holmes, London’s legendary fictional detective and literary icon.
Baker St
1.0 km
Step into Victorian London at the world's first literary character museum, where Sherlock Holmes' iconic address comes alive.
Abbey Road crossing
1.0 km
The world-famous zebra crossing where The Beatles immortalized their legacy on Abbey Road in London’s St John’s Wood.
Jason's Trips Ltd
1.0 km
Historic narrowboat cruises reveal London's hidden waterways and 200 years of canal heritage.
Paddington Bear Statue
1.0 km
Meet Paddington Bear at his iconic London station home, a bronze tribute to kindness, migration, and British cultural heritage.
Abbey Road Studios
1.0 km
The world’s first purpose-built recording studio, immortalized by The Beatles and a beacon of musical innovation since 1931.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
1.0 km
Modern student living in central London, opposite Madame Tussaud’s and close to Regent’s Park and the vibrant West End.
Essential places to dine
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
0.9 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Apricity Restaurant
1.7 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.9 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Portland
1.9 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
1.9 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
The Punch Bowl
2.2 km
Historic Mayfair gastropub where three centuries of character meet contemporary British cuisine and award-winning hospitality.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
2.2 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Little Social
2.3 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
The Ledbury
2.3 km
Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.
Laz @Camden
2.3 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Jamon Jamon
2.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
sketch
2.3 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
2.4 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Starbucks Coffee
2.4 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
The Shed
2.4 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Church Street Market
0.1 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
London Beatles Store
0.8 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
The London Shop
1.9 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Thomas Goode & Co
2.2 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Oxford St
2.2 km
Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.
Westbourne Grove
2.2 km
Discover chic boutiques, gourmet dining, and vibrant street life in the heart of Notting Hill.
237 Oxford St
2.2 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Beyond Retro Soho
2.2 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
LONGCHAMP
2.3 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Bond St
2.3 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
Goodge Place Market
2.4 km
A vibrant street food market in the heart of Fitzrovia, offering diverse flavors and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from central London.
Melt Chocolates
2.4 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates and immersive chocolate-making experiences in Notting Hill's most charming boutique.
Liberty
2.4 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Regent St.
2.4 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
House of secrets
2.4 km
Step into House of Secrets on Oxford Street and discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and enchanting souvenirs in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dickens Tavern
1.0 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.2 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
Purl London
1.2 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.4 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
The Quiet Night Inn
2.2 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
The Argyll Arms
2.2 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
2.3 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
The Walmer Castle
2.3 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
2.4 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
The Good Mixer
2.4 km
Historic Camden pub famed for Britpop legends, live music, and authentic traditional atmosphere.
All About Eve
2.4 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
Be At One - Camden
2.4 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Camden Head
2.4 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
The Little Yellow Door
2.5 km
Notting Hill's quirky flatshare bar where cocktails flow from teacups, games spark laughs, and every night feels like a spontaneous house party in a colorful home.
Punch Room
2.5 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.4 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Carwash Nightclub
2.0 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Globe
2.3 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Max's Other Flat
2.3 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Club Swizzle
2.3 km
Dive into acrobatic cabaret mayhem at the Roundhouse: Swizzle Boys flip chairs, Reuben Kaye slays with wit, and the bar becomes your front-row thrill ride in Camden's hottest 2018 spectacle.
Soul City
2.4 km
A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Notting Hill Arts Club
2.4 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Lockside
2.4 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Subteranian
2.5 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Club Stable
2.5 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Electric Ballroom
2.5 km
A gritty, multi-level Camden music hall where loud live bands and club nights collide beneath theatrical lighting and raised balconies.
The Underworld
2.5 km
Dive into Camden's throbbing heart of rock and metal at this legendary basement club, where intimate gigs unleash mosh pits and unforgettable riffs.
Monster Queen
2.5 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
101 Nightclub London
2.5 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
2.5 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Lively
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
