The Understudy
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 Understudy is the National Theatre's vibrant riverside craft bar on London's South Bank, offering indoor and outdoor seating, a curated selection of local craft beers, and rotating street food from KERB traders. With stunning Thames views, it's an ideal spot for casual meals, pre- or post-theatre drinks, open late into the night. Enjoy smash burgers, Middle Eastern flatbreads, Mexican tacos, and indie cocktails in this lively hub supporting local makers.
A brief summary to The Understudy
- Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PX, GB
- +442074523551
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Reserve tables for groups of 4+ indoors or outdoors to secure prime riverside spots, especially before evening shows.
- Arrive early for summer pop-ups on the square, where extra food trucks and bars create a mini street festival vibe.
- Opt for the rotating craft beer taps to sample new local brews; staff can guide pairings with street food.
- Food stops at 10pm (9pm Sundays), but drinks flow late – ideal for post-theatre unwinding until 1am weekends.
- Bring dogs or check wheelchair access; the terrace offers stunning Thames sunsets year-round.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
The Understudy location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Understudy
Riverside Craft Beer Haven
Nestled on the ground floor of the iconic National Theatre along Upper Ground, The Understudy serves as a welcoming riverside craft bar. Its expansive indoor space and generous outdoor terrace overlook the Thames, providing a prime vantage for watching London's river traffic glide by. The bar emphasizes local and independent producers, featuring a rotating tap list of small-batch craft beers from emerging London breweries alongside creative cocktails and mocktails crafted by indie makers.Street Food Spotlight
KERB, London's leading street food incubator, curates a lineup of independent traders at The Understudy. Diners can savor smash burgers from Meltdown Cheeseburgers, fluffy flatbreads topped with falafel, lamb shoulder, or crispy chicken from Sireli's Middle Eastern and Caucasian menu, or dive into tacos, nachos, and churros courtesy of MexClub. These flavor-packed options rotate regularly, ensuring fresh discoveries with every visit. Food service runs until 10pm daily, extending to 9pm on Sundays.Seasonal Outdoor Expansion
In summer, the venue transforms further as KERB extends operations onto the square fronting the National Theatre. Half a dozen pop-up food trucks join two additional riverside bars, amplifying the festive atmosphere. This setup turns the area into a bustling outdoor market, perfect for soaking up the South Bank vibe amid the theatre's brutalist architecture.Late-Night Theatre Hangout
Open from noon until midnight most days, with extended hours to 1am Thursday through Saturday and 10pm Sundays, The Understudy caters to theatregoers and evening strollers alike. Its cavernous interior, accented by concrete elements echoing the National Theatre's design, accommodates large crowds comfortably. Reservations are available for groups of 4-9 indoors or up to 20 outdoors, while walk-ins fill the remaining space.South Bank Integration
Positioned on the Queen's Walk, The Understudy integrates seamlessly into the South Bank's cultural promenade. Patrons enjoy easy access to the Thames Path, bridging the bar's casual energy with nearby landmarks like the London Eye and Tate Modern. The venue's dog-friendly policy, wheelchair accessibility, and free WiFi enhance its appeal as a versatile social spot.Atmospheric Details
The bar's lively hum peaks around showtimes, blending chatter, clinking glasses, and the sizzle of street food grills. Sunset views from the terrace cast golden hues over the water, while evening lights reflect dramatically. This combination of craft beverages, diverse eats, and prime location makes The Understudy a cornerstone of South Bank nightlife.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Bridge
0.3 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
South Bank Community Area
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.4 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.5 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.5 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.5 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.5 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Strand
0.6 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
St Clement Danes Church
0.6 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.6 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Embankment Pl
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Embankment Place, a picturesque riverside destination in the heart of London, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
The London Dungeon
0.7 km
Explore London's haunting history at The London Dungeon, where thrilling rides and live performances bring the city's dark tales to life.
Temple Church
0.7 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Theatre
0.1 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
BFI Southbank
0.1 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
Southbank Book Market
0.2 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
Observation Point
0.2 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline from a vibrant riverside vantage on the South Bank.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Southbank Centre
0.3 km
London’s premier riverside arts centre offering world-class performances, festive markets, and vibrant cultural experiences year-round.
Thames Beach
0.3 km
Discover Thames Beach, a tranquil urban riverside escape with sandy shores, iconic views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London SE1.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.3 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Royal Festival Hall
0.3 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
BFI IMAX
0.3 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.3 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
Bargehouse
0.4 km
Explore Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, a raw industrial space on London’s South Bank, hosting cutting-edge art exhibitions and immersive creative events.
Temple Station
0.4 km
Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
Explore Victoria Embankment, a historic riverside promenade in London featuring iconic views, tranquil gardens, and rich Victorian heritage.
South Bank
0.4 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
Essential places to dine
Wahaca Southbank
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.2 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.2 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Strada Southbank
0.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.3 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.3 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
The Archduke
0.3 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.4 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Troia Southbank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
OKAN South Bank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sugar And Style
0.2 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.3 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.3 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.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.4 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.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.4 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
The Store X
0.5 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Twinings - The Strand
0.6 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Gifts of London
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.8 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.8 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.9 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Understudy
0.0 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.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.3 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.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.3 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lyaness
0.5 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.6 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
American Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
0.6 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.6 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.6 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
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.
Le Champagne Bar
0.6 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.7 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.7 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.4 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.
Cirque Du Soul
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.6 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Heaven
0.7 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.
Carwash Nightclub
1.0 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
1.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
TSQ Club
1.1 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Roxy
1.1 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.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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