Nottingham Playhouse
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
Nottingham Playhouse is a world-class regional theatre in Nottingham city centre, established in 1948 and housed in a striking modernist building since 1963. The venue produces bold, innovative theatre ranging from Shakespeare and classic drama to new commissions, musicals, and family shows. With a 770-seat auditorium and a reputation for launching productions to the West End and Broadway, it remains one of England's leading producing theatres, recently awarded Theatre of the Year 2025.
A brief summary to Nottingham Playhouse
- Wellington Circus, Nottingham, NG1 5AF, GB
- +441159419419
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book parking in advance through NCP Mount Street or St James Street car parks; use the promo code from your booking confirmation email for validated parking discounts via the NCP app.
- Take advantage of the 15% discount on Nottingham City Transport bus tickets by entering the promo code from your booking confirmation into the NCTX Buses app.
- Arrive early if driving; on-street parking near the theatre can be limited during peak times, though cashless parking is available throughout the surrounding streets.
- The theatre is a 15-minute walk from Nottingham railway station or a 5-minute tram ride to Old Market Square, making public transport a convenient alternative to driving.
- Explore the surrounding Wellington Circus area before or after your show; numerous restaurants, bars, and cultural venues are within walking distance.
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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By Train
Nottingham railway station is approximately 15 minutes' walk from the theatre, or take the NET tram service from the station to Old Market Square (5 minutes by tram), which is a 5–10 minute walk away. Trams run every 7–15 minutes throughout the day. Use postcode NG1 5AL for navigation.
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By Bus
Multiple bus stops serve the theatre, located 5–10 minutes' walk away near Old Market Square and Victoria Bus Station. Nottingham City Transport operates frequent services; all theatre bookers receive a 15% discount on adult and group tickets via the NCTX Buses app using a promo code provided in booking confirmation emails. Zigzag tickets offer savings on Trent Barton buses after 9am.
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By Car with Parking
Use postcode NG1 5AL for satellite navigation. NCP Mount Street and NCP St James Street car parks are nearby; parking costs range from £4.95 for 1 hour to £19.95 for 3–24 hours. Validate your parking via the NCP app using the promo code from your booking confirmation. On-street cashless parking is also available around Wellington Circus, though availability can be limited during peak times. Note: temporary parking restrictions are in place on East Circus Street and Wellington Circus due to ongoing Maid Marian Roundabout roadworks; allow extra travel time.
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Accessible Parking
A limited number of Blue Badge parking spaces are available on North Circus Street and East Circus Street, directly outside the Playhouse. Some temporary restrictions apply due to roadworks; check Nottingham City Council's website for current availability.
Nottingham Playhouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Nottingham Playhouse
A Modern Icon in the Heart of Nottingham
Nottingham Playhouse stands on Wellington Circus as a bold statement of modernist architecture, designed by Peter Moro—the architect who worked on London's Royal Festival Hall. Completed in 1963, the building's contemporary design created considerable controversy at the time, facing the Gothic Revival splendour of Nottingham Cathedral across the square. Yet the theatre's architectural daring proved prescient: it received a Civic Trust Award in 1965 and is now recognized as a landmark of cultural significance. The circular auditorium walls and proscenium stage create an intimate 770-seat venue that balances technical sophistication with audience connection.Seven Decades of Theatrical Excellence
Established in 1948 as a repertory theatre in a converted cinema on Goldsmith Street, Nottingham Playhouse relocated to its current purpose-built home in 1963. The inaugural production—Tyrone Guthrie's staging of Shakespeare's Coriolanus—featured a young Ian McKellen opposite John Neville, setting the tone for decades of distinguished work. Under the artistic direction of Frank Dunlop and John Neville, with Peter Ustinov as associate, the theatre quickly became a breeding ground for talent and innovation. The venue has hosted performances by Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi Dench, Hugh Grant, Vicky McClure, and Mark Gatiss, among countless others.From Regional Success to National Prominence
In recent years, Nottingham Playhouse has achieved remarkable success in transferring productions beyond its walls. The 2013 adaptation of The Kite Runner became the theatre's best-selling drama at that time, eventually transferring to the West End and later to Broadway. The 2014 production of 1984, created in partnership with Headlong Theatre, played extended runs in London's West End and toured internationally to Australia and the USA. The 2018 production of The Madness of George III, starring Mark Gatiss, achieved record-breaking box office figures and reached approximately 500,000 people internationally through National Theatre Live broadcasts. More recently, the play Punch—developed over four years from a Radio Four podcast and written by James Graham—has transferred to both the West End and Broadway, cementing the theatre's status as a launching pad for major theatrical events.Artistic Vision and Community Connection
Under the leadership of artistic director Adam Penford, the theatre has earned recognition as Theatre of the Year 2025 at The Stage awards. The Playhouse's programming philosophy balances artistic ambition with accessibility, presenting a diverse mix of timeless classics, innovative new commissions, musicals, pantomime, and family entertainment. This variety ensures audiences encounter both challenging, hard-hitting drama and entertaining, lighter fare. The theatre has adapted its business model to navigate post-pandemic challenges and declining public arts subsidies, while maintaining its commitment to inclusivity and welcome for both audiences and artists. Despite losing city council funding and experiencing a 30 percent reduction in Arts Council support, the theatre continues to sell more tickets than ever, sustained by the loyalty of Nottingham's theatre-going community.The Building's Distinctive Character
The theatre's modernist exterior, with its circular auditorium walls, initially seemed at odds with the Gothic cathedral beside it, yet the two buildings now form a striking architectural dialogue in the city centre. The interior design creates an intimate atmosphere despite the 770-seat capacity, with comfortable seating and excellent sightlines from all areas. The venue's location on Wellington Circus places it within easy reach of Nottingham's cultural quarter, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and other attractions, making an evening at the theatre part of a broader city experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.1 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Cathedral Hall
0.1 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.3 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.4 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Speakers' Corner
0.4 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
King's Walk sign
0.5 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
St Nic's Church
0.5 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.5 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.6 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.7 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Citylife UK
0.7 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Unmissable attractions to see
Public Art - Sky Mirror
0.0 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.1 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
The Park Tunnel
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden Victorian sandstone tunnel, a unique historic passage blending architectural beauty with urban mystery.
Bell Inn
0.3 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub where 15th-century beams, historic caves, and traditional ales create an unforgettable medieval atmosphere in the city’s heart.
The Museum Of Curiosities
0.3 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.4 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.4 km
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
Old Mkt Sq
0.4 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
The Turf Tavern
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.4 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Old Market Square
0.4 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
Robin Hood Statue
0.4 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
The Cornerhouse
0.4 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Nottingham Council House
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Essential places to dine
Browns Nottingham
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.1 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant steakhouse in Nottingham offering expertly cooked steaks, jazz ambiance, and attentive service for memorable dining experiences.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Calcutta Club
0.2 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
MemSaab
0.2 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Chino Latino
0.2 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
Kushi-ya
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.3 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Corinthian Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.4 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
The Cumin Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Punjabi cuisine with bold flavors and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s family-run gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
OH DUCK IT
0.3 km
Dive into duck-tastic humor and Nottingham dialect delights at this cheeky gift shop, where quirky souvenirs and local crafts quack up the city's shopping scene.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.3 km
A vibrant independent bead and craft shop in Nottingham’s historic Market Street, offering expert workshops and a vast range of jewellery-making supplies.
ChicChoiceHub
0.3 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Common Choice
0.3 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
0.4 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.4 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Handmade Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Parallel Universe
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
Primark
0.5 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Vivienne Westwood
0.5 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Tutu urban boutique
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Bubble Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.6 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.6 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tap & Tumbler
0.2 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Cucamara
0.3 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Six Richmond House
0.3 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
0.3 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Malt Cross
0.3 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Bunk
0.3 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.3 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Crafty Crow
0.3 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.3 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.4 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.4 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Entertaining
- Lively
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
