Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
In the heart of Nottingham, the Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall form a vibrant cultural hub where history and modern performance collide. The historic Theatre Royal, dating back to the 19th century, hosts major West End musicals, opera, ballet, and drama, while the striking glass-fronted Royal Concert Hall presents classical concerts, pop and rock acts, comedy, and family shows. Together they make up the Royal Centre, a key destination for live entertainment in the East Midlands.
A brief summary to Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
- Theatre Square, Nottingham, Nottingham, NG1 5ND, GB
- +441159895555
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the official website for seating plans and choose your seats carefully, especially in the Theatre Royal, where some older sections have restricted views.
- Arrive early to enjoy a drink in the foyer bars and avoid last-minute queues, particularly for popular shows and concerts.
- Use the Royal Centre tram stop for the most convenient access; trams run frequently and drop you right at the venue’s doorstep.
- Look out for family-friendly performances and matinees, especially around holidays, which are ideal for a cultural outing with children.
- Combine your visit with dinner in the city centre; there are plenty of restaurants and pubs within a short walk of Theatre Square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram to the Royal Centre stop, which is directly outside the Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall. Trams run frequently from the city centre and surrounding areas, with journey times of 5–15 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Train
From Nottingham railway station, it’s about a 15-minute walk to Theatre Square, or a 10-minute tram ride to the Royal Centre stop. Trains connect Nottingham to major cities across the UK, making it easy to reach the venue from further afield.
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Bus
Several Nottingham City Transport and Trentbarton bus routes serve the city centre near Theatre Square. Journey times vary from 10–30 minutes depending on your location, with frequent services during the day and evening.
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Car
Drive into Nottingham city centre and follow signs for the Royal Centre or Theatre Square. Nearby car parks include Q-Park (3-minute walk), Victoria Centre (5-minute walk), and Crowne Plaza (2-minute walk), with parking rates starting around £5–7 for several hours.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
Two Theatres, One Royal Centre
Standing side by side on Theatre Square, the Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall form Nottingham’s premier performing arts complex. The Theatre Royal is a grand, historic theatre with a rich legacy of drama, opera, ballet, and West End musicals, including an annual pantomime that draws families from across the region. Next door, the modern Royal Concert Hall offers a state-of-the-art auditorium designed for everything from orchestral performances to rock concerts and comedy shows. Together, they create a dynamic cultural destination where centuries of theatrical tradition meet contemporary stagecraft and sound.A Legacy of Performance
The Theatre Royal traces its roots back to the 19th century, evolving into one of the UK’s most respected regional theatres. Over the decades, it has welcomed touring productions of major musicals, classic plays, and dance performances, maintaining a reputation for high-quality staging and production values. The Royal Concert Hall, opened in 1982 on the site of the former Empire Palace of Varieties, was conceived as a modern acoustic space for large-scale concerts. Its opening with a performance by Elton John set the tone for a venue that would host world-class artists across genres, from classical soloists to pop icons and comedians.Architecture and Atmosphere
The contrast between the two buildings is striking. The Theatre Royal presents a traditional, ornate façade that reflects its long history, while the Royal Concert Hall is a bold, glass-fronted structure that glows at night and reflects the surrounding cityscape. Inside, the concert hall features a raked auditorium with seating for nearly 2,500, carefully engineered acoustics, and a 38-tonne adjustable canopy above the stage that can be repositioned to suit different performance types. The complex is part of the Royal Centre, a hub that combines heritage and modern design in a central urban setting.What to Experience
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of performances: West End musicals and plays in the Theatre Royal, classical concerts and orchestral works in the Royal Concert Hall, plus pop and rock gigs, stand-up comedy, children’s shows, and special events. The programme changes regularly, offering something for all ages and tastes. Whether attending a lavish musical, a powerful drama, or a high-energy concert, the experience is enhanced by the venues’ excellent sightlines, clear acoustics, and professional production standards. The surrounding Theatre Square and city centre provide plenty of dining and pre- or post-show options.Getting There and Practicalities
Located in Nottingham city centre, the complex is easily reached by public transport, with the Royal Centre tram stop right outside. Nottingham railway station is a short walk or tram ride away, and several city centre bus routes serve the area. For those driving, there are multiple nearby car parks, including Q-Park, Victoria Centre, and Crowne Plaza, with Blue Badge parking available at designated spots. The venues are well signposted, and the main entrance and drop-off point is on South Sherwood Street. Box office, bars, and seating plans are all clearly laid out, making for a smooth and enjoyable visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King's Walk sign
0.1 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Speakers' Corner
0.2 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.2 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
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.
The Left Lion
0.2 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.3 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.4 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.4 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.4 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Cathedral Hall
0.4 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Citylife UK
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
St Nic's Church
0.5 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Turf Tavern
0.0 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
The Cornerhouse
0.1 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Trinity Square
0.2 km
Modern student living at Trinity Square, Nottingham’s vibrant city centre residence, steps from university and cultural hotspots.
Bell Inn
0.2 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.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.2 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
Old Mkt Sq
0.2 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Old Market Square
0.2 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.3 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Nottingham Council House
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Victoria Centre
0.3 km
Victoria Centre is Nottingham’s vibrant shopping and dining hub with over 120 stores and a lively Clocktower dining experience under one roof.
Inspired
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Flying Horse Walk
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Essential places to dine
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Nottingham
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in Nottingham’s city centre, offering classic pasta, pizza, and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Soulville Steakhouse
0.1 km
Experience Nottingham’s vibrant soul-themed steakhouse with expertly cooked steaks and a lively 60s Motown atmosphere.
French Living
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Nottingham’s long-standing French Living restaurant.
Tamatanga
0.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors served fresh in a lively, family-friendly Nottingham hotspot with great value and welcoming vibes.
Turtle Bay Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavours and tropical vibes in the heart of Nottingham’s lively Cornerhouse complex.
Gusto Italian
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining in Nottingham’s city centre with Gusto Italian’s open kitchen and private dining options.
George's Great British Kitchen
0.1 km
A vibrant Nottingham eatery serving classic British fish and chips with a modern twist in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Kushi-ya
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Bill's Nottingham Restaurant
0.2 km
Cozy British dining with hearty classics and lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Corinthian Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
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.
Bistrot Pierre
0.2 km
Authentic French bistro dining with seasonal menus and a cozy private room in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.3 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handmade Nottingham
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.1 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.
Parallel Universe
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.2 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
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.
Primark
0.3 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.
Tutu urban boutique
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Bubble Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Compact Danish design and playful everyday goods — pocket-friendly gifts, stationery and novelty finds in Victoria Centre.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Next
0.3 km
A stylish and family-friendly fashion store in Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, offering a wide range of clothing and accessories with convenient hours.
Vivienne Westwood
0.4 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and fun collectibles for men at Menkind Nottingham, your go-to spot for original presents and playful shopping.
Miniso
0.4 km
Discover stylish, affordable gifts and essentials at Miniso, Nottingham’s vibrant variety shop in Victoria Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.1 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Bunk
0.1 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
0.1 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
Six Richmond House
0.1 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
0.1 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Tap & Tumbler
0.1 km
A historic Nottingham pub blending quality ales, vibrant rock music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Cucamara
0.1 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.1 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 - Market Square Nottingham
0.2 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Nottingham Secret Garden
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham's lush cocktail hideaway: tropical vibes, craft drinks, and electric nights in a secret beer garden oasis.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.2 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.
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.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Tilt
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s cozy cocktail retreat, where expertly crafted drinks meet intimate candle-lit ambiance and soulful blues.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Stealth
0.2 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.2 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
0.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
CRISIS
0.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Tunnel Club
0.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
0.3 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.4 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Cell
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Eleven
0.6 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
NG-One
0.6 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Cultural
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
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
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
