Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans
Britain's only Roman theatre with a stage, blending ancient ruins with live summer performances in historic St Albans.
The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, located on Bluehouse Hill in St Albans, is the only known Roman theatre with a stage in Britain, dating back to around 140AD. Originally used for a variety of public spectacles, it was expanded by 300AD to seat 2,000 spectators. The ruins, unearthed in the 19th and 20th centuries, now host summer open-air performances and cultural events, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Roman Britain's theatrical heritage.
A brief summary to Roman Theatre of Verulamium
- Bluehouse Hill, St Albans, AL3 6AE, GB
- +441727835035
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during summer to catch live outdoor theatre performances hosted by the OVO festival.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Verulamium Museum to see artifacts excavated from the theatre site.
- Wear comfortable shoes as access is via paths around the theatre; central arena access is restricted.
- Check opening days and times in advance, as public access is limited mainly to Fridays and Saturdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From St Albans City railway station, take a local bus towards Verulamium Park; total travel time is around 15-20 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend frequency. A single bus fare costs approximately £2-£3.
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Car
Driving from central St Albans takes about 10 minutes. Limited parking is available near the theatre site; additional parking can be found at Verulamium Museum with a short walk to the theatre. Parking fees may apply, typically around £3-£5 for a few hours.
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Walking
From St Albans city centre, walking to the Roman Theatre takes approximately 30-40 minutes along mostly flat terrain through Verulamium Park. The route is accessible but involves outdoor paths.
Roman Theatre of Verulamium location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Roman Theatre of Verulamium
A Singular Roman Legacy in Britain
The Roman Theatre of Verulamium stands out as a unique archaeological and cultural treasure, being the only Roman theatre with a stage discovered in Britain. Constructed circa 140AD within the Roman city of Verulamium, it contrasts with the more common amphitheatres of the era. Initially, the arena served multiple functions, including religious ceremonies, dancing, wrestling, armed combat, and wild beast shows, reflecting the diverse entertainment practices of Roman society.Architectural Evolution and Capacity
Around 180AD, the theatre underwent significant changes as the stage became central to performances, prompting an extension of the auditorium. By approximately 300AD, after redevelopment, the theatre could accommodate up to 2,000 spectators. Its design featured excellent acoustics, making it ideal for musical and dramatic presentations. This architectural sophistication highlights the importance of theatrical culture in Roman Verulamium.Excavation and Rediscovery
The ruins visible today were first uncovered in 1847, with further excavations in 1935, 1957, and 1961 revealing additional features such as shop foundations, a Roman villa, and a secret shrine dating back to the first century. These findings provide valuable insights into the broader urban and social context of the theatre within Roman Verulamium.Modern Restoration and Cultural Revival
In 2014, the theatre was refurbished with new steps, pathways, and handrails to improve visitor access, including limited disabled access. It now serves as a vibrant venue for cultural entertainment, hosting live outdoor theatre performances during the summer months. Since 2014, the OVO summer open-air festival has become a prominent event, drawing thousands to enjoy productions ranging from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays, reinforcing the theatre’s role as a living historical site.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins and imagine the vibrant spectacles that once took place here. Nearby, the Verulamium Museum displays treasures excavated from the theatre site, enriching the historical narrative. While access to the theatre’s central arena is restricted to protect the site, the surrounding paths and viewing areas offer compelling perspectives on this ancient monument.Significance and Cultural Heritage
The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is not only an archaeological landmark but also a cultural beacon that connects modern audiences with Britain’s Roman past. Its continuous use for theatrical performances makes it the oldest producing theatre site in the UK, blending historical preservation with contemporary artistic expression. This fusion of past and present underscores the enduring legacy of Roman culture in St Albans.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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Le Moulin Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Marlowes Shopping Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
