Bridge Theatre – A Theatregoer’s Guide
The Bridge Theatre is one of London’s newest theatres. It opened in 2017 and has 900 seats. Founded by former National Theatre supremos Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr, it’s a commercial theatre specialising in new work.
Where is the Bridge Theatre?
It’s not technically in the West End but the location is fantastic, on the south side of the River Thames, right next to Tower Bridge and facing the river and the Tower Of London.
The address is 3 Potters Fields Park, London SE1 2SG
There’s lots of new building in the area which means there are plenty of places to eat and drink which is good because the theatre itself only does snacks.
There is no tube station in the immediate area but London Bridge is ten minutes walk away. Just follow the signs for City Hall. If you go by bus, Tooley Street is 5 minutes away.
The building doesn’t look much from the outside but once you’re inside, the lighting gives it a magical feel.
There’s limited space so there’s not a restaurant or a shop but you can get drinks and snacks on the ground floor- including some very nice madeleines.
How do I buy tickets for the Bridge Theatre?
Here’s a link to the website bridgetheatre.co.uk
The official telephone booking line is 0333 320 0051
Which are the best seats at the Bridge Theatre?
There are four levels of seating. You go downstairs to get to the Stalls and Gallery One. Gallery One is effectively the back three rows of the stalls and extends at that level along the sides the auditorium. The top two levels called Gallery 2 and 3. There are lifts of course.
The seating is flexible so the stage can be end on or the audience may wrap round three or even all four sides. Nearly all the seating seems to offer a good view.
INSIDER TIP I particularly recommend the fold-out seats at the end of a number of rows in the centre stalls which offer a brilliant view. They’re smaller and less padded than standard seats but, provided you’re not a large person, you’ll find them comfortable and they’re sold at a much lower price so they’re very good value. There is also side seating at every level which is good value.
What are the toilets like?
With over 30 ladies toilets, The Bridge would seem to have the best provision of any commercial London theatre. And trans friendly toilets by the way.