Summer in London is a special time for theatre. We get the joy of the outdoor theatre season led by open-air venues like Shakespeare’s Globe and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, and special outdoor events. Of course, there are still tons of great shows indoors as well since we can’t always count on the British weather!
In fact, the biggest challenge is probably figuring out where to start! So, dig into our handy guide to all things summer theatre in London – from family-friendly productions to outdoor shows, indoor air conditioning, and our picks for the best shows to book for this summer season.
Are London theatres air conditioned?
Not all London theatres have air conditioning, unfortunately, so it can get warm during summer, especially if a heatwave arises. Make sure you take plenty of water with you and get some fresh air in the interval.
However, quite a few venues do now have air con – so prepare for that too. It might mean bringing another layer, like a jumper or scarf, if you’ve come directly from the park in your shorts, T-shirt, and sandals.
A list of venues that have air conditioning can be found here.
How to plan a trip to see London theatre in the summer
The sheer number of shows, among other fantastic cultural offerings, makes London an incredibly attractive travel destination. If you’re thinking of visiting London during the summer holidays, here are some practical tips on what to pack and how best to manage your stay here – including your theatre trips.
Prepare for all weather eventualities
The one thing you can always expect with British weather is the unexpected. We sometimes have glorious summers here, but we just as often have rain. So, make sure you have sun cream and sunglasses, but also a portable, light waterproof jacket (or something like a poncho) and umbrella with you. Layers are your best friend!
Always stay hydrated during your theatre trip
London becomes very humid whenever it’s warm – especially in the centre of town. And, as we explained above, not all theatres have air conditioning. So, take a bottle of water with you wherever you go. You can get free tap water at all theatre bars if you need a top-up.
Get to know the best travel routes to your theatres
The quickest way to get around London is via public transport – primarily buses and the Tube (or underground train). That includes getting into the West End, where you’ll find most theatres. So, check out the stations near where you are staying to plan your routes ahead of time, and always include a Plan B in case of transport delays.
Leave time to explore the city in between shows
London is teeming with amazing historical sites and cutting-edge activities – there’s always something new to see or try. It can also be tiring travelling around town, especially if you’re doing something that requires concentration, like seeing a long play. So, ensure there is time between your activities – there are lots of beautiful parks in central London where you can enjoy the fresh air and a s. That way you can pace yourself or be open to stumbling upon something fun and unexpected. It might even be a last-minute ticket deal for a show.
Top image credit: Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. (Photo courtesy of theatre)
