NT : Plan Your Visit : Backstage Tours

Backstage Tours

Explore the backstage life of the National Theatre

101 things to do in London

Backstage Tours

Our knowledgeable and entertaining guides will lead you through the backstage areas of the three theatres, following in the footsteps of the greatest actors and directors of the last 35 years, and revealing the secrets that bring our work to the stage.

The National Theatre is a working building, producing around 20 new productions every year. Rehearsals, set-building, prop and costume-making all happen on site. No two tours are ever the same, so come and see what’s happening behind the scenes today.

'Fascinating and informative...One of the seven wonders of London.' Time Out

'An eye-opener' Daily Telegraph

Rated Number 1 in westendtheatre.com's Top Five Backstage Tours

Tours run up to 6 times a day Monday to Friday, twice on Saturday and once on a Sunday.

Times

Monday - Friday: 10.15, 10.30, 12.15, 12.30, 17.15, 17.30
Saturday: 10.30am and 12.15pm
Sunday: 12.30pm ( on days when the building is open)

Each tour lasts about 1hr 15mins.
As the National Theatre is a working building, please note that starting times for Backstage Tours may vary and booking is advised. Please call 020 7452 3400 for more information and to book.

Tickets

Individuals - £8.50
Concessions - £7.50
Entry Pass Members - £5 (not available to book online)
Groups of 8 or more - £7.50 each (not available to book online)
Schools rate (for 30 or more places): £5 (please call 020 7452 3400 to book)

All tours bookers receive 25% off in the Espresso Bar and 15% off in the NT Bookshop.

Book tickets online
Book by phone on 020 7452 3400
Book at the Information Desk in the main foyer
For further information e-mail

Access
The Contego system, an easy-to-use wireless listening device, is now available for use on Backstage Tours for the hearing impaired including  hearing aid users. Please inform the information staff at the time of booking if you would like to use the Contego system.

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Your Visit

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  • First Time Visitor

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    FAQs from people who have not been to the National Theatre before

  • Food and Drink

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    Restaurants, Cafes and Bars at the National Theatre

  • Backstage Tours

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    Behind the scenes tours, up to six times a day

  • Front of House

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    Free exhibitions and music, interactive Big Wall, spacious foyers