Oxford Playhouse - Image 1
1 / 10

Oxford Playhouse

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic 1938 theatre showcasing professional drama, comedy, music, and dance, alongside student productions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Oxford Playhouse - Image 1

Oxford Playhouse

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1938 theatre showcasing professional drama, comedy, music, and dance, alongside student productions.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Great theater! Love the reusable glass thing! Show was brilliant!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your seats in advance, especially for popular shows. Check the official website for listings and booking.

🚰 Reusable Glass Option

Enjoy drinks with a reusable glass option, a nice touch for sustainability.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Professional & Student Productions

Diverse Professional & Student Productions

Main Stage

Experience a mix of drama, comedy, music, and dance from both touring professionals and talented students.

Intimate Burton Taylor Studio

Intimate Burton Taylor Studio

Burton Taylor Studio

Discover emerging talent and experimental theatre in this smaller, more intimate performance space.

Special Event Performances

Special Event Performances

Various

Catch unique one-off shows, from comedy sets by famous personalities to musical tributes.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Oxford Playhouse hosts a variety of professional and student productions. For sought-after shows, especially those featuring well-known actors or musicals, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Check their schedule online.

Comfortable Seating Varies

While many visitors find the seats comfortable, some reviews mention they could use refurbishment. Consider booking premium seats if available or bring a small cushion for longer performances. The venue is generally well-laid out with good stage views.

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Family-friendly shows often scheduled
Crowd
Medium
When
During Festival Seasons
Why
Special programming and buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Legendary British actress Dame Maggie Smith has died aged 89. The Oscar winner started acting in 1952, on stage at the Oxford Playhouse. But it was her role as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter movies that introduced her to legions of new fans. Rest in peace, Dame Maggie Smith ❤️🪄 #maggiesmith #damemaggiesmith #rip #restinpeace #news #breakingnews #harrypotter #professormcgonagall #downton...
@dailymailuk
18.4K likes • 134.3K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your seats in advance, especially for popular shows. Check the official website for listings and booking. Instagram+1

🚰 Reusable Glass Option

Enjoy drinks with a reusable glass option, a nice touch for sustainability. Reddit

𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓐𝓵𝓲𝓬𝓮 @ 𝓡𝓪𝓷𝓭𝓸𝓵𝓹𝓱 𝓗𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓵 🃏 ᴍᴀʏ ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢ ʙʀᴇᴀᴋғᴀsᴛ 🥐 雖然成日經過Oxford PlayHouse 附近 但一直都覺得Oxford住酒店同我無乜關係😂 誤打誤撞 見到The Alice有個IG廣告 介紹佢地May Morning早餐 而咁啱我又真係諗緊May Morning食乜好 所以就去試吓 有驚喜地 入面裝修超靚 野食都好食! 平日早餐係酒店住客限定~好彩俾我試到😂 唔住酒店都可以預約lunch or dinner,食個環境氣氛都不錯😛 📍 The Alice, The Randolph Hotel, Oxford 📅 想試早餐記得睇佢哋網上有冇特別event #TheAliceOxford #AliceInWonderland #RandolphHotel #牛津美食 #牛津旅行 #香港人英國生活 #英國日常 #英國餐廳推介
diana.in.uk
210 likes • 1.8K views
Spend the evening with us at Oxford Playhouse 🎭 This week, Dame Siân Phillips & Nathaniel Parker perform Summer 1954, which features two of Terence Rattigan’s one-act plays – Table Number Seven & The Browning Version. . 📆 11-15 Feb 2025 🎟️ Link in bio . #OxfordPlayhouse #Summer1954 #theatre
oxfordplayhouse
81 likes • 3.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Navigate

The theatre is well-laid out, making it easy to find your seats and facilities without long queues. Reddit

🎭 Check Show Genres

From drama to musicals, there's something for everyone. Review the schedule to find your perfect performance. Instagram+1

We kick off 2 nights at Oxford Playhouse tomorrow and we’re VERY excited. Haven’t got your tickets yet? Click the link in our bio to buy yours. #GaryClarkeCo #Dance #LGBTQ #Dancing #Performance #Section28 #Oxford 🎥 @philtragenphoto Filmed at: @danceatsalford @oxfordplayhouse (@imogenmaee @alexgosmore)
garyclarkeco
408 likes • 9.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your seats in advance, especially for popular shows. Check the official website for listings and booking. Instagram+1

🚰 Reusable Glass Option

Enjoy drinks with a reusable glass option, a nice touch for sustainability. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Navigate

The theatre is well-laid out, making it easy to find your seats and facilities without long queues. Reddit

🎭 Check Show Genres

From drama to musicals, there's something for everyone. Review the schedule to find your perfect performance. Instagram+1

📍 Central Location

Conveniently located, making it easy to combine with other Oxford attractions. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Oxford Playhouse for its diverse programming and friendly staff, noting it's a well-laid-out venue with good stage views. While some find the seats comfortable, others suggest they could use an update. The central location and the option for reusable glasses are also highlighted as positives.

"We were at the playhouse on the evening of the warmest day of the year so far. Even then it felt like we were in pleasant surroundings. Nice comfy seats, good sound and a good view of the stage. We went there to see Hejira@The Spin jazz club's home for the evening. As per usual they were fantastic."

Chris Williams

"Enjoyed the night out recently when went to see the production of The King Reggae - The Music featuring Bob Marley's iconic hits.
Unlike older theatres, this theatre has no special attractive interior features to mention, however, its well laid out with spacious seats."

Thats Me

"Oh wow! Great theater! Love the reusable glass thing! Thank you!
Show was brilliant!
It's a small theater so you are not quing for forever.

Such friendly staff!
And the Chinese New year show was incredible!"

Donna Sidebotham

What People Like

Friendly and approachable staff
Diverse show programming
Good stage views

What People Dislike

Seat comfort could improve

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oxford Playhouse is centrally located in Oxford. It's easily accessible by public transport, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre, though they can be busy. Instagram

While there isn't dedicated parking for the Playhouse, several public car parks are within walking distance, such as the Westgate Car Park. It's often recommended to use public transport due to city centre congestion. Instagram

Yes, Oxford train station is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Oxford Playhouse. Taxis and local buses are also readily available from the station.

Several bus routes stop very close to the Playhouse on George Street and Cornmarket Street, making it easily accessible from various parts of Oxford and surrounding areas.

The venue is generally accessible, with lifts and accessible seating available. It's advisable to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs and ensure the best seating arrangements. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the Oxford Playhouse website, by calling their box office on 01865 305305, or in person at the venue. Booking in advance is recommended for popular shows. Instagram+2

The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open during weekday afternoons and evenings, and also on Saturdays. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times. Instagram

Subject to availability, tickets may be available on the door for some performances. However, for popular shows, it's highly recommended to book in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

Concessions are often available for students, seniors, and sometimes for groups. Check the specific performance details on the website or inquire with the box office for eligibility and pricing. Instagram

Policies can vary, but generally, tickets are non-refundable unless a performance is cancelled. Exchanges may be possible for a fee, subject to availability and management discretion. It's best to review the terms and conditions on their website.

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Oxford Playhouse hosts a diverse range of performances, including professional drama, musicals, comedy, dance, and music concerts, as well as student productions from Oxford University. Instagram+4

Seating comfort is a mixed bag. While some find them pleasant and spacious, others have noted they could benefit from refurbishment. Reddit

The venue generally offers clean and well-maintained facilities, including restrooms. They also offer a reusable glass option for drinks. Reddit

Yes, there is typically a bar area where you can purchase drinks and snacks before the show and during the interval. Instagram

The atmosphere is generally welcoming and vibrant, especially during performances. It's known for being a great theatre with friendly staff. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Oxford Playhouse is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a wide variety of cuisines, from casual dining to more upscale options. Instagram

Typically, drinks purchased from the bar are allowed inside the auditorium, often in reusable cups. Food is usually restricted to the foyer or bar areas. Check venue guidelines for specifics.

Many restaurants in the city centre offer pre-theatre menus. Popular choices include Italian, Indian, and British gastropubs, all within easy walking distance. Instagram

Yes, the Oxford Playhouse has a bar where you can purchase a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as some snacks. Instagram

It's highly recommended to reserve tables at restaurants in advance, especially on show nights, as many venues can get busy. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check with staff for specific policies.

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the exterior of the Oxford Playhouse. It's a notable building in the city centre. Instagram

The foyer and exterior offer some opportunities. For performance-related photos, it's best to check if the venue has specific photo calls or allows limited photography during curtain calls. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon can offer pleasant lighting for exterior shots. Evening shots with the building lit up can also be quite striking.

No, flash photography and recording during performances are strictly prohibited. This is to ensure the best experience for all audience members and performers. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Oxford Playhouse is a great option for families looking for engaging entertainment. While the main stage often hosts professional productions that might be more suited for older children or teens, keep an eye out for specific family-friendly shows, musicals, or youth company performances. Instagram The Burton Taylor Studio can sometimes feature more experimental or intimate shows that might appeal to younger audiences. Reddit

When planning your visit, check the Playhouse's schedule for age recommendations and show descriptions. The venue's central location makes it easy to combine with a family day out in Oxford. Remember that while some seats are comfortable, others might be less so for very young children on longer productions, so consider booking premium seats if available. Reddit

🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts

For dedicated theatre lovers, the Oxford Playhouse offers a consistently high-quality program. You can expect a mix of touring productions from renowned companies and local talent, covering a wide spectrum of genres from classic drama to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. Instagram+2

Keep an eye on their schedule for special events, guest appearances by well-known actors, and performances by Oxford University's drama societies. The intimate setting of the Burton Taylor Studio is perfect for discovering new writing and experimental theatre. Booking tickets in advance is crucial for popular shows to secure the best seats. Instagram

🎶 Music and Dance Fans

Beyond traditional theatre, the Oxford Playhouse regularly hosts musical performances, from tribute acts to orchestral concerts and contemporary music events. Instagram Dance performances, including contemporary and ballet, are also featured, showcasing diverse choreographic styles. Instagram

Check the listings for specific dates and genres. The venue's acoustics and stage setup are generally well-suited for a variety of musical and dance productions, providing an enjoyable experience for fans of these art forms. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Rich History of Performance

The Oxford Playhouse has a storied past, dating back to its opening in 1938. It has been a crucial venue for both professional touring companies and the vibrant student theatre scene of Oxford University. Legendary figures like Dame Maggie Smith began their careers on its stage, highlighting its significance in British theatre history. TikTok

The venue has evolved over the years, adapting to showcase a wide array of performances. From classic plays to contemporary dance and musical acts, the Playhouse consistently offers a diverse program that appeals to a broad audience. Its commitment to nurturing talent is evident in its support for student productions and emerging artists. Instagram+1

Today, the Oxford Playhouse continues to be a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape. It offers a dynamic mix of established artists and new voices, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for every visitor. Whether you're a seasoned theatre-goer or new to the stage, the Playhouse provides a memorable cultural outing. Instagram+1

Navigating the Venue and Your Visit

Upon arrival, visitors will find the Oxford Playhouse to be a well-organized venue. The layout is generally good, with spacious seating areas that allow for easy movement, minimizing queues even during busy periods. The staff are frequently praised for being friendly and approachable, contributing to a positive overall experience. Reddit

While the theatre itself may not boast ornate historical interiors, its functional design ensures good sightlines from most seats. Comfort levels can vary, with some patrons suggesting the seats could benefit from updates, though many find them adequate for the duration of a show. Reddit The venue also promotes sustainability with initiatives like reusable glass options for drinks. Reddit

Beyond the auditorium, the Playhouse typically features a bar area offering refreshments before the show and during intermissions. Its central location means a plethora of dining options are available nearby, making it easy to plan a full evening out in Oxford. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2