Roman Theatre Verulamium
1 / 10

Roman Theatre Verulamium

4.4
·476 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover the oldest producing theatre in the UK, a unique Roman stage from 140 AD, offering magical open-air performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor theatre magic

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Roman Theatre Verulamium

Roman Theatre Verulamium

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor theatre magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the oldest producing theatre in the UK, a unique Roman stage from 140 AD, offering magical open-air performances.

4.4
(476 reviews)

"A beautiful, stunning location for an event with brilliant acoustics and a truly magical atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets Early

Summer performances sell out fast! Check the OVO Theatre website for schedules and book in advance.

🧥 Bring a Blanket

Evenings can get chilly, especially during performances. A blanket will make your experience more comfortable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Roman Theatre Stage

The Roman Theatre Stage

Main Arena

Witness the oldest producing theatre in the UK, a unique Roman stage dating back to 140 AD.

Outdoor Theatre Performances

Outdoor Theatre Performances

Theatre Arena

Experience Shakespeare and other plays under the stars in a truly historic and atmospheric setting.

Verulamium Park Exploration

Verulamium Park Exploration

Surrounding Park

Wander through the park, discovering remnants of the Roman city, including walls and a hypocaust.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Consider visiting during the summer months for outdoor theatre performances, but be aware of potential crowds. For a quieter experience, aim for weekdays outside of peak performance times. Check the OVO Theatre schedule in advance for specific event dates and times.

Getting There and Around

St Albans is easily accessible by train from London, taking about 25 minutes. The Roman Theatre is located within Verulamium Park, making it a pleasant walk from the station. Parking is available at the nearby Verulamium Museum.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Outdoor theatre magic
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sapevate che oltre a Roma-Lazio, c’è un altro derby in romano che si gioca in UK praticamente ogni anno? Oggi vi raccontiamo del nostro viaggio a St. Albans, in uno degli stadi più scenici della Non League inglese. Poco più di 1600 tifosi hanno assistito a Verulamium contro Aquae Salis, ovvero St. Albans City - Bath City. Due squadre “romane” che competono nella sesta divisione inglese. #calcioing...
@calcioinglese
4.5K likes • 125.1K views

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets Early

Summer performances sell out fast! Check the OVO Theatre website for schedules and book in advance. Instagram

🧥 Bring a Blanket

Evenings can get chilly, especially during performances. A blanket will make your experience more comfortable. Reddit

St Albans — once Verulamium, Rome’s outpost in Britain — became the shrine of a saint, the cradle of Parliament, and the battlefield of kings. A thousand years of English history in one hillside town. Hashtags: #StAlbans #Verulamium #historytiktok #History
@adam.shipway
3.5K likes • 67.9K views
What better way to spend a summer’s evening than at @ovotheatre? 🎭🎫 The Roman Theatre of St Albans is the oldest producing theatre in the UK, believed to date back to 140 AD. Nowadays, in exchange for the religious processions, armed combat and wild beast shows of the Romans, contemporary audiences can enjoy an outdoor theatre experience beneath the stars. Last night saw a heavenly performance ...
enjoystalbans
155 likes • 6.3K views

🚗 Parking Near Museum

Park at the Verulamium Museum across the road; on-site parking is limited. Reddit

🚶 Explore the Park

Don't just see the theatre; wander through Verulamium Park to find other Roman remnants. Instagram

🎭✨ We had the absolute pleasure of filming at the breath-taking Roman Theatre of Verulamium for the launch of the @ovotheatre Summer Festival 2025 and what a stunning setting it was! Nestled among ancient ruins and open skies, this historic venue brings Shakespeare, comedy, and drama to life like nowhere else. This summer, the OVO team is bringing a spectacular line-up of performances to this one...
greenwooddrones
0 likes • 350 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets Early

Summer performances sell out fast! Check the OVO Theatre website for schedules and book in advance. Instagram

🧥 Bring a Blanket

Evenings can get chilly, especially during performances. A blanket will make your experience more comfortable. Reddit

🚗 Parking Near Museum

Park at the Verulamium Museum across the road; on-site parking is limited. Reddit

🚶 Explore the Park

Don't just see the theatre; wander through Verulamium Park to find other Roman remnants. Instagram

🎶 Enjoy the Atmosphere

The theatre is beautifully lit for shows, creating a magical ambiance for picnics and drinks. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(476 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Roman Theatre Verulamium for its stunning historical setting and the magical atmosphere, especially during summer evening performances. The unique stage and the surrounding park with other Roman remnants are significant draws. While the theatre experience is highly rated, some note that the on-site facilities could be improved, and advise booking tickets well in advance for popular shows.

"Great evening seeing .. A Funny thing happened on the way to the Forum … very funny and great actors .. it was a musical and the singing was really excellent. Great Production … Took a little blanket for our legs as around 9 pm got a little chilly , two musicians playing the music , exceeded my expectations and great to see a live outdoor comedy play .. park in the museum across the road as no parking there . Well done the players !! There is a bar area and another small cabin in the arena area selling drinks , crisps , ice cream .. all beautifully lit with bulbs around the top if the arena and seating for pre show picnics / drinks . Really lovely atmosphere and much improved surroundings since I last went a few years ago ."

Sue Platford

"What a beautiful, stunning location for an event. All seating has a great view. Staff are friendly, toilets are clean and acoustics are brilliant"

Alexis Noble

"This place is a must when you’re in St Albans, and at a mere £3, it’s well worth it. The theatre dates to around 140AD and is very well preserved. They still put on performances here, and while I wasn’t able to see one, I bet it’s an extraordinary experience. In addition to the theatre, there are also the remains of a row of shops, a villa, and a shrine, so be sure to check those out while you’re here."

Caleb Lohr

What People Like

Magical atmosphere
Historic setting
Unique theatre experience

What People Dislike

Limited on-site facilities
Chilly evenings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Roman Theatre Verulamium is easily accessible from London. Take a fast train from London King's Cross to St Albans, which takes about 25 minutes. From St Albans station, it's a pleasant walk to Verulamium Park where the theatre is located. Reddit

While there isn't direct parking at the theatre itself, visitors can park at the nearby Verulamium Museum across the road. Reddit

Yes, the Roman Theatre is situated within Verulamium Park, making it a walkable distance from St Albans city centre and the train station. Instagram

Besides trains, local bus services operate to St Albans, providing further public transport options to reach the vicinity of Verulamium Park. TikTok

The park grounds are generally accessible, but specific pathways within the theatre area might have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check with the venue for detailed accessibility information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Roman Theatre itself is typically around £3 per adult. This fee grants access to the theatre and other Roman remains within the site. Reddit

If you are visiting just to see the ruins, booking in advance is usually not necessary. However, for specific theatre performances, booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out. Instagram

The Roman Theatre and Verulamium Park are generally accessible during daylight hours. For specific performance times, always check the OVO Theatre's official schedule. Instagram

Concession prices may be available for certain groups, such as children or seniors, especially for ticketed performances. It's best to check the OVO Theatre website for details. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the Roman Theatre and explore the ruins as a historical site for a small admission fee, even when there are no performances scheduled. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Built around 140 AD, the Roman Theatre of Verulamium is unique in Britain as a theatre with a stage, rather than an amphitheatre. It hosted religious processions, combat, and later, theatrical performances. TikTokInstagram

Besides the theatre, you can explore other Roman remains within Verulamium Park, including parts of the Roman City Wall, a hypocaust (underfloor heating system), and the remnants of shops and a villa. Instagram

Absolutely! The Roman Theatre is the oldest producing theatre in the UK and hosts the OVO Theatre's annual summer open-air festival, featuring plays, musicals, and comedy. Instagram+1

Audiences describe the atmosphere as magical, especially on warm summer evenings as the sun sets. The theatre is beautifully lit, creating a unique ambiance for pre-show picnics and drinks. Reddit

During performances, there are bar areas and cabins selling drinks, crisps, and ice cream. Toilets are also available and are noted as clean. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the theatre's stage and seating area, especially during golden hour. The surrounding park also offers picturesque views of the Roman ruins. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted during performances to avoid disturbing the actors and audience. It's best to check with the venue. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and public parks to ensure safety and preserve the environment. Always check local regulations and venue policies before flying a drone. Instagram

A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots of the theatre and closer details of the ruins would be ideal. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during evening performances. Instagram

The view from the upper seating tiers offers a panoramic perspective of the theatre. Don't miss capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, especially at dusk. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Roman Theatre Verulamium offers a fantastic blend of history and entertainment for families. Kids can be captivated by the idea of ancient Roman spectacles and the unique setting of an outdoor theatre. Exploring the park and spotting other Roman ruins like the city wall and hypocaust can turn a visit into an interactive history lesson. TikTokInstagram

For theatre performances, choose shows that are family-friendly. The open-air setting is generally more relaxed for children than indoor venues. Pack snacks and drinks, and consider bringing a blanket for comfort during longer shows. The nearby Verulamium Museum also provides more context and exhibits that can engage younger minds. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Roman history, Verulamium is a must-visit. This site offers a rare opportunity to see a genuine Roman theatre with a stage, a unique feature in Britain. You can explore the excavated ruins, including remnants of shops and a villa, and walk along sections of the original Roman City Wall. Instagram+1

Beyond the theatre, the adjacent Verulamium Museum (part of St Albans Museums) houses a wealth of artifacts and information about Roman life in Britain. The combination of the outdoor ruins and the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Verulamium's significance as a major Roman town. Instagram

🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts

The Roman Theatre Verulamium is a dream venue for theatre lovers. As the oldest producing theatre in the UK, it offers an unparalleled backdrop for live performances. The summer open-air festival by OVO Theatre is a highly anticipated event, showcasing a diverse range of plays and musicals in an incredibly atmospheric setting. Instagram+1

Experiencing a performance here means immersing yourself in history while enjoying top-tier entertainment. The unique ambiance, combined with excellent acoustics and quality productions, makes for a memorable theatrical outing. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, and arriving early to enjoy a picnic in the arena adds to the overall experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Roman Theatre of Verulamium

The Roman Theatre of Verulamium stands as a remarkable testament to Roman Britain's cultural life. Unlike many other Roman sites in the UK that feature amphitheatres, Verulamium boasts a true theatre with a distinct stage. Constructed around 140 AD, this architectural marvel was initially used for a variety of public spectacles, including religious processions, dancing, wrestling, and even wild beast shows. Its unique design allowed for a more intimate performance space compared to the grander amphitheatres. TikTokInstagram

Over time, the stage area evolved, and by approximately 180 AD, it became a focal point for theatrical performances. Today, this ancient venue continues its legacy as the oldest producing theatre in the UK. It is famously home to the OVO Theatre's annual summer open-air festival, drawing audiences for Shakespearean plays, comedies, and musicals. The experience of watching a performance here, bathed in the glow of evening lights, is often described as magical and unforgettable. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore the theatre ruins and the surrounding Verulamium Park, which itself is dotted with other remnants of the Roman city. These include sections of the original Roman City Wall, a well-preserved hypocaust system that showcases Roman underfloor heating, and the foundations of shops and a villa. The site offers a comprehensive glimpse into the daily life and entertainment of Roman Verulamium. Instagram

Experiencing Live Theatre at Verulamium

Attending a performance at the Roman Theatre Verulamium is a highlight for many visitors. The OVO Theatre transforms this ancient site into a vibrant performance space each summer. Audiences rave about the unique atmosphere, particularly on warm evenings when the setting sun casts a golden hue over the ruins. The theatre is beautifully illuminated with fairy lights, creating a truly enchanting ambiance for enjoying a show. InstagramReddit

Performances range from classic Shakespearean dramas to contemporary comedies and musicals. Reviewers often praise the high quality of the productions, noting excellent acting and singing, even in an outdoor setting. The acoustics are also frequently commended, ensuring that every word and note can be heard clearly throughout the arena. It's an experience that blends historical immersion with contemporary entertainment. InstagramReddit

To make the most of your theatre experience, it's recommended to book tickets well in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly. Visitors also suggest bringing a blanket for comfort, as evenings can become cool. There are facilities for purchasing drinks and snacks on-site, and the surrounding park is perfect for a pre-show picnic. InstagramReddit

You may also like