London’s sunny season certainly doesn’t show its face for long. And so the moment summer eventually rears its head; you best believe that Londoners will be spending as much time outdoors as physically possible. If we fancy a drink; we’ll be in a beer garden. If we’re feeling a bit peckish; you’ll find us picnic-ing in a park. And if we’re in need of a bit of entertainment? Well, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre have got us sorted.
Nestled within the grounds of – you guessed it – Regent’s Park; the magical and multi award-winning open air theatre has been showing Londoners a good time since it opened back in 1932. Over 150,000 theatre-goers flock to the picturesque playhouse each summer season, ready to plonk themselves down in one of the 1,304 seats in the al-fresco auditorium, and immerse themselves in the on-stage action.
The summer programme is carefully-curated each year to offer a unique theatrical experience to a wide range of audience members. The brains behind the theatre are passionate about producing ambitious and unexpected shows that will enrich, enchant, and – of course – entertain.
Credit: @regentsparkoat via IG
The capital certainly isn’t short on spots to watch talented thespians take to the stage, but few are more spectacular than Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. The (fairly hefty) auditorium is tucked away amidst a dreamy backdrop of luscious trees and flourishing foliage. Yes, you may have to dodge a few raindrops here and there because, well, we’re in the UK. But when al fresco theatre of this quality is on offer, you just have to run that risk.
What’s on at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre this summer?
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre has just announced its exciting programme for 2025. Running from May to September, this year will be Drew McOnie’s debut season as the theatre’s Artistic Director – and he’s certainly starting as he means to go on.
The season will kick off with the UK premiere of musical comedy, Shucked, which will run from May 10 to June 14. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Dream Ballets will fleetingly take to the stage between June 19 and June 22, before an adaption of Malorie Blackman’s beloved novel Noughts & Crosses arrives and runs from June 28 to July 26. The season will finish with a new production of Lerner and Loewe’s Brigadoon, which will be taking centre stage from August 2 to September 20. Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre will also be hosting daytime performances of The Enormous Crocodile between August 15 and September 7, a family-friendly musical based on Roald Dahl’s much-loved story.
Visiting Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Credit: @regentsparkoat via IG
How do I get to the theatre?
The theatre is located within Regent’s Park and is a ten minute walk from the closest station, Baker Street. The address of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, NW1 4NU.
What time do the shows start?
Most shows at the open air theatre start at 7.45pm, but there are matinee performances on some days which start at 2.15pm. Various assisted and accessible performances take place throughout the summer too. Find out more about show dates and times here.
Is there food and drink available?
There is a large range of food and drink options available at the theatre. Visitors can opt for the Covered Dining (an exclusive private dining experience before the show), The Grill (a pop-up restaurant open before the show), or the Pizza Oven (serving up freshly cooked pizza pre-show). You can also order pre-made picnics and hampers that can be enjoyed before the show or during the interval. Find out more about the food and drink options here.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets prices usually range from £15 to £75 depending on the show, the date and where in the auditorium you wish to sit. Booking for the 2025 season will open at 12pm on February 6.
Find out more about what’s on at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, plan your visit, and book your tickets here.