London Access Review -
National Theatre
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ID: image of the outside of the National Theatre with the text "Access Review" on top
General Note
This is a review of the accessibility of the National Theatre as a way to prep folks with various needs before they visit.
For some people, knowing these things ahead of time makes it easier to enjoy their experience because they know what to expect and can accommodate their needs better. And, often, makes those people more likely to see it in the first place. I hope that it’s helpful!
I am also happy to clarify any specifics, just send me a message or an email and I will respond when I can.
Access
NT has three theatres on its campus – the Olivier, the Lyttleton, and the Dorfman. The Dorfman has a separate entrance on the left of the campus (with the water at your back). To access the Olivier and Lyttleton Theatres, go in through the main revolving door under the sign.
Upon entering, there will be a bag check. The bookstore is straight ahead, with the cloakroom slightly to the right. The bathrooms are further to the right. Bathrooms are generally available on every floor and either in the binary or gender neutral/accessible. Where they are located (and which is where) is different on each floor, but they are well-labeled. Also the bathroom doors bang loudly.
Not all floors interconnect, so if you go up the Lyttleton stairs you will not connect to the Olivier, for example. The building is well-labeled so follow the signs!
There is a lift to access each floor of the theater.
For show-specific access information and a calendar of various accessible performances, head to the National Theatre access website.
More generally, they offer hearing enhancement headsets and a loop system - you can pick up receivers at the access tables in the lobby of each respective theater (the one for the Lyttleton is on the ground floor, and the one for the Olivier is up on the floor by the entrances to the stalls.