The Best Pub Theatres in South London

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Image © Facebook via The Brockley Jack Studio Theatre

Venture down to South London to find theatres catering for rare revivals, new writing and musicals - all with great pubs attached.

A play and a pint. As satisfying to write as it is to experience and South London’s pub theatre-scene has plenty to offer in this respect. Venture down to SE/SW territory and you’ll find a range of theatres catering for rare revivals, new writing and musicals - with the added bonus of great pubs attached alongside. We’ve delved into the South London pub theatre scene for you, so head forth and enjoy pints, plays and performances galore in these fine establishments.

The Bridge House Theatre

The Bridge House Theatre via Facebook

Bridge House, 2 High St, London SE20 8RZ

Nestled in the heart of South East London, The Bridge House Theatre offers a unique blend of culture and conviviality. Positioned by Crystal Palace Park between Penge East and West stations, it's a dynamic pub theatre that seamlessly hosts a spectrum of shows, from comedy to choir performances, catering to all tastes. With ticket prices starting at £8, this intimate venue is a pocket-friendly gateway to artistic experiences, while its versatility extends to hosting workshops and hire options.

Located within the Bridge House pub, just a stone's throw from Penge West station, the theatre's 60-seat black box design ensures an immersive experience. It's not just about the shows; their commitment to social awareness is reflected in accessible ticketing, while their celebrated Live From the Bridge House stand-up comedy nights infuse the space with laughter. Led by Luke Adamson, an accomplished actor, writer, and director, and supported by Associate Director Joseph Lindoe, this theatre promises a rich and inclusive creative escape for all.


The Brockley Jack

The Brockley Jack Studio Theatre via Facebook

408 Brockley Road, London, SE4 2DH

Perched above The Brockley Jack pub, The Brockley Jack Theatre is a luminary of South London's cultural tapestry. With an illustrious 25-season history and an astounding 56 Off-West-End nominations, this black-box marvel thrives as a dynamic platform for emerging talents and established artists alike. Its diverse programming, ranging from new musicals to revivals and plays, reflects the vibrant spirit of London's theater scene. Not just a theatre, it's a nurturing ground for creativity, offering new writing competitions, Scratch nights, and a supportive space for local companies.

To discover more of what's on at the Brockley Jack, click hereTicket prices start from £10.


Bread and Roses Theatre

The Bread and Roses Theatre via Facebook

68 Clapham Manor Street, London, SW4 6DZ

Venture into Clapham’s creative heart and discover Bread and Roses Theatre, a realm of experimental brilliance amidst South West London. Perched atop The Bread and Roses Pub, this 40- to 60-seat gem emanates a dynamic energy, showcasing emerging artists and innovative voices that disrupt the theatrical norm. With an artistic palette that thrives on inventive narratives and distinctive perspectives, the theatre curates a loyal audience craving something outside the ordinary. From gripping revivals to playful improvisations, this versatile space embraces a spectrum of artistic expression. 


Theatre503

Theatre 503 via Facebook

503 Battersea Park Road, London, SW11 3BW

Heading over to Battersea, one stumbles upon the veritable powerhouse of new writing - Theatre503. This hub emerged as the brainchild of members of the iconic Gate Theatre, Notting Hill, in 2002. With not one but two productions that once graced its intimate stage going on to clinch Olivier Awards, this is a theater that breeds success.

Immerse yourself in the world of scripts and stories through their writer programs, and brace yourself for upcoming shows that blend satire and comedy in delightful measures. The charm of Theatre503 lies in its unpredictable programming that remains relevant, consistently serving as a launchpad for the unexpected brilliance that finds its home within their cozy upstairs quarters. Sharing its dwelling with the welcoming and inviting Latchmere pub, Theatre503 has solidified its place as a cultural haven, earning the prestigious title of London Pub Theatre of the Year 2021. Situated above the Latchmere, this theatre's dedication to nurturing new voices has not only garnered it Olivier Awards but has also bestowed the West End with its standout premieres, leaving an indelible mark on London's creative landscape.


The White Bear Theatre

The White Bear Theatre via Facebook

138 Kennington Park Road, SE11 4DJ

Next up: Kennington, where  The White Bear Theatre stands as a bastion of prestige, nurturing emerging talents that eventually ascend the ladder to stardom. This long-established gem, situated within the 18th-century White Bear pub, boasts an illustrious history peppered with major awards and an enviable list of directors and writers who have graced its stage. With a knack for cultivating new writing and breathing life into forgotten classics, the theatre's 50-seat black box space hides snugly at the pub's rear, where the circular bar boasts a Guinness that rivals the charms of the establishment itself.