Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is London’s most intimate theatrical gem—wooden beams, candlelit corners, and Shakespearean drama brought to life just as it was centuries ago. Sit back, let the words linger, and feel like you’ve stepped into a lost era of royal theatre magic.


Everything you need to know about Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
The Goring Hotel stands out as a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in London's prestigious St. James's area. Renowned for its royal-level service and elegant Victorian-style décor, the hotel offers guests personalized concierge assistance to secure theatre tickets or arrange private transfers. The on-site Rose Garden Tea Room provides an authentic English afternoon tea experience, perfectly complementing the historic ambiance of the playhouse. Conveniently situated near Piccadilly Circus Station, guests can reach the venue via the Tube in just 5 minutes.
The most convenient option is taking the London Underground to Charing Cross Station, a 7-minute walk from the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. This station serves both the Northern Line and Piccadilly Line, offering seamless connections from airports and major hubs. For a more comfortable journey, black cabs or Uber take about 10–15 minutes and cost approximately £20–30. The area features clear walking signage and step-free access, making it accessible for all visitors. On weekends, Shakespeare-themed walking tours are often available, combining well with a theatre visit for a richer cultural experience.
The Ivy Restaurant & Bar, located just a 5-minute walk from the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse near Trafalgar Square, is a top pick for pre-theatre dining. Specializing in modern British cuisine, the menu features innovative takes on classics like slow-roasted lamb with rosemary potatoes—rich in flavor and texture. Its stylish outdoor terrace, equipped with heating and glass roofs, remains inviting even in colder months. The restaurant offers advance HopeGoo options and theatre ticket discounts, enhancing convenience. Nearby, a Shakespeare-themed café also offers limited-edition drinks like "King Lear Red" wine and book-inspired desserts, perfect for a memorable cultural souvenir.
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse recreates the atmosphere of a Jacobean-era theatre with natural daylight and candlelight illumination, offering an authentic historical setting. Performances are based on original Shakespeare texts, featuring minimalist yet symbolic sets that emphasize live acting. Seating consists of wooden benches without fixed seats, encouraging immersive audience participation. The venue regularly hosts actor workshops and guided lectures to deepen public understanding of Shakespeare’s works. Additionally, seasonal events like "Historic Theatre Nights" include period costumes, handmade refreshments, and interactive storytelling, enriching the overall cultural journey.
The Savoy Hotel, a five-star riverside property, is ideal for families, offering family suites and children welcome amenities such as bedtime story sessions and toy gift bags. The hotel features an indoor pool, kids' entertainment corner, and easy access to attractions like the London Eye and Westminster Abbey. Reaching the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is convenient via bus 176 or a 15-minute walk along scenic river paths. The theatre also provides family ticket packages with child discounts and guided tours, making it a perfect outing for introducing children to Shakespearean culture.
The quickest method is HopeGoo directly through the Royal Shakespeare Company's official website, where tickets go on sale up to 90 days in advance and often include early-bird discounts and e-ticket delivery. For same-day purchases, arrive at the theatre one hour before showtime, bringing a credit card for potential surcharges. Discounts are available for students and seniors, and select performances offer free pre-show tours, which can be reserved upon arrival. Using an Oyster Card or contactless payment also unlocks discounted Tube fares, helping reduce overall travel costs.
See what other travelers say about Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

Staying at The Clermont London was an absolute highlight of my trip to London. The location is unbeatable—Charing Cross Station is literally next door, and it takes just a few minutes to walk to the underground entrance. Right across the street is the National Gallery, and I could see its iconic façade from my breakfast window every morning—such a charming touch. The breakfast spread was excellent, especially the eggs Benedict, perfectly cooked with rich hollandaise and fresh fruit compote. And if you're a fan of musicals, His Majesty's Theatre (where Phantom of the Opera is performed) is just a short walk away. Everything about this hotel feels thoughtfully designed—from the convenient location to the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s part of the experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting London.

My stay at this hotel completely exceeded my expectations. From the warm and efficient check-in at the front desk to stepping into the room and being instantly impressed—spotless floors, fresh-smelling linens, and a little tea tray by the window with new tea bags waiting. It’s these thoughtful details that truly make a difference. Daily housekeeping was spot-on: items were neatly arranged, water bottles replenished, snacks topped up, and even my forgotten headphones were carefully tucked away. It felt like coming home—comfortable, secure, and genuinely cared for. The location is unbeatable—right above both the train station and underground station, so getting around town or catching a train is effortless. Just step out the front door and you’re already in transit. There’s a supermarket nearby, shopping centres within walking distance, and Sloane Square just a short stroll away. Breakfast was generous and delicious, served with friendly smiles. I’m thoroughly impressed with every aspect of the experience. I’d definitely recommend this place to friends and will choose it again on my next visit to London. Special thanks to the platform’s customer service team for their prompt support—handling small issues 24/7 made a big difference for my family, and we truly appreciated it.

Staying at Hotel 41 felt like stepping into a well-kept secret from a bygone era. In an age where many hotels seem to have given up on quality service, it’s genuinely refreshing to find one that still upholds high standards with such dedication. I visited during the quiet March season—my first time experiencing this historic gem from the Red Carnation group. Hotel 41 and its neighboring property, Rubens, are part of the same family, and both are warmly greeted by the same elderly doorman who adds a personal touch right from arrival. From the moment you step inside, the attention to detail is palpable. Our Korean housekeeper was incredibly sweet and enthusiastic—her warmth made the stay feel more like visiting friends than checking into a hotel. As a boutique property, the entire hotel spans just one floor, with the public area doubling as the lobby and lounge bar—an elegant blend of old-world charm and timeless style. Welcome champagne, non-stop snacks throughout the day (candy, ice cream, hot and cold bites), afternoon tea, and late-night nibbles make the experience even more luxurious. The signature treat? Chocolate shortbread—simple but unforgettable. That said, standard rooms are quite small; fitting two adults and two large suitcases left little room to move around. Bathrooms feel dated in design and fixtures, though they’re clean and functional. One delightful touch: the nightly turndown includes a cozy hot water bottle tucked under the sheets—a small gesture that truly warms the soul. You can ask almost anything of your housekeeper—they’ll help with luggage packing, local tips, or even last-minute requests. The location is unbeatable: directly opposite Buckingham Palace stables. Walking to the palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey felt effortless—more like a leisurely stroll than a tourist rush. For a unique, intimate, and deeply personal stay in central London, Hotel 41 delivers exceptional value and genuine hospitality.

I stayed in a single room which was compact but perfectly functional with all the essentials. The breakfast was exceptional—plenty of options, fresh ingredients, and high quality across the board. I especially appreciated the little touches in the lobby: lemon tea, apples, and Walkers crisps available for guests to enjoy anytime. It's these thoughtful details that make a big difference. Overall, the experience was excellent, and I'd definitely book again. Highly recommend staying here if you're in London.

Staying in a lower-floor room was surprisingly quiet—no noise at all despite the city location. The room size is just right, not too cramped and very clean throughout. I especially appreciated having a small kitchenette and dining area, which made it easy to prepare simple meals during my stay. The staff were warm and helpful, always ready to assist with any questions. This place offers great value and comfort, and if I ever return to London, I’d definitely book here again. A fantastic choice for travelers who want a home-like atmosphere with excellent service.

Staying at Cheval Harrington Court at South Kensington was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was spotless, modern, and beautifully appointed with high-quality amenities—including a full set of OSEA products in the bathroom, which made every moment feel luxurious. Daily housekeeping service was thoughtful and kept everything fresh and tidy. There’s a front desk available for luggage storage, and the elevator works smoothly—access requires a key card, which adds a nice touch of security. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a 3-minute walk to South Kensington Underground station, and both the Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum are within walking distance. Public transport access is seamless, and exploring central London became so easy. One small note: when checking out, we were asked if we’d like to pay a service fee, but this wasn’t mentioned during booking or on arrival. We weren’t sure whether to tip per day or based on meal services, which made the moment a bit awkward. Still, that minor hiccup didn’t take away from how impressed we were with the overall quality, comfort, and convenience. This place offers excellent value and would absolutely be my top pick for future stays in London.

The stay at The Dilly was absolutely perfect—10/10 in every way. I booked through a platform, and honestly, the experience was worth every penny. From the moment we walked into the room, the beautiful décor and thoughtful touches made us feel welcome. The ambiance is elegant yet warm, the location is unbeatable—right in the heart of London with everything nearby. The vibe is just right—quiet enough to relax but still close to all the action. Every detail felt intentional and well-crafted. I’d book again in a heartbeat. This place truly delivers on its promise and then some.

The location is absolutely fantastic—situated in a sophisticated, quiet neighborhood with plenty of great restaurants and shops just steps away. The apartments are spacious, well-appointed, and incredibly peaceful, making it a perfect retreat after a long day exploring London. The staff goes above and beyond with their attentive, efficient, and genuinely friendly service. Every detail feels thoughtfully considered, from the modern amenities to the clean, stylish interiors. It’s rare to find such a high level of comfort and hospitality in a city as busy as London. This place truly delivers on every front—highly recommend for anyone looking for a refined, relaxing stay.

Grosvenor House Suites truly feels like a hidden gem. From the moment we stepped off the airport transfer, the concierge team welcomed us with open arms—warm drinks and cookies waiting in the second-floor lobby made it feel like coming home. Our entire family, including our 22-month-old son, was treated with such care. Marco brought out a whole box of toys just for him—such a thoughtful touch. Christian then gave us a personal room tour, explained every amenity in detail, and made sure we felt completely at ease. As soon as we entered our suite, we were greeted with a beautifully arranged dining table: a bottle of wine, fresh fruit basket, a platter of local nuts, and exclusive UK teas and cookies. The housekeeping team went above and beyond—twice daily cleanings, morning tidy-ups, evening slippers and water bottles placed on the nightstand, even washing our dishes left in the sink! It was more than service—it felt like being spoiled. We didn’t want to leave the hotel, it was that cozy and comforting. Special thanks to Marco, Robert, Carolina, Christian, Yannick, Antonio, and Lubna for your genuine warmth and meaningful conversations. And heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Henning for making our son’s first international trip unforgettable. Grosvenor House Suites has redefined hospitality. We’re already planning our return.

I always stay at this lovely guesthouse whenever I visit London, and it never disappoints. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, like staying with friends. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive—always ready to help with anything you need. I'm especially impressed by the restaurant’s recent renovation; the food quality has significantly improved, and the dishes now feel more balanced and thoughtful. It's clear that teamwork and harmony among the staff have enhanced the overall experience. From check-in to checkout, everything feels seamless and personal. This place truly stands out for its charm and attention to detail. Definitely a top choice for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity in London.

We stayed for four nights in this charming little apartment and couldn’t have been happier. Despite its compact size, it felt warm, modern, and incredibly well-maintained. The view from the window was lovely—just a quiet, picturesque street with a real sense of London charm. It’s walking distance to the tube station and just a few minutes from Harrods, making shopping and sightseeing super convenient. The direct access to Heathrow was a game-changer for our travel plans. Everything we needed was there, and the place exceeded all our expectations. We were 100% satisfied and truly appreciated the thoughtful touches from the team. Would absolutely recommend and return without hesitation.

Staying at Hazlitt's was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel itself is over 300 years old, and the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a rich atmosphere filled with art, books, and thoughtfully curated decor that makes every corner feel like a story waiting to be discovered. The staff at reception were incredibly warm and helpful—offering local tips and making us feel right at home. Our room was beautifully designed according to the original building structure, blending historic charm with modern comfort. It’s not brand new, but that’s exactly what gives it character—old-world elegance without sacrificing style or cleanliness. After a night out at the theatre, walking just four minutes back to the hotel felt effortless and safe. If you’re looking for a unique, authentic London experience with great value, this place is a must-book.
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