We tell you the seats to buy, which to avoid, and how to get them at the best prices

 

Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park

The Regent's Park, Inner Circle, London NW1 4NU 0333 400 3562

  • Where to buy tickets
  • Best seat advice
  • Seating plan/s
  • Getting to the theatre

Buying tickets online

www.openairtheatre.com the venue's own website provide the service.
This venue allows individual seat selection.

Booking fees per transaction:
None.

About the show:

Twelfth Night

The Enormous Crocodile

The Secret Garden

Fiddler On The Roof

 

Other Online Choices (with genuine S.T.A.R ticket agencies): 
Independent S.T.A.R. ticket agencies may also offer an alternative choice of seats for some events.

Ticket agencies offer an alternative way to buy tickets, with booking fees differing from those charged by the theatre box office itself. They may have seats available or special offers when theatres do not.

Ticket agency prices vary in response to theatres implementing “dynamic pricing”  - which alters prices according to demand for a particular performance. Current prices are advised at time of enquiry.

 

 

Box office information

Telephone: 0333 400 3562
Operated by the venue during the open season, and by the Ticket Factory Agency when the venue is closed and at busy times during the open season. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm, Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday and bank holidays 10am to 6pm. This is a local rate call number.

The box office in the park is open only until the end of the season. It remains closed until May each year.

Check venue website for any variations on the above.

When closed, bookings are taken online and by phone only.

Booking fees per ticket for telephone bookings:
Main Season: £1.80 (£1.35 on under 18s tickets) per ticket booking fee is charged for telephone bookings with the box office (£4.50 one-off fee for "Season Tickets"). A further £2 per booking, not per ticket, is charged to have tickets posted to you if required - UK addresses only. Booking online is far cheaper.

For groups of 10 or more, a £4.50 per booking, not per ticket, service charge is made.

If collecting tickets reserved by telephone, PLEASE BRING THE CREDIT CARD YOU USED WITH YOU - the box office cannot issue your tickets without it.

No fee is charged for access bookings or tickets that have to be collected from the box office if there is another valid reason - at box office discretion.

Extra Events: £1.80 per ticket booking fee, plus £2 postage fee as above.
 

For personal callers or by post:
Inner Circle, Regent's Park, London. NW1 4NP
No booking fee for personal callers.

Postal bookings by cheque should be made payable to "Open Air Theatre." For postal bookings, a £1.80 per ticket booking fee, plus £2 per booking, not per ticket return postage fee. Don't forget to add this to your cheque when calculating.

The box office in the park opens during the season only. On performance days it is open from 11am to 8pm, on days without performances only from 11am to 5pm. It remains closed from the day after the final performance each season, until May the following year.

Special Access Needs Customers: 
Wheelchair users and other registered disabled theatregoers can book their seats and enquire about concessionary prices that may be available to them on 0333 320 2834.

www.openairtheatre.com is the official theatre website.

Please remember that cheaper seats often do not offer the same view / location quality as top price ones, and that ticket prices are designed to reflect this difference.

Seating is of "stadium standard," throughout, with smart green plastic padded seat and high back, plus arm rests at every seat. Very comfortable, the monkey finds.

 

www.theatremonkey.com is very proud to sponsor seat A18 at this venue:

Open Air seat sponsored 3
Open Air seat sponsored 1

 
To find out how you could help this amazing theatre by doing likewise, visit www.openairtheatre.com/sponsoraseat.
 (Photographs above were taken and supplied by the Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park, in July 2014. Used by kind permission of the venue owner). All other photographs in this listing are by David Jensen, used by kind permission.

 

 

  • Front Stalls
  • Rear Stalls

Front Stalls

Layout

Open Air Theatre Sound of Music 2013 Credit David Jensen

Called the "Lower Tier" in this venue.

The front block is of concrete steps rising from the stage.

The block is split into a central and two side blocks by aisles.

Grassy banks either side of the side blocks provide further seating if not used in the production and the grass is dry

Legroom

Good for all but those over 5ft 10 or so in all seats.

Best legroom is in rows A and J where it is almost unlimited. Row J will possibly suit the longer legged better, feels the monkey, as the seats are set slightly higher than row A.

Side block aisle seats have extra space for one leg.

Choosing seats in general

Centre Block: 
New seating gives a little extra height to all seats, improving the view over the row in front. Choose the centre block row D first, then C, B and A for those who enjoy a close look at the stage.

Row D looks just nicely down onto the stage when they are using the slightly raised plinth type stage commonly in this theatre's set designs. Others also like E, F and G for a slightly wider perspective. 

Row J is inserted in the aisle space in front of row K. Positioned in the aisle space between front and rear stalls blocks, against the metal rails of the rear section. It has an excellent view and better legroom than other seating, and a reader who sat there agrees! The view from these end sections is a little side on from outermost seats perhaps, and you are at the same height as side block seats in row I in front, but if available, the legroom is worthwhile feels the monkey... if nobody tall takes row I, maybe...

Side Blocks: 
These offer a good, if slightly angled view, and if you want to save a few bananas, take the pairs of seats off the centre aisle in these blocks in rows D to E, then back to I, first. Irritatingly, stage action normally happens towards the centre, meaning those at the sides don't always see actors faces full-on. Otherwise, row choice order is the same as the centre block - and always go as central as possible.

One reader also noticed that the 2010 set for "Into The Woods" blocked views from A1. Poor scenic design on future shows could obviously cause an issue here, notes the monkey. On the other hand, A 1 to 4 and 21 to 24 are often sold at a discount. Cheaper, the monkey likes A 4 and 3 / 21 and 22 in that order.

Do look at the rear block row M seats 26 to 44 then L 24 to 41 before picking rows H, I and J since the rake (elevation over the row in front) is better - though be aware row L looks through a bar at the front of the seating section and isn't suitable for those under 5ft 6 or so.

Four wheelchair spaces can be inserted into row J replacing seats 9 to 11, 20 to 23, 20 to 23, 33 to 36 and 46 to 48 as required. Monkey advice is to take 20 to 23 and 33 to 36 first, as they are nice and central. Other seats in row J from 1 to 14 and 43 to 56 are the same price as those in front, fair value.

Grass Banks:
Also worth knowing is that the grass banks beside the seats are also sold if it's a dry day and they are not needed for the production. A side view, but a way to see the show for those willing to sit on the ground.
 

General hazard notes

The stage is an adaptable space on a grassy base. If extended outwards by boards, it can form a diamond shape that sometimes comes to a sharp point in front of the centre seats in row A. It is low enough not to affect sightlines too greatly, though a few purists might want to avoid A 11 to 14.

Be aware that speakers on the grass bank under the stage can be loud for those in the front rows.

Holes in the metal drain covers on the concrete public gangway in front of row A are stiletto hazards.

If it has rained, water collects in the cracks in the concrete in front of row A particularly.

For productions before previews begin: When booking for the new season opens, it is usual for the front two rows and two seats in the outermost side blocks to not be sold. These are put on sale once staging and sightlines have been established around the time of the first preview.

Changes for the current production

SOME DETAILS WILL CHANGE.
Note that the park always holds off the whole of row A, plus side block row B, the outermost pairs of seas in rows C to I and most of row J until sightlines are confirmed for each production. The monkey will update as available.

Grass banks will be sold as “day seats” (weather permitting) should the production not require them. Again, the monkey will update as available.

All productions EXCEPT “The Enormous Crocodile”
The centre block is set at a £5 "premium price" over the side blocks. Worth that bit extra to help the theatre and get a central view.

Otherwise, the two seats over the aisle in rows E to I (taking - if the stage is high - F, G, H first, then E, I) are as good.

The Enormous Crocodile
All seats are a single price. Take centre block E to I first, in that order, particularly with smaller visitors and a high stage.
 

Readers comments

“Stalls: (Craig). Stall seats were comfortable, all now have integral cushions. All stall seats are individual seats with wooden arm rests."

"A3 to A6. Although you are to one side of the stage, you do not miss out on anything!"

"A10: "On the Town" (June 2017). Seat A10 was in the very front row and wish there was a clear view with plenty of leg room, I would suggest you avoid the front row, as there is a very high stage and you can not see the feet of the performers."

"D33 and 34: "Into The Woods" (August 2010). Really good. As the action sometimes takes place on the high walk ways I was glad not to be right at the front!"

"E 4 and 5: "The Sound Of Music" (August 2013). Following the Monkeys sage advice, we booked seats E4 and 5 for the current, Sound of Music production, as it was heavily sold out. The view was great, far better than the rows in front of us, and good value for money. Given the final scene, it was a fantastic place to seat! Don't forget to pack a bin bag to sit on though, because if its been raining during the day, the upholstered seats remain very damp."

"E23: "Carousel" (July 2021). The production uses a revolve that is horizontal, and this means that the front of the stage is something like a meter higher than typical. From this row E seat in the centre block, an average-height adult's eyes were at the level of the actors' knees when they were standing on the stage, and there are only a few times that they sit down on the edge of the stage where the viewing is more comfortable. I would not have been happy sitting any closer to the stage than this, and it's possible that seeing too much too closely and from too low down spoiled some of the effect of the production for me.
For what it's worth, row A is not in use (as you have already noted). I tried row B in the centre block: my eyes were below stage level; in row C, I could just see the stage floor."

"G6: "Into The Woods (August 2010), (Mark). Got for £8 as the 'Breeze Night' discount for young people. Great seat, very close to the action, go for central seats at full price, but the seats in the side block were absolutely fine."

"I20 and I21: (James – regular reader). Excellent!"

"I25 and 25: "Jesus Christ, Superstar" (July 2016). Good view from seats I25 and 26."

"I30 and 31: "Crazy For You" (2011), (James – regular reader). Perfect, but do take a waterproof blanket to put on the seat if it has been raining in the afternoon!”

"J16: "La Cage Aux Folles" (July 2023). Step free access, unlimited legroom and no need to push past anyone or have anyone push past you. Very comfortable seat, great view, great value."

"J39: "Peter Pan" (2015). Sat in J39 for an afternoon performance. It was the first really hot day of June and those on the other side of the theatre (i.e. with the lowest-numbered seats) struggled as they sweltered. I had the perfect seat! It was in dappled sunshine and then, as the play progressed, pretty much full shade. Access is step free and there is nobody immediately in front of you (it's a gangway), so unlimited legroom. View was superb. Worth noting that the seats here are very wide – the person next to me was huge but still managed to sit comfortably without overflowing onto my seat. Easy to make a quick getaway at the end – you are seconds from the exit."

Rear Stalls

Layout

Open Air Theatre Into The Woods Rear Section Credit David Jensen

Called the "Upper Tier" in this venue.

A wooden walled, with metal rails at the front of it, concrete grandstand split into five blocks by gangways.

A high rail runs across the front of this section, badly blocking views in row K.

In the centre block, the sound desk hut sits beside T53 and T62, meaning there is no aisle beside these seats.

Blocks adjacent to the centre one have stairwells let into them, taking a bite out of seats in rows J to N.

Aisle seats have low black metal safety rails beside them, except row T, where they are short, stubby poles. These are low and should not affect the view - the colour should help them fade into the dusk, in fact.

The very first and very last seat in the whole row (which are all located in the outermost blocks) are NOT on an aisle, there is just a wooden wall next to them.

Legroom

Adequate in almost all seats for all but the very tallest over 5ft 10 or so.

Row U seats 11, 34, 73 and 98 have a little more space to one side to allow a leg into the aisle.

Row U 36 and 73 have little legroom in front for those taller than 5ft 5. You can sit with legs sideways into the aisle to improve things a little, though.

Choosing seats in general

The view won't disappoint from most seats, but as usual when all seats in a row are priced the same, insist on the best.

Centre Block: 
Behind row O the seats rise steeply. Value is fair in all seats except row K and those behind the stairwell in rows O and P, but rows S and T do feel remote from the action (you notice it when climbing down from your perch there!) - sound is normally good, though.

So, all that said: In the most central block, row K 16 to 44, L seats 17 to 48, row M seats 26 to 44, row N seats 27 to 41 and O 33 to 53 are the same premium price as the front centre section of the theatre. Some may welcome the opportunity to sit further back for the same money - and the view is decent enough - but the monkey rates the tickets only average value here - and would skip all together at those prices. It might take P 34 to 55 at a fiver less, but would skip the rows behind for sure.

S 39 to 63 are at second price. About fair but remember there are closer opportunities in the outermost blocks for the same money.

Seats T53 and T62 beside the sound desk will find it does not affect the view. As the desk is now an enclosed space above auditorium level, there will be no noisy distraction either. The only issue is that there is no aisle beside these seats, so you are last in the row to exit.

Seats U36 and 73 are solo seats on the aisle with a decent view, no post in front, but little legroom directly in front. If over 5ft 5 you will need to sit with your legs to the sides in the aisle, which won't be a comfortable position for long, the monkey feels.

Adjacent Centre Blocks:
Either side of the main block, seats in row K, behind the fence posts in particular should be avoided at top price. Also, be aware there is fencing around the stairwells and front of the block section too.

As these blocks are adjacent to the central one, they containing entrance stairwells. Worth avoiding are seats row O 20 to 25 and 62 to 66, P 20 to 25 and 67 to 72, and for purists Q 22 to 26 and R 68 to 72 which get commanding views of the stairwell rails (and over the lighting box top) - cutting heads off; and O 20 and 66 in particular also notice the rails down the sides as they look to the stage. Fortunately, the box office sell most of these horrors last! O 20 to 24 and 62 to 66 are bottom price as they are very restricted view but central. Your call, feels the monkey, who would probably go for the outermost block's seat option back to R first.

This rest of this pair of blocks were once second price, now established at premium prices in K and L, with top non-premium price N to row O in the seats next to the main blocks. Skip K and L, but N to O are not bad value if you can't get into the front block for the same bananas.

At second price, P33 to 27 / 56 to 62 are a good bet, or you could go the other side of the entrance doors and take L to N in that bit of the section.

P 19 to 12 / 70 to 77 drop to third price and are another decent bet, it feels.

Restricted view seats in row P and Q aside, take the rest of P to S at third, before the second price R, or taking a look at the most central seats on the ends of rows L and M on the outermost side blocks.

At third price, the monkey would also look to the extreme outer blocks rows N and O first if only wanting a pair or trio of seats (the other 2 are a bit too far over, usually). 

Row U has very slim metal pillars beside some seats. These do not affect views at all. Seats U13, 34 and 75 have a short black post in front, which is easy to ignore. As they are the same price as the row in front, take the row last to be closer for the same bananas.

Outermost Side Blocks: 
Mostly fair value, feels the monkey. 

At second price, L 9 to 6 / 56 to 59 or M 10 to 7 / 59 to 62 in that order are worth a try for being closer to the stage than the others at the same price.

The third price stuff remains fair value back to row P but there are good fourth price pairs off the aisle in Q to S. At fourth there are also the outer seats in K back. Some are far over, so go as close to the aisle and near to the front as possible - N then O then M or P.

Outermost seats from O back are an option if vertigo isn't a problem (they are next to fence preventing a fair drop to the ground, so sufferers should only take P at best). Also worth a glance are O 20 to 24 and 62 to 66: very restricted view but central. Your call, feels the monkey, who would probably go for the outer seat option back to R first.

Row U has very slim metal pillars beside some seats. These do not affect views at all. Seats U11 and 98 have a short black post in front, which is easy to ignore. As they are the same price as the row in front, take the row last to be closer for the same bananas.

Tending towards expensive in the far corners, be aware that row U108 in particular will notice sound equipment hanging between seat and stage. It doesn't block the view at all, but may well be a distraction just by being in the corner of the eye when looking at the stage. For this reason, perhaps avoid the end two seats from row R back on this "high numbers" side.

Be aware that in the back row foliage can get in the way / shed leaves on you at the extreme ends of the row.

General hazard notes

Those sitting in the outermost seats from row N back may find the view induces vertigo, even though the gap between rails is filled in. Seriously, don’t even THINK of sitting in the very end seats if bothered by heights. The monkey has seen the results, and feels very sorry indeed for those suffering.

Claustrophobics should also avoid extreme ends of rows, as there are no aisles there and the blocks ahead are large and enclosing in a full auditorium (which the park usually attracts).

There are also no aisles beside T53 and T62 next to the sound desk walls.

Row S48 to 54 has the walls of the sound desk behind it but nobody will be disturbed by being kicked in the back or having audiences chatting behind them.

The blocks adjacent to the central one are the ones containing stairwells. Worth avoiding are seats row O 20 to 25 and 62 to 66, P 20 to 25 and 67 to 72, and for purists Q 22 to 26 and R 68 to 72 which get commanding views of the stairwell rails (and over the lighting box top) - cutting heads off; and O 20 and 66 in particular also notice the rails down the sides as they look to the stage. Fortunately, the box office sell most of these horrors last!

The whole of row K, with rails splitting up the view.

Falling leaves / overgrown branches can affect sightlines at the ends of row T, depending on season and pruning that has or has not taken place.

Changes for the current production

Each production has a slight variation for this season.

Twelfth Night
Top non-premium prices extend to row N in the centre block, plus rows J to M either side over the aisle. The monkey would avoid anything in K to N at the price. 

For the rest of the centre block, take centre O first, same view, cheaper. Anything in R at second price, S and T at third price is too far back for the monkey, but the short legged single may like U36 or 73.

A block either side, it gets a lot better. Second price N 26 to 19 / 47 to 54 are your second price much closer deal. At third price, R 36 to 30 / 61 to 67 get you a row further forward than centre seats for similar views.

Moving along a little, prices really throw up bargains on the right side of the aisle. You can have L 16 to 10 or 49 to 55 at second price, M 13 to 11 / 56 to 58 even better at third, stonking N 12, 11, 61 and 62 at fourth or bargain Q 15 to 13 / 79 to 81 at fifth. Oh, and did the monkey mention T 18, 17,98 and 99 at bottom price as well? Do remember the aisle seat in all these has a rail beside it, but the prices make them worth first grab feels the monkey.

In the outermost blocks, fourth price L 9 to 6 / 56 to 59 or M 8 to 10 / 59 to 61 and bottom price R and S 11, 12, R85, 86, S 89 and 90 are the ones to go for, again remembering 12, 86 and 90 have that rail beside them.

This season, the monkey does feel all lowest price seats will not disappoint. Just go as centrally as you can and as far forward as you prefer once the ones it has highlighted have gone.

 

The Enormous Crocodile
Top prices extend to row N in the centre block, M in the next section along. The monkey would avoid it, particularly with smaller children. Row O is your choice here once better stuff over the aisle has gone.

A block either side, second price J 16 to 18 / 42 to 44 are first pick. Then M 18, 19, 50 and 51. Third price O 20 to 24 / 62 to 66 may be tempting, but with youngsters they may have a problem seeing over the wall. O 12, 13, 73 and 74 are safer.

The outer blocks are all the same price. Try for L 10 to 6 / 56 to 59 then M 10 o 7 / 59 to 61 first. The rail in front of K may be a problem for shorter customers is the reason for the monkey suggestion here. Once gone, go as central as possible and try to avoid being more than 7 from the aisle if possible for the best angle, feels the monkey.

 

The Secret Garden
Top non-premium prices extend to row L in the centre block, plus rows J and K either side, and K in the next section along. The monkey would avoid anything in K and L at the price. 

For the rest of the centre block, take centre M first, same view, cheaper, and skip row P as you can pull the same trick taking Q for even fewer bananas. Rows S and T are far back at third price, but the short legged single may like U36 or 73.

A block either side, second price L 22 to 17 / 42 to 48 are not a bad bet. At third price, P 33 to 27 / 56 to 62 get you a row further forward than centre seats for similar views.

Moving along a little, L 16 to 10 / 49 to 55 are also third price and close with a decent view as well. Or you can drop back to N 16 to 11 / 57 to 62 at a great fourth price and even nab R13, 14, 83 and 84 at bottom price – be aware 13 and 84 have the rail beside them, though.

In the outermost blocks, fourth price L 9 to 6 / 56 to 59 or M 8 to 10 / 59 to 61 and bottom price R and S 11, 12, R85, 86, S 89 and 90 are the ones to go for, again remembering 12, 86 and 90 have that rail beside them.

This season, the monkey does feel all lowest price seats will not disappoint. Just go as centrally as you can and as far forward as you prefer once the ones it has highlighted have gone.

 

Fiddler on the Roof
Premium prices extend to row L in the centre block, plus K 20, 21, 39 and 40. Whatever you do, ignore those ones on K – you will be paying an extra £5 for a stunning view of a support post in the aisle seat.

In fact, the monkey would skip the centre block, only taking row Q at second price once better seats further forward are gone. The short legged single may like U36 or 73 but at third price they can do better too – and may even meet someone good in the other seats...

A block either side of the centre, it gets a lot better. Second price J 12 to 14 / 42 to 44,  M 19, 18, 50 and 51, N 22 to 19 / 51 to 54, O 22 to 26 / 54 to 60 are your second price much closer deals, with L 16 to 10 / 49 to 55 to follow. 

You could even go a bit back at third price, moving along a little, as prices really throw up bargains on the right side of the aisle. You can have M 13 to 11 / 56 to 58 even better at third or stonking N 12, 11, 61 and 62 at fourth price. Back a little more,  bargain Q 14, 13, 80 and 81 at fifth. Do remember the aisle seat in all these has a rail beside it, but the prices make them worth first grab feels the monkey.

In the outermost blocks, fourth price L 9 to 6 / 56 to 59 or M 8 to 10 / 59 to 61 are the ones to go for. 

There is a disappointingly average selection in the lowest price category. All rear corners. The monkey might take R 8, 7, 92 and 93 as the best of them, but feels once more it is best to go as centrally as you can and as far forward as you prefer – remembering seats off to the outer sides really are a fair way out.
 

Readers comments

"K31 and 32: "Ragtime the Musical" (July 2012), (Chris B). Great, completely unobstructed view of the entire stage. A little raised so you can appreciate everything going on at once, as there are often lots of actors on stage at the same time. There is a walk way directly in front so no heads to block the view. The safety barrier for the walk way does provide a foot rest as there is also plenty of legroom. Coincidently these seats don't face the sun throughout the matinee performance so no sun in your eyes which is a bonus."

"L 3 to 5: "The Sound of Music" (August 2013): The first performance got rained off part way through, always a hazard with open air theatre, but they did stop and start it a few times and people began to comment that if it carried on like that they would have to leave before the end anyway to catch trains .The second was the very last one on 14th September which was a bit chilly. Some people had blankets which was a good idea. Always take a bag to sit on (you can buy seat covers but theatre visits are expensive enough without unnecessary extras)." The rake is steep enough that I would be surprised if anybody had a bad view, the downside being you can end up with a knee in your back/shoulder if the person behind is particularly tall. Our seats were £35 because they were outermost side blocks, but the view was excellent, wouldn't bother to pay more. However. if you suffer from vertigo don't go too far back. Would recommend for something a little bit different, even though my teenager turned to me with water dripping off her head and said "Is this supposed to be fun?"

"M7: "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" (July 2015). 15.08. I booked the ticket rather late, so M0 was the best seat I could get. Sure it’s rather high and off to the side, but the show is staged in a way that you pretty much see everything from any seat. An aisle seat would’ve been preferable for legroom, but as the Monkey has noted, you can sit quite comfortably in the theatre. Sidenote: I test-sat K16 and O21 to 23 after the show. I think I might have a decent view from those seats (I have a rather long upper body) and I’ll probably give them a try next year, if the price is right."

“7 Brides” is a whole lot of fun. No more, no less. Sure, the story is somewhat silly, and it’s not the kind of musical you see for deep emotions. But I dare you to try and sit still during the musical numbers."

"O21 and 22: "Henry V" (June 2016). We chose these seats on the grounds that they were £17.50 cheaper than those just to one side of them, taking the risk that the bar restricting the view was worth the saving. And we were very pleased with our decision. Both of us over 6' and could easily see over the bar, it didn't restrict the view at all. Even if a shorter person took the seats I think it would be a minor inconvenience to bob up or down a little to get a clear view for the sake of the big saving to be had. I would jump at these seats if I decided to visit again. But I confess this would be unlikely. It was a grey evening and a bit windy, which made for a very brooding backdrop, but it also meant that the sound from another event's sound-check nearby drifted into the auditorium for the full duration of the performance. Disco music did not create the right mood for the aftermath of the battle, and quite honestly spoiled it for me, a first time visitor. Incidentally we thought about moving to more expensive seats, plenty of which were available, but in the end decided that the ones we had were as good as any of the others. The venue itself was wonderful and I'm very glad I went."

"O24: "Running Wild" (May 2016). Feeling very brave, I’ve booked O24 (only £25 compared to £50 for O25), and wasn’t disappointed. Legroom is pretty much the same everywhere and I’m somehow able to sit comfortably and still look over the stairwell rails. In the future, though, I might go for O23 or 22. They are directly in front of the lighting box, which looks like its top has the perfect height to stretch one’s legs over."

"O53 and 54: "Ragtime" (May 2012). We paid £30 each for our tickets through the GILT summer offer. Fantastic unobstructed view of the entire stage, good legroom because of the aisle (I'm 6ft tall). The seats were wet due to rainfall but the theatre gave out free seat covers (normal cost is 50p each)."

“O61 and 62: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” (Chris B). There is a good rake for this theatre and so you can see clearly from most seats. You are a fair way back from the stage but still close enough to feel involved and see all the details of the production. It is quite a large stage and sitting a little further back allows for a better appreciation of the entire stage.”

"O63: "On The Town" (May 2017). Booked O63, and deliberately so. Apparently my upper body is just long enough for me to sit comfortably and still be able to look over the stairwell rail (lucky me, I guess; a lady next to me constantly had to move her head up or down for an unobstructed view). Also, the little tin roof over the stairwell looked and felt solid enough, so I stretched my legs over it from time to time. Since no one complained and it didn’t crash down, I guess it was kind of okay."

"O66: "Little Shop Of Horrors" (July 2018). View is Fabulous!! Anyone over say 5ft 9 will have zero obstruction for Little Shop. I think referring to it as a "little horror" may be a bit harsh :). That said, I'd be happy for you to keep it red so I can get it again for whatever show they decide to do next year!"

"O77: "On The Town" (May 2017), (Tonyloco). Fine, and I was glad I was not down in the front row underneath what looked like quite a high built-out stage."

"P48 and 49: "A Midsummer Nights Dream" (May 2012). We paid £19.32 each through an offer on their official website. Fantastic unobstructed view of the entire stage, fair legroom (I'm 6' tall). It was a little worrying having to walk along the tow to get to our seats because only a few people stood up and I kept thinking that if I lean the wrong way I could topple over onto the rows below (luckily I made it through in one piece by taking it slowly!)."

"Q25, 26, 27: "Jesus Christ Superstar" (August 2017). Good seats, booked high and on that side as my son likes rock music so I thought he’d like to see the band play. No problem with views here although it was hard to get the Last Supper pose (which I knew about as I’d seen the show last summer) and it was seriously hot when the sun shone. I usually go for the second price seats on the right side, low 70s numbers, to avoid the worst of the sunshine."

"Q57 and 58: "Jesus Christ Superstar" (July 2016), (Taljaard). My first visit and wow what an amazing place. Q 57 and 58 were excellent seats. The rake is very good and the sound fantastic. A word of warning, the queues for the ladies toilets were biblical!"

"R 7, 8 and 9: "Legally Blonde" (May 2022). These were the cheapest seats going (£25) and even though you're at the side you get a completely clear view of the stage due to great raking. We didn't miss anything or particularly notice that we were at the side rather than central.  I'm not sure if there would be a bad seat anywhere once you get onto the tiers.
Entrance is through door 1 which is furthest away from the bar and loos and queues at the interval were massive by the time we got out.  Lots of people didn't make it back in time for the beginning of the second half and they weren't allowed in until after the opening number (which is one of the better ones).  
We went to a matinee and the sun was shining so next time I go I would try and sit on the opposite side which was shady rather than totally exposed. A lot of people started drifting over to spare seats during the first half as it was boiling hot and by the second half quite a lot had abandoned their seats around us and gone to sit on the shady grass verge opposite."

"T40 and 41: "Evita" (August 2019). I paid £35 for these tickets when they were released and although they are on the back row I thought the view was great value for money. They are high up and therefore a distance from the stage but it didn't feel too far. They are very central, the legroom is good and being further back offered a good overall view of the entire stage. I wouldn't hesitate to sit here again."

"Row U: "Robin Hood" (June 2023). Just had a look at the new row before tonight's show. As a solo theatregoer I like single seats but would never book U 36 or 73 as the legroom is awful and would require sitting sideways.
I also note that row U is partly under the lighting gantry. This makes a good pigeon perch, hence the unattractive line of guano by your feet. Think I'll give this row a miss."
 

Notes best seat advice

Seats 1346 plus 60 on lawn when used.

Occasional signed performances. Guide dogs welcome, water bowls and dog-sitter provided on request. Radio headsets available for hearing impaired visitors - £5 returnable deposit required - and must be booked in advance. Level access from entrance or car park to auditorium. Gender segregated adapted toilets - ALMOST UNIQUE IN LONDON!!!

Other theatres take note. This theatre gets it right. Details of special facilities are available on 0333 320 2834, or fill in the online form at the venue website.

Barbeque and other food available, as well as ice cream and confectionery. Food service ends 5 minutes before performances begin - though dessert can be served at the interval. Alternatively, arrive early and bring your own picnic - the grounds open 90 minutes before evening performances (1 hour before 2.15pm afternoon shows, 30 minutes before other events including mornings), or order one from the box office...

Food can be ordered before your visit, and a voucher is issued with your tickets. Simply exchange this at the theatre bar for your meal on arrival. Call the box office on 0333 400 3562 or see www.openairtheatre.com for details.

Picnic Lawn

Options usually include a summer picnic, with or without champagne) for two, with pre-reserved places at each performance. A luxury hamper option is also available.

"Dining Club Packages"  are bookable (and cheaper) in advance than turning up without a reservation on the night. They include appetisers, a main course pre-show and coffee and interval dessert. Pre-show and coffee and interval dessert. 

Burger and Fries (veggie option available) vouchers can be bought in advance, a saving on the day of performance fee.

Afternoon tea before performances is available, but must be booked in advance. A glass of Prosecco or champagne can be added at an extra charge.

A Summer Cafe is also available.

A reader notes that there are no refunds for food and drink ordered in advance if a performance is rained off. This includes if you order interval drinks before the show, but the show is cancelled before the interval arrives. Please be aware of this when booking.

Large bar, and the monkey means huge - the whole width of the theatre, almost!

Ample toilets in separate block. 

This theatre is open to the elements. Performances are rained off only when near storm conditions are reached - if the monsoon strikes with 10 minutes to go until the show ends, chances are it'll keep going... (the monkey has experienced this personally). If they do cancel then follow the instructions you will be handed, and change your ticket free for another date. If you cannot decide instantly, tickets remain exchangeable indefinitely for any equivalent performance in the future - even years ahead. You can telephone, mail them to the Box Office Manager to make the exchange, or fill in the form on their website. Do note that arrangements to do this can only be made via the actual venue if you telephone, NOT any ticket agency who picks up the telephone for them. Money is never refunded except when the performance is cancelled for reasons OTHER THAN the weather. In this case, only the face value of the tickets is refundable. If you have bought discounted tickets through a promotion, extra restrictions may apply to dates / seats you can exchange to. The box office will advise at time of enquiry.

In the afternoons the box office sell the shaded (higher numbers) side first. This is a relative term and long sleeves and very strong sunblock for face and neck are essential. The sun catches the "low numbers" seats full on - reflecting off glasses etc - as it moves around 4pm.

Theatremonkey reminds parents especially to use very strong sunscreen on their children if attending daytime performances. Even on a very dull day sunburn is a high risk in this theatre. Better still make them wear 'legionnaire hats' covering the head and neck - for protection.

A reader notes,
"Having just returned from a matinee (1.30pm) performance on about the hottest day of the year (30 plus degrees) here are some tips to survive (and enjoy) a performance without barbequing yourself and your kids. First, for once don’t buy in the ‘green’ seats (sorry Theatremonkey). The only seats where you stand of chance of relative shade for the most time are in the two highest numbered seat blocks in the upper tier.* The sun factor is different for everyone – other than the people who sat in lower to mid numbers, bottom and upper tiers, who simply fried for two hours. I sat in N60 and had sun on my back for the first half an hour and my left side for the last fifteen minutes. And even then it was relatively dappled. Bring sunblock and sunglasses and keep water with you. Water was freely available from the bar – and some teachers were even spotted with pitchers in their hands. Above all, bring a hat. It was gobsmacking how many small (and inevitably large) children had no hats – whole classes of them. Wonder how many were sick on the coach home."

*Monkey comment: actually, it repeats as above - NO seats are shaded, it is a "relative" term!

In the evening unless the daytime was 80 degrees plus, a thin pullover is needed, especially in the last rows of the rear block. A reader feels that, "It is flipping freezing in the evenings and blanket would be better advice".  They go on to say that the theatre do not hire blankets out any more because some twit threw them out when they stored them for safe keeping during the last paint job!

After wet weather the seats will be damp. You will be handed a cloth to dry them, but theatremonkey recommends taking your own paper towels and putting a waterproof (old carrier bags or a big bin liner do the job) on the seat before parking yourself in it. In 2010 the monkey noticed the venue selling a cheap waterproof for £3 at their souvenir stand too. It's a sort of thin plastic dustbin liner with a hood bit, and long enough to cover the knees of even the tallest person, though perhaps not vast enough for the very widest girth.

Further note, once the monkey turned up to find that its allocated seat cushion was the victim of an incontinent pigeon. Just ask an usher, and they can call "a clean up crew" to deal with it.

Do not dress in best clothes for this theatre - they will probably not survive. Please, please visit the place just once though. The atmosphere here is both magic and unique.

General price band information

Theatres use "dynamic pricing." Seat prices change according to demand for a particular performance. Prices below were compiled as booking originally opened. Current prices are advised at time of enquiry.

Based on paying FULL PRICE (no discount!) for tickets, site writers and contributing guests have ALSO created the colour-coded plans for "value for money," considering factors like views, comfort and value-for-money compared with other same-priced seats available.

For a full discussion, opinions, reviews, notes, tips, hints and advice on all the seats in this theatre, click on "BEST SEAT ADVICE" (on the left of your screen).

On the plans below:
Seats in GREEN many feel may offer either noticeable value, or something to compensate for a problem; for example, being a well-priced restricted view ticket. Any seats coloured LIGHT GREEN are sold at "premium" prices because the show producer thinks they are the best. The monkey says "you are only getting what you pay for" but uses this colour to highlight the ones it feels best at the price, and help everybody else find equally good seats nearby at lower prices.

Seats in WHITE, many feel, provided about what they pay for. Generally unremarkable.

Seats in RED are coloured to draw attention. Not necessarily to be avoided - maybe nothing specific is wrong with them, other than opinions that there are better seats at the same price. Other times there may be something to consider before buying – perhaps overpricing, obstructed views, less comfort etc.

Please remember that cheaper seats often do not offer the same view / location quality as top price ones, and that ticket prices are designed to reflect this difference.

CLICK SEATING PLAN TO ENLARGE IF REQUIRED. USE "BACK" BUTTON TO RETURN.

By value for money:

SOME DETAILS WILL CHANGE. Note that the park always holds off the whole of row A, plus side block row B, the outermost pairs of seas in rows C to I and most of row J until sightlines are confirmed for each production. The monkey will update as available.
Grass banks will be sold as “day seats” (weather permitting) should the production not require them. Again, the monkey will update as available.

Twelfth Night

Open Air Theatre value seating plan


The Enormous Crocodile

Open Air Theatre value seating plan


The Secret Garden

Open Air Theatre value seating plan


Fiddler On The Roof

Open Air Theatre value seating plan

 

By price:

SOME DETAILS WILL CHANGE.
Note that the park always holds off the whole of row A, plus side block row B, the outermost pairs of seas in rows C to I and most of row J until sightlines are confirmed for each production. The monkey will update as available.
Grass banks will be sold as “day seats” (weather permitting) should the production not require them. Again, the monkey will update as available.

Twelfth Night

Open Air Theatre price seating plan


The Enormous Crocodile

Open Air Theatre price seating plan


The Secret Garden

Open Air Theatre price seating plan


Fiddler On The Roof

Open Air Theatre price seating plan

 

Notes

The seating plans above "stretch" this auditorium out, for easier reading (so please remember that some seats in the back row WILL have seats in front of them).

This is the "Standard Layout." Note that row A, and seats B 1 to 7 and 22 to 28 are not sold until nearer the date of performance, once sightlines / staging needs have been confirmed.

NOTE THAT OUTERMOST SEATS IN ROWS A TO I MAY NOT BE ON AN AISLE, AS STAGE RUNWAYS ARE OFTEN INSERTED THERE.

Some details may change, the monkey will update as available.

Please note: The seating plans are not accurate representations of the auditorium. While we try to ensure they are as close to the actual theatre plan as possible we cannot guarantee they are a true representation. Customers with specific requirements are advised to discuss these with the theatre prior to booking to avoid any confusion.

-0.1560472, 51.5283632

Nearest underground station

Baker Street - Bakerloo Line (brown), Circle Line (yellow), Hammersmith and City Line (light purple), Jubilee Line (silver gray), and Metropolitan Line (dark purple).

The theatre is a long walk from this station. 

Getting to the theatre during day and evening:
The station has multiple exits, so, on leaving the station, look around you. If you can, head for the "Baker Street (North)" exit. An "L" shaped corridor between two shops - currently "Boots" on your right / a restaurant on your left, brings you to onto the pavement!

If you miss that exit, follow any exit sign promising to indicate the way to the zoo - these will eventually put you where you want to be on Baker Street!

If you see a blue dome and Madam Tussauds to your left on leaving the station, then ignore them and turn to your right and walk to the street corner. Do not cross any roads, just turn right into Baker Street and meet your friend who got lucky with the other station entrance first time.

If you exit into a short street, head to your left and the busy road. Look for a blue dome and Madam Tussauds to your right on this busy road. Cross it, turn right, walk to the corner, and turn right into Baker Street. There meet your friend who got lucky with the other station entrance first time.

All together now on on the pavement outside the correct exit, face the road (keep the exit behind you) and turn to your right. You will pass the front entrance of the same "Boots the Chemist" shop that ran down the right hand side of the correct  "North" exit corridor.

Walk down Baker Street, passing the London Transport Lost Property Office and continuing to the end of the road. If you pass the Sherlock Holmes Hotel, wrong way.

At the end of Baker Street, cross Allsop Place and walk straight on into the park. 

Cross the road ahead of you, Regents Park Outer Circle, and enter the main park area by the entry to your right.

Inside the park follow the path to the right and cross the nearby footbridge over the water - the first signpost to the theatre is at the start of this bridge, stuck to the wall of it on your right.  Once across the footbridge, turn left and follow the path as it curves and eventually passes a bandstand. Keep going straight on until you reach a road, Regents Park Inner Circle. Cross this road.

Turn to your right and follow the path as it curves to the nearest park entrance - beside a cafe. Take it and follow the path ahead through the garden to the theatre.

The above is complicated, but the route is fairly well signposted. The Open Air Theatre website has a photographic version of this route on their "How To Find Us" page.

Also, please be aware that after late night events, you may be asked to leave the park via the Ring Road rather than through the gardens. If so, turn right on leaving the "Inner Circle" ring road junction with the Outer Circle road to the to the junction with York Gate. Turn right into it, and follow York Gate along, past the Regents College and crossing York Terrace.

On reaching Marylebone Road, turn right. You'll see Madame Tussauds. Walk towards it and past it and Baker Street Station is ahead of you, past the terrace full of gift shop entrances.

Buses

13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139, 159 to Allsop Place / Baker Street, then follow the directions above.

Taxi

Pre-book. Unless a taxi or two happens to be trying thier luck on the Inner Circle at the end of the show, the only alternative is a long walk through the park to Baker Street to hail one there.

Car park

None nearby. Parking on the Inner Circle isn't too difficult to find - and is free in the evenings. Parking in designated spaces for the disabled is available on the Inner Circle, too, close to the stage door, and on Chester Road.

Coaches need a coach permit to enter the park. Call the Royal Parks Agency on 020 7486 7905 at least one week in advance.

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