A pioneering twenty-first-century theatre in the heart of Bristol
Did you know? Bristol Old Vic is the oldest, continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world.
Built in 1766 as a place for the people of Bristol to unite, Bristol Old Vic has remained as a place of joy, curiosity and adventure to this day.
In 2020, the theatre boasts a vibrant and stylish Foyer area, a recently-refurbished Georgian auditorium and a dedicated Bar and Kitchen, 1766.
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In 2018, Bristol Old Vic underwent a multi-million-pound redevelopment project. The development transformed the theatre’s front of house space, created a new studio theatre and opened up their theatrical heritage to the public for the first time. And in 2012, the theatre completed a refurbishment of its historic Georgian auditorium, rehearsal spaces and back offices.
Bristol Old Vic’s mission:
“To create pioneering twenty-first-century theatre in partnership with the people of our energetic city; inspired by the history and magical design of the most beautiful playhouse in the country.”
Bristol Old Vic is publically funded by Arts Council England and Bristol City Council, and is home to a number of initiatives which aim to promote works of theatre to as wide an audience as possible.
Getting there
Located inside Bristol’s historic Old City, you’ll find Bristol Old Vic on the cobbles of King Street.
The theatre is located just a five-minute walk from both the City Centre and the Harbourside.
Opening Hours
Bristol Old Vic is open seven days a week, and their Box Office is open Monday to Saturday. See their full opening hours on the website.
Booking information
Bristol Old Vic has its very own Box Office. It's phone line (0117 987 7877) is open Monday to Thursday from 15:00 to 18:00.
It is also possible to book tickets online, via the Bristol Old Vic website, or via email: tickets@bristololdvic.org.uk.
For information on how to book Access Tickets, visit the Bristol Old Vic website.
Food & Drink
Bristol Old Vic’s 1766 Bar & Kitchen is open Monday to Saturday, from 09:00 until late. Open daily, the 1766 Bar and Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus quality cocktails, craft ales and locally roasted coffee.
To see Menus, or to book a table, visit the Bristol Old Vic website.
Access Information
Bristol Old Vic’s main entrance is at street level of King Street and is fully wheelchair accessible with automatic doors to facilitate comfortable access.
The theatre’s Foyer, 1766 Bar & Kitchen and Box Office are all fully wheelchair accessible. And the Bristol Old Vic’s Foyer lift enables customers full access to all public areas of the building.
For more information, visit the Bristol Old Vic website.
