
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Modern theatre hosting West End shows, pantomimes, comedy, and dance with a focus on accessibility.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the main shows

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Best Time
Catch the main shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Modern theatre hosting West End shows, pantomimes, comedy, and dance with a focus on accessibility.
"Highly recommended for its disabled accessibility and friendly staff, offering a great theatre experience."

🎯 Book Panto Tickets Early
Aylesbury panto is a huge hit! Secure your seats for Snow White or Jack & The Beanstalk well in advance.
♿️ Excellent Accessibility
Praised by wheelchair users for friendly staff and great facilities.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

West End Productions
Main Auditorium
Experience touring Broadway and West End musicals and plays in a modern, intimate setting.

Annual Pantomime
Main Auditorium
Aylesbury's beloved Christmas pantomime is a family tradition, packed with festive cheer and local talent.

Diverse Programme
Main Auditorium
From comedy nights and dance performances to live music and children's shows, there's always something new.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Accessibility & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Panto Tickets Early
Aylesbury panto is a huge hit! Secure your seats for Snow White or Jack & The Beanstalk well in advance.
♿️ Excellent Accessibility
Praised by wheelchair users for friendly staff and great facilities.
💰 Booster Seat Fee
Note that booster seats for children may cost extra, even with a paid ticket.
💧 Auditorium Can Get Warm
During warmer months, the auditorium can become quite warm. Be prepared to fan yourself!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Panto Tickets Early
Aylesbury panto is a huge hit! Secure your seats for Snow White or Jack & The Beanstalk well in advance.
♿️ Excellent Accessibility
Praised by wheelchair users for friendly staff and great facilities.
💰 Booster Seat Fee
Note that booster seats for children may cost extra, even with a paid ticket.
💧 Auditorium Can Get Warm
During warmer months, the auditorium can become quite warm. Be prepared to fan yourself!
🎶 SIX is a Must-See
This musical is a massive hit! Expect energetic performances and queenly vibes.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Convenient parking is available nearby, making it easy to get to your evening show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to be a modern, clean, and intimate venue with friendly, helpful staff and excellent accessibility. The diverse range of shows, from musicals to pantomimes, is a major draw. However, some guests note that the auditorium can get uncomfortably warm during summer performances and that bar prices are quite high.
"As a wheelchair user, I can’t recommend this theatre highly enough. It is very disabled friendly. The staff were excellent. Guiding me around and holding doors open. I will definitely be back."
Ian Hewes
"Easy to get too for an evening show and easy access to parking. A lovely little theatre and very clean and nice staff.
Rock orchestra by candlelight was AMAZING!!!"
S Brind
"Peter Pan was great & the kids loved it, the seating is comfortable, modern and clean. The only reason this place doesn’t get 5 stars is because we had to pay £1.50 for kids booster seats which is slightly unfair as we had already paid for a seat. The drinks & snacks are also very expensive but this is to be expected. Overall a great day out."
ADG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre is centrally located in Aylesbury. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking facilities. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop close to the theatre. For those travelling by train, Aylesbury station is a short walk away.
Yes, there are several parking options near the theatre, making it convenient for visitors. Reviews mention easy access to parking for evening shows.
Aylesbury station is the closest train station to the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. It's a short and manageable walk from the station to the venue.
Taxis are readily available in Aylesbury. You can arrange for a taxi to drop you off directly at the theatre entrance, especially convenient for evening performances.
Yes, the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre is well-served by local bus routes, with several stops located within easy walking distance of the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Aylesbury Waterside Theatre website, by phone, or in person at the box office. It's advisable to book in advance for popular shows like pantomimes and musicals.
The box office opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Aylesbury Waterside Theatre website for the most up-to-date information on their operating times.
Discounts may be available for certain performances, such as group bookings or for specific performances. Check the theatre's website or contact the box office for details on any current offers.
Yes, booster seats for children are available but may incur an additional charge. This is something to be aware of when purchasing tickets.
Ticket policies regarding refunds and exchanges typically vary by performance and are subject to the theatre's terms and conditions. It's recommended to review these policies before purchasing tickets.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The theatre hosts a wide variety of shows, including major West End touring productions, musicals like SIX and Hairspray, pantomimes, comedy acts, dance performances, and children's shows.
Absolutely. The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre is highly recommended for its excellent disabled accessibility, with staff providing great assistance.
Reviews generally describe the seats as comfortable, modern, and clean, contributing to an intimate theatre experience.
The theatre is often described as having an unusual, quirky, and impressive interior, creating an intimate atmosphere for performances.
Unfortunately, reports suggest there is no air conditioning, and the auditorium can become uncomfortably warm, especially during warmer weather.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the theatre has bar facilities for drinks and snacks. However, be aware that prices for drinks and snacks are considered expensive.
Typically, theatres have policies against bringing outside food and beverages into the auditorium. It's best to check the specific Aylesbury Waterside Theatre policy.
Yes, there are dining options available in Aylesbury town centre, some of which are within walking distance of the theatre. The Oasis Partnership cafe even opened in the evening for gig-goers.
Standard theatre snacks like crisps, confectionery, and soft drinks are usually available. For specific offerings, it's best to check on the day of your visit.
Yes, there is a bar available for patrons to purchase drinks before the show and during the interval. However, be prepared for typical theatre bar pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing other audience members and infringing on copyright. Check with the theatre staff for specific rules.
The theatre's quirky and modern interior can offer some interesting photo opportunities before or after a show. The exterior architecture is also noteworthy.
Visually spectacular shows like 'SIX' or pantomimes with elaborate costumes and sets often provide great opportunities for capturing memorable moments (during designated photo calls or before/after the show).
In most cases, you can take photos of the empty stage or auditorium before the performance begins, but it's always wise to confirm with theatre staff.
The foyer and the main auditorium before the house lights dim are often good spots for general theatre photos. The unique architectural features of the building itself can also be photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that booster seats for children may incur an additional cost. Booking tickets early, especially for the popular pantomime, is crucial to avoid disappointment. The theatre's accessible facilities also make it a comfortable choice for families with young children or those with specific needs.
♿️ Visitors with Disabilities
Furthermore, the theatre has hosted inclusive events, such as BSL-interpreted performances of 'SIX', demonstrating a commitment to making theatre accessible to all. If you have specific accessibility requirements, it's always best to contact the theatre in advance to discuss your needs and ensure a seamless visit.
🎶 Musical Theatre Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming musicals and plays. The intimate setting of the theatre often enhances the viewing experience, allowing audiences to feel closer to the performance. Booking tickets in advance is highly advised for these sought-after shows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Experience
While the theatre offers a comfortable seating experience, some reviews mention that the auditorium can become quite warm, especially during warmer months, and that booster seats for children may incur an additional fee. Bar prices are also noted as being on the higher side, which is common for theatre venues. Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is that the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre provides a thoroughly enjoyable experience for a wide range of audiences.
Shows like the internationally acclaimed musical SIX have been a huge hit here, drawing enthusiastic crowds and showcasing the theatre's capability to host major touring productions. The annual pantomime is another highlight, a cherished tradition that brings festive cheer to the community.
Accessibility at the Waterside Theatre
Beyond physical accessibility, the theatre has also demonstrated a commitment to broader inclusivity. For instance, performances of SIX have featured BSL interpreters, ensuring that the deaf and hard-of-hearing community can fully engage with the show. This proactive approach to making theatre accessible to everyone is a key aspect of the Waterside's appeal.
When planning a visit, it's always a good idea to contact the theatre directly if you have specific accessibility requirements. They can provide detailed information about seating arrangements, accessible facilities, and any assistance that can be arranged to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Family Fun and Pantomime Magic
Beyond the panto, the theatre also hosts a variety of other family-friendly events, including children's theatre productions and interactive shows like 'Big Fish Little Fish' drum and bass events, which are great for younger children and families looking for a unique experience. While booster seats for children might come with an extra charge, the overall experience is often deemed worthwhile for the joy it brings to younger audience members.
For those planning a family visit, booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended, especially for the pantomime, as these popular shows tend to sell out quickly.
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