Edinburgh Playhouse
A grand 1920s theatre hosting spectacular touring musicals, comedy, and live music.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the rush, soak in atmosphere
Edinburgh Playhouse
Best Time
Avoid the rush, soak in atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 1920s theatre hosting spectacular touring musicals, comedy, and live music.
"The Edinburgh Playhouse continues to be my favourite venue. The atmosphere is always welcoming."
🎯 Seat Size Concerns
Fixed seats are ~40cm wide. Contact box office for specific accessibility needs.
⏰ Flexible Entry Times
Suggested entry times are flexible; arrive 15-30 mins before show.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Touring Musicals
Main Auditorium
Experience world-class touring productions like Moulin Rouge! and Chicago in a grand 1920s setting.
Live Music & Comedy
Main Auditorium
Catch renowned artists and comedians. David Gray has performed here, promising memorable nights.

Pantomime Magic
Main Auditorium
A beloved tradition, the annual pantomime offers festive fun for all ages.
Planning Your Visit
Seat Comfort & Accessibility
Entry Times & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Seat Size Concerns
Fixed seats are ~40cm wide. Contact box office for specific accessibility needs.
⏰ Flexible Entry Times
Suggested entry times are flexible; arrive 15-30 mins before show.
📸 Stage Door Autographs
Cast often greet fans at stage door after shows. Ask staff for location.
🎟️ Access Tickets
If you lose your access card, email ahead to avoid issues.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Seat Size Concerns
Fixed seats are ~40cm wide. Contact box office for specific accessibility needs.
⏰ Flexible Entry Times
Suggested entry times are flexible; arrive 15-30 mins before show.
📸 Stage Door Autographs
Cast often greet fans at stage door after shows. Ask staff for location.
🎟️ Access Tickets
If you lose your access card, email ahead to avoid issues.
📱 Bag Checks
Staff focus on bag checks; ID for age restrictions can be strict.
🎁 Theatre Tokens
Consider Theatre Tokens for flexibility across venues.
🎶 Sound Quality
Some report sound issues at the back; consider seat view guides.
💰 Discounted Tickets
Look for front row releases or third-party sites like Itison.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Edinburgh Playhouse for its spectacular touring productions, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly staff. Shows like 'Moulin Rouge!' receive high marks for music, vocals, and staging. However, some find the seats uncomfortable and the theatre's interior a bit dated, with notable queues for restrooms during intervals.
"We had a fantastic night watching Moulin Rouge at the Playhouse in Edinburgh. From start to finish, the production was top class — the lighting, costumes, singing, and dancing were all absolutely spectacular. The energy on stage was infectious, and the attention to detail in every scene was truly impressive. It’s clear a lot of passion and talent went into this show.
The Edinburgh Playhouse continues to be my favourite venue. The atmosphere is always welcoming, and it’s the perfect setting for a night out at the theatre. I would definitely go back — Moulin Rouge was a dazzling experience I won’t forget!"
Diane
"Fantastic night out watching Chicago plus Kinky Boots.
We have seen lots of different shows here and all of them have been amazing.
Lovely theatre, drinks at the bars are very reasonable priced and all the staff were friendly and helpful.
Full house as usual which makes it such a great atmosphere."
Steve Allchin
"Really enjoyed Moulin Rouge here. Great theatre with fantastic atmosphere. Really comfortable seats with good view of the show. Everyone really friendly and helpful. Great venue for top shows.
Easy to get to by tram, Picardy Place stop is just across the street."
Ian Robertson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Edinburgh Playhouse is conveniently located at Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BG. It's easily accessible by public transport, with the Picardy Place tram stop just across the street. Numerous bus routes also serve the area.
While there isn't dedicated parking at the venue, several public car parks are within walking distance, including the St James Quarter car park. It's often recommended to use public transport due to city centre traffic and parking costs.
For most visitors, taking a tram to Picardy Place or a bus to the city centre is the most straightforward and stress-free option. This avoids potential traffic delays and parking hassles.
Yes, there is a drop-off point directly outside the venue on Greenside Place, which is ideal for those with mobility issues or who are being dropped off by car.
Edinburgh Waverley train station is a short walk (approximately 10-15 minutes) from the Playhouse. You can easily walk or take a short bus or taxi ride from the station to the theatre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for shows at the Edinburgh Playhouse can be purchased directly from the ATG Tickets website, which manages the venue. You can also often find tickets through reputable third-party sellers or at the venue's box office.
The box office opening hours can vary, but it is typically open on performance days from around 2 hours before the show starts. It's always best to check the official ATG website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
Some shows, like Jimmy Carr, may have age restrictions (e.g., 16+). While staff are primarily focused on bag checks, they can be strict about age policies. It's advisable to check the specific show's guidelines and have ID if your age might be questioned.
Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the promoter of the individual show. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless a performance is cancelled. Check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase.
Entry times suggested on tickets are to help manage crowds. In practice, they are not strictly enforced, and you can usually enter up to 15-30 minutes before the show starts without issue.
🎫 🪑 Onsite Experience
The Edinburgh Playhouse is a large venue with a seating capacity of approximately 3,000 people, making it one of the largest theatres in the UK.
Seat comfort can be subjective. While some find them comfortable with good views, others, particularly those with larger frames, have noted they can be uncomfortable and narrow, with fixed armrests.
Yes, you can find an Edinburgh Playhouse seating chart on the ATG Tickets website or other ticketing platforms. Websites like SeatPlan.com also offer user-submitted seat views to help you choose the best seats.
The 'best' seats depend on your preference. Stalls offer proximity, while Dress Circle provides a good overview. For musicals, central seats in the front half of the Stalls or Dress Circle are often recommended for excellent views.
Yes, the Edinburgh Playhouse offers accessible seating and facilities for wheelchair users. It's recommended to book accessible tickets in advance and inform the venue of any specific requirements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Edinburgh Playhouse has bars where you can purchase drinks and snacks. However, options are limited, and prices can be typical theatre prices.
Outside food and drink are generally not permitted inside the Edinburgh Playhouse. This includes sealed bottles of water.
The area around the Edinburgh Playhouse has numerous dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. The nearby St James Quarter offers a wide variety of choices.
The interval length can vary depending on the production, but it is typically around 20-25 minutes. Be prepared for queues at the bar and restrooms during this time.
While not directly overlooking the Playhouse, many restaurants in the vicinity offer a pleasant dining experience before or after a show. The St James Quarter provides a modern setting with various culinary options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are generally not allowed during performances at the Edinburgh Playhouse to avoid disturbing other audience members and for copyright reasons.
You can usually take photos of the auditorium and your surroundings before the performance begins, but always check for any specific venue signage or announcements regarding photography.
The grand architecture of the 1920s theatre itself offers great photo opportunities, especially in the foyer and auditorium before the show.
Taking photos of the cast during the performance is prohibited. However, if you meet cast members at the stage door after the show, they may be willing to pose for a photo.
The exterior of the Edinburgh Playhouse, with its impressive facade, is a good spot for photos, especially at night when it's illuminated. The surrounding Greenside Place area also offers city views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider the seat comfort; while generally manageable, some seats can feel narrow. If you have concerns, contacting the box office in advance is a good idea. The Playhouse is also easily accessible via public transport, making it convenient for families travelling into the city centre.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider attending shows that might be less in-demand or during off-peak times. While the Playhouse primarily hosts large-scale productions, exploring their 'What's On' listings for comedy or smaller touring acts might reveal more budget-friendly options. For a more flexible gift option that can be used at the Playhouse or other theatres, Theatre Tokens are a good choice.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
To enhance your evening, explore the dining options in the surrounding area before or after the show. The nearby St James Quarter offers a variety of restaurants to suit different tastes and budgets. Remember to factor in time for a pre-show drink at one of the Playhouse's bars to soak in the atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Seat Comfort and Accessibility
Beyond physical comfort, the venue is committed to accessibility. They offer accessible seating options and facilities for wheelchair users. Booking accessible tickets in advance and communicating any specific needs to the venue ensures a smoother experience. The venue's website and associated accessibility guides provide further details on navigating the theatre with mobility challenges.
Understanding Entry and Ticketing
Age restrictions for certain shows are a consideration. While security primarily focuses on bag checks, they can be diligent about enforcing age limits. If your party includes younger individuals attending a show with an age recommendation (e.g., 16+), it's prudent to check the specific show's guidelines and have identification available. For those who have booked using an access card and subsequently misplaced it, it's advisable to email the venue ahead of time. This proactive approach can prevent potential issues on the day of the performance.
The Playhouse Experience: Beyond the Show
After the performance, the stage door can be a popular spot for fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the cast. While not guaranteed, cast members often greet fans and are happy to sign autographs or take photos, adding a personal touch to the theatre visit. If you're unsure of the stage door's location, don't hesitate to ask venue staff. For those looking for flexibility in gift-giving or planning future theatre visits, Theatre Tokens are a great option, redeemable at the Playhouse and many other theatres across the UK.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit