Traverse Theatre Edinburgh
Scotland's premier new writing theatre, showcasing innovative drama and experimental work in a bohemian bar setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Experience cutting-edge theatre
Traverse Theatre Edinburgh
Best Time
Experience cutting-edge theatre
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scotland's premier new writing theatre, showcasing innovative drama and experimental work in a bohemian bar setting.
"High caliber drama caught 3 plays all worth a look."
🎯 Book Fringe Tickets Early
Fringe shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for popular performances at the Traverse Theatre well in advance. :ticket:
🍽️ Enjoy the Bar & Kitchen
Great vegan options and a cozy vibe before or after your show. Perfect for a pre-theatre meal. :knifeforkplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traverse One
Main auditorium
The primary performance space, renowned for its steep raked seating ensuring clear sightlines for all attendees.

Traverse Two
Second auditorium
A more intimate space perfect for smaller, experimental productions and readings of new plays.

Traverse Bar & Kitchen
Ground floor
A bohemian hangout offering drinks and dining, with excellent vegan options and a cozy atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Embrace the New Writing Scene
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Fringe Tickets Early
Fringe shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for popular performances at the Traverse Theatre well in advance.
:ticket:🍽️ Enjoy the Bar & Kitchen
Great vegan options and a cozy vibe before or after your show. Perfect for a pre-theatre meal.
:knifeforkplate:👀 Discover New Writing
The Traverse champions new plays. Be open to experimental and thought-provoking productions.
:performing_arts:💺 Comfortable Seating
Steep raked seating in Traverse One offers excellent views from every seat.
:seat:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Fringe Tickets Early
Fringe shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for popular performances at the Traverse Theatre well in advance.
:ticket:🍽️ Enjoy the Bar & Kitchen
Great vegan options and a cozy vibe before or after your show. Perfect for a pre-theatre meal.
:knifeforkplate:👀 Discover New Writing
The Traverse champions new plays. Be open to experimental and thought-provoking productions.
:performing_arts:💺 Comfortable Seating
Steep raked seating in Traverse One offers excellent views from every seat.
:seat:🎭 Fringe Readings
Look out for play readings in Traverse Two – a chance to hear new work in development.
:pagefacingup:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Traverse Theatre for its commitment to high-caliber new drama and its comfortable, well-designed performance spaces. The bar and kitchen also receive positive mentions for their atmosphere and food options, particularly vegan choices. While the theatre excels in showcasing contemporary work, some find the seating in Traverse One less comfortable for longer shows.
"Went into Traverse One for a performance. There are two main theatres in this building with a bar / cafe for drinks or snacks. The seats were very comfortable and the view of the stage was clear. Very clean and nice place - definitely an enjoyable experience."
Nahshon
"Had an excellent dinner in restaurant prior to show. Theatre is compact with good seats everywhere but not the most comfortable. Show was very entertaining with great acting."
John Mac
"Subterranean bar with excellent vegan options.
Steep raked seating gives everybody clear sight lines. We saw ‘Blood Harmony’ featuring three part close harmony singing from three female actors, addressing love, loss, and sisterhood."
Simon Cooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Traverse Theatre is located at 10 Cambridge Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2ED. It's easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Princes Street.
If arriving by tram, alight at the West End stop.On-street parking can be limited and expensive in central Edinburgh. The nearest car parks include the NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace and the Fountainbridge Car Park. It's often easier to use public transport.
Yes, you can take the tram directly from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre. Alight at the West End stop, which is a short walk from the theatre.
The Traverse Theatre is generally accessible. They have lifts to access both auditoriums and accessible toilet facilities. It's advisable to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs.
Edinburgh is a very walkable city, especially the central areas. Lothian Buses operate an extensive network, and the trams run from the airport to the city centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the Traverse Theatre website, by phone, or in person at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows and during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
The box office opening hours can vary, especially during festival periods. It's best to check the Traverse Theatre's official website for the most up-to-date information on box office hours and performance times.
The Traverse Theatre often offers concessions for students, seniors, and those on low income. Check their website or contact the box office for details on eligibility and availability.
Policies on refunds and exchanges can vary depending on the performance and how tickets were purchased. It's advisable to review the Traverse Theatre's terms and conditions or contact the box office directly for specific queries.
Absolutely. During the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, shows at the Traverse Theatre are incredibly popular and often sell out. Booking your tickets as early as possible is essential to guarantee a seat.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Traverse Theatre is renowned for showcasing new writing, contemporary drama, and experimental theatre. They champion emerging playwrights and often feature Scottish and international premieres.
The Traverse Theatre has two main performance spaces: Traverse One, the larger auditorium, and Traverse Two, a more intimate space for smaller productions and readings.
Traverse One features steep raked seating, which provides excellent sightlines to the stage from all positions, ensuring a clear view for every audience member.
Yes, the Traverse Theatre has a bar and kitchen on the ground floor, offering drinks and food. It's a popular spot for pre- or post-show gatherings and is known for its good vegan options.
Yes, the Traverse Theatre often hosts readings of new plays, particularly in Traverse Two. These are a great opportunity to hear new work in development and are usually more informal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Traverse Theatre has a bar and kitchen that serves food. It's a popular spot for pre-show meals and drinks, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Yes, the Traverse Bar & Kitchen is noted for having excellent vegan options, making it a good choice for those with dietary preferences.
Food and drinks are typically consumed in the bar area before or after the performance, or during designated intervals. Eating in the auditorium is usually not permitted.
The menu at the Traverse Bar & Kitchen generally features contemporary dishes suitable for a pre-theatre meal. Specific offerings can change seasonally.
While not always mandatory, booking a table at the Traverse Bar & Kitchen is recommended, especially on performance nights or during busy periods like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally not permitted inside the performance spaces during shows to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Flash photography is always prohibited.
The Traverse Theatre's exterior and interior, particularly the bar area, can offer interesting photographic opportunities. The surrounding area of Cambridge Street and the nearby Lothian Road also provide urban backdrops.
Early morning or late evening can offer unique lighting. During the Edinburgh Fringe, the atmosphere around the theatre is often vibrant and can make for dynamic street photography.
Filming of performances is strictly prohibited without express permission from the theatre management and rights holders. This is to protect copyright and the artistic integrity of the production.
Official production photos are usually available on the Traverse Theatre's website and social media channels. These are often taken by professional theatre photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts & New Writing Fans
💰 Budget Travelers
🧑🤝🧑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Traverse Theatre's Role in New Writing
Their programming philosophy focuses on originality, innovation, and relevance, aiming to reflect and interrogate the world we live in. This often means audiences can expect thought-provoking, diverse, and sometimes provocative productions. The theatre actively supports writers through various development programs, ensuring a continuous stream of new work.
This dedication to new writing means that visiting the Traverse offers a unique opportunity to experience theatre that is fresh, contemporary, and often at the forefront of theatrical innovation. It's a place where stories are born and tested, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the future of theatre.
Navigating the Edinburgh Fringe Festival at the Traverse
Due to its reputation, shows at the Traverse during the Fringe are incredibly popular and tend to sell out quickly. Booking tickets in advance is absolutely essential if you want to catch a performance here. Many visitors recommend checking the Traverse's Fringe listings as soon as they are released to secure tickets for must-see shows.
Beyond the performances, the Traverse's bar and kitchen become a lively hub during the Fringe, offering a place for audiences to discuss shows, meet artists, and soak in the festival atmosphere. It provides a slightly more relaxed and focused Fringe experience compared to some of the larger, more chaotic venues.
The Traverse Bar & Kitchen Experience
Visitors often praise the bar for its excellent vegan options, making it a considerate choice for those with dietary preferences. The menu typically features contemporary dishes suitable for a pre-theatre meal, providing a convenient and enjoyable dining experience. The friendly and efficient bartenders also contribute to the positive atmosphere.
During busy periods, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the bar can become quite lively. While it's possible to walk in, booking a table is advisable to ensure you can enjoy a meal or drinks without a long wait, especially if you have a performance to attend.
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