The Georgian Theatre Royal has been named as 'one of Britain’s most underrated wonders' by The Telegraph, in a special feature published over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Ten regular contributors to Telegraph Travel were invited to reveal the lesser-known British places they believe deserve more attention. The Georgian Theatre Royal was included in the top 10, alongside a fascinating selection of destinations and landmarks from across the country.
Travel writer Paul Bloomfield chose the Theatre and highlighted its remarkable survival and unique atmosphere:
“Ever wondered what a theatrical performance looked (and smelt and sounded) like in Jane Austen’s day? Step inside Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal.
Built in 1788 by actor-manager Samuel Butler for his touring troupe, Britain’s most complete Georgian playhouse remains miraculously intact since it closed nearly two centuries ago, down to the pale green decor and boxes named for playwrights: Goldsmith, Sheridan, Dryden, Congreve and, of course, Shakespeare.
Back then, the 400 or so punters packed into pit, stalls and boxes, cheered, booed, and even threw things at actors throughout the show lasting five or six hours. Book tickets for a performance today and you’ll enjoy a much more elegant experience; better still, join an immersive backstage tour, admiring probably the oldest surviving stage set in the UK.
Then explore the winsome town’s hulking Norman castle and ruined Easby Abbey, pick up a slab of Wensleydale in the cobbled market square and pair with a slice of fruity Yorkshire tea loaf.”
We’re delighted to see the Theatre recognised in this way. It is an extraordinary piece of theatrical history — and one that remains very much alive today.
Built in 1788 by actor-manager Samuel Butler, the Georgian Theatre Royal is Britain's oldest working theatre in its original form. Its auditorium, stage and historic scenery provide a unique glimpse into the world of Georgian theatre.
Visitors can discover the Theatre’s fascinating history through a Georgian Theatre Experience guided tour, which takes audiences behind the scenes and includes the opportunity to see the historic Woodland Scene — the oldest surviving theatrical scenery in Britain.
And, of course, the Theatre is still a working playhouse, with a busy programme of drama, comedy, music, family entertainment and community productions throughout the year.
So whether you’re visiting Richmond for the first time or live just around the corner, why not discover this remarkable piece of theatrical history for yourself?
Take a guided tour, explore the Theatre’s extraordinary past or book tickets for a show — and see why this “underrated wonder” deserves a little more attention.