The Georgian Theatre Experience

Immerse yourself in a world of greasepaint, first nights, stage fright, props, scenery and showbiz from days gone by..

The Georgian Theatre Experience gives a unique insight into the past and reveals the secrets of this, the most complete working Georgian playhouse in Britain. During your visit you’ll discover our exhibition area; finding out about the history of the Theatre, built by actor-manager, Samuel Butler in 1788. You can learn about life as a Georgian actor and hear all about what life was like in Richmond in the 18th century.

Don’t miss our fully restored Woodland Scene. It’s Britain’s oldest surviving stage scenery. You’ll also get to see behind the scenes of the theatre itself. Stand on the stage, explore under the stage and the dressing rooms, and enjoy the views from an exclusive box as well as the top tier cheap seats. Your guided tour is included in your Georgian Theatre Experience admission, which is valid for unlimited return visits for 12 months.

2021 Tours

We are now open for guided tours, which will run Monday to Saturday until the end of October. Tours start on the hour from 10am to 4pm, with the last tour leaving at 4pm.  

Tour prices

Adult - £5 (valid for repeat visits for 12 months)

Child - £2 (valid for repeat visits for 12 months)

School Groups - £2 per child (teachers go free)

Other Groups - £4 per person

Tours are occasionally unavailable due to other activities taking place in the Theatre. 

These dates are:

Saturday 23rd October - 10am, 11am, 12pm tours only

It is essential that our visitors feel 100% comfortable whilst in the building so please be reassured that we will be maintaining the highest levels of health and safety. The Theatre has also been awarded a ‘We’re Good to Go’ accreditation from VisitEngland - a UK-wide industry standard and consumer mark to provide a ‘ring of confidence’ for visitors in the wake of Covid.