The Understudy at The National Theatre

Pub in a Theatre
·
Private space
National Theatre, Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PX
Waterloo Station (0.2 mi)

About this space

Located beneath the National Theatre on London’s South Bank, The Understudy offers a unique setting for private and corporate events. With striking river views, warm industrial interiors, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a stylish alternative to traditional venues.

Perfect for birthdays, wrap parties, brand launches, and networking nights, the space is flexible for both intimate gatherings and full takeovers. Guests can enjoy a fully stocked bar with craft beers, cocktails, and wines, along with AV support, adaptable layouts, and friendly staff on hand.

Just minutes from Waterloo Station and featuring a riverside terrace, The Understudy is a standout choice for memorable events with a creative edge.


Prices

Monday
11:00 – 23:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
11:00 – 17:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
17:30 – 23:00
from £2400 min. spend
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Tuesday
11:00 – 23:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
11:00 – 17:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
17:30 – 23:00
from £2400 min. spend
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Wednesday
11:00 – 23:30
from £2400–£4200 min. spend
Per session
11:00 – 17:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
17:30 – 23:30
from £4200 min. spend
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Thursday
11:00 – 23:30
from £2400–£4200 min. spend
Per session
11:00 – 17:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
17:30 – 23:30
from £4200 min. spend
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Friday
11:00 – 23:30
from £2400–£4200 min. spend
Per session
11:00 – 17:00
from £2400 min. spend
Per session
17:30 – 23:30
from £4200 min. spend
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Saturday
Closed
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Sunday
Closed
Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.
Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.
Pricing updated by venue 2 weeks ago

Capacity

Standing
up to 100
Dining
up to 40

Catering and drinks

In-house catering available
Halal menu
Extensive vegan menu
Extensive gluten-free menu
No external catering allowed
Venue provides alcohol
Alcohol licence until 0:00 (extension available)
BYO alcohol allowed
Corkage fee for BYO alcohol

Facilities

Wi-Fi available
Flatscreen TV
PA system / speakers
Natural light
Storage space
Paid parking is available on-site
Projector
Whiteboard
Flipchart
Conference call facilities
Air conditioner
Quiet space
Alcohol licence

Music & sound equipment

Play your own music
Bring your own DJ
Space has noise restriction after 23:00

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible
Accessible toilets
Ground level
Accessible parking spot available
Lift to all floors
Cargo lift

Rules of the space

Allowed events

No promoted and ticketed events allowed
No wedding licence
No temporary Event Notice (TENs) available

The Buffini Chao Deck is a stunning events venue situated on the roof of the iconic National Theatre.
Offering breathtaking panoramic views across London, the Buffini Chao Deck combines a riverside outdoor terrace with large flexible event space. The building is wrapped in glazed panels which can be retracted on warmer days, so the uninterrupted view is preserved no matter the weather.


Other spaces and event packages at this venue


Location

Location map