A theatre pub with a wooden bar, bar stools, hanging pendant lights, and shelves of bottles at The National Theatre.

The Understudy at The National Theatre

Pub in a Theatre

Private space

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

Per session

17:30 – 23:00

from £2400

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

Per session

17:30 – 23:00

from £2400

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

Per session

17:30 – 23:30

from £4200

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

Per session

17:30 – 23:30

from £4200

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

Per session

17:30 – 23:30

from £4200

Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.

Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.

Note: Alcohol licence until 0:00. Extension available. All prices include VAT.

Prices can be adjusted dependent on guest numbers and requirements.

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 months ago

Capacity

Standing

up to 100

Dining

up to 40

Catering and drinks

Halal menu

Extensive vegan menu

Extensive gluten-free menu

Alcohol licence until 0:00 (extension available)

Facilities

Paid parking is available on-site

Air conditioner

Music & sound equipment

Accessibility

Rules of the space

Allowed events

About The National Theatre

Set on London’s South Bank with sweeping views of the Thames, the National Theatre offers a range of distinctive spaces for private and corporate events. From stylish riverside bars and contemporary foyers to intimate meeting rooms and atmospheric theatres, each space combines architectural character with creative energy. The venue regularly hosts everything from gala dinners, award ceremonies, and product launches to away days, workshops, drinks receptions, and private celebrations.

With expert in-house teams, flexible layouts, and state-of-the-art facilities, the National Theatre provides a seamless setting for events of all scales. Whether you're planning a bold brand activation or an elegant evening reception, our iconic backdrop and central location make a lasting impression.