Churchill Theatre

Churchill Theatre at a glance

Address: High Street, Bromley, London, BR1 1HA

Dress Code: Casual

Capacity: Approximately 781-785 seats

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

About Churchill Theatre

The Churchill Theatre is a well-established repertory theatre in Bromley, southeast London, known for its wide-ranging programme of touring productions and UK premieres. From musicals and plays to comedy, opera, ballet and family shows, the theatre attracts audiences from across Bromley and the surrounding boroughs.

Designed in the style of European opera houses, the Churchill Theatre features a large stage and extensive backstage facilities, allowing it to host ambitious and technically complex productions. Its unique setting within Bromley’s Central Library complex, overlooking Church House Gardens and Library Gardens, gives the venue a distinctive and surprisingly intimate feel despite its scale.

The history of Churchill Theatre

The Churchill Theatre was built by the London Borough of Bromley and opened on 19 July 1977, officially inaugurated by the Prince of Wales. Named after former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, the theatre took seven years to complete and was constructed at a cost of £1.63 million.

Built into the side of a hill, the theatre’s design cleverly disguises the size of its lower levels by placing the auditorium largely below ground level, accessed via descending staircases from the foyer. Over the years, the Churchill Theatre has been operated by several major theatre groups and is currently run by Trafalgar Entertainment, continuing its role as a cultural hub for the borough.

Notable productions that have played at the Churchill Theatre include; Clueless the Musical (world premiere), Six the Musical, High Society and Blood Brothers.

Where is Churchill Theatre?

Churchill Theatre is located on Bromley High Street, within the Central Library complex and adjacent to Church House Gardens. Its central location places it close to Bromley town centre shops, restaurants and green spaces, making it easy to combine a visit to the theatre with dining or shopping.

The venue is well connected by public transport, with train stations and bus routes nearby. Visitors may also find our guides to restaurants near theatres and what to wear to the theatre  helpful when planning their visit.

Churchill Theatre nearest train station

The nearest train stations to Churchill Theatre are Bromley South and Bromley North. Bromley South is approximately a 10-minute walk from the theatre and offers fast services into London Victoria, Blackfriars and St Pancras International. Train times are available from the National Rail.

From the station, follow signs towards Bromley High Street and the Central Library, where the theatre is clearly signposted.

Buses to Churchill Theatre

Bromley town centre is served by numerous London bus routes, many of which stop close to the High Street and the Central Library complex. The following bus routes serve the Market Square and/or Glades Shopping Centre stops (both a 5-10 min walk from the theatre); 61, 119, 138, 146, 162, 208, 227, 246, 261, 314, 336, 352, 354, 358, 367, and 638. 

Churchill Theatre seating plan

Churchill Theatre has a seating capacity of 781, arranged across the Stalls and Circle, offering excellent views of the stage throughout the auditorium. The theatre’s European opera house–inspired design ensures strong sightlines and good acoustics from most seating areas.

Stalls seating places audiences closest to the stage, ideal for drama and comedy, while the Circle provides a raised perspective well suited to musicals and dance. To find out which seats are the best for you, check out our guide to the best seats at the theatre. 

Churchill Theatre accessibility

Churchill Theatre offers a range of accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible seating, step-free access to key areas and accessible toilet facilities. The venue also provides assistance for patrons with additional access needs. Guests are encouraged to contact the theatre in advance to discuss requirements.

Churchill Theatre safety policy

For the safety and comfort of all visitors, Churchill Theatre operates standard venue security procedures. Bag checks may be in place, and certain items may be restricted within the auditorium. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for entry checks before the performance begins.

Churchill Theatre dress code

There is no formal dress code at Churchill Theatre, with most guests opting for smart-casual attire. However, audiences have been known to pull out all the stops when the Rocky Horror Show is playing at the theatre, so make sure you have your fishnets at the ready!