Theatre in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Theatre Breaks

Our charming capital is bursting with music, theatre, opera, dance and arts. You’ll find it hard to choose
from the diverse range of shows at all the theatres in Edinburgh. Parliament House is just a two-minute walk from several venues that stage a programme of eclectic events all year round. This makes it a great place to stay for Edinburgh theatre breaks.

From musicals and plays, to the world-class International Edinburgh Festival, our capital hosts some of the world’s best performances. Combine your city break in Edinburgh with a theatre trip and make it a memorable stay.

Edinburgh Playhouse

This theatre first opened its doors in 1929. Despite being originally designed as a variety theatre, it instead became a cinema for more than 40 years. At one point, it was going to be demolished but former Playhouse employees stepped in to form the Edinburgh Playhouse Society. The group then went on to campaign for its survival and the rest is history.

Over the decades, the Playhouse has hosted renowned shows including Phantom of the Opera, Chicago,Cats, Les Miserables and Starlight Express. Global stars have graced its stage including Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Neil Young, The Who, Metallica and U2. It even has its own friendly resident ghost! Located just a two-minute walk from Parliament House Hotel, Edinburgh Playhouse is perfect for a special theatre break treat.

The Edinburgh Kings Theatre

After extensive refurbishments, The Kings Theatre continues to be one of Edinburgh’s much-loved historic buildings. Check out its impressive auditorium that boasts huge chandeliers and glistening gilt fittings. Since its opening in 1906, it has been one of the main venues for touring West End shows and plays. It also hosts amateur dramatics and local festivals like the Edinburgh Gang Show. The stage has seen performances from legends including Sir Laurence Olivier, Maria Callas, Sir Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellan. Edinburgh local Sir Sean Connery even worked backstage at the theatre!

Royal Lyceum Theatre

This Victorian theatre has been the starting place for many Scottish actors and it focuses on contemporary and classical performances. In recent times, the theatre has hosted performances from David Tennant, Alan Cumming and Emily Mortimer. However, in its early years, the likes of Henry Irving and Ellen Terry stood on its stage.

The Festival Theatre

Home to the largest stage in Scotland, the Festival Theatre is also one of the grandest. Its striking glass façade and lavish interior décor and fittings will wow any audience. Built in 1994 on the site of Empire Palace Theatre, the venue hosts ballets, operas, concerts, and contemporary dance performances. Take a guided backstage tour if you want to hear a fascinating story about the 1911 fire or world-class performers.

At our central Edinburgh hotel, we offer great pre-theatre and hotel deals, including our delicious pre-theatre menu and special room rates. Check out what’s on in the theatres and book your Edinburgh theatre breaks in a city that is teeming with talent and glamour.