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Venues #1 in Aylesbury

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

4.5 · 1,695 reviews
Contemporary, polished, and vibrant
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange St, Aylesbury HP20 1UG, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The theatre's unique gold-coloured, undulating roof is designed to resemble the movement of water, paying homage to the nearby Grand Union Canal.

2

The construction project required the diversion of the local canal arm to create the current water-side setting.

3

The main auditorium features a 'proscenium arch' design that can be adjusted in size to suit different production scales.

4

It is built on a brownfield site that was formerly part of an industrial area in the heart of Aylesbury.

5

The venue's glass facade provides panoramic views of the landscaped canal basin and the Aylesbury town centre.

6

The theatre was officially opened in 2010 by legendary entertainer Cilla Black.

Overview

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre is a modern multi-purpose arts venue designed by Arts Team to serve as the cultural anchor of the Exchange Street regeneration project. The building is characterized by its dramatic, sweeping roofline and extensive use of glass, designed to reflect the surrounding canal basin environment. It features a main auditorium capable of hosting large-scale touring West End musicals, ballet, comedy, and orchestral performances. The venue includes a flexible 'Second Space' designed for smaller, intimate performances and community events. Acoustically engineered to support both amplified performances and acoustic theatre, the main hall includes a motorized orchestra pit and fly tower. It is operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group. The venue serves as a focal point for Aylesbury's town centre entertainment district.

Photo spot

The pedestrian bridge overlooking the canal basin, which provides a full view of the theatre's curved, gold-tiled roof.

Insider tips

Book tickets in advance online to secure specific seat preferences, as popular touring shows frequently sell out.

Visit the theatre bar area even if you are not attending a show to view the architectural design and canal-side vistas.

Check the venue's official website for 'Access' performances, including captioned, signed, and audio-described shows.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to park in the immediate vicinity as there is no on-site parking; use the designated public town centre car parks.

Etiquette

Smart-casual attire is the standard; refrain from using mobile devices during performances and observe quiet in the auditorium.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3 hours
Best time to visit
Early evening in the winter months, when the external lighting illuminates the glass facade and the canal.
Address
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange St, Aylesbury HP20 1UG, United Kingdom
51.815, -0.809
Get directions
Details
Venue Capacity1,200 seats in the main auditorium
Architectural StyleContemporary eco-design with a landmark gold-tiled roof

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early evening in the winter months, when the external lighting illuminates the glass facade and the canal..

The pedestrian bridge overlooking the canal basin, which provides a full view of the theatre's curved, gold-tiled roof.

Close by you'll find Vale Park, Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury Central Mosque.