London is a city steeped in theatrical history, home to some of the most iconic and historic theatres in the world. These venues have witnessed centuries of performances, from Shakespearean plays to modern musicals, and continue to be cultural landmarks. Below is a look at the five oldest theatres in London.

5. The Old Vic (1818)

Established in 1818 by James King and Daniel Dunn as the Royal Coburg Theatre, The Old Vic boasts a remarkable legacy. Despite initially being prohibited from hosting serious drama due to the absence of letters patent, it earned recognition in 1824 when the acclaimed actor Edmund Kean performed six Shakespeare plays over six consecutive nights. In 1833, after Princess Victoria graced it with a visit, the theatre was renamed the Royal Victoria Theatre, eventually becoming affectionately known as "The Old Vic." Over the years, it has endured challenges such as devastating fires, wartime damage during the Blitz, and financial hardships. Today, it stands as a renowned cultural institution, celebrated for its eclectic programming and former home of the National Theatre Company.

4. Royal Opera House (1732)

The Royal Opera House is a large performing arts centre and opera house in Covent Garden. The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House are based at the venue. For its first hundred years, the venue was mainly used as a playhouse, until 1734 when ballets were held there, and shortly after, operas. The main auditorium in the Royal Opera House is a Grade I listed building.

3. Shakespeare's Globe (1599/1997)

The home of William Shakespeare! Shakespeare's Globe is a perfectly reconstructed build of the 1599 Globe Theatre; a place which saw the great Shakespeare write his masterpieces.

The original was built in 1599 but burned down in 1613, the Globe was rebuilt a year later but was then demolished in 1644. The Globe we see today is an approximation based on evidence of the original building. The only difference being today's Globe can only hold 1,400 spectators whereas the original theatre welcomed 3,000 - this is due to safety standards. Due to being completely demolished rebuilt recently, this takes the 3rd spot.

2. Sadler's Wells Theatre (1683)

Sadler's Wells Theatre originated in 1683, founded by Richard Sadler as a "musick house". Over the centuries, it evolved into a cultural hub, showcasing opera, Shakespearean drama, and ultimately focusing on dance performances. Having undergone several reconstructions, the current iteration was unveiled in 1998, specifically designed as a cutting-edge dance theatre equipped with modern facilities. Today, it stands as a beacon of excellence, hosting internationally acclaimed dance productions and nurturing groundbreaking creative works.

1. Theatre Royal, Drury Lane (1663)

Considered London's oldest theatre site, Drury Lane can trace its origins back to 1663, when it was commissioned by Thomas Killigrew  upon the re-opening of the theatres after the Restoration. Since then, he building has had its fair share of drama, disaster, and scandal and we're not just talking about the stage!

Somehow avoiding the Great Fire of London, this house, popular with King Charles II and Samuel Pepys among others burnt down in 1672 for the first time. Rebuilt in 1674, the theatre then was completely demolished in 1791 to make way for a new building that opened in 1794. Fifteen years later, that too burned down, and finally, they settled on the theatre we know today in 1812.