News

Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal has been named one of Britain’s most underrated wonders by The Telegraph, in a feature published over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Ten regular contributors to Telegraph Travel were asked to choose lesser-known British places they believe deserve more attention, and the Georgian Theatre Royal was included in the top 10.

Travel writer Paul Bloomfield selected the Theatre and praised its remarkable survival, unique atmosphere and historic features.

He wrote:

“Ever wondered what a theatrical performance looked (and smelt and sounded) like in Jane Austen’s day? Step inside Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal.

Built in 1788 by actor-manager Samuel Butler for his touring troupe, Britain’s most complete Georgian playhouse remains miraculously intact since it closed nearly two centuries ago, down to the pale green decor and boxes named for playwrights: Goldsmith, Sheridan, Dryden, Congreve and, of course, Shakespeare.

Back then, the 400 or so punters packed into pit, stalls and boxes, cheered, booed, and even threw things at actors throughout the show lasting five or six hours. Book tickets for a performance today and you’ll enjoy a much more elegant experience; better still, join an immersive backstage tour, admiring probably the oldest surviving stage set in the UK.”

He also encouraged visitors to explore Richmond’s castle and Easby Abbey, and sample some of the town’s famous Yorkshire food and drink.

The Theatre was built in 1788 by actor-manager Samuel Butler and is the oldest working theatre in Britain in its original form. Today it continues to welcome audiences for a busy programme of professional and community performances, while its guided Georgian Theatre Experience tours offer visitors the chance to discover its fascinating history and go behind the scenes.

The Telegraph feature also included nearby High Force in County Durham among its ten underrated British wonders, making it a particularly strong endorsement for the region.

If you haven’t yet discovered this remarkable piece of Richmond’s history, why not take a guided tour or come along to see a show? You may just discover that one of Britain’s most underrated wonders has been hiding in plain sight all along!

Find out more about the Georgian Theatre Royal, guided tours and forthcoming performances at www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk.