1. Home
2. Blog
3. Summer at the National Theatre

Wednesday 14 May 2025

Nestled along the vibrant South Bank, The National Theatre has a long-standing reputation for world-class theatre. But did you know it’s also home to a host of spaces perfect for upcoming summer parties?

From our rooftop events space to our riverside pub, the iconic theatre offers unique settings for celebrations in the sun, catering for groups of up to 200.

The Buffini Chao Deck

Perched atop the National Theatre, the Buffini Chao Deck offers panoramic views of the Thames and London's skyline. This versatile space seamlessly blends a wraparound outdoor terrace with a spacious interior, accommodating up to 200 guests for receptions or 100 for seated dinners.

Summer party packages include exclusive venue hire, a three-hour unlimited drinks package, and a selection of canapés, bowls, or street food. Enhance your event with bespoke lighting, surround sound, and entertainment options like live music or interactive games, curated in collaboration with Blank Canvas Entertainment.

Our diverse food offering ranges from canapes and bowl food, through to street food from some of London’s best traders, curated by KERB.

The Understudy

Soak up the sunshine on the riverfront with a summer party at the Understudy. The lively pub sits on the ground floor of the Theatre, with a sprawling terrace that benefits from hours of afternoon sun as it makes its way over the city.

Take over a table or two to enjoy craft beer and cocktails on draught, plus wines, sustainable serves and non-alcoholic options. Food comes courtesy of our brilliant KERB street food traders – this summer, the selection includes Meltdown Cheeseburgers, Sireli (Middle Eastern), Oh My Dog (gourmet hot dogs) and Happy Pot (Nigerian soul food). What’s more, fried chicken, Moroccan wraps and salad bowls and slow-roasted duck are also available just across the square at our summer market.

With capacity to welcome groups from 4-400, it’s the perfect spot for relaxed summer get-togethers.

Open-Air Terraces

Beyond these venues, the National Theatre's open-air terraces provide additional spaces for alfresco events. These areas offer stunning views of the South Bank and are perfect for informal gatherings, pre-theatre drinks, or simply enjoying the summer ambiance.

With its array of versatile spaces, exceptional food and drink, and commitment to sustainability, the National Theatre stands out as the ultimate choice for hosting summer events in London.

Whether you're planning an elegant soirée on the Buffini Chao Deck, a lively gathering at The Understudy, or a relaxed event on the open-air terraces, the National Theatre offers the perfect backdrop for memorable summer celebrations.

--

Summer sorted, but thinking about Christmas? The Buffini Chao Deck is a popular Christmas party venue in London – get in touch with the team today to find out more.