Edinburgh Playhouse (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Edinburgh Playhouse?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can easily book a single seat, enjoy safe indoor seating, explore the bars, and join paid backstage tours, so the Playhouse offers varied and convenient experiences without companionship.
Positives:
- Historic ambiance: Arrive 90 minutes before show to explore the 1920s plasterwork lobby
- Meet fellow fans: Bars on each level offer a relaxed spot to strike up conversations
Challenges:
- Large venue: Finding your seat in a 3,000-capacity house can take time at interval
- Crowded intervals: Bar queues get busy—use delivered service or arrive early
What is Edinburgh Playhouse?
- A 1920s-built, 3,000-seat theatre in Edinburgh hosting touring musicals, comedy, live bands and pantomimes
- A former cinema converted into one of the United Kingdom’s largest traditional stage venues, featuring an ornate Edwardian interior
- A landmark venue on Greenside Place distinguished by its grand auditorium, decorative plasterwork and historical cinema-style décor
What is so special about Edinburgh Playhouse for solo trip?
- Solo-friendly single tickets in stalls and circle
- Backstage tour for theatre enthusiasts
- Delivered-to-seat service to skip queues
- Ghost-hunt in the historic foyer
- Multiple bars for easy socializing
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Most performances last about 2 hours, fitting well into an evening out
Solo-Friendly Activities in Edinburgh Playhouse
Book a single-seat ticket:
Choose single-seat pricing to access good-value spots in the stalls or circle.
Tip: Book early on the ATG website to secure the best cheap seats
Join a backstage tour:
Explore dressing rooms, stage machinery and theatre history on a guided walk.
Tip: Check tour dates on the Playhouse site and book the £15 slot in advance
Try delivered-to-seat service:
Order interval drinks or snacks via QR code and get them at your seat.
Tip: Scan the code 10 minutes before intermission to avoid missing the show
Hunt for the resident ghost:
Look for ‘Albert’ in chill spots near Albert’s Bar and on level 6.
Tip: Ask a bar staff about the ghost story before the show for insider pointers
Socialize at the bars:
Visit Little Picardy Bar or Circle Bar for cocktails and chats.
Tip: Go 30 minutes before the show to meet other theatre fans
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Edinburgh Playhouse
- Use the ATG app: Book and manage tickets from your phone to avoid box-office lines
- Arrive early: Get in 30 minutes before show to grab a drink and explore the foyer
Reviews of Edinburgh Playhouse
Franek Korczyński
“Such a good show! Fairytale Christmas was full of power and positive energy. The performers were amazing and the whole production felt magical. The only downside was the crew constantly flashing lights around and sometimes acting a bit like police officers — they should blend into the background rather than being in the centre of attention. Overall, a great experience.”
Neil Wishart
This was my first visit to the Playhouse and it didn't disappoint. It's a lovely theatre. The seats (circle) had a great view and really good acoustics. It's always nice to visit a new theatre and be pleasantly impressed. The staff were friendly and jolly. Can't wait to pay another visit.
nuric
An excellent venue that holds many different shows. We came for the Riverdance and really enjoyed the atmosphere. The stalls and balcony both have good views. There are bars as you would expect. Parking is an issue if you are driving but many busses stop on this route. Overall, the venue is brilliant and recommended catching a show here.
Steve Allchin
Fantastic night out watching Chicago plus Kinky Boots. We have seen lots of different shows here and all of them have been amazing. Lovely theatre, drinks at the bars are very reasonable priced and all the staff were friendly and helpful. Full house as usual which makes it such a great atmosphere.
Diane
We had a fantastic night watching Moulin Rouge at the Playhouse in Edinburgh. From start to finish, the production was top class — the lighting, costumes, singing, and dancing were all absolutely spectacular. The energy on stage was infectious, and the attention to detail in every scene was truly impressive. It’s clear a lot of passion and talent went into this show. The Edinburgh Playhouse conti...
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh Playhouse (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Book West End-style pantomimes in December early; for spooky vibes, catch a ghost play in October.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Show ticket | GBP 40 |
| Delivered-to-seat drink | GBP 6 |
| Bar snack | GBP 5 |
| Backstage tour | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 66 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Edinburgh Playhouse
Address: 18-22 Greenside Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3AA, UK
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