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Best friendly neighbourhood theatres

Orange Tree Theatre

Arcola
A relatively new arrival (opened 2001), this converted clothing factory has one of the liveliest and most appealing bars as well as two performing spaces. Productions often have a local theme, as when ‘Come Out Eli’ looked at a local Hackney siege and its effect on those nearby. Click here for listings

Menier Chocolate Factory
What could be more welcoming than a meal before a show? Appropriate too, to be able to eat in a converted chocolate factory which combines a gallery, restaurant and theatre. Shows are ambitious and often make the jump to the West End. Click here for listings
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Orange Tree Theatre
Audience can be a bit elderly but Sam Walters continues to present an ambitious programme in his theatre in the square in which every seat is a good one. He can be justly proud of being the first theatre to produce Vaclav Havel’s plays in Britain. Click here for listings

Theatre Royal Stratford East
This Victorian theatre is a small delight surrounded by overpowering buildings. An illustrious history once made it a destination venue both for theatre buffs and local east Londoners. Kerry Michael is now appealing to the changing population with a series of rousing shows. Lottery development has increased the elbow room in the bar. Click here for listings

Tricycle Theatre
Kilburn High Road is changing rapidly but the Tricycle still stands out, especially now that it’s acquired a new and striking cinema. A programme of black, Irish and political theatre keeps it in touch with the surrounding community. Good café food available. Click here for listings

Young Vic
Its stunning new building is a glowing presence on The Cut, encouraging everyone to come inside. Plenty of space to eat, drink and hang out as well as three theatres to visit. Click here for listings