Rishi Sunak is one of the first visitors to take a guided tour in 2025.
Our new season of guided tours is now underway and one of the first visitors to enjoy the experience was local MP Rishi Sunak.
The tours which resumed this month, offer a fascinating insight into the Theatre’s rich history. Built in 1788 by actor-manager Samuel Butler, the Theatre is the UK's oldest working theatre in its original form and the tours provide a unique glimpse behind the scenes.
Visitors are shown hidden trapdoors, old dressing rooms, and the distinctive Georgian auditorium, while expert guides share captivating stories of the Theatre’s past and its remarkable restoration.
Rishi Sunak, MP for Richmond and Northallerton, praised the Theatre’s ongoing success and cultural significance. He said:
“The Georgian Theatre Royal is a cultural gem in our community. It’s wonderful to see how the Theatre continues to thrive and share its heritage with visitors from near and far, boosting the local economy.”
The Georgian Theatre Royal attracts thousands of visitors each year and plays a vital role in Richmond’s reputation as a top tourist destination. The tours have earned the Theatre an impressive reputation, including being awarded the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, which places it among the top 10% of attractions worldwide. The Theatre also consistently holds the number one spot on TripAdvisor for things to do in Richmond and boasts a coveted five-star rating.
Tours take place from Monday to Saturday, starting on the hour from 10 am with the last tour leaving at 3 pm. No advance booking is necessary—visitors can simply turn up and join a tour. Ticket prices have been held at £8 per adult and £3 for children, and they are valid for 12 months, allowing repeat visits during this period.
Jo Mawhinney, Chief Executive of The Georgian Theatre Royal, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Rishi Sunak and all our visitors back for another season of guided tours. The enthusiasm and support from our community and beyond mean so much to us. The tours are a vital part of our offering and an invaluable way to share the Theatre’s incredible history.”
While the guided tours showcase the Theatre’s past, it’s also a thriving cultural venue, hosting over 200 performances a year. The new Spring/Summer season promises an exciting mix of drama, music, stand-up comedy, children’s shows, and other live events, offering audiences an intimate and unforgettable theatrical experience.
For more information about guided tours, including group bookings, visit www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01748 825252.