Theatre by the Lake

Aerial view of Derwentwater in the Lake District, featuring lush green landscapes, small forested islands, and boats by the shore under a cloudy sky.

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About

Theatre by the Lake sits in one of the most stunning locations you’ll find anywhere. It’s a creative hub for the people of Cumbria and for visitors from further afield. Our two stages are cherished by our town and our guests – so whether you’re looking for a brilliant night out or a chance to get creative yourself, you’ll feel right at home here.

We’re known for producing theatre of the highest quality, as well as hosting an exciting mix of artforms, festivals and events all year round.

You’ll see actors at the top of their game, hear new voices and familiar favourites, and enjoy stories that make you laugh, cry, reflect and celebrate.

Above all, we want every visitor to feel comfortable, welcome and included. Our team is here to support your needs, whether that’s step-free access, relaxed performances, hearing assistance or simply a helping hand. You can find full details on our Access page.

We have recently upgraded to the new Auracast audio system using the latest Bluetooth tech (standard on all devices from 2025 onwards). This means better assisted listening and audio description options for everyone! Don’t have compatible hearing aids or headphones? No worries, just pop to the box office to grab a receiver. They’ll sort you out with headphones or a loop system depending on your needs.

If you’ve got one of the brand-new Auracast-ready devices, you can connect straight away, no extra kit needed! We’re all about making theatre accessible to everyone.

Guide Prices

Ticket Type	Ticket Tariff
Adult	£12.00 adult
Under 16	£12.00 child

If you’d like to book accessible tickets, including wheelchair spaces – you can book them with our friendly Box Office team or you can do this online by completing our access requirements form on our website.

TBTL performances

For performances flagged as ‘Made by TBTL’, lowest available price tickets can be requested by disabled customers for all performances. Patrons who require the help of a personal assistant, carer or companion may request one additional ticket at the same rate.

Non TBTL performances

All patrons who require a personal assistant, carer or companion are eligible for a free ticket. To inform us of your requirements of a personal assistant, carer on companion please select this in ‘Other preferences’ on your TBTL account or contact Box Office.

Visit the website for more information

Access Information

General

Additional detailed accessibility information:

Assistive listening system - There is an assistive listening system available e.g. a hearing loop.

Designated quiet times - Designated quiet times, during which noise levels are reduced to meet the needs of people with sensory sensitivities e.g. autistic visitors, are available.

Disability awareness / equality training - Disability awareness / equality training is provided for staff.

Emergency alarm with flashing lights - There is an emergency alarm with flashing lights, to alert deaf guests to a fire or other emergency scenario.

Emergency evacuation plan for disabled people - Personal or General Emergency Evacuation Plans are in place for disabled customers.

Fast-track queuing - Fast-track queuing is available for disabled customers.

Lift - There are lift(s) available. An evacuation chair should also be available in case of emergency.

Seating at regular intervals - Seating is available at regular intervals.

Step-free access to all or most areas - There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift. As a minimum, there is step-free access to an accessible toilet and at least one food and beverage outlet, where available.

Step-free entrance - There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance. This may be via a ramp or lift.

Wheelchair-accessible toilet in public areas - A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users, and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements, is available within the main public areas.

Wheelchair-accessible viewing area - A wheelchair-accessible viewing area with step-free access is available providing an optimal vantage-point to view performances, presentations or activities.

Parking

Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.

Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance - There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance.

Food and Drink

Dietary requirements catered for - A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements.

Table service as standard or on request - Table service is available as standard or on request.

Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet - There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.

Facilities

Accessibility - Food and Drink

Dietary requirements catered for - A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements.
Table service as standard or on request - Table service is available as standard or on request.
Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet - There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

Accessibility - General

Additional detailed accessibility information:
Assistive listening system - There is an assistive listening system available e.g. a hearing loop.
Designated quiet times - Designated quiet times, during which noise levels are reduced to meet the needs of people with sensory sensitivities e.g. autistic visitors, are available.
Disability awareness / equality training - Disability awareness / equality training is provided for staff.
Emergency alarm with flashing lights - There is an emergency alarm with flashing lights, to alert deaf guests to a fire or other emergency scenario.
Emergency evacuation plan for disabled people - Personal or General Emergency Evacuation Plans are in place for disabled customers.
Fast-track queuing - Fast-track queuing is available for disabled customers.
Lift - There are lift(s) available. An evacuation chair should also be available in case of emergency.
Seating at regular intervals - Seating is available at regular intervals.
Step-free access to all or most areas - There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift. As a minimum, there is step-free access to an accessible toilet and at least one food and beverage outlet, where available.
Step-free entrance - There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance. This may be via a ramp or lift.
Wheelchair-accessible toilet in public areas - A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users, and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements, is available within the main public areas.
Wheelchair-accessible viewing area - A wheelchair-accessible viewing area with step-free access is available providing an optimal vantage-point to view performances, presentations or activities.

Accessibility - Parking

Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.
Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance - There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance.

Catering

On-Site cafe/restaurant/catering
Picnic area

Children & Infants

Baby changing facilities

Establishment Features

Cater for groups
Dogs Accepted - Assistance dogs only
Shop
Toilets
Wireless internet (WiFi) connection available

Key Features

No Smoking Attraction
Smoking Areas Available - outside and sheltered areas provided

Parking & Transport

Coach Parking
Off site parking
On site parking
Parking (free) - Blue badge

Payment Methods

Accept Bank Transfers, Internet Payment or SWIFT/IBAN
Cash Accepted
Cheques accepted
Credit cards accepted (no fee)
Groups Accepted

Tours and Demonstrations

Educational Visits Accepted

Travel & Trade

Group Discount

Map & Directions

Map Link

Click here to view map

Road Directions

TBTL is positioned in a uniquely beautiful lakeside setting. The lake is called Derwentwater and it’s a ten-minute walk from the centre of the bustling Lake District town of Keswick. Across the road from the theatre is Crow Park from where you can get 360⁰ panoramic views of the mountains that surround the town, along with stunning views down the lake towards the exceptionally beautiful Borrowdale valley.

Driving: Head to Lake Road and Lakeside Car Park.

Directions to TBTL are indicated by brown tourist road signs throughout Keswick. If our carpark is full or closed go to Visit Keswick Parking options.

Car park: Allerdale Borough Council’s Lakeside cark is right next to the Theatre.

Parking currently has an overnight charge of £1 for parking after 7pm. During the day, the car park can become very busy (particularly in the summer months) so please allow plenty of time to park. If our carpark is full or closed go to Visit Keswick Parking options.

There are 14 designated disabled parking spaces located at the side of the Theatre on the council run Lakeside Car Park. Currently Blue Badge holders can park in any bay free of charge for three hours.

Public Transport Directions

The nearest train station (on the West Coast main line) is Penrith, about 17 miles from Keswick. The X5 bus service runs in both directions from Penrith to Keswick every day. Evening services are limited. Check bus timetables before you travel.

Opening Times

* Monday -Saturday 12-7.30 (performance days)
Monday-Saturday 12-5 (non-performance days)
Spotlight bar & cafe: Opens 40 mins before each show until 30 mins after the show

Dates to: Go to our website for current times: https://www.theatrebythelake.com/plan-your-visit/

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Type:Theatre