Epsom Playhouse: Your Guide to Epsom's Premier Entertainment Venue

# Epsom Playhouse: Your Guide to Epsom's Premier Entertainment Venue

If you're looking for a night out in Epsom, Epsom Playhouse on Ashley Avenue is the place to head. As the borough's principal cultural venue, this council-managed theatre is the beating heart of local entertainment, bringing world-class West End touring productions, comedy nights, live music, pantomime, and community theatre to audiences across Epsom & Ewell and beyond.

Whether you're a regular theatregoer, a family planning a special outing, or someone curious about what's happening in Epsom's entertainment scene, here's everything you need to know about visiting Epsom Playhouse.

!Epsom High Street showing the Ashley Centre shopping centre and Clock Tower
Photo: Oscar248 / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

About Epsom Playhouse

Epsom Playhouse has been a fixture of the town's cultural landscape for decades, offering residents and visitors alike access to professional theatre and entertainment. Managed by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, the venue is conveniently located on Ashley Avenue, right in the heart of Epsom town centre, within easy reach of the pedestrianised Upper High Street and the Ashley Centre shopping mall.

The theatre comprises two distinct performance spaces: a main auditorium with approximately 460 seats, perfect for larger productions and touring shows, and an intimate studio space ideal for smaller-scale performances, experimental work, and emerging artists. This dual-space setup means Epsom Playhouse can host an exceptionally diverse range of entertainment throughout the year.

What's On at Epsom Playhouse

Epsom Playhouse curates a genuinely varied programme that reflects the tastes and interests of the local community. You'll find:

West End Touring Shows – The venue regularly hosts productions on tour from London's West End, bringing major musicals, dramas, and comedies direct to Epsom audiences without the need for a trip into central London.

Comedy Nights – Stand-up comedy is a staple, with visiting comedians and comedy nights that appeal to a broad audience. These are consistently popular events.

Live Music – From classical concerts to contemporary bands, live music features regularly in the programme.

Christmas Pantomime – One of the most anticipated events in the Epsom calendar, the annual Christmas pantomime is a genuine family tradition. These productions are hugely popular and frequently sell out well in advance, so early booking is strongly recommended if you want to secure seats.

Youth Theatre and Amateur Drama – Epsom Playhouse is deeply embedded in the local drama community, hosting productions from youth theatre groups and amateur dramatic societies, providing a platform for local talent.

Film Screenings – Occasional film nights add another dimension to the venue's offerings.

Community Events – The theatre also hosts community events, workshops, and special performances that celebrate local culture and creativity.

For a comprehensive overview of what's on across the town, check our What's On Epsom guide for the latest events and activities.

How to Book Tickets

Booking tickets for Epsom Playhouse is straightforward. You have several options:

Online – Visit the official Epsom Playhouse website at epsomplayhouse.co.uk to browse the current programme, check availability, and purchase tickets securely. This is often the quickest and most convenient method, especially if you prefer to book from home.

By Phone – Call the box office directly for personalised booking assistance. The team can help you choose the best seats and discuss any special requirements.

In Person – Visit the box office at the Playhouse itself on Ashley Avenue. This is a great option if you'd like to speak to someone face-to-face or pick up tickets on the day.

When booking, it's wise to check the venue's website for any accessibility information, dietary requirements for special events, or group booking discounts that may be available.

Getting to Epsom Playhouse

Epsom Playhouse is very accessible and well-connected:

By Train – Epsom has two train stations serving the area. Epsom Station (served by South Western Railway to Waterloo and Southern to Victoria) is the main station and a short walk or taxi ride from Ashley Avenue. Stoneleigh Station is also an alternative option.

By Car – The venue's location on Ashley Avenue puts it within the Epsom town centre, where parking is readily available nearby. The Epsom parking guide provides detailed information about car parks in the area, including those adjacent to the Ashley Centre.

On Foot – If you're in Epsom town centre, Epsom Playhouse is within walking distance of the High Street and Clock Tower, making it easy to combine a trip to the theatre with shopping, dining, or a coffee beforehand.

Annual Highlights

While Epsom Playhouse's programme changes throughout the year, a few highlights are particularly worth planning ahead for:

Christmas Pantomime – The most celebrated event in the Playhouse calendar, running typically from November through early January. Book early, as popular pantomimes sell out quickly.

Summer Season – June and July typically bring a wave of West End touring productions, making summer an excellent time to catch major shows without travelling into London.

Comedy Nights – Regular comedy events draw audiences from across the borough and beyond. These often sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.

Facilities and Accessibility

Epsom Playhouse is committed to welcoming all audiences. The venue offers good facilities, including accessible seating for those with mobility requirements. For specific accessibility information, dietary needs, or any other requirements, contact the box office directly or check the website before visiting.

The nearby Ashley Centre provides additional amenities including cafés, shops, and facilities, making it easy to make an evening out of your visit.

Making Your Visit Special

Whether you're attending a major touring production, settling in for an intimate comedy evening, or bringing the family to the pantomime, Epsom Playhouse offers a genuine sense of occasion. The venue's location in the heart of Epsom town centre means you can easily combine your theatre visit with dinner at one of the town's excellent restaurants, a pre-show drink at a local pub, or a spot of shopping.

The Playhouse also frequently offers special packages and themed nights, so it's always worth checking the website for deals and exclusive offers.

Plan Your Visit

Epsom Playhouse
Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT17
Website: epsomplayhouse.co.uk
Main Auditorium: ~460 seats
Studio Space: Intimate venue for smaller productions

Whether you're a long-time patron or thinking about your first visit, Epsom Playhouse deserves a place on your entertainment radar. From world-class touring shows to beloved local pantomime traditions, the Playhouse remains the cultural jewel of Epsom & Ewell—and a genuine reason to celebrate living in, or visiting, the town.