The Donmar Warehouse is a renowned not-for-profit theatre in the heart of Covent Garden. With a compact 250-seat auditorium, this intimate venue is celebrated for its artistic ambition and bold programming. Its small size belies its big impact: the Donmar Warehouse has become a powerhouse for contemporary theatre in London, offering a dynamic mix of new plays, European classics, American drama and innovative small-scale musicals. Audiences return time and again for the venue’s stripped-back design, where no seat is far from the action. The Donmar Warehouse London is known for attracting some of the world’s most acclaimed talent, while maintaining a focus on fresh, daring work that pushes boundaries. With a reputation for high-quality productions and thoughtful storytelling, the Donmar continues to be one of the capital’s most influential theatrical spaces. ### The History of Donmar Warehouse The Donmar Warehouse’s journey began in 1953, when producer Donald Albery formed the Donmar company—its name rumoured to derive from a blend of Donald and Dame Margot Fonteyn. Originally a brewery’s vat room, the building was transformed into a rehearsal space for the London Festival Ballet before becoming a Royal Shakespeare Company venue in 1977. Now a key part of the London theatre scene, the Donmar became an independent producing house in 1992 under Sam Mendes, followed by Michael Grandage. Landmark productions such as Cabaret, The Blue Room, and Othello with Ewan McGregor helped cement the Donmar Warehouse’s reputation for star-studded, critically acclaimed work. Today, the Donmar Warehouse London continues to shape the future of theatre, with an impressive legacy of innovation, bold revivals and exceptional new writing. ### Where is Donmar Warehouse? The Donmar Warehouse is located at 41 Earlham Street, London WC2H 9LX, just a short walk from the heart of Covent Garden. The theatre is well connected by public transport, with tube, train and bus links just minutes away. Nearby landmarks include Seven Dials, the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden Piazza—perfect for pre-theatre drinks or dining. ### Donmar Warehouse Nearest Tube The Donmar Warehouse nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), both just a 3–5 minute walk from the venue. From either station, head towards Seven Dials and turn onto Earlham Street for easy access to the theatre. ### Donmar Warehouse Nearest Train Station The nearest mainline train station to the Donmar Warehouse is Charing Cross, located about a 10-minute walk away. From the station, walk east along the Strand, then north through St Martin’s Lane and Seven Dials until you reach Earlham Street. ### Buses to Donmar Warehouse Several day and night buses stop close to the Donmar Warehouse. The nearest bus stops are on Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing Cross Road and Cambridge Circus. Routes serving the area include the 14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 176 and N29. From these stops, it’s a short walk to Earlham Street and the theatre entrance. ### Donmar Warehouse Accessibility The Donmar Warehouse provides step-free access to the entrance, foyer and auditorium via a platform lift. There are wheelchair spaces available in the stalls, and accessible toilets are located in the foyer. Patrons can request access assistance when booking. ### Donmar Warehouse Safety Policy The Donmar Warehouse maintains robust safety protocols to ensure a comfortable visit for all theatregoers. Bag checks may be in place, and latecomers may be admitted at a suitable break in the performance to minimise disruption. For the most up-to-date visitor policies, please check the theatre’s official website before your visit. ### Donmar Warehouse Dress Code There is no formal dress code at the Donmar Warehouse. Most attendees wear smart-casual or comfortable clothing suitable for an evening out. You’re welcome to dress up for the occasion, but it’s not required—especially as the theatre maintains a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Read our [What to Wear Guide](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/what-to-wear-theatre "What to Wear Guide") to find out more. ### Donmar Warehouse Notable Productions The Donmar Warehouse has hosted a string of iconic productions, including The Blue Room starring Nicole Kidman, Cabaret, Othello with Ewan McGregor, The Glass Menagerie, [The Weir](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/donmars-the-weir-to-transfer-to-wyndhams-theatre "The Weir") and Next to Normal. ### Donmar Warehouse Seating Plan The Donmar Warehouse seating plan reflects the venue’s intimate nature, with just 250 seats arranged across the stalls and a small circle. The layout ensures excellent sightlines from nearly every seat, creating a close connection between performers and audience. There is no bad seat at the Donmar Warehouse—audiences often describe the experience as immersive, thanks to the venue’s compact design. Accessibility options include designated wheelchair spaces in the stalls. Whether you prefer the front row for an up-close view or a slightly elevated seat in the circle, the Donmar Warehouse seat view guarantees a compelling theatrical experience.