London County Hall

The **London County Hall **is a striking riverside venue known for its grand architecture and unique theatre setting. Originally the headquarters of London’s local government, it now hosts immersive stage productions in a dramatic and historic chamber overlooking the Thames. Best known for its gripping in-the-round staging of Witness for the Prosecution, the venue offers a rare blend of political heritage and live theatre.

Set on the South Bank beside the London Eye, London County Hall provides a one-of-a-kind cultural experience in one of the city’s most iconic buildings.

The history of London County Hall

Constructed between 1911 and 1933, London County Hall was designed by Ralph Knott and served as the headquarters of the London County Council and later the Greater London Council. The imposing Edwardian Baroque building symbolised the power and reach of local government and housed the city’s key administrative offices.

After the abolition of the GLC in 1986, parts of the building were repurposed for tourism, events, and hospitality. In 2017, the former Council Chamber was transformed into a performance space specifically designed for Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution, making clever use of its courtroom-style architecture to heighten the theatrical effect.

Where is London County Hall?

London County Hall is located on Belvedere Road, right on the South Bank of the River Thames, next to the London Eye and opposite the Houses of Parliament. It's surrounded by tourist attractions, restaurants, and walking paths along the Thames.

London County Hall nearest tube station

The closest tube station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City Lines), just a 5-minute walk away. Westminster station (District, Circle, Jubilee Lines) is also nearby, around a 10-minute walk via Westminster Bridge.

London County Hall nearest train station

Waterloo Station is the nearest major rail hub, offering extensive National Rail services and connections to the London Underground. It’s less than 10 minutes on foot from the venue.

Buses to London County Hall

Several bus routes serve the Waterloo and Westminster Bridge area:

Day routes: 12, 53, 59, 76, 148, 159, 211, 341, 381, RV1 Night buses: N109, N155, N381

Nearest stops: County Hall, Waterloo Station / Tenison Way, Westminster Bridge Road

London County Hall seating plan

The performance space inside County Hall seats around 400 audience members in a theatre-in-the-round layout, perfect for courtroom-style drama. The tiered seating surrounds the stage, placing the audience right inside the drama with excellent sightlines from every angle.

The intimate setup maximises engagement and immerses viewers in the tension and atmosphere of productions like Witness for the Prosecution.

London County Hall accessibility

London County Hall offers step-free access to the theatre via lifts and accessible toilets. Wheelchair spaces are available, though early booking is advised due to limited capacity. Assistance is provided by trained staff, and hearing enhancement systems are available on request.

London County Hall safety policy

Standard theatre safety measures are in place, including bag checks, emergency signage, and trained personnel on site. The venue adheres to enhanced hygiene and cleaning protocols, with hand sanitiser stations provided throughout.

London County Hall dress code

There is no formal dress code for performances at London County Hall. Visitors typically wear smart-casual attire, though comfort is key. Some guests choose to dress up for special occasions or evening shows, but all styles are welcome.