Traverse Theatre

Traverse Theatre Edinburgh: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Situated in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, the Traverse Theatre stands as an international beacon of new writing and theatrical innovation. Since its founding in the early 1960s, Traverse has evolved into Scotland’s premier venue for contemporary playwrights and experimental performances. Its unwavering commitment to fostering emerging talent and presenting bold, cutting-edge productions has solidified its role as a vital cultural landmark within Edinburgh’s renowned arts scene. Whether you are a theatre enthusiast planning to experience the excitement of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe or a visitor seeking to immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic performance spaces, the Traverse Theatre offers an intimate, engaging, and accessible experience.

This guide provides comprehensive information on the Traverse Theatre—covering visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, history, architectural features, cultural significance, travel tips, and frequently asked questions. For the latest details on performances and events, always consult the official Traverse Theatre website.

Discover the Traverse Theatre
Visitor Information
A Brief History of the Traverse Theatre
Special Events and Guided Tours
Architectural Design and Features
Cultural Significance
Photographic Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit Today!
References

Discover the Traverse Theatre

Located at 10 Cambridge Street, the Traverse Theatre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in theatre or cultural exploration. Renowned for championing new writing, the Traverse has played a pivotal role in shaping both Scottish and international theatre since 1962. Whether you’re attending a festival performance or exploring year-round programming, you’ll experience an atmosphere steeped in creativity and history.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Box Office: Typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday to Saturday, with extended hours during performance days and festival periods, especially in August for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Performance Times: Evening shows usually start between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM; matinees and additional performances during festivals. For up-to-date hours, refer to the Traverse Theatre website.

Tickets and Pricing

Prices: Generally range from £10 to £25, depending on the production and seating.
Concessions: Available for students, seniors, under-26s, and groups.
Booking: Purchase tickets online, by phone, or at the box office. Advance booking is strongly recommended during busy periods such as the Fringe (official website).
Special Offers: Occasional discounts and packages may be available.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Both Traverse 1 and Traverse 2 are fully accessible.
Hearing Enhancement: Hearing loops are available.
Accessible Facilities: Accessible toilets and gender-neutral restrooms.
Guide Dogs: Welcome throughout the venue.
Assistance: Visitors with specific needs are encouraged to contact the Sales and Welcome team ahead of their visit (Access Guide).

Getting There

Location: 10 Cambridge Street, Edinburgh EH1 2ED.
Transport: Easily accessible by bus, tram, and on foot from Edinburgh city centre and major transport hubs. Limited on-street parking is available, but public transport or walking is recommended.
Nearby Landmarks: Usher Hall, Royal Lyceum Theatre, and the Grassmarket are all within walking distance.

Nearby Attractions

Historic Grassmarket: Explore charming shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Cultural Corridor: Visit the adjacent Usher Hall and Royal Lyceum Theatre.
Edinburgh Castle & Princes Street Gardens: Both are nearby, perfect for combining theatre and sightseeing.

A Brief History of the Traverse Theatre

Founding and Early Years (1962–1969)

Founded in 1962 by John Calder, Sheila Colvin, and others, the Traverse began life in Edinburgh’s Lawnmarket, quickly earning a reputation for its rebellious spirit and experimental approach. The name “Traverse” stems from a misinterpretation of its original stage configuration. Early productions at the venue pushed theatrical boundaries and established its status as Scotland’s centre for new and daring theatre (The Arts Journal).

Growth and Relocation (1969–1992)

Relocating to the Grassmarket in 1969 enabled the Traverse to stage more ambitious productions and nurture future stars, including Billy Connolly and Tilda Swinton. By 1981, it became a charitable organisation, reinforcing its mission to support new writing.

Modern Venue and Present Day (1992–Now)

Since 1992, the Traverse has occupied its purpose-built home on Cambridge Street, featuring two flexible performance spaces. Today, the theatre continues to nurture new voices, serve as a key venue during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and produce a diverse programme of drama, dance, and special events (Time Out).

Special Events and Guided Tours

During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Traverse hosts world premieres and innovative performances, often selling out quickly. The theatre occasionally offers behind-the-scenes tours, where visitors can explore production areas and learn about the venue’s history and operations. Tours are typically available during festivals and special events—check the official website for details.

Architectural Design and Features

Exterior and Structure

Designed by Nicholas Groves Raines Architects and opened in 1992, the Traverse is part of the Saltire Court complex. The façade features classic Edinburgh sandstone—Old Red Sandstone from Gatelawbridge and lighter Stainton stone—blending modern design with the city’s historic aesthetic (Edinburgh Architecture). The distinctive rotunda and concave steps create a welcoming, intimate entrance.

Interior Layout and Theatre Spaces

Traverse 1: Seats approximately 250, with stadium-style seating and up to eight possible configurations. Features include an advanced fly tower and flexible rigging (Edinburgh Guide).
Traverse 2: An intimate studio space seating around 100, ideal for experimental and small-scale productions.
Bar and Café: The lively bar café accommodates up to 300 guests, known for its long bar, quality food (notably burgers), and relaxed atmosphere (Spotted by Locals).

Cultural Significance

Championing New Writing and Artistic Innovation

Since its founding, the Traverse has been at the forefront of Scottish theatre, supporting new and experimental works and providing a platform for emerging voices. Its programming is internationally acclaimed and often features at the Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe (Traverse Theatre).

Diversity, Inclusivity, and Representation

The Traverse is committed to inclusivity across all spectrums—class, disability, race, gender, age, and sexuality—collaborating with local organisations to ensure diverse representation on and off stage (Traverse Theatre).

Engagement and Community

Beyond professional productions, the Traverse runs workshops, free literary events, and festivals such as the Positive Stories Festival, fostering young talent and community involvement (All Edinburgh Theatre).

Sustainability

As a member of the Green Arts Initiative, the Traverse incorporates sustainability in its operations, guided by a Carbon Management Plan and the Theatre Green Book project (Traverse Theatre).

Celebrating Scottish Traditions and Global Narratives

The Traverse commissions works that balance Scottish traditions with contemporary storytelling, and it engages in international collaborations, linking Scotland with the global arts community (National Theatre of Scotland).

Photographic Opportunities

Exterior: The sandstone façade and rotunda provide striking photo opportunities.
Interior: The bar café and flexible auditorium spaces capture the theatre’s vibrant ambiance.
Nearby: Usher Hall, Princes Street Gardens, and the Grassmarket are all within easy reach for additional scenic shots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Traverse Theatre’s box office hours?
A: Generally 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday–Saturday, with extended hours during festivals. Check the Traverse Theatre website for current times.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the box office. Advance booking is highly recommended.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes. The venue is wheelchair accessible, has accessible toilets, hearing loops, and welcomes guide dogs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours are offered occasionally, particularly during festivals. Check the official website for updates.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited on-street parking is nearby. Public transport, walking, or ride-sharing is recommended.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the theatre?
A: Photography is permitted in public areas but generally not during performances.

Plan Your Visit Today

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of new writing and innovative theatre at the Traverse Theatre Edinburgh. Enjoy diverse performances, explore its distinctive architecture, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that has made it a cultural cornerstone for over six decades.