Dugdale Theatre

The Dugdale Theatre sits in Waltham Cross, a proper working theatre that punches well above its weight. It's the sort of place where you might catch anything from amateur dramatics to touring productions, depending on what's on when you visit. The building itself has that functional, no-nonsense feel of a community venue that's been doing its job for years without much fuss or renovation.

You'll find locals filling the seats rather than coach parties, which is exactly the point. If you're camping nearby at Lee Valley or one of the other caravan parks within spitting distance, it's a genuinely good option for an evening out that doesn't require driving into central London. The theatre pulls in proper talent sometimes, so worth checking what's scheduled before you book your pitch.

I'd be honest though - you're not coming here for the building or the setting. You're coming for whatever production they've got on. The real charm is that it feels like a genuine neighbourhood theatre rather than a polished touring venue. For families based at Lee Valley Campsite or Theobalds Park, an evening at the Dugdale beats sitting in the caravan watching the rain. Just check their programme first.