Southwark Playhouse Borough

The Southwark Playhouse sits tucked beneath the railway arches in Borough, a deliberately scrappy corner of south London that's somehow become one of the capital's most exciting theatrical spaces. You'll find two theatres down here - one larger, one more intimate - where the programming ranges from bold new writing to revivals that make you wonder why these plays aren't in the West End already.

The venue has real character. There's nothing polished about it; the exposed brick, the industrial feel, the fact you're literally under a railway line - it all adds to the atmosphere rather than detracting from it. The artistic director takes proper risks with casting and material, which means you might catch something genuinely surprising rather than another safe revival.

Who should go? Theatre types, certainly, but also anyone wanting to see new work or lesser-known plays performed with real commitment. The productions here often transfer to better-known stages, so you're sometimes catching tomorrow's hit today. If you're staying at Lovat Parks nearby, it's a straightforward trip into Borough and worth timing a visit around whatever's on.

Check their website for what's playing - the programme changes regularly and it's worth planning ahead, especially for the smaller theatre which sells out quickly. Prices vary by show, but it's generally more affordable than West End tickets. Allow two to three hours from Lovat Parks to travel, watch, and have a drink at one of Borough's many pubs nearby.