Polka Theatre
The UK's first theatre built exclusively for children — award-winning productions for ages 0 to 13 in the heart of Wimbledon
The UK's first theatre built exclusively for children — award-winning productions for ages 0 to 13 in the heart of Wimbledon
Polka Theatre opened in 1979 as the first venue in the United Kingdom built specifically for young audiences. Founded by puppeteer Richard Gill, the theatre grew from a touring company into a permanent home inside a converted church hall on Wimbledon Broadway, and has staged productions for children ever since.
Today the theatre presents a year-round programme across two performance spaces — the 300-seat Y C Chan Theatre and the 70-seat Adventure Theatre for early years. Beyond the shows, there is a playground, a garden, indoor play areas, a creative learning studio, exhibition spaces and a family-friendly cafe.
Polka Theatre traces its roots to 1967, when puppeteer Richard Gill founded a touring company dedicated to high-quality children's performance. After more than a decade on the road — appearing at venues from the Edinburgh Festival to the National Theatre — Gill secured a permanent base in a former church hall at 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon. The venue opened on 20 November 1979, with the Queen Mother attending the gala performance, and became the first theatre in the United Kingdom designed exclusively for young audiences.
The building underwent a transformative £8.5 million redevelopment between 2019 and 2021. The original auditorium was refurbished and renamed the Y C Chan Theatre, while a new standalone Adventure Theatre was constructed to the rear. The project also added a creative learning studio, improved accessibility throughout, and expanded the outdoor garden and play spaces.
Polka programmes a year-round season of productions spanning ages 0 to 13. The Y C Chan Theatre seats 300 and stages longer-form shows — typically 60 to 90 minutes — that range from adaptations of classic children's literature to bold new commissions. The Adventure Theatre is an intimate 70-seat space tailored for very young audiences, with sensory-rich performances lasting around 30 to 45 minutes.
Beyond the stage, the building is designed as a full day out for families. An outdoor playground and garden are free to use during opening hours, and indoor play areas keep children entertained between shows. The on-site cafe serves hot meals, snacks and good coffee, and exhibition spaces in the foyer showcase work by children's illustrators and theatre designers. Polka also offers relaxed performances, BSL-interpreted shows and audio-described performances across its programme.
Polka sits on Wimbledon Broadway, a short walk from the shops and restaurants of Wimbledon Village. The All England Lawn Tennis Club and Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum are a 20-minute walk or short bus ride away. Wimbledon Common, one of London's largest open spaces, stretches out to the west and is ideal for a post-theatre walk or picnic. For families making a day of it, Morden Hall Park — a National Trust property with a city farm and watermill — is two stops south on the Northern line.
A £2.50 transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings — prices vary by production
Productions during school holidays sell out fast, especially the Adventure Theatre with only 70 seats. Book as soon as the season is announced.
The outdoor playground is free and open during theatre hours. Arriving 30 minutes early lets children burn off energy before sitting down for the show.
Each production has a specific age range. The Adventure Theatre caters for babies and toddlers, while the Y C Chan Theatre suits older children up to 13.
Polka offers relaxed shows adapted for children with autism or sensory sensitivities. House lights stay slightly up and sound levels are reduced.
The Common is a 15-minute walk from the theatre and perfect for a post-show run around. The Windmill cafe is a good stop for families.
London Travel Writer · 12+ years covering UK attractions and tourism
Last reviewed: March 9, 2026
