The theatre opened in 1929 for the production of Tunnel Trench. The theatre was originally owned by Mabel Ainsworth and then by Willy Clarkson. It had been vacant for a few years as there was an 'Ancient Lights' rule in place that didn’t allow any new building to block the lights from the existing buildings. Ewen Barr overcame this rule by building most of the theatre underground, which came with its own set of challenges.

• The Duchess Theatre was constructed by F. G. Minter Ltd.
  
• The front of the circle is essentially at street level, with the rest of the building underground.
  
• This meant that any water collected had to get pumped out of the basement.
  
• The Duchess Theatre has the smallest proscenium arch.
  
• The circle is suspended from the ceiling, and the theatre is known for its soft and concealed lighting.

The opening play at the Duchess Theatre in 1929 was Tunnel Trench. Another production that was notable but for the wrong reasons was the theatre’s production of The Intimate Revue, which holds the record for the shortest run - opening and closing the same night. The theatre is mostly home to touring shows and small plays and musicals. Blithe Spirit was transferred to the Duchess Theatre, as well as a production of Oh! Calcutta!. Other notable productions include The Dirtiest Show in Town and Don’t Dress for Dinner. The longest-running play at the Duchess Theatre is the production of The Play That Goes Wrong.

• Train: The nearest train station is Charing Cross, located a 9-minute walk from the theatre. You can hop on the Northern and Bakerloo lines that serve the station.
  
• Tube: The nearest tube station to the Duchess Theatre is Covent Garden, which is served by the Piccadilly line. It is a mere 5-minute walk to the theatre from the station.
  
• Bus: Aldwych station is frequented by the 1, 4, 11, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 171, 172, 176, 188 and RV1 bus routes. RV1 drops you right outside the theatre.
  
• Parking: You can park at the Q-Park Theatreland parking zones, as the Duchess Theatre is a beneficiary of the parking scheme. With the scheme, you can avail 50% off car parking when the ticket is validated by theatre staff. The closest Q-Parks are at Trafalgar Square or Chinatown. Parking fees range from £22 for up to 3 hours, and £29.50 for 4 hours. You will also have to pay a congestion fee of £11.50 between 7 am and 6 pm, as the Duchess theatre falls in London’s congestion zone.
  
• Best Recommended Mode of Transport: The bus is the most convenient mode of public transport to reach the theatre, as the RV1 drops you right outside the theatre.

• Gift Store: A gift store is available at the Duchess Theatre where you can purchase merchandise such as totes, mugs etc.
  
• Bar: The club has two bars, one in the foyer and one in the Stalls serving drinks and snacks.
  
• Washrooms: There are gender-specific washrooms at the theatre.
  
• Cloakroom: A cloakroom is present to store your luggage and coats.
  
• Booster Cushions: The theatre provides booster cushions for children.
  
• Guide Dogs: Guide dogs are welcome in the theatre.

• Drinks and Food Policy: Drinks and food in plastic containers can be taken into the auditorium, however hot food and glass are not allowed inside.
  
• Disability Discount: Disabled guests and their companions get 50% off of the collective price of their tickets.
  
• Access Assistance: Guests with disabilities who would like to use the Stair Climber are advised to arrive 45 minutes in advance.
  
• Dress Code: The Duchess Theatre does not have a dress code. It is advisable to be comfortable. The theatre is air conditioned - do carry a layer of warm clothing.