Sir Denys Lasdun and Peter Softley designed the National Theatre, and Queen Elizabeth II opened the theatre in 1976. It is a publicly funded performing arts hub, comprising of three auditoriums - The Olivier, The Lyttelton, and the Dorfman.

There are also rehearsal spaces on site, and workshops for set construction and painting, costume construction and prop making. Shows are usually run in repertoire, meaning that each auditorium has the ability to house up to three different productions concurrently. The National also hosts several Platform performances where discussions take place with various people in the industry.

The National complex has several cafes/bars, restaurant, and a bookshop. Before a show there are free live acts in the Olivier foyer, as well as several free exhibitions. Back Stage Tours are also available most days.