Behind the scenes of Bristol Old Vic's restoration

Bristol Old Vic is the oldest working theatre in the country. Credit: ITV West Country

It's hosted famous faces like Peter O'Toole and Daniel Day Lewis in it's 250 year history but now the Bristol Old Vic is looking to the future as it undergoes a huge restoration project.

The front of house at the oldest working theatre in the county is being completely redeveloped. ITV West Country has been to see the work being carried out and some of the secrets it's uncovering.

This chimney breast is all that remains of the homes of two men - Mr Gill and Mr Foote who lived here in the 18th Century.

Back in 1766, going to the theatre in Bristol was technically illegal, so visitors would have to go to the homes of Mr Foote and Mr Gill, knock on the door and be smuggled through the entrance.

The original exterior wall of the theatre which has stood here since 1766 has been exposed for the first time during the redevelopment.

It will now form part of the entrance to the theatre when the redevelopment is complete.

Plans for the new entrance with the old exterior wall featured. Credit: Bristol Old Vic

The theatre is still open while the redevelopment is carried out, having been refurbished itself in 2012.

Now boasting 250 years of satisfied audiences, its hoped the new development will pay tribute to the theatre's illustrious past while preparing for it's future.