London theatre & the West End

From long-running musicals and new plays to opera, ballet and open-air Shakespeare. Find every major London theatre, see where it is and how to get there.

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All Theatres

London theatres

167 theatres

Seat Types

Where should you sit?

Most London theatres share the same layout, so you can choose with confidence.

Stalls

Ground level, close to the stage. The best view of expressions and detail, but low rows can mean looking up.

Dress circle

The first balcony. Many people consider the front rows the best view in the house.

Upper circle & balcony

Higher up and more affordable. Steep rakes mean a good view of the whole stage.

Boxes

Private seating at the sides. Atmospheric, but views can be restricted, so check before booking.

Restricted view

Seats labelled this way have a pillar or edge in the way. They are often much cheaper.

Accessible seating

Most venues offer step-free access and wheelchair spaces. Contact the theatre or box office when booking.

Plan your theatre experience

Good to know before you go

How far ahead should I book?

Popular shows and weekend evenings sell out, so book as early as you can for the best seats and prices. If your plans are flexible, many shows have seats available within the next few days, and some sell tickets on the day.

Where can I find last-minute tickets?

The Official London Theatre ticket booth in Leicester Square (formerly TKTS) sells on-the-day and advance tickets, some at a discount; same-day tickets are also sold on officiallondontheatre.com (checked 1 November 2026). Many theatres also release day seats through their own box offices.

Is there a dress code?

Not at most West End theatres. Smart-casual is common and many people dress up for the occasion, but comfortable clothes are fine.

How long are shows?

Most run around two to three hours including an interval. Evening performances usually begin at 7:00 or 7:30pm, with matinees at 2:30pm on selected days.

What time should I arrive?

Aim for 30–45 minutes before curtain-up. West End doors usually open around 30 minutes before the show, and latecomers may not be seated until a suitable break.

Are there age restrictions?

It varies by show. Many productions suggest a minimum age and some do not admit very young children. Check the venue's page when booking.