Royal Opera House, London
Opera & Ballet Featured theatre

Royal Opera House

Covent Garden & Strand

About Royal Opera House

Home of The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet in the heart of Covent Garden.

Royal Opera House is in Covent Garden & Strand, close to Covent Garden station.

At a glance

Address
Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
Area
Covent Garden & Strand
Nearest station
Covent Garden
Type
Opera & Ballet
Seats
About 2,250
Opened
1858
Website
rbo.org.uk

What's on at Royal Opera House

Manon at Royal Opera House Closing soon
Ballet

Manon

at Royal Opera House

Kenneth MacMillan's ballet of love, wealth and ruin in 18th-century Paris, set to Massenet.

  • Booking to 25 Nov 2026
  • Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
  • Covent Garden (nearest station)
Carmen at Royal Opera House Closing soon
Opera

Carmen

at Royal Opera House

Bizet's electrifying opera of passion and jealousy, in Damiano Michieletto's production.

  • Booking to 21 Nov 2026
  • Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
  • Covent Garden (nearest station)
Visionaries: Robbins and MacMillan at Royal Opera House Opens 9 Nov
Ballet

Visionaries: Robbins and MacMillan

at Royal Opera House

A programme of works by two giants of 20th-century ballet.

  • Opens 9 Nov 2026 · booking to 28 Nov 2026
  • Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
  • Covent Garden (nearest station)
Un Ballo in Maschera at Royal Opera House Opens 30 Nov
Opera

Un Ballo in Maschera

at Royal Opera House

Verdi's opera of political intrigue and a fatal masked ball.

  • Opens 30 Nov 2026 · booking to 18 Dec 2026
  • Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
  • Covent Garden (nearest station)
The Magic Flute at Royal Opera House Opens 13 Dec
OperaFamilyChristmas

The Magic Flute

at Royal Opera House

Mozart's magical opera, a Christmas-season favourite.

  • Opens 13 Dec 2026 · booking to 17 Feb 2027
  • Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
  • Covent Garden (nearest station)

Run dates last checked between 18 Oct 2026 and 1 Nov 2026 against the theatre's published listings. Productions can close, extend or change cast at short notice, so confirm with the theatre before you book.

Frequently asked questions about Royal Opera House

Where is Royal Opera House?

Royal Opera House is at Bow Street, WC2E 9DD, London (Covent Garden & Strand).

What is the nearest station to Royal Opera House?

The nearest station is Covent Garden. Use our journey planner for live directions from wherever you are starting.

How do I get to Royal Opera House by public transport?

London's Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR, buses and trains all serve the capital, and contactless payment works across them. Enter your starting point in the journey planner for the quickest route.

What is on at Royal Opera House?

Productions listed here include Manon, Carmen, Visionaries: Robbins and MacMillan, Un Ballo in Maschera, The Magic Flute. Programmes change, so check the theatre's website for the latest.

How do I buy tickets for Royal Opera House?

The safest way is the theatre's official site (rbo.org.uk) or its box office, which avoids inflated resale prices and unofficial sellers.

What time should I arrive at Royal Opera House?

Aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before curtain-up. Doors usually open around 30 minutes before the performance, and latecomers may be asked to wait for a suitable break.

Is Royal Opera House accessible for wheelchair users?

Accessibility varies, especially in historic buildings. Many theatres offer wheelchair spaces and some step-free access, but you should contact the box office in advance to confirm what is available for your needs.

Is there a dress code at Royal Opera House?

There is no formal dress code at most London theatres. Smart-casual is common and many people dress up for the occasion, but comfortable clothing is fine.

Can I bring children to Royal Opera House?

It depends on the production. Each show sets its own age guidance, so check the age recommendation for the specific show when booking.

Can I get food and drink at Royal Opera House?

Most theatres have bars and sell drinks and snacks before the show and at the interval, and many let you pre-order interval drinks. Facilities vary, so check with the venue.

Is there a cloakroom at Royal Opera House?

Storage is often limited in London theatres, and large bags or luggage may not be accepted. Travel light and check the theatre's guidance if you have large items.

How big is Royal Opera House?

Royal Opera House seats roughly 2,250 people, so most views are good, though seat choice still matters.

Is there parking near Royal Opera House?

Parking in central London is limited and expensive, and congestion and low-emission charges can apply. Public transport is usually the easiest way to reach a theatre.

When did Royal Opera House open?

Royal Opera House opened in 1858, though many theatres have been rebuilt or renovated since their first opening.