Shows and Events West End

West End Shows and Events Guide

Welcome to the vibrant and lively West End of London! Known for its world-class theatre scene, this district is a must-visit for any tourist seeking an unforgettable entertainment experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of your visit:

  1. Theatres

    • Covent Garden: Home to iconic theatres like the Royal Opera House, Fortune Theatre (where “The Mousetrap” has been running since 1952), and the Harold Pinter Theatre.
    • Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus: Theatres like the Apollo Victoria (home to “Wicked”), Garrick, and Prince Charles Cinema (which occasionally hosts live theatre screenings) are located here.
    • Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road: Notable theatres include the Dominion Theatre (where you can catch musicals like “The Lion King” or “Jesus Christ Superstar”), and the Noël Coward Theatre.

  2. Shows

    • Keep an eye out for long-running shows like “The Phantom of the Opera”, “Les Misérables”, and “Mamma Mia!” which have been entertaining audiences for decades.
    • New shows like “Hamilton”, “Come From Away”, and “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie” are also worth catching.
    • Don’t forget to check out the many dance, comedy, and drama productions on offer too!

  3. Tickets

    • You can buy tickets directly from the theatre box office or online through official ticketing websites like TodayTix, ATG Tickets, and Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.
    • Consider purchasing tickets for matinee performances if you’re on a budget; they are often cheaper than evening performances.
    • Last-minute deals can sometimes be found at ticket booths in Leicester Square or through apps like TodayTix Last Minute and TheatreMonkey.

  4. Dining

    • With numerous restaurants catering to all tastes, there’s no shortage of places to grab a bite before or after the show.
    • Popular areas for dining include Chinatown (near the Argyll Street theatres), Leicester Square, and Covent Garden.
    • Keep in mind that restaurants near popular theatres can get very busy, so it’s best to book a table in advance.

  5. Accessibility

    • Many West End theatres offer audio-described, captioned, and BSL-interpreted performances for audiences with visual or hearing impairments. Be sure to check individual theatre websites for more information.
    • Most theatres also have step-free access and wheelchair spaces available; again, it’s best to contact the theatre directly to discuss your needs and book tickets accordingly.

Enjoy your visit to the West End, and remember to take in a show or two!