Apollo Theatre London
Apollo Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Apollo Theatre
Apollo Theatre events sum up the variety of West End theatre: whatever you’re in the mood for, this theatre will have something that fits the bill. In 2026, don't miss I'm Sorry Prime Minister, the final, hilarious hurrah for Hacker and Sir Humphrey. Perfect for fans of Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, it brings together the characters you love for one last adventure. Other shows include relationship comedy The Truth, starring Ardal O'Hanlon, Sarah Hadland, Stephen Mangan and Janie Dee. The rest of this year's season is to be announced, but we expect some big-hitters to open over the next 12 months.
About the Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Theatre opened in 1901 and is one of a cluster of theatres on Shaftesbury Avenue that is generally considered the heart of London's West End theatre district. Architect Lewin Sharp designed the theatre with a specific focus on the presentation of musical theatre. The first production at the Apollo Theatre was the American musical comedy The Belle of Bohemia and in subsequent years, a high turnover of musicals and plays opened at the venue.
Constructed in a French Renaissance style, the Apollo is opulently decorated with much of the Grade II listed theatre adorned in a lavish Louis XIV style. Due to the death of Queen Victoria in the month preceding the Apollo's grand opening, the theatre became the first to be completed in the Edwardian period. It is now owned by Nimax Theatres.
In 2013, the Balcony collapsed during a performance of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, destroying some of the ceiling's ornate plasterwork. The Apollo Theatre was closed for three months while investigations took place and re-opened in 2014 with a reduced capacity. A temporary ceiling was placed above the upper circle, enclosing the Balcony section, which has since re-opened for public use. Notable recent productions at the Apollo Theatre include Everybody's Talking About Jamie, Jerusalem, and The Audience.
The Apollo Theatre is located on Shaftesbury Avenue and is not to be confused with the Apollo Victoria Theatre - home of Wicked - which is close to Victoria Coach Station. The two theatres are between 20 minutes and half an hour away from each other on public transport.
Map and Address
Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7EZ
Rail: Charing Cross station is around a 10-minute walk away from the Apollo Theatre, either via Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square or via Haymarket.
Tube: The closest tube station is Piccadilly Circus, a 2-minute walk up Shaftesbury Avenue. Piccadilly Circus is served by the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines. Leicester Square, on the Northern and Piccadilly lines, is around a 5-minute walk away, or Tottenham Court Road on the Central, Elizabeth, and Northern lines is an easy 10-minute walk away, either through Soho or via Charing Cross Road.
Bus: Shaftesbury Avenue is well served by buses. Routes 14, 19, and 38 all stop at the nearby Trocadero/Haymarket stops. Routes 9, 12, 23, 88, 94, 139, 159, and 453 all stop close by, within a few minutes' walk of the theatre along Regent Street and Piccadilly.
Car: There are several car parks nearby. QPark Leicester Square and Chinatown are both around a 5-minute walk away, and Leicester Square is a 10-minute walk away. There is also the NCP London Soho in Brewer Street, less than 5 minutes away, behind the theatre. There is very limited Blue Badge parking in the area, but Blue Badge owners can park in the above car parks. Drop-offs are possible on Shaftesbury Avenue and just around the corner on Rupert Street.
Nearby Attractions
The Apollo Theatre is in the heart of central London. Nearby Piccadilly Circus is a hub for Regent Street and Piccadilly, which, along with nearby Oxford Street, are home to some of the world’s best shopping, with many flagship stores for worldwide brands and London staples such as Hatchards and Fortnum & Mason.
There is no shortage of restaurants and bars for a pre- or post-theatre stop in the surrounding areas of Covent Garden, Soho, and Chinatown.
If you’re looking for something cultural to extend your visit, the Royal Academy of Arts (home of the Summer Exhibition) and The Photographers’ Gallery are within a 10-minute walk away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Apollo Theatre box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is open from 10am on performance days to both book and collect pre-bought tickets. We recommend patrons arrive as early as possible to avoid queues and allow enough time to enter the auditorium. Please ensure you bring your confirmation email and a form of ID.
What time does the Apollo Theatre open for a show?
The theatre opens 45 minutes before each performance begins.
What food and drink are available at the Apollo Theatre?
There are two bars in the theatre, one in the stalls and one in the upper circle. The bars serve a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as crisps, ice cream and other snacks.
Does the Apollo Theatre have a cloakroom?
Yes, there is a paid cloakroom at the theatre. Items cost £1 to check.
Is the Apollo Theatre air-conditioned?
Yes, there is air conditioning in the theatre.
Where should I eat near the Apollo Theatre?
The theatre is located on Shaftesbury Avenue, where there are many cafes, restaurants and pubs to grab something to eat before or after the show. Mediterranean fast food restaurant Leon is a popular choice for theatregoers as its just across the road from the theatre. The theatre is also around a 5 minute walk to Chinatown, where you can experience authentic East Asian cuisine from one of the many eateries.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Apollo Theatre?
The theatre is well located for nearby hotels, including the Hotel Café Royal, which offers a luxury experience and wonderful Weekend Escape packages. Alternatively, if you're on a budget, the Premier Inn in Leicester Square is just a few minutes walk from the theatre.
How do I contact the box office?
The theatre box office can be contacted directly on 0330 333 4809.
