Charing Cross Theatre London
Charing Cross Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Charing Cross Theatre
The events schedule at Charing Cross Theatre proves why this tiny but dynamic venue is one of the best in London for fans of new writing. For years, it's been the place to go if you want to see the UK premieres of cult international hits or the latest home-grown work, and 2026 is no different. Book ahead with tickets for the new musical A Mirrored Monet, or catch the UK premiere of the Dark of the Moon musical. This supernatural folk musical, set in the Appalachian mountains, has a country, bluegrass, and rock’n’roll-inspired score. It’s a great opportunity to see a unique new show in one of central London’s most intimate theatres.
About the Charing Cross Theatre
The Charing Cross Theatre is located underneath The Arches near Charing Cross Station. With a seating capacity of 265, it is one of the smallest West End theatres and often stages revivals of lesser-known musicals and plays. Founded in 1936, the Charing Cross Theatre occupied several different sites in the surrounding area before relocating to its current site, which was formerly a Victorian music hall called The Player's Theatre.
In 2005 the theatre was refurbished and opened as The New Players Theatre with a production of the rarely revived Snoopy! The Musical. In 2011, the theatre was taken under the new management of Broadway producer Steven M. Levy and Sean Sweeney and was christened the Charing Cross Theatre. Notable productions include the UK premieres of Broadway musicals Violet and Amour, alongside well-received revivals of The Woman in White, Titanic and Ragtime.
The Charing Cross Theatre has retained a slice of its history by naming its popular in-house restaurant as the Players Bar & Kitchen. The theatre space is fully flexible and can be transformed from a traditional proscenium arch staging to a unique in-the-round experience, depending on the show.
Should I get there early?
The Charing Cross Theatre is the only theatre in the West End to have its own piano bar. While you can grab a drink before the show, we actually recommend sticking around afterwards to really enjoy the Players Bar, as a pianist performs live music most nights from 10pm-2am - feel free to join in and sing along!
Map and Address
The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG
Rail: Charing Cross Station is served by National Rail services. Exit the station to Villiers Street, then turn into Craven Passage.
Tube: Charing Cross is served by the Bakerloo and Northern lines and is less than a minute’s walk away. Nearby, Embankment station is served by the Bakerloo, Northern, Circle and District lines and is less than 5 minutes away.
Bus: Routes 9, 15, 23, 24, 26, 29, 87 and 91 all stop outside Charing Cross station. Several other routes stop nearby along The Strand and at Trafalgar Square.
Car: Drop-offs are possible on The Strand. The closest car parks are Q Park Covent Garden, around a 6-minute walk from the theatre, and Q Park Leicester Square, about a 10-minute walk away.
Nearby Attractions
The Charing Cross Theatre is in a great position to explore Covent Garden, Chinatown, or the South Bank.
Just minutes away at the end of The Strand is Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the famous lions, as well as the rotating installations of the Fourth Plinth. For indoor art-viewing, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are at the north end of the square. There are often events happening in the square, so it’s worth checking online if you are planning to visit something specific.
The Strand is home to a number of restaurants and pubs offering a range of options, or the theatre’s own Players Bar is often open late with live music.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Charing Cross Theatre box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office opens one hour before the start of each performance for in-person bookings and collection. If you are picking up tickets, please have your confirmation and ID to hand as this can help the box office team locate your order.
What time does the Charing Cross Theatre open for a show?
The auditorium opens around 30 minutes before the show starts. As the theatre is located under the arches at Charing Cross station, it has a quirky atmosphere that is worth arriving early to soak up.
What food and drink are available at the Charing Cross Theatre?
The Players Bar offers a wide selection of drinks as well as some light bites and pizza. As well as pre-performance drinks, the bar is also open until late Tuesday - Thursday and Saturday, with live singing and piano music, often featuring current and classic show tunes!
Does the Charing Cross Theatre have a cloakroom?
There are no cloakroom facilities at the venue and space is quite limited. Patrons are encouraged to only bring small items that they can comfortably rest on their lap or under their seat during the performance.
Where should I eat near the Charing Cross Theatre?
The theatre is located just off Villiers Street, where there are many cafes and restaurants to grab something to eat before or after the show. L'ulivo is a popular choice due to its proximity to the theatre, serving tasty Italian classics. Alternatively, sample an American fast-food favourite with Five Guys, which is less than a five minute walk away.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Charing Cross Theatre?
The Amba Hotel is a luxury hotel located within the Charing Cross Station complex and less than a five-minute walk from the theatre. If you'd like to stay in central London for a lower price, try the Z Hotel Trafalgar Square, which is around a 10-minute walk from the theatre.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office can be contacted directly on 08444 930 650 from 4pm - 8pm Monday to Saturday. For further contact details and venue information, visit charingcrosstheatre.co.uk.
