London Coliseum London
London Coliseum Tickets
What’s On at London Coliseum
The London Coliseum has an unmissable schedule of events in 2026, bringing a mix of classic operas and exciting musicals to one of the West End’s most iconic venues. This spring, we recommend "everybody say yeah" to tickets for Kinky Boots in London, starring Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe as Lola. This dazzling production has been a sell-out on tour, and proves exactly why it's one of the best musicals of the 21st century!
The latest season from English National Opera is to be announced, but will include a mix of classic operas and comic operettas, alongside more contemporary work - the ENO and Coliseum always stage shows that are great for both first timers and long-time fans of the genre.
About the London Coliseum
The London Coliseum was the brainchild of impresario Oswald Stoll and prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham, with the vision of creating the "people's palace of entertainment". Opening on Christmas Eve in 1904, the Coliseum has been used to stage countless events including musicals, operas, ballets, plays and variety shows for more than 100 years. It has been the home of English National Opera, who own and operate the building, and English National Ballet since 1968.
With a seating capacity of 2,359, the London Coliseum houses the largest auditorium in the West End, hosting many spectacular productions on its huge 80ft wide stage. In 2000, a four-year refurbishment began to restore some of the Grade II listed building's original Edwardian features and improve many of the facilities in the venue.
Alongside staging a varied programme of opera and ballet throughout the year, notable productions to have played at the Coliseum include Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street starring Bryn Terfel and Emma Thompson; Sunset Boulevard with Glenn Close; and Hairspray starring Michael Ball.
Should I get there early?
There are plenty of options for dining and drinks if you want to arrive early at the Coliseum, including an American Bar with sweet treats on offer, and Adelaide’s Champagne bar, plus you can enjoy a drink and soak in the sights of London from the upstairs bar. Food packages are also available, including a special “Glitter Afternoon Tea” for Kinky Boots when it opens in March 2026.
Map and Address
St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES
Rail: Charing Cross station is a short 5-minute walk past St Martin's-in-the-Fields church.
Tube: Leicester Square tube station is a very short walk away, served by the Piccadilly and Northern lines. Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross on the Northern and Bakerloo lines are both less than a 10-minute walk from the theatre.
Bus: The surrounding area is well served by bus routes. Routes 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 87, 91, 139, and 176 all stop nearby.
Car: Q Park Chinatown and Leicester Square are both within a 10-minute walk of the theatre. Blue Badge spaces are available in both, as well as limited spaces in nearby streets. Drop-offs are possible in front of the theatre.
Nearby Attractions
The London Coliseum is the iconic venue at the end of St Martin’s Lane. On the edge of Covent Garden, the area surrounding St Martin’s Lane is always busy and is home to a wide range of bars and restaurants. Close to Trafalgar Square and The Strand, there is no shortage of things to see and do within a short walk; the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, and St Martin’s-in-the-Fields all sit on the edge of Trafalgar Square, while Whitehall and the political sights of London are around a 15-minute walk to the south of the square.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the London Coliseum box office open and how do I collect tickets?
On performance days, the box office opens at 10am and closes half an hour after the show begins. On days where only a matinee is performed, the box office opens 2 hours before the start of the performance and closes 15 minutes after it begins. Tickets can be collected from the box office on the day of the performance, and you are advised to bring your confirmation and card you booked with when picking these up.
What time does the London Coliseum open for a show?
The venue and bars open 90 minutes before the show begins and the auditorium will open 45 minutes before. The ornate, beautiful interior is a sight to behold, so it is recommended that you arrive as early as possible to soak up the atmosphere, purchase refreshments and a programme, and get comfortable in your seat before the show starts.
What food and drink are available at the London Coliseum?
There are several bars and even a restaurant throughout the venue. On the lower ground floor you'll find the American Bar Restaurant, which offers an extensive pre-theatre dining menu. Other bars include the Foyer Bar and the Sky Bar, located on the Upper Circle level. You'll find a range of cocktails, beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks, alongside snacks including sandwiches, nuts and ice creams. Interval drinks can be pre-ordered, which is recommended to beat the queues during the interval.
Is there a dress code at the London Coliseum?
There is no dress code for most performances at the venue, and you should wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. If a dress code is in place, it will usually be noted on your confirmation email or ticket.
Does the London Coliseum have a cloakroom?
There is no cloakroom at the venue. Visitors should only bring minimal belongings with them and make sure that any extra bags or clothing can be comfortably held on your lap or under your seat for the duration of the performance.
Where should I eat near the London Coliseum?
The venue is located on St Martin's Lane, which benefits from a wide range of cafes and restaurants. A pre-theatre dinner at Steak & Co is a popular choice with theatregoers, due to its proximity to the theatre and their high quality South American steaks. Alternatively, sample some of Italy's tastiest food at the award-winning restaurant, Fumo, which is a five-minute walk from the theatre.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the London Coliseum?
Visitors looking to make their stay in London a more luxury experience should consider St Martin's Lane Hotel, which is less than a three-minute walk from the theatre and offers classy, modern suites and a host of premium facilities. For visitors on a budget, hub by Premier Inn is just across the road from the theatre and offers a range of smart, affordable rooms in the heart of the West End.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office can be contacted directly on 020 7845 9300. Further contact details can be found at https://londoncoliseum.org/.
