London Coliseum London
London Coliseum Tickets
What’s On at London Coliseum
Peruse the London Coliseum events schedule for 2024, and you will see the full range of entertainment that this stunning West End venue offers. The theatre is famous for its Christmas ballets - including The Nutcracker - and summer blockbusters, but for anyone wanting to expand their cultural diet, the variety of operas playing this year is the place to start.
The London Coliseum is home to the English National Opera, and we highly recommend booking to see one of the company’s internationally acclaimed events; they stage a range of operas to suit all tastes, whether you are a seasoned fan or completely new to 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 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.
Map and Address
St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES
London Coliseum is one of the largest theatres in London, located between Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square, where there is plenty to see and do. The National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are a stone’s throw away, with St James’s Park nearby. Covent Garden, Chinatown and Piccadilly Circus are all nearby, providing places for pre-theatre drinks and dinner, with excellent transport links only moments away from the theatre. Check your route via www.tfl.gov.uk before you travel.
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/.
