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Royal Albert Hall London

Royal Albert Hall Tickets

Cirque du Soleil: Corteo
The Nutcracker

What’s On at Royal Albert Hall

The world-famous Royal Albert Hall is best known for its busy music and events calendar, which covers everything from The Proms to classical dance, circus spectaculars and rock gigs. Experiencing an event at this incomparable venue is worth it no matter what you decide to book, but we highly recommend one of its annual dance productions.

In 2025, the year starts with a magical flourish that the whole family can enjoy with Cirque du Soleil tickets. The internationally acclaimed contemporary circus troupe tell the story of a clown with big dreams in the spellbinding Corteo, which combines jaw-dropping acrobatics with stunning effects and set design.

About the Royal Albert Hall

Arguably London's most iconic performance venue, the Royal Albert Hall first opened in 1871. Forming part of the Prince Albert memorial space next to Kensington Gardens, this impressive feat of architecture has become synonymous with the Proms, which have been performed at the venue for almost every year since 1941.

The building's distinctive shape, reminiscent of a Roman amphitheatre, was designed by Francis Fowke and Henry Y.D. Scott, and built by Lucas Brothers. Taking influence from the Italianate design trends of late Victorian England, the Hall has impressive arched windows and friezes on the outside. It was originally intended to be named The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, but Queen Victoria instead named it after her late husband, who had raised the funds for the building with profits from the 1851 Great Exhibition.

The Hall has gone through a number of renovations since its opening, including work in 1969 to vastly improve the venue's acoustics. Most recently, Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England funded work between 1996 and 2004 saw thirty smaller projects completed to bring the Hall into the 21st century. These included improved ventilation, seating, technical facilities and backstage areas; new bars and restaurants; and a redesign of the Circle seating to make it more comfortable for audiences.

Now a world-renowned performance and events hub, the Royal Albert Hall continues to be one of the capital's most diverse venues, with rock concerts, variety performances, classical orchestras and more gracing the stage.

Map and Address

Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP

The Royal Albert Hall is a prominent silhouette on the South Kensington skyline, located on the southern edge of Kensington Gardens and within walking distance of London's best-known museums, including the Natural History Museum and Science Museum. The area is hugely popular for tourists, with excellent transport links, hotels and dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Royal Albert Hall box office open and how do I collect tickets?

The box office opening hours are 9am – 9pm, Monday to Sunday (including Bank Holidays). Ticket collection is available at the box office, which is located inside the venue, at Door 12. You may be asked to show ID as well as the payment card used to purchase the tickets when collecting.

What time does the Royal Albert Hall open for a show?

The venue is open daily from 9am, with all restaurants and bars in the building usually open two hours prior to a performance's start time.

What food and drink are available at the Royal Albert Hall?

There are a range of bars and eateries on-site including Verdi Italian Kitchen - perfect for families and including a children's menu - and laid-back Elgar Room Brasserie open two hours before a show begins. The Hall's cafe is great for light bites including sandwiches and pastries during the day.

During a performance, visitors can enjoy wine, beers, spirits, soft drinks and light snacks from bars on every level of the auditorium.

Is there a dress code at the Royal Albert Hall?

Most performances do not specify a dress code, and visitors should wear clothes that they feel are comfortable and appropriate. If a performance does have a dress code, this will be noted on your ticket.

Does the Royal Albert Hall have a cloakroom?

Cloakroom facilities are available for visitors up to two hours before a performance starts. There is a cost of £1 per item, and access is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is the Royal Albert Hall air-conditioned?

There is an air conditioning system in the venue to ensure all visitors are comfortable throughout the year.

Where should I eat near the Royal Albert Hall?

There are a number of eateries on-site, including Verdi Italian Kitchen and the Great Exhibition Bar with Asian small plates. South Kensington has many other options for pre-show dining, including The Builder's Arms, which serves a seasonal menu of classic British pub food. Kensington High Street also has a fantastic range of chain and independent eateries for all tastes.

What is the best hotel to stay at near the Royal Albert Hall?

South Kensington has plenty of hotels for every budget, with Holiday Inn on Cromwell Road offering a no-fuss but comfortable stay a short walk away. Visitors can also book at the stylish and good-value Queen's Gate Hotel, which is right next to the venue.

How do I contact the box office?

The box office can be contacted directly on 020 7589 8212 or by emailing contact@royalalberthall.com.
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