Theatre Royal Drury Lane London
Theatre Royal Drury Lane Tickets
What’s On at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
If any families are missing Disney’s Frozen The Musical, Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the place to be! It’s currently transformed into Ancient Greece for the incredible Hercules musical… and if you book tickets, you’ll definitely be a hero. This stage adaptation of the mega-hit animated film combines incredible special effects and live performances with songs and characters that children already know and love. From Hades, Panic and Pain to grumpy Phil, they’re all ready to entertain you. Tickets promise a day out that will not be forgotten in a hurry - and may even inspire a lifelong passion for musical theatre!
About the Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Theatre Royal Drury Lane is a West End landmark and one of the most renowned theatres in the world. The Grade I listed building dates back to 1663, making it the oldest theatre site in London still in use. The current theatre was designed by architect Benjamin Wyatt and opened in 1812 with a production of Hamlet. For the two centuries since the reign of King Charles II, Drury Lane was one of only two theatres licensed to produce 'legitimate drama' in London. All other theatres were forbidden from staging spoken word plays until the act was revoked in 1843. Drury Lane Theatre tours are available to book if you’d like to learn more about the history of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
Since the end of the Second World War, the theatre's primary use has been to host long-running productions of large-scale musicals, including the UK premieres of many golden age Broadway musicals in the 1960s and 70s such as Oklahoma!, My Fair Lady, Hello, Dolly! and A Chorus Line, with huge stars including Julie Andrews, Imelda Staunton and Rex Harrison. Drury Lane is currently owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber's LW Theatres' and in 2021 reopened following a major refurbishment to restore many of the building's original Regency-era features.
Should I get there early?
Aside from taking in the beautiful architecture of this listed building, you can also book an afternoon tea at the theatre. Served in the Regency-style Grand Saloon, there are sweet and savoury treats on offer, with the option for a vegan spread or to add champagne.
Map and Address
Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF
Rail: Charing Cross station is around a 20-minute walk away from the Theatre Royal along The Strand and Aldwych.
Tube: Covent Garden tube, on the Piccadilly line, is around a 5-minute walk away through the Covent Garden piazza. Leicester Square tube is a 10-15-minute walk away via Long Acre. Holborn, served by the Central and Piccadilly lines, is a similar distance.
Bus: The closest bus stops to the theatre are on Aldwych, with routes including 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 168, 171, 172, 188, 243, and 341.
Car: Q Park Covent Garden is around a 10-minute walk away, and Leicester Square is around a 15-minute walk away. NCP Covent Garden is around a 5-minute walk away. Blue Badge parking is available in these car parks and on some local streets. Drop-offs are possible in front of the theatre, or just around the corner opposite the Fortune.
Nearby Attractions
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is one of London’s largest theatres, an iconic building just off Covent Garden piazza.
Within sight of Covent Garden’s famous market, there is a huge variety of food and drink options around the venue. On the same side of the piazza is the Royal Opera House, open to the public throughout the day. On the opposite side of Covent Garden piazza is St Paul’s Church, whose portico is famous as both the site of Covent Garden’s famous street performances and as a setting in My Fair Lady. The church has long been linked to the theatrical world as home of the Theatre Chaplaincy and of many monuments to famous performers and members of the theatrical establishment.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Theatre Royal Drury Lane box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is open from 10am - 8pm on Monday - Saturday. Opening times vary for performances on Sundays and bank holidays. Ticket collection for same-day performances is prioritised in the hour before the show begins, and you are advised to bring your order details to ensure speedy collection and reaching your seats.
What time does the Theatre Royal Drury Lane open for a show?
The auditorium opens approximately 30 minutes before the performance. However, the venue houses a selection of all-day bars and cafes, some of which are open from 9.30am. This beautifully refurbished regency style venue is a stunning place to spend time enjoying a drink or afternoon tea, so it is recommended that you allow plenty of time to explore the venue itself before the start of the show.
What food and drink are available at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane?
"The Lane", as the venue is affectionately known, contains a total of four bars and cafes with a wide range of food and drink options in lavish surroundings. Examples include The Garden, where coffee, cocktails and seasonable bites are served in indoor and outdoor seating. The Grand Saloon serves a Regency-inspired menu including a lavish Afternoon Tea. Other bars such as The Rotunda and Cecil Beaton Bar serve a range of champagne, cocktails, wines, beers, soft drinks and snacks.
Does the Theatre Royal Drury Lane have a cloakroom?
Cloakroom facilities are not available at the theatre. Visitors should make sure that any bags or clothing they bring can be held comfortably on their laps for the duration of the performance.
Are booster seats available at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane?
Booster seats are available for children sitting in the Stalls and Royal Circle only. Booster seats are not available for patrons with tickets for the Grand Circle or Balcony levels. Children need to be under 4ft to be given a booster seat. Please ask an usher for assistance when you enter the auditorium.
Where should I eat near the Theatre Royal Drury Lane?
The venue is just a short stroll into the heart of Covent Garden where there are many restaurants and cafes to enjoy a pre or post-theatre dinner. If you're taking your family to see Frozen, why not eat at Wahaca? This vibrant Mexican restaurant is a big hit with kids and adults alike. Alternatively, Pizza Pilgrims is a popular choice and is just 10 minutes from the theatre.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Theatre Royal Drury Lane?
If you're looking to make your trip extra special, consider a stay at the five-star One Aldwych Hotel, which is a 5-minute walk from the theatre. This hotel is ideally located for exploring many of London's landmarks and is equipped with world-class facilities. For a cheaper option, take a look at the Z Hotel Holborn, which is a 10-minute walk away.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office does not have a direct phone number. Calls regarding bookings for Frozen the Musical can be made to 0800 640 8100. For other contact options and venue information, visit https://lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane/.
