Theatre Royal Drury Lane London
Theatre Royal Drury Lane Tickets
What’s On at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
This year, events at Theatre Royal Drury Lane are full of wit and drama, as the venue welcomes Shakespeare back to its stage for the first time since the 1950s. Olivier Award winner Jamie Lloyd’s starry season, which includes Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell in Much Ado About Nothing, is a fantastic chance to see some top acting talent in one of London’s grandest theatres.
If any families are missing Disney’s Frozen The Musical, look ahead to 2025 when Drury Lane transforms into Ancient Greece for Hercules! The 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. Tickets for this heroic show 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 All other theatres were forbidden from staging spoken word plays until the act was revoked in 1843.
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 . 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.
Map and Address
Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF
One of London’s most famous theatres, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is situated in the heart of the bustling Covent Garden, opposite the much smaller Fortune Theatre . Immediately surrounding are numerous shops, cafes and restaurants for pre and post-theatre dining. An art gallery and public space, Somerset House, is on the nearby Aldwych, and The Strand is home to other theatres and restaurants. The London Transport Museum and the London Film Museum are both within a few minutes of Drury Lane, and the galleries at Trafalgar Square are about 15 minutes away. To make sure you reach the theatre on time, check www.tfl.gov.uk for travel updates.
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/.
