Fortune Theatre, London: Intimate West End Gem with Rich History
Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
Nestled on Russell Street in London’s vibrant West End, the Fortune Theatre is one of the smallest and most intimate theatres in the area, seating just 432 guests across three levels. Opened in 1924 as the first post-WWI West End theatre, it boasts a unique concrete structure and a Grade II-listed status. Known for its long-running productions and iconic atmosphere, it offers a close-up theatrical experience with a distinctive charm and historical significance.
A brief summary to Fortune Theatre
- Russell St, London, WC2B 5HH, GB
- +443330096690
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose seats in the Stalls around Row D, seats 11-14, offering proximity and clear sightlines.
- Dress Circle middle seats in the second or third row provide an elevated and unobstructed perspective.
- Upper Circle Row A offers decent views but be aware of safety rail obstructions and stairs.
- Arrive early to enjoy the historic foyer with its marble finishes and to secure cloakroom services.
- Check the box office hours, open from 10am to 8:15pm Monday to Saturday, for ticket collection and inquiries.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station, approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk to the theatre. The station is well-served but can be crowded during peak times. No direct parking available nearby; fares range from £2.50 to £4.90 depending on travel zone.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Covent Garden, including routes 1, 6, 9, and 15. Travel time varies between 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Buses operate frequently, with single fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxi or rideshare services provide direct access to Russell Street. Travel time depends on traffic, typically 15 to 25 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £20. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking in the area may affect journey times.
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Walking
From nearby Theatre Royal Drury Lane or Covent Garden, a 5 to 10-minute walk on paved, urban terrain leads to the theatre. The route is accessible but can be busy during showtimes.
Fortune Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fortune Theatre
A Historic Landmark in the Heart of Theatreland
The Fortune Theatre stands as a notable piece of London’s theatrical heritage, having opened in 1924 on the site of the Old Albion Tavern. It holds the distinction of being the first theatre built in the West End after World War I and is the oldest surviving public building in London constructed entirely from concrete. The theatre’s Grade II-listed status reflects its architectural and cultural importance. Above its entrance, a bronze door is crowned by a sculpture of Terpsichore, the Greek muse of dance and chorus, symbolizing the theatre’s artistic spirit.Architectural Layout and Seating Intimacy
With a total seating capacity of 432, the Fortune Theatre is divided into three intimate sections: the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle. The Stalls, split by an off-centre aisle, offer 206 seats with minimal rake, which can create a cozy but occasionally cramped viewing experience. The Dress Circle is the smallest section, with 112 seats arranged over six rows, featuring a safety rail that slightly obstructs views in the front rows. The Upper Circle, housing 114 seats, is elevated and curved, providing decent sightlines despite some restricted views due to balcony overhangs and safety rails. The theatre’s compact size ensures an immersive experience where even the furthest seats maintain a connection to the stage.Legacy of Performances and Cultural Impact
The Fortune Theatre is renowned for hosting long-running and iconic productions, most famously "The Woman in Black," which played continuously for 33 years until 2023. This thriller became synonymous with the venue’s eerie and atmospheric charm. Today, the theatre embraces a new chapter with productions like "Operation Mincemeat," a witty and engaging musical that has captivated audiences. The theatre’s reputation as a receiving house for touring productions throughout much of the 20th century highlights its role as a versatile cultural hub.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Fortune Theatre enjoy a unique blend of historical ambiance and modern comfort. The foyer features elegant grey and red marble, while air conditioning ensures comfort during warmer months. The theatre’s intimate scale fosters a close connection between performers and audience, enhancing the emotional impact of each show. Its location near Covent Garden and Theatre Royal Drury Lane places it amidst bustling entertainment and dining options, enriching the overall visitor experience.Architectural and Artistic Details
Designed by Ernest Schaufelberg, the theatre’s concrete and brick construction was innovative for its time. The Terpsichore sculpture, crafted by M.H. Crichton, adds a distinctive artistic touch to the exterior. Inside, the auditorium’s layout maximizes intimacy but presents challenges such as limited legroom in some stalls and restricted views in certain dress and upper circle seats. Despite these quirks, the theatre’s charm and acoustics remain highly praised.Accessibility and Practical Information
The theatre offers limited cloakroom facilities and is equipped with air conditioning. Accessibility varies by seating section, with the Upper Circle less suitable for those with mobility issues due to stairs. The box office operates daily with ticket collection and purchase options. Its central London location ensures easy access to public transport and nearby amenities, making it a convenient and memorable destination for theatre lovers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bow St
0.1 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Strand
0.3 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.3 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
The Old Watch House
0.4 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
0.4 km
Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.4 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.4 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Seven Dials
0.4 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Historic Seven Dials
0.4 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
St Clement Danes Church
0.5 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Goodwin’s Court
0.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.5 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Drury Lane Gardens
0.0 km
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
0.1 km
Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.1 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
Royal Ballet and Opera
0.1 km
Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
London Film Museum
0.1 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
Duchess Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of the Duchess Theatre, a West End treasure since 1929 with iconic productions and timeless elegance.
Aldwych Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
Novello Theatre
0.2 km
A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.
Mamma Mia!
0.2 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
London Transport Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 200 years of London’s transport history through iconic vehicles, interactive exhibits, and hidden underground tours in Covent Garden.
Music at Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant live music and rich cultural heritage at Covent Garden, London's iconic West End soundscape.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.2 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Lyceum Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in the historic Lyceum Theatre, home to The Lion King and a jewel of London’s cultural scene.
Jubilee Market
0.2 km
Historic Covent Garden market with antiques, crafts, and vibrant food stalls in a lively, iconic London setting.
Covent Garden
0.2 km
Historic market piazza and cultural hotspot blending world-class theatre, vibrant street life, luxury shopping, and diverse dining in London’s West End.
Essential places to dine
Sarastro
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.1 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Margot
0.2 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.2 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Chez Antoinette
0.2 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Circus
0.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Clos Maggiore
0.3 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.4 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.4 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.2 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.2 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.3 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.3 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.3 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Pop Boutique
0.4 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Good
0.4 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
The Store X
0.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
0.5 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
Twinings - The Strand
0.5 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.6 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Russell Street
0.0 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.1 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.1 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.2 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Crusting Pipe
0.2 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.3 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Beaufort Bar
0.3 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
American Bar
0.3 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.4 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Prelude by Oriole
0.4 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.4 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
The Escapologist Bar
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Proud Late
0.4 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Heaven
0.6 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Penthouse London
0.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
La Capannina Club
0.8 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Café de Paris
0.8 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Luxe Club
0.9 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sophisticats Soho
0.9 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.9 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Intimate
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly