Gillian Lynne Theatre: London's Premier West End Venue
Experience world-class musicals and iconic performances in the heart of London’s West End at the historic Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Located at 166 Drury Lane in London, the Gillian Lynne Theatre is a celebrated West End venue known for its innovative design and rich theatrical history. Formerly the New London Theatre, it features a thrust stage surrounded by 940 seats across two levels—the Stalls and Circle—offering excellent views and comfort. Renamed in 2018 to honor the iconic choreographer Gillian Lynne, the theatre hosts large-scale musicals and family-friendly productions in the heart of London’s vibrant theatre district.
A brief summary to Gillian Lynne Theatre
- 166 Drury Ln, London, WC2B 5PW, GB
- +442039252998
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose seats in the middle rows of the Stalls (D to L) or the Circle (A to E).
- Arrive early to collect tickets and avoid queues; the box office opens at noon on performance days.
- Consider the cloakroom service for larger items; there is a small charge per item.
- Check accessibility options if you require special seating or assistance.
- Explore nearby Covent Garden for dining and entertainment before or after your show.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Holborn station, approximately 8-12 minutes walk from the theatre. Holborn is served by the Central and Piccadilly lines. Tickets cost £2.50–£6 depending on zones and time of day.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Drury Lane, including routes 1, 8, 11, and 15. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. A single bus fare is £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber provide direct access to 166 Drury Lane. Travel times from central London range between 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20.
Gillian Lynne Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Gillian Lynne Theatre
A Storied Stage in the Heart of London
The Gillian Lynne Theatre stands on a site with a theatrical legacy dating back to Elizabethan times, where entertainment venues have existed for centuries. The current theatre opened in 1973 as the New London Theatre, designed by architect Paul Tvrtkovic. In 2018, it was renamed to honor Gillian Lynne, a pioneering choreographer, making it the first London theatre to bear a woman’s name. This tribute reflects the venue’s commitment to innovation and the performing arts.Architectural Innovation and Audience Experience
The theatre’s distinctive thrust stage extends into the auditorium, creating an intimate atmosphere with audience seating on three sides. The auditorium accommodates 940 patrons split between the Stalls and the Circle. The Stalls, with 862 seats, curve in a semi-circle around the stage, divided by wide aisles and featuring a steep rake to ensure excellent sightlines. The Circle, smaller with 433 seats, offers a cozy setting with equally impressive views. Plush, comfortable seating and good legroom enhance the experience, while a large revolving stage section adds dynamic possibilities for productions.Seating and Sightlines
The best seats are generally found in the middle rows of the Stalls (D to L), offering spectacular views of the stage and choreography. The Circle’s middle seats (rows A to E) provide similarly excellent perspectives at a more affordable price. The theatre’s design minimizes obstructed views, ensuring that nearly every seat offers a quality experience. Accessibility is thoughtfully integrated, with some seats specially designated for patrons with mobility needs.Productions and Cultural Significance
The Gillian Lynne Theatre has hosted some of the West End’s most iconic shows, including Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical Cats, which ran for over two decades. Currently, it is home to visually stunning and family-friendly productions such as the Olivier Award-winning My Neighbour Totoro, celebrated for its imaginative staging and appeal to audiences of all ages. The venue’s wide stage and modern facilities make it ideal for large-scale musicals and innovative theatrical experiences.Location and Surroundings
Situated in London’s Covent Garden area, the theatre benefits from proximity to numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as major tourist attractions like Leicester Square and Soho. It is well served by public transport, including nearby Holborn tube station, making it easily accessible for visitors. The theatre’s location in a bustling cultural hub adds to its vibrant atmosphere.Visitor Amenities and Comfort
The Gillian Lynne Theatre is fully air-conditioned and offers cloakroom facilities for ticket holders. The box office operates from midday on performance days, with ticket collection available on-site. The venue’s modern design prioritizes audience comfort and accessibility, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
190 High Holborn
0.2 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Bow St
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Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
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.
Sicilian Avenue
0.4 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.4 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.5 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Denmark St
0.5 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Strand
0.5 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.5 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.5 km
Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
Goodwin’s Court
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Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
1 Soho Place
0.6 km
Explore 1 Soho Place: A vibrant business park in London's Soho, surrounded by eclectic eateries, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Hasdan
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Discover the vibrant heart of London at Hasdan, where shopping, culture, and history meet on Tottenham Court Road.
Unmissable attractions to see
Visit London Taxi Tours
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Discover London’s rich history and iconic landmarks in a traditional black taxi with Visit London Taxi Tours, where every ride is a unique adventure.
London Guided Walks
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Experience the heart of London with guided walks that unveil its rich cultural heritage and captivating stories—perfect for curious travelers.
Freemasons Hall, London
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Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
covent Garden ,
0.2 km
Historic piazza and vibrant cultural hub blending London’s heritage with luxury shopping, theatre, and lively street performances.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.2 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
Drury Lane Gardens
0.2 km
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Neal St
0.2 km
Discover Neal Street, a vibrant Covent Garden street blending historic charm with trendy shops, cafés, and cultural energy in London's iconic Seven Dials.
Princess Louise
0.2 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
Fortune Theatre
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Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
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Experience iconic West End theatre in a historic, steel-framed London venue renowned for its rich heritage and outstanding performances.
Royal Ballet and Opera
0.3 km
Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
Neal's Yard
0.3 km
Discover Neal's Yard, a colorful, hidden courtyard in Covent Garden bursting with independent shops, artisan eateries, and vibrant charm.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
0.3 km
A vibrant, colorful courtyard in Covent Garden where alternative culture, sustainability, and community spirit thrive in the heart of London.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.3 km
Discover the finest British and Irish cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience the best of London’s nightlife at Comedy Carnival Covent Garden, where top comedians bring laughter to life in an intimate setting.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Margot
0.1 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.2 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
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.
Sarastro
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.3 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.3 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Balthazar
0.3 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.4 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Chez Antoinette
0.4 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.5 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Rules
0.5 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rokit Covent Garden
0.2 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.2 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Good
0.2 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
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.
The Moomin Shop London
0.4 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.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.4 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Fancy That of London
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Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Floral Street
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Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
St Martin's Courtyard
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Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
not just a shop
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Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
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London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Russell Street
0.3 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.
The Escapologist Bar
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Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
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Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
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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.
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.
Plume Wine Bar
0.4 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.4 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.
Mrs Riot
0.5 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
The Coral Room
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Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.5 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.5 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Upstairs At Rules
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Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.5 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.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.5 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.0 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Carwash Nightclub
0.1 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Roxy
0.3 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.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
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.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.6 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 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.
Proud Late
0.7 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.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Sophisticats Soho
0.8 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Heaven
0.8 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.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 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.
The Box Soho
0.8 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
St Moritz Club
0.9 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
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
