Lyceum Theatre, London: Home of The Lion King
Experience the grandeur of London’s historic Lyceum Theatre, home to the spectacular The Lion King musical and a cornerstone of West End theatre.
The Lyceum Theatre, located at 21 Wellington Street in London’s West End, is a historic performing arts venue renowned for its grand Edwardian auditorium and long-standing association with the musical The Lion King. With a seating capacity of over 2,100 across three levels—Stalls, Royal Circle, and Grand Circle—it offers a range of viewing experiences from intimate stalls to panoramic balconies. The theatre combines rich history, architectural elegance, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for theatre lovers.
A brief summary to Lyceum Theatre
- 21 Wellington St, London, WC2E 7RQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose centre seats in rows E to Q in the Stalls section.
- If you prefer extra legroom, consider seats in outer row R of the Stalls.
- The Royal Circle offers panoramic views and is a great choice for families.
- Budget-friendly seats are available in the front rows of the Grand Circle with mostly unobstructed views.
- Box seats provide a unique, intimate experience but may have restricted views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station, approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk to the theatre. Multiple bus routes serve the nearby Strand and Aldwych areas, including routes 4, 9, 15, 26, and 76. Tickets cost £2.50 to £5 depending on the zone and time.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8 and £15. Drop-off is available near the theatre entrance on Wellington Street.
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Walking
From Covent Garden or Trafalgar Square, a pleasant 10 to 15-minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets leads you to the theatre. Suitable for most visitors and a great way to soak in the local atmosphere.
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Car Parking
Nearby car parks include Drury Lane and Parker Street, about a 10-minute walk from the theatre. Parking fees vary but typically range from £15 to £30 for evening stays. Note that central London congestion charges may apply.
Lyceum Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lyceum Theatre
A Storied Venue in London’s Theatre District
The Lyceum Theatre stands as one of London's most iconic West End theatres, with origins dating back to 1834. The current building, opened in 1904, showcases Edwardian architectural grandeur following a near-complete rebuild of the auditorium. Over the decades, it has hosted a variety of performances, from melodramas and pantomimes to modern musicals. After a period of closure and threat of demolition in 1939, the theatre was revitalized and has since become synonymous with large-scale musical productions, most notably the record-breaking run of The Lion King that began in 1999.Architectural and Seating Highlights
The theatre’s auditorium accommodates approximately 2,185 patrons across three main levels: the Stalls, Royal Circle, and Grand Circle. The Stalls, with around 945 seats, offer the closest proximity to the stage and include accessible seating options. Rows E to Q in the centre of the Stalls provide premium views balancing proximity and sightlines, while outer row R seats offer extra legroom. The Royal Circle, elevated above the Stalls with about 648 seats, provides a panoramic overview of the stage, favored by families and those seeking a broader perspective. The Grand Circle, the highest tier with roughly 582 seats, offers a full view of the stage from a distance, ideal for budget-conscious visitors wanting to enjoy the spectacle.Theatre Experience and Atmosphere
Attending a performance at the Lyceum Theatre immerses visitors in a vibrant, lively atmosphere. The auditorium’s design ensures excellent acoustics and sightlines, with careful raking of seats to minimize obstruction. The theatre features an air-cooling system to maintain comfort during warmer months. Unique box seats offer a more intimate but sometimes restricted view, adding character to the seating options. The venue's location near Covent Garden and the River Thames places it amidst a bustling cultural and dining scene, enhancing the overall theatre-going experience.Accessibility and Amenities
The Lyceum Theatre is equipped with step-free access to the Stalls and lifts to upper levels, including the Royal and Grand Circles, facilitating wheelchair access. Assistance for vision and hearing impairments is available, along with booster seats for children on a first-come basis. The theatre offers cloakroom services for large coats and has bars on multiple levels, including the Ballroom Bar, providing drinks and snacks with optional at-seat ordering. Nearby amenities include restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to support visitor comfort.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 21 Wellington Street, the theatre is easily accessible from central London transport hubs, including Charing Cross station and numerous bus routes. The surrounding area is rich with cultural landmarks such as Somerset House and Trafalgar Square, alongside numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance. This prime location makes the Lyceum Theatre a convenient and attractive destination for both tourists and locals.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Lyceum Theatre’s legacy is deeply tied to its role as a premier West End venue and its enduring association with The Lion King, one of the most successful musicals worldwide. Its blend of historic charm and modern theatrical technology continues to draw audiences, contributing significantly to London's vibrant performing arts scene. The theatre remains a symbol of cultural heritage and entertainment excellence in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Strand
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Plaque: David Garrick
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Michael Faraday Statue
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Huntfun Covent Garden
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Royal Opera House
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Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
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Explore the Richard D'Oyly Carte Monument on Victoria Embankment, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of British theatre and musical excellence.
Victoria Embankment
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Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
Bow St
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John Adam St & Adam St
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Henry Fawcett Monument
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The Old Watch House
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Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
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Cleopatra's Needle
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Waterloo Bridge
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Temple Station
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Unmissable attractions to see
Duchess Theatre
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Mamma Mia!
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Novello Theatre
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London Film Museum
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London Transport Museum
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Jubilee Market
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Theatre Royal Drury Lane
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Savoy Theatre
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Music at Covent Garden
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The Courtauld Gallery
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Aldwych Theatre
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Fortune Theatre
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Punch & Judy
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Somerset House
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Royal Ballet and Opera
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Essential places to dine
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Balthazar
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Chez Antoinette
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Rules
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Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Sarastro
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Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Inamo Covent Garden
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Clos Maggiore
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Ikoyi Restaurant
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Margot
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Bustronome London
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Transport Museum - Shop
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Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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The Moomin Shop London
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MUJI Covent Garden Store
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The Store X
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Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Rokit Covent Garden
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Urban Outfitters
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St Martin's Courtyard
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Gifts of London
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Good
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Pop Boutique
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Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
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Alice Through The Looking Glass
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Unique Britain
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
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Plume Wine Bar
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Beaufort Bar
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Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
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American Bar
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Eve Bar Covent Garden
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Crusting Pipe
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Be At One - Russell Street
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Upstairs At Rules
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Mrs Riot
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All Bar One Covent Garden
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Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
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Blame Gloria - Covent Garden
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Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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Oriole
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
