Background

Prince of Wales Theatre, London

Historic West End theatre with Art Deco charm, intimate seating, and vibrant musical productions in the heart of London’s Theatreland.

4.7

Located on Coventry Street in the heart of London’s Theatreland, the Prince of Wales Theatre is a historic West End venue known for its Art Deco style and vibrant musical productions. With a seating capacity of 1,135 across two intimate levels—the Stalls and Dress Circle—it offers premium views and accessibility features. The theatre’s iconic tower is lit with LED lighting, enhancing its presence near Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.

A brief summary to Prince of Wales Theatre

  • Coventry St, London, W1D 6AS, GB
  • +443444825151
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • For the best views, choose seats in the Stalls between Rows D and G or front rows of the Dress Circle (A to D).
  • Wheelchair accessible seating is available at the rear of the Stalls with assistance from the access host.
  • Arrive early to enjoy the theatre’s bars and soak in the Art Deco foyer ambiance before the show.
  • Nearby areas like Chinatown and Soho offer excellent dining options for pre- or post-theatre meals.
  • Check the theatre’s schedule for autism-friendly and access performances if you require special accommodations.
widget icon

Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines to Piccadilly Circus station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the theatre. Services run frequently with fares from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Coventry Street, including routes 14, 19, and 38. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London areas. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.65.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing

    A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £8 to £15. Note that traffic congestion can affect travel times.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in Soho, Leicester Square, or Piccadilly Circus, walking to the theatre is convenient and takes around 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets.

Prince of Wales Theatre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Prince of Wales Theatre

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Prince of Wales Theatre

Historic Legacy and Architectural Charm

The Prince of Wales Theatre has stood as a landmark of London's performing arts scene since its original opening in 1884 as the Prince’s Theatre. It was rebuilt in 1937 in a striking Art Deco style by architect Robert Cromie, whose design brought a modern flair to the venue while preserving its theatrical grandeur. The building was granted Grade II listed status in 1999, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance. A major refurbishment in 2004 expanded the auditorium and modernized stage facilities, while the theatre’s rooftop tower was fitted with vibrant LED lighting, making it a distinctive feature in the London skyline.

Intimate Auditorium and Seating Experience

The theatre’s auditorium is designed for intimacy and excellent sightlines, with a total of 1,135 seats divided between the Stalls (666 seats) and the Dress Circle (469 seats). The Stalls section fans out from the stage and is well-raked, allowing clear views over the audience ahead. Premium seating is concentrated in the middle rows of the Stalls (notably Rows D to G), offering close proximity to the stage action. The Dress Circle, elevated above the Stalls, provides a panoramic perspective of the entire stage, with the front rows (A to D) highly prized for their unobstructed views. The venue also offers wheelchair-accessible seating in the rear of the Stalls, with facilities to accommodate patrons who remain in wheelchairs or prefer transferable seats.

Vibrant Location and Cultural Context

Situated between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, the Prince of Wales Theatre is at the epicenter of London’s bustling Theatreland. Nearby attractions include Chinatown, Soho, and Trafalgar Square, home to the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery. This prime location places the theatre amid a lively cultural and dining scene, making it an ideal destination for pre- or post-show entertainment. The theatre’s proximity to major transport hubs ensures easy access for visitors exploring central London.

Modern Amenities and Accessibility

The theatre offers a range of visitor amenities including bars serving drinks and snacks (though no outside food or drink is permitted), an adapted toilet accessible via lift, and an experienced access host to assist patrons with special needs. Hearing enhancement aids and autism-friendly performances are available, reflecting the venue’s commitment to inclusivity. While there is no on-site parking, disabled bays are located nearby. VIP hospitality spaces such as The Delfont Room and The Piano Room provide elegant settings for private events and receptions.

Artistic Programming and Atmosphere

The Prince of Wales Theatre is renowned for hosting major musical productions, with a history of popular shows like "The Book of Mormon," "Funny Girl," and "Sweet Charity." The auditorium’s design fosters an engaging atmosphere, drawing audiences close to the performers and enhancing the immersive experience of musical theatre. The venue's blend of historic charm and contemporary upgrades creates a dynamic environment where tradition meets modern entertainment.

Unique Features and Visitor Experience

Beyond its performances, the theatre’s iconic LED-lit tower is a recognizable symbol in London’s West End. The venue’s intimate scale, combined with its central location and architectural elegance, offers visitors a distinctive cultural experience. Whether attending a blockbuster musical or exploring the vibrant surroundings, the Prince of Wales Theatre remains a treasured destination for theatre lovers and cultural tourists alike.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Prince of Wales Theatre

Popular Hotels near Prince of Wales Theatre

Select Currency