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St. Martin's Theatre

Experience the magic of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap in London’s intimate St. Martin's Theatre, a historic gem in the heart of the West End.

4.6

St. Martin's Theatre, nestled in London’s West End, is a historic venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere and as the home of Agatha Christie’s legendary play, The Mousetrap. With just over 550 seats spread across three levels, the theatre offers excellent sightlines and a charming Georgian-style interior. Its central location near Covent Garden and Seven Dials makes it a must-visit for theatre lovers seeking a classic West End experience.

A brief summary to St. Martin's Theatre

  • West St, London, WC2H 9NZ, GB
  • +442078361443
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • For the best view and comfort, choose seats in the centre of the Stalls, particularly rows F to G, which offer excellent sightlines and more legroom.
  • If you’re on a budget, the Upper Circle provides affordable tickets, though the view is more distant and the seats are steeper.
  • Arrive early to enjoy a drink at the bar on your level and soak in the historic atmosphere before the show.
  • The theatre does not have a cloakroom, so bring only small bags that can fit under your seat.
  • The Dress Circle offers a good balance of price and view, especially in the front rows, but legroom can be limited for taller visitors.
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Getting There

  • Underground

    Take the Piccadilly or Northern line to Leicester Square station, then walk approximately 5 minutes to West Street. The route is well-signposted and accessible, with step-free access from the station to the theatre entrance.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes, including the 14, 19, 24, and 38, stop near Covent Garden or Leicester Square. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the theatre along West Street.

  • Walking

    From Covent Garden or Leicester Square, follow signs to Seven Dials and West Street. The walk takes about 5–10 minutes and passes through lively streets with shops and restaurants.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from central London landmarks such as Trafalgar Square or Piccadilly Circus will take about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The theatre is located on West Street, just off Shaftesbury Avenue.

St. Martin's Theatre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather

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Discover more about St. Martin's Theatre

A Historic West End Gem

St. Martin's Theatre, opened in 1916, is a cherished part of London’s theatrical heritage. Designed by W.G.R. Sprague in an elegant Georgian style, the theatre was built as a companion to the nearby Ambassadors Theatre. Its compact size and intimate setting distinguish it from the larger West End venues, creating a unique sense of closeness between audience and performers. The theatre’s Grade II listing by English Heritage in 1973 underscores its architectural and cultural significance, and its enduring legacy is marked by the record-breaking run of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, which has played here since 1974.

Intimate Seating and Exceptional Views

The theatre’s auditorium is divided into three levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle, with a total capacity of around 550 seats. The Stalls offer some of the best views, particularly in the central rows, where sightlines are unobstructed and the proximity to the stage enhances the experience. The Dress Circle provides elevated perspectives, with well-raked seating ensuring clear views even from the back rows. The Upper Circle, while more budget-friendly, is steeply raked and offers a distant but still engaging vantage point. The compact layout means that even the furthest seats provide a sense of intimacy, making every performance feel personal.

Home of The Mousetrap

St. Martin's Theatre is most famous as the home of The Mousetrap, the world’s longest-running play. The production’s enduring popularity has made the theatre a pilgrimage site for theatre enthusiasts and fans of Agatha Christie. The tradition of keeping the play’s ending a secret adds to the theatre’s mystique, and the intimate setting amplifies the suspense and drama of each performance. The theatre’s history is also enriched by its association with other notable productions and performers, contributing to its reputation as a cornerstone of British theatre.

Atmosphere and Amenities

The theatre’s Georgian-style interior, with its ornate details and warm ambiance, creates a welcoming environment for visitors. Bars on each level serve drinks and snacks, enhancing the pre-show and interval experience. The compact size means that amenities are conveniently located, and the staff are known for their attentive service. While the theatre does not have a cloakroom, its central location offers easy access to luggage storage options nearby. The intimate scale and historic charm make St. Martin's Theatre a memorable destination for any theatre-goer.

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