Theatre Royal Drury Lane
London’s oldest theatre site, where centuries of drama and musicals have shaped British culture.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane, located in London’s Covent Garden, is the oldest theatre site in continuous use in the city. First opened in 1663, it has hosted legendary productions and performers, from Restoration drama to modern musicals. The current building, dating from 1812, is a Grade I listed landmark and a cornerstone of British theatrical heritage.
A brief summary to Theatre Royal Drury Lane
- Catherine St, London, WC2B 5JF, GB
- +442039252998
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular shows, as performances at Drury Lane often sell out quickly.
- Take time to admire the historic architecture and interior details, especially the rotunda and the Doric portico.
- Visit the theatre’s website for information on guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences.
- Arrive early to explore the surrounding Covent Garden area, known for its shops, street performers, and restaurants.
- Check for special events or themed performances, which often coincide with holidays or anniversaries.
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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Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station, which is a 5-minute walk from the theatre. The route is accessible and well-signposted, with step-free access available at the station.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 1, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 91, 139, 168, 171, 172, 188, 243, and 521, stop near Drury Lane. The journey from central London typically takes 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square, it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk through Covent Garden, passing shops, street performers, and historic buildings.
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Taxi
A taxi from central London to Drury Lane takes about 10 minutes, with fares typically ranging from £10 to £15 depending on traffic and time of day.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Theatre Royal Drury Lane
A Legacy of London Theatre
Standing proudly on Catherine Street, Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the oldest theatre site in London still in use. Its story began in 1663 when Thomas Killigrew, under royal charter from Charles II, built the first theatre on this spot. Over the centuries, the site has seen four different buildings, each destroyed by fire or rebuilt to grander designs. The present structure, opened in 1812, is the fourth and most enduring, designed by Benjamin Dean Wyatt in a neo-Grecian style. Its survival through fires, renovations, and changing tastes makes it a living monument to the evolution of British theatre.Architectural Grandeur and Heritage
The theatre’s interior public spaces are celebrated as important late Georgian monuments, with opulent foyers and a grand auditorium that has been rebuilt and remodelled several times. The 1822, 1901, and 1922 renovations transformed the auditorium into a more intimate and modern space, while preserving the splendour of its historic character. The Doric portico on Catherine Street and the colonnade on Russell Street are distinctive features that reflect the building’s layered history. As a Grade I listed landmark, Drury Lane is protected for its architectural and cultural significance.Stage of Legends and Innovations
Drury Lane has been the stage for some of the most influential productions in British theatre history. From Restoration comedies and Shakespearean revivals under David Garrick to the premieres of musicals like My Fair Lady and Miss Saigon, the theatre has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance. The venue has hosted legendary actors, including Edmund Kean, Henry Irving, and Ellen Terry, and has been a home for pantomimes, grand melodramas, and opera seasons. Its reputation as a crucible of theatrical innovation endures to this day.Modern Revival and Cultural Impact
In recent years, the theatre underwent a major restoration under the ownership of Andrew Lloyd Webber, returning it to its original grandeur while introducing state-of-the-art facilities. The refurbishment preserved historic features, such as the rotunda and Victorian-style torchieres, and enhanced the visitor experience with new amenities. Drury Lane remains a vibrant hub of the West End, attracting audiences from around the world and continuing its tradition as a leading venue for musicals and theatrical productions.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
