Theatre Royal Haymarket: Historic West End Playhouse
Experience centuries of theatrical heritage and world-class performances at London’s iconic Theatre Royal Haymarket.
The Theatre Royal Haymarket, located in London's West End, is one of the city’s oldest and most prestigious theatres, dating back to 1720. This Grade I listed venue boasts a rich history of innovation, including hosting the first-ever matinee performance. Its elegant auditorium seats 888 across four levels—Stalls, Royal Circle, Upper Circle, and Gallery—offering a variety of viewing experiences from intimate stalls to panoramic gallery seats. The theatre continues to attract world-class productions and stars, making it a cultural landmark in London’s vibrant theatre scene.
A brief summary to Theatre Royal Haymarket
- Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4HT, GB
- +442079308800
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose seats in the Stalls between rows E to J or the Royal Circle rows A to C.
- Gallery seats offer the most affordable option but expect a distant view and limited legroom.
- The theatre is fully accessible with adapted toilets and at-seat service available for patrons with mobility needs.
- Check the theatre’s schedule for matinee performances, a tradition started here in 1873.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Piccadilly Circus or Charing Cross stations, both about a 5 to 10-minute walk from the theatre. Numerous bus routes stop nearby on Haymarket, including routes 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15. A single journey fare on the Tube or bus typically costs £2.80 with an Oyster or contactless card.
-
Car
Parking near the Theatre Royal Haymarket is limited; nearby options include Leicester Square and Whitcomb Street car parks, approximately 2 to 5 minutes’ walk away. Expect charges around £5 to £10 per hour. Traffic congestion and limited parking make driving less convenient during peak times.
-
Walking
If staying in central London, the theatre is accessible on foot from many West End hotels and attractions. Walking times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point, with mostly flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
Theatre Royal Haymarket location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Theatre Royal Haymarket
A Storied Legacy in London's Theatre Scene
The Theatre Royal Haymarket is steeped in history, originally founded in 1720, making it the third oldest theatre in London still in operation. The current building, a Grade I listed structure, has stood since 1821 and has been a beacon of theatrical innovation. Notably, it was the first venue to schedule matinee performances in 1873, a practice that has since become standard in the West End. Over the centuries, it has hosted legendary productions and renowned actors, contributing significantly to London's cultural heritage.Architectural Grandeur and Seating Layout
The theatre’s auditorium is designed across four levels: Stalls, Royal Circle, Upper Circle, and Gallery, with a total seating capacity of 888. The Stalls offer the closest and most immersive views of the stage, with 357 seats arranged in rows A to X. The Royal Circle, with 215 seats, provides an elevated vantage point with excellent sightlines unaffected by overhangs. The Upper Circle's 186 seats curve towards the stage, offering decent views despite tighter legroom. The Gallery, the smallest section with 131 seats, offers a distant but affordable bird’s-eye perspective. The auditorium’s elegant design balances intimacy with grandeur, enhancing the live theatre experience.Artistic Excellence and Notable Productions
Throughout its history, the Theatre Royal Haymarket has been home to many acclaimed productions and celebrated performers. From classic plays like "The Rivals" and "Our American Cousin" to modern revivals such as "Flare Path" starring Sienna Miller and Sheridan Smith, the venue consistently showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary theatre. Its stage has seen performances by iconic actors including Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, underscoring its status as a premier West End venue.Location and Cultural Context
Situated on Haymarket in the heart of London’s West End, the theatre is surrounded by other notable venues such as Her Majesty’s Theatre and the Harold Pinter Theatre. This prime location places it at the center of London’s vibrant performing arts district, making it a focal point for theatre lovers and tourists alike. The area’s rich cultural fabric and lively atmosphere contribute to the theatre’s enduring appeal.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to the Theatre Royal Haymarket can expect a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The venue offers accessible seating options, including an adapted toilet and at-seat service for patrons with access needs. Bars and restrooms are conveniently located, and the theatre maintains a welcoming atmosphere for a diverse audience. The seating arrangement caters to different preferences and budgets, from premium central seats in the Stalls to budget-friendly options in the Gallery.Preservation and Legacy
As a Grade I listed building, the Theatre Royal Haymarket is protected for its architectural and historical significance. Its preservation ensures that future generations can continue to experience live theatre in a setting that honors centuries of artistic tradition. The theatre’s commitment to nurturing young talent through initiatives like The Masterclass reflects its ongoing role in shaping the future of British theatre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.1 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.2 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.2 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.3 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Nelson's Column
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Chinatown Gate
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Captain James Cook
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Pall Mall
0.3 km
Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Carlton Gardens
0.3 km
Elegant Regency enclave in London’s St James’s, famed for WWII Free French HQ and serene historic gardens.
St James's Square
0.3 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Unmissable attractions to see
His Majesty's Theatre
0.0 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Haymarket
0.1 km
Step into the Theatre Royal Haymarket, a historic West End jewel blending Georgian elegance with three centuries of theatrical brilliance.
The Harold Pinter Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class drama and rich theatrical history at London’s iconic Harold Pinter Theatre in the heart of vibrant Theatreland.
Wonderville
0.1 km
Discover Wonderville, London’s captivating cabaret club blending magic, comedy, and variety in an intimate West End setting near Piccadilly Circus.
Comedy Carnival Leicester Square
0.1 km
Experience London’s top unapologetic stand-up comedy club with award-winning international acts in an intimate, lively setting near Leicester Square.
ODEON Luxe Haymarket
0.1 km
Experience luxury cinema in London’s West End with intimate screens, premium seating, and a curated selection of foreign and independent films.
Tiger Tiger London
0.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Tiger Tiger London, a premier nightclub offering diverse entertainment and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.
Waterloo Pl
0.2 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Canada House
0.2 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
ODEON Luxe West End
0.2 km
Experience luxury cinema and vibrant West End culture at Odeon Luxe West End in the heart of Leicester Square.
The Book Of Mormon
0.2 km
Experience the irreverent, award-winning musical comedy The Book of Mormon at London’s Prince of Wales Theatre, where sharp satire meets catchy tunes.
Prince of Wales Theatre
0.2 km
Historic Art Deco West End theatre in London’s Theatreland, famed for premier musicals and an intimate yet grand audience experience.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.2 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.2 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in London’s Leicester Square, where creativity, iconic models, and exclusive experiences await every fan.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.1 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Evelyn's Table
0.3 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Kricket Soho
0.4 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
J Sheekey
0.4 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Bantof
0.4 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Meet Fresh
0.4 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.4 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.4 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Gauthier Soho
0.5 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Golden Lion
0.5 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Quaglino's
0.5 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Jermyn St
0.3 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Unique Britain
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.4 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.4 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Princes Arcade
0.4 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.4 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Machine-A
0.4 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
La Boutik
0.5 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Fortnum & Mason
0.5 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.5 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.4 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Ku Bar
0.4 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Old Shades
0.4 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Thin White Duke
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.4 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.4 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Duke of Argyll
0.4 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Duke Of Wellington
0.4 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
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.
Village Soho
0.5 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
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)
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Luxe Club
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
0.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.3 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.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Scotch of St James
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Sophisticats Soho
0.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.5 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.
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.
The Box Soho
0.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Heaven
0.5 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.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- 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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
