Vaudeville Theatre, London: Historic West End Venue for Musicals and Plays
A historic West End theatre on the Strand offering intimate performances and the hit musical Six in a charming, well-equipped venue.
Located on the Strand in London’s West End, the Vaudeville Theatre is a charming historic venue known for its intimate atmosphere and diverse theatrical productions, including the long-running hit musical Six. With a seating capacity of around 690 spread across three levels—Stalls, Dress Circle, and Grand Circle—it offers excellent sightlines and sound quality. The theatre combines rich Victorian heritage with modern comforts, making it a beloved destination for theatre lovers.
A brief summary to Vaudeville Theatre
- 404 Strand, London, WC2R 0NH, GB
- +443303334814
- 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 Dress Circle between rows D and G or central Stalls rows D to H.
- Arrive early to explore nearby cultural landmarks like Covent Garden and the National Gallery.
- Accessible seating and facilities are available near the Stalls with step-free access.
- The theatre is fully air-conditioned, making it comfortable year-round.
- Only food and drinks purchased at the theatre are permitted inside.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station, approximately a 5-7 minute walk to the theatre. Numerous bus routes serve the Strand, including numbers 6, 9, 11, 13, and 15, with frequent service throughout the day. Tickets range from £2.50 to £6 depending on travel zones.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20. Note that traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Covent Garden or Leicester Square, walking to the Vaudeville Theatre takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and well-signposted.
-
Car and Parking
Limited parking is available near the theatre. The closest car park is at St Martin's Lane Hotel, about a 5-minute walk away, with typical charges of £5-£10 per hour. Driving in central London may be restricted by congestion charges.
Vaudeville Theatre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Vaudeville Theatre
A Storied Venue in the Heart of London’s Theatre District
The Vaudeville Theatre, situated at 404 Strand, has been a fixture of London’s West End since its original opening in 1870. Designed by renowned architect C.J. Phipps, the theatre has undergone several renovations, including a significant interior reconstruction in 1925 that transformed its auditorium from a horseshoe shape to the current rectangular layout. This Grade II listed building stands close to other iconic theatres such as the Adelphi and Savoy, placing it firmly within the vibrant cultural hub of the city.Intimate Auditorium with Excellent Sightlines
The theatre seats approximately 690 guests across three levels: the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Grand Circle. The Stalls form the largest section with around 336 seats, featuring a gentle rake that ensures clear views of the stage. The Dress Circle, with about 188 seats, offers a more elevated perspective and is praised for its head-on views and close proximity to the action, although seats from Row G backwards are partially affected by the overhang of the Grand Circle above. The Grand Circle, seating roughly 156 patrons, is the highest level and while it feels more distant, the compact size of the theatre keeps the experience engaging.Seating Comfort and Best Views
The best seats are generally found in the Dress Circle, especially rows D to G, offering a superb balance of comfort, legroom, and unobstructed views. The Stalls, particularly central seats in rows D to H, provide immersive close-up experiences, ideal for plays where facial expressions and dialogue are key. The Grand Circle offers budget-friendly options with panoramic views, though some seats at the rear may feel distant. The theatre is fully air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilets and step-free access near the Stalls.A Diverse Program and Cultural Significance
The Vaudeville Theatre hosts a wide range of productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals. It is famously home to the hit musical Six, which retells the story of Henry VIII’s wives through a modern pop concert style, attracting a new generation of theatre fans. The theatre’s intimate size and excellent acoustics make it a favored venue for both dramatic and musical performances, maintaining a strong presence in London’s theatrical landscape.Location and Nearby Attractions
Located centrally on the Strand, the Vaudeville Theatre is surrounded by numerous cultural landmarks including Covent Garden, the London Transport Museum, the National Gallery, and Somerset House. The nearby River Thames and Embankment Gardens offer scenic views and peaceful spots to relax before or after a show. The theatre is well served by public transport, with Charing Cross station nearby and multiple bus routes along the Strand.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The theatre offers essential visitor facilities including restrooms on all levels, a small cloakroom for larger items, and a box office open from midday to early evening. Only food and drinks purchased on-site are permitted inside, ensuring a comfortable environment. The venue’s compact size and thoughtful design create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall experience for theatre-goers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Adam St & Adam St
0.1 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.1 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.2 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.2 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.2 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Strand
0.2 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.2 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Eleanor Cross
0.3 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.3 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Bow St
0.3 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.4 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Grand Building
0.4 km
A Victorian cultural landmark on London's most historic street, blending centuries of heritage with vibrant contemporary experiences.
Waterloo Bridge
0.4 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
King's College Chapel
0.5 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur hidden above the Great Hall—a masterpiece of engineering and ecclesiastical artistry.
Trafalgar Square
0.5 km
Explore the iconic Trafalgar Square, a historical landmark in London filled with art, culture, and vibrant public life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Adelphi Theatre
0.0 km
Experience world-class musicals and rich theatrical history in the elegant Art Deco setting of London’s Adelphi Theatre on the iconic Strand.
Savoy Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre famed for Gilbert and Sullivan premieres, blending Victorian roots with stunning Art Deco elegance.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.1 km
Explore Covent Garden through an engaging self-guided treasure hunt blending history, artisan markets, and lively street performances.
Jubilee Market
0.2 km
Historic Covent Garden market with antiques, crafts, and vibrant food stalls in a lively, iconic London setting.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the tranquility of St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden, a historical sanctuary for the arts in the heart of London.
Punch & Judy
0.2 km
Historic Covent Garden pub named after iconic puppet shows, blending lively atmosphere, traditional fare, and vibrant street views.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant legacy of Covent Garden’s world-famous street performers, bringing daily magic and artistry to London’s historic piazza.
Music at Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant live music and rich cultural heritage at Covent Garden, London's iconic West End soundscape.
London Transport Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 200 years of London’s transport history through iconic vehicles, interactive exhibits, and hidden underground tours in Covent Garden.
Covent Garden
0.2 km
Discover Covent Garden’s lively markets, iconic theatres, vibrant street performances, and charming hidden courtyards in the heart of London’s West End.
Lyceum Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in the historic Lyceum Theatre, home to The Lion King and a jewel of London’s cultural scene.
Floral Street
0.2 km
Discover Floral Street’s vibrant, sustainable floral fragrances in London’s stylish Covent Garden flagship store.
York Watergate
0.2 km
Explore York Watergate, a serene historical landmark on the River Thames, rich in maritime heritage and stunning views perfect for tourists.
Michael Faraday Statue
0.2 km
A bronze tribute to Michael Faraday, celebrating his revolutionary discoveries in electromagnetism at the heart of London’s engineering heritage.
London Film Museum
0.2 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
Essential places to dine
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Rules
0.1 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Chez Antoinette
0.2 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Clos Maggiore
0.2 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Balthazar
0.2 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.4 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
J Sheekey
0.4 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
The Northall
0.4 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.4 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.4 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Sarastro
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.2 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.2 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.3 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
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.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.4 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.4 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Unique Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Good
0.5 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Crest of London Ltd
0.5 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.5 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
House of Spells
0.5 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Charing Cross Rd
0.5 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.1 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Upstairs At Rules
0.1 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.1 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Mrs Riot
0.1 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
American Bar
0.1 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
0.1 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.1 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.2 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Crusting Pipe
0.2 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.2 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.2 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Plume Wine Bar
0.3 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.3 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.3 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.3 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.3 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Heaven
0.3 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.4 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 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 Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Roxy
0.5 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.6 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
TSQ Club
0.6 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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Luxe Club
0.7 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.7 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Intimate
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- 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
- Photowalk
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
