London Coliseum: Grand West End Theatre and Home of English National Opera
Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
The London Coliseum, located on St Martin's Lane in central London, is one of the West End’s largest and most iconic theatres. Opened in 1904, it boasts a grand Edwardian interior and a seating capacity of 2,359 across four levels. It serves as the main home of English National Opera and English National Ballet, hosting a rich variety of performances including opera, ballet, musicals, and plays. Its historic architecture and vast stage make it a premier cultural venue in London.
A brief summary to London Coliseum
- London Coliseum, St Martin's Ln, London, WC2N 4ES, GB
- +442078459300
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the beautiful Edwardian interior and visit the bars that open 90 minutes before the show.
- For the best views and acoustics, choose seats in the central Stalls (Rows E to K) or front Dress Circle (Rows A to C).
- Note there is no cloakroom, so bring minimal belongings that can be held on your lap or stored under your seat.
- Check show-specific dress codes in advance, though most performances have no formal requirements.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. From there, it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to the London Coliseum. Tube fares typically range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on the ticket type and time of travel.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near the theatre, including routes 24, 29, and 176. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Bus fares are usually £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations can take 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8 to £20. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking make taxis a convenient but sometimes slower option.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, or Soho, walking to the London Coliseum is an enjoyable option. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets, suitable for most visitors.
London Coliseum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about London Coliseum
A Century of Theatrical Grandeur
The London Coliseum opened its doors on Christmas Eve in 1904, envisioned by impresario Oswald Stoll and designed by the renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham. Conceived as a "people's palace of entertainment," the Coliseum quickly established itself as a premier venue for a wide range of performances, from musicals and variety shows to operas and ballets. Over the decades, it has witnessed historic moments, including serving as a canteen during World War II and hosting speeches by figures like Winston Churchill. Since 1968, it has been the proud home of the English National Opera and English National Ballet, cementing its status as a cultural landmark in London.Architectural Elegance and Seating Layout
The Coliseum’s interior is a magnificent example of Edwardian theatre design, recently restored to highlight its original grandeur. The auditorium seats 2,359 patrons spread over four levels: the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle, and Balcony. The Stalls offer the closest and most immersive experience with rich acoustics, especially in central rows E to K. The Dress Circle provides an elevated panoramic view, ideal for large-scale productions, while the Upper Circle and Balcony offer excellent value with clear sightlines and a broad perspective of the stage. Each level features bars serving hot and cold drinks, enhancing the pre-show experience.Vibrant Location in London's Theatre District
Situated between Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square, the London Coliseum is perfectly positioned amid some of London’s most famous cultural and entertainment hubs. Nearby attractions include the National Gallery, Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Circus, offering plentiful options for dining and sightseeing before or after performances. The theatre’s central location benefits from excellent transport links, making it easily accessible for visitors from across the city and beyond.Experiencing a Show at the Coliseum
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to soak in the ornate surroundings and enjoy refreshments from the multiple bars, which open 90 minutes before performances. The auditorium itself opens 45 minutes prior to curtain, allowing ample time to settle into your seat. While there is no formal dress code for most shows, guests often dress smartly to match the elegant atmosphere. Note that the venue does not provide a cloakroom, so minimal belongings are recommended. The Coliseum’s vast stage, measuring approximately 80 feet wide, accommodates spectacular productions that captivate audiences with their scale and artistry.Commitment to Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
The London Coliseum strives to make all visitors’ experiences smooth and enjoyable. Staff are available to assist with accessibility needs, and the venue is equipped to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. Seating options cater to different preferences, with some seats offering extra legroom and premium views. The theatre’s bars and lounges provide comfortable spaces to relax and socialize, contributing to a memorable night out in London’s vibrant theatre scene.Legacy and Cultural Significance
As one of the largest and most prestigious theatres in London’s West End, the London Coliseum holds a special place in the city’s artistic heritage. Its role as the home of English National Opera and English National Ballet ensures a continuous stream of world-class performances that celebrate both classic and contemporary works. The building itself, a Grade II listed Edwardian masterpiece, stands as a testament to London’s rich theatrical tradition and ongoing cultural vitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.1 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Eleanor Cross
0.2 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.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.2 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
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.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.3 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.3 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.3 km
A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
York Watergate
0.3 km
Discover the York Watergate, a rare 17th-century gateway marking the old Thames riverside and London's vanished aristocratic waterfront.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.3 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Mercer Walk
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting Mercer Walk in London, a charming alley brimming with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artistic flair that captures the city's spirit.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
0.4 km
Explore the tranquility of Victoria Embankment Gardens, a beautiful park along the Thames offering stunning landscapes and historical landmarks in London.
Café de Paris
0.4 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Admiralty Arch
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Chinatown Gate
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Duke of York's Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre on St Martin's Lane, home to iconic productions and timeless British theatrical heritage.
Edith Cavell Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
Garrick Theatre
0.1 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
National Portrait Gallery
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
Goodwin’s Court
0.1 km
Step into Goodwin’s Court, a hidden Georgian alley in Covent Garden where history, mystery, and cinematic magic blend in timeless charm.
Cecil Court
0.1 km
Discover Cecil Court, a historic London street famed for its Victorian charm, rare bookshops, early cinema heritage, and a brief Mozart residency.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
0.1 km
Unravel a historic murder mystery through iconic London streets in this immersive self-guided detective adventure.
Noël Coward Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre blending classical elegance with world-class drama and comedy in the heart of London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The National Gallery
0.2 km
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
London by Night Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
0.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Art Deco cinema with luxury recliners and the UK’s first Dolby Cinema screen in the heart of Leicester Square.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.2 km
Dive into London’s nightlife at Zoo Bar & Club, a cocktail haven offering themed parties, delicious drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere right in the city center.
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.
Scenes in the Square Sculpture Trail
0.2 km
Discover a century of cinema through iconic bronze statues in Leicester Square’s free, interactive film-themed sculpture trail.
Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
0.1 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
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.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Punch & Judy
0.3 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Chez Antoinette
0.3 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
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.
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.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.1 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.
Unique Britain
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
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.
House of Spells
0.3 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.3 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
M&M'S London
0.3 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The Moomin Shop London
0.3 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.
Charing Cross Rd
0.3 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.3 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.4 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
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.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.1 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.1 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
0.1 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
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.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.2 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.2 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.
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.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.2 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)
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.3 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Ku Bar
0.3 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Oriole
0.3 km
Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.3 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.2 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.
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.
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.
The Ivy Club
0.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
TSQ Club
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
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.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 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.
Proud Late
0.6 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.
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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- 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
