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Novello Theatre

A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.

4.7

Housed in a striking Edwardian building on Aldwych, Novello Theatre is a classic West End venue known for its intimate atmosphere and long-running hit musical Mamma Mia!. With a steeply raked auditorium and excellent sightlines, it offers a comfortable, traditional theatre experience just steps from the Strand. The venue’s elegant interior and central London location make it a favorite for both tourists and locals seeking a memorable night at the theatre.

A brief summary to Novello Theatre

  • Aldwych, London, WC2B 4LD, GB
  • +443444825151
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • For the best views, aim for centre seats in the Stalls (Rows G–L) or the Dress Circle (Rows A–D); these are considered premium and offer an immersive experience.
  • If on a budget, consider the Grand Circle or the first few rows of the Balcony; they are more affordable but still provide a good, unobstructed view thanks to the steep rake.
  • Arrive early to enjoy a drink in the bar and to familiarize yourself with the layout, especially if using step-free or wheelchair access via the Catherine Street entrance.
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Getting There

  • Underground (Tube)

    From Covent Garden or Holborn stations, it’s a 5–10 minute walk along the Strand to Aldwych. The route is flat and well-lit, suitable for all mobility levels, and takes you past other West End theatres and historic buildings.

  • Bus

    Several central London bus routes stop near Aldwych or the Strand, with a short, level walk to the theatre. Evening services are frequent, making it convenient for post-show travel.

  • Walking

    From central London landmarks like Trafalgar Square or the Royal Courts of Justice, it’s a 10–15 minute walk along the Strand. The route is pedestrian-friendly and passes through the heart of the West End theatre district.

  • Taxi / Ride‑hailing

    A taxi or ride‑hailing service can drop you directly at the theatre on Aldwych. There are no dedicated theatre parking facilities, but drop‑off is straightforward and close to the entrance.

Novello Theatre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Novello Theatre

A West End Gem on Aldwych

Tucked into the Aldwych crescent in central London, Novello Theatre stands as a refined example of early 20th-century theatre architecture. Opened in 1905 as the Strand Theatre, it has hosted landmark productions including the long-running black comedy Arsenic and Old Lace and the enduring farce No Sex Please, We’re British. Since 2012, it has been home to the global smash Mamma Mia!, drawing audiences with its infectious ABBA soundtrack and vibrant staging. The theatre’s compact, horseshoe-shaped auditorium creates an intimate feel, bringing the audience close to the action while maintaining the grandeur expected of a West End house.

Inside the Auditorium

The Novello’s interior is a study in Edwardian elegance, with ornate plasterwork, rich red upholstery, and a gently curved balcony that frames the stage. The seating is arranged across four levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony, with a total capacity of around 1,100. The Stalls are particularly prized for their steep rake, which ensures clear sightlines even from the back rows, while the Dress Circle offers a slightly elevated perspective that many find ideal for appreciating the full stage picture. The Grand Circle and Balcony provide more affordable options, with the latter offering a distant but still engaging view of the performance.

Practical Theatre Experience

As a working West End theatre, Novello is designed for comfort and accessibility. The box office opens well before each performance, and the auditorium is equipped with bars serving drinks and snacks, though hot food is not available. The venue is fully accessible, with step-free access to the Dress Circle and dedicated wheelchair spaces, as well as hearing enhancement systems and assistance for patrons with sensory needs. Staff are accustomed to guiding visitors through the layout, and the compact size of the theatre means that even those unfamiliar with London’s theatre district can quickly find their way to their seats and amenities.

Location and Atmosphere

Situated just off the Strand, Novello Theatre enjoys a prime central location, surrounded by other West End venues, restaurants, and historic landmarks. The Aldwych area buzzes with energy on performance nights, with theatregoers mingling before and after the show. The theatre’s proximity to Covent Garden, the Royal Courts of Justice, and the Thames makes it easy to combine a visit with a stroll through London’s cultural heart. Whether arriving by tube, bus, or on foot, the experience of stepping into the Novello’s ornate foyer is a quintessential part of a London theatre night.

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