Novello Theatre
A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.
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
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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.
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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Strand
0.1 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Bow St
0.2 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
The Old Watch House
0.2 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
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.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.3 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
St Clement Danes Church
0.4 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.4 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.4 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.4 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.4 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Waterloo Bridge
0.4 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Goodwin’s Court
0.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.5 km
Historic gateway marking the City of London's boundary, crowned by a fierce dragon and rich with royal and civic heritage.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
0.5 km
Explore the tranquility of Victoria Embankment Gardens, a beautiful park along the Thames offering stunning landscapes and historical landmarks in London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mamma Mia!
0.0 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
Duchess Theatre
0.0 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of the Duchess Theatre, a West End treasure since 1929 with iconic productions and timeless elegance.
Aldwych Theatre
0.1 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
0.1 km
Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Lyceum Theatre
0.1 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.
London Film Museum
0.1 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
The Courtauld Gallery
0.1 km
Discover world-class art masterpieces from the Middle Ages to Impressionism in the historic Somerset House setting.
Fortune Theatre
0.2 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
St Mary le Strand Church
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite Baroque beauty and rich heritage of St Mary le Strand Church, a tranquil sanctuary and landmark in the heart of London’s Strand.
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.
Drury Lane Gardens
0.2 km
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Somerset House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical landmark and vibrant cultural hub on the Thames, blending art, performance, dining, and innovation in central London.
Jubilee Market
0.2 km
Historic Covent Garden market with antiques, crafts, and vibrant food stalls in a lively, iconic London setting.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.2 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
Royal Ballet and Opera
0.2 km
Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
Essential places to dine
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.2 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Sarastro
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Chez Antoinette
0.3 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, 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.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.3 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Margot
0.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
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.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Circus
0.5 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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
0.3 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.
The Store X
0.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
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.
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.
Twinings - The Strand
0.5 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Good
0.5 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Pop Boutique
0.5 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.5 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Gifts of London
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Plume Wine Bar
0.1 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.1 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.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.1 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.
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.
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.
Beaufort Bar
0.2 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.
American Bar
0.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
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.
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.
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.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.4 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.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.4 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.
Oriole
0.5 km
Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
The Escapologist Bar
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
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.
Carwash Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 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 Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Club49Soho
0.8 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.9 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.9 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Café de Paris
0.9 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
TSQ Club
0.9 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
1.0 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Business Friendly