Peacock Theatre, London’s Premier Dance Venue
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
Located on Portugal Street in London’s vibrant West End, the Peacock Theatre is a renowned performing arts venue primarily dedicated to dance and contemporary performances. With a seating capacity of around 1,000, it offers an intimate yet dynamic atmosphere for audiences to enjoy world-class productions. Managed by Sadler’s Wells, the theatre combines modern design with historic roots, making it a cultural highlight in central London.
A brief summary to Peacock Theatre
- Portugal St, London, WC2A 2HT, GB
- +442078638222
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book seats in the central Stalls, especially rows E to G, for the best views and comfort.
- Use the lift for easy access to all levels, including the foyer, Dress Circle, and Stalls.
- Arrive early to enjoy the bar facilities located on both seating levels before the show.
- Accessible toilets and at-seat service are available to accommodate all visitors.
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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London Underground
Take the Central or Piccadilly Line to Holborn station, approximately a 7 to 10-minute walk to the theatre. The station is fully accessible with lifts. Ticket prices range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on zone and card used.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Portugal Street, including routes 1, 8, 25, and 242. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Buses are wheelchair accessible; single fares cost around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London areas such as Covent Garden or Leicester Square typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated fare ranges from £8 to £15.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking from Covent Garden or Holborn takes about 15 to 20 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for wheelchair users and offers an enjoyable urban stroll.
Peacock Theatre 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 Peacock Theatre
A Legacy of Performance and Transformation
The Peacock Theatre has a rich history dating back to its original incarnation as the Royalty Theatre in 1960. Initially hosting plays, it soon transitioned through various roles, including a cinema and a television studio in the 1980s. Since the 1990s, under the stewardship of Sadler’s Wells, it has evolved into a dedicated dance venue, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary dance and innovative performances from leading companies worldwide.Architectural and Interior Features
The theatre’s interior is designed to maximize audience engagement with performances. It seats approximately 999 patrons across two main levels: the Stalls and the Dress Circle. The Stalls form the largest seating area, divided into a central block and smaller sections by aisles, offering excellent sightlines with a gentle rake. The Dress Circle, elevated and smaller, provides good views with comfortable legroom, though some rear seats face a safety rail that may slightly restrict views.Audience Experience and Amenities
Visitors to the Peacock Theatre enjoy a welcoming foyer with accessible facilities, including lifts and seating areas for relaxation before and during shows. Bars are available on both the Stalls and Dress Circle levels, offering food and drinks during intervals. The theatre is fully accessible, with wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and at-seat service for those who require it, ensuring an inclusive experience for all patrons.Programming and Cultural Significance
As Sadler’s Wells’ home for dance in the West End, the Peacock Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, from contemporary dance to musical theatre productions. Its programming reflects a commitment to artistic innovation and cultural diversity, making it a vital hub for London’s performing arts scene. The theatre’s central location on Portugal Street places it within easy reach of other cultural landmarks.Seating and Viewing Recommendations
For the best experience, seats in the central Stalls, particularly rows E to G, are highly recommended for their unobstructed views and comfortable legroom. The Dress Circle offers elevated perspectives, with front rows providing excellent sightlines. The rear Stalls seats, though more affordable, still offer good views despite the Dress Circle overhang. Audience members value the theatre’s intimate scale, which allows for a close connection to the performances.Integration in London’s Theatre Landscape
Situated near Aldwych Theatre and Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the Peacock Theatre complements London’s rich theatrical heritage. Its focus on dance distinguishes it within the West End, attracting both local and international audiences. The venue’s modern facilities combined with its historic roots contribute to its unique character and enduring appeal.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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
0.3 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.
The Old Watch House
0.3 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Bow St
0.3 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Strand
0.4 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Prince Henry's Room
0.5 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.5 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, where street performances, shopping, and history come together in the heart of London.
Michael Faraday Statue
0.5 km
Discover the legacy of science at the Michael Faraday Statue in London, a stunning tribute to innovation and discovery in the heart of the city.
Sicilian Avenue
0.5 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.5 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Temple Church
0.5 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.6 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.1 km
A charming Tudor-era timbered shop in London, steeped in Dickensian legend and offering a rare glimpse of Elizabethan architecture amid the modern city.
Aldwych Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
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.
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.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
0.2 km
Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Novello Theatre
0.3 km
A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.
Mamma Mia!
0.3 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
St Mary le Strand Church
0.3 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.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.3 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Duchess Theatre
0.3 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of the Duchess Theatre, a West End treasure since 1929 with iconic productions and timeless elegance.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
0.3 km
London’s largest historic square blending centuries of legal heritage, dramatic history, and tranquil green space in the heart of Holborn.
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
0.3 km
Step into London’s hidden past with exclusive tours of Aldwych Station, a disused Tube shelter rich in history and wartime stories.
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.3 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.3 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
The Seven Stars
0.3 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Essential places to dine
Sarastro
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
0.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
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.
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.
Balthazar
0.3 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
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.
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.
Chez Antoinette
0.5 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.5 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.5 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.5 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Rules
0.5 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.6 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.6 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Store X
0.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Twinings - The Strand
0.4 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
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.
not just a shop
0.4 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.4 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
0.5 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.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.5 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.5 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.5 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
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.
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.
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.
Good
0.5 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Floral Street
0.6 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.6 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.3 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.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.4 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.5 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mrs Riot
0.5 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
0.5 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 Covent Garden
0.6 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.
The Escapologist Bar
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Prelude by Oriole
0.6 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.6 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.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.2 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.
Proud Late
0.5 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.
The Roxy
0.6 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.7 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 Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Heaven
0.8 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.9 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.
Club49Soho
0.9 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 Penthouse London
1.0 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.1 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Sophisticats Soho
1.1 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
1.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
