St. Martin's Theatre: Home of the World's Longest-Running Play
Historic West End theatre renowned for hosting the world’s longest-running play, Agatha Christie’s iconic "The Mousetrap."
St. Martin's Theatre, located on West Street in London's West End, is a historic Georgian-style venue opened in 1916. Renowned for hosting Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" since 1974, it holds the record for the longest continuous theatrical run worldwide. With an intimate capacity of about 550 seats across three levels, the theatre offers excellent sightlines and a rich history of British theatrical excellence.
A brief summary to St. Martin's Theatre
- West St, London, WC2H 9NZ, GB
- +442078361443
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose central seats in the Stalls, especially rows F to G, which offer excellent sightlines and legroom.
- The Dress Circle provides a closer elevated view; front rows here are prized for unobstructed sightlines.
- Upper Circle seats are the most affordable but can be steep and have restricted views; aisle seats are recommended for taller guests.
- The theatre has limited wheelchair accessibility, mainly in the Dress Circle; Stalls and Upper Circle require stair access.
- Arrive early to enjoy the theatre’s classic Georgian interior and visit the bars and cloakroom facilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Northern Line to Leicester Square station, approximately a 7-10 minute walk to St. Martin's Theatre. The station has step-free access at one entrance, but the walk involves some busy streets. Tickets cost £2.50–£6.00 depending on zones and time.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near West Street, including routes 14, 19, 38, and 176. Buses run frequently, with a journey time of 15-25 minutes from central London areas. A contactless Oyster card or Travelcard can be used for fares around £1.65 per ride.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £8 to £20. Note that traffic congestion can affect travel time, especially during peak hours.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Covent Garden or Soho, walking to St. Martin's Theatre takes approximately 10-15 minutes on mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible but involves navigating busy pedestrian areas.
St. Martin's Theatre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about St. Martin's Theatre
Architectural Elegance and Historical Roots
St. Martin's Theatre was designed by the acclaimed theatre architect W. G. R. Sprague and opened its doors on 23 November 1916. Intended as a pair with the nearby Ambassadors Theatre, its construction was delayed by World War I. The theatre's style is English Georgian, evoking the feel of a private, elegant venue with Italian walnut paneling, gilded capitals, and a bold entablature framing the proscenium. Owned by the Willoughby de Broke family since its inception, it remains a cherished heritage site listed as Grade II.A Stage for Theatrical Legends and Enduring Productions
Since its opening, St. Martin's has hosted a variety of notable productions, including the Edwardian musical comedy "Houp La!" and plays like "R.U.R.", "The Grass is Greener," and "Sleuth." The theatre gained international fame when Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" transferred here in 1974 from the Ambassadors Theatre. This murder mystery has become the longest continuously running show in the world, captivating audiences with its suspenseful plot and secret ending.Intimate Audience Experience and Seating
With a seating capacity of approximately 550, St. Martin's offers an intimate West End experience. The auditorium is divided into three levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle. The Stalls provide the best views and legroom, especially in central rows, while the Dress Circle offers excellent sightlines closer to the stage. The Upper Circle is the most economical option but features steep seating and some restricted views. The theatre's compact size ensures that even the farthest seats maintain a close connection to the stage action.Atmosphere and Cultural Significance
The theatre exudes a classic, refined atmosphere with its Georgian aesthetics and rich woodwork. It has been a cultural landmark in London's West End for over a century, symbolizing theatrical tradition and endurance. The continuous staging of "The Mousetrap" has made it a pilgrimage site for theatre lovers worldwide, contributing significantly to London's vibrant performing arts scene.Modern Operations and Visitor Amenities
St. Martin's Theatre maintains modern amenities such as a cloakroom and bars to enhance visitor comfort. While the seating is historic, efforts have been made to balance preservation with audience needs. The theatre is well-regarded for its acoustics and sightlines, making every performance immersive. Accessibility is limited, with the Dress Circle offering some wheelchair access, but the Stalls and Upper Circle require stair navigation.Legacy and Continuing Appeal
More than 15 million people have visited St. Martin's Theatre since its opening. Its ongoing production of "The Mousetrap" continues to break records and attract new generations of theatre-goers. The venue stands as a testament to London's enduring love for live theatre and the power of storytelling, making it a must-visit landmark for cultural travelers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Seven Dials
0.1 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.1 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
St Giles in the Fields
0.3 km
Medieval leper hospital turned Palladian masterpiece—nearly 1000 years of London's sacred and troubled history
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.3 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Denmark St
0.3 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.3 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Harry Potter Statue
0.3 km
Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, where street performances, shopping, and history come together in the heart of London.
Mr Bean Statue
0.3 km
Explore the whimsical Mr. Bean Statue in Leicester Square, a must-see landmark that captures the charm and humor of British culture in the heart of London.
Leicester Square
0.3 km
London's glittering entertainment epicentre where cinema, theatre, and street culture converge in the heart of the West End.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.3 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
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.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.4 km
A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Ambassadors Theatre
0.0 km
Experience intimate West End theatre history and timeless performances at the charming Ambassadors Theatre in London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.1 km
Discover rare literary treasures and timeless classics at Henry Pordes Books, a cherished second-hand bookshop on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
0.1 km
Explore Charing Cross Road, London’s iconic street famed for legendary bookshops, theatres, and a vibrant cultural pulse in the West End.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.1 km
Covent Garden's chic courtyard escape: stylish shops, global eats, and pop-up magic in a reborn urban haven.
House of Spells
0.1 km
Step into House of Spells, London’s enchanting two-floor shop offering authentic Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles in a magical, immersive setting.
Arts Theatre
0.1 km
A historic, intimate West End theatre offering close-up performances in a cozy setting since 1927.
Cambridge Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in an intimate Art Deco venue at the heart of London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Seven Dials
0.1 km
Explore Seven Dials, a historic and vibrant area in London filled with unique shops, charming cafes, and cultural experiences that embody the city's spirit.
Mercer Walk
0.1 km
Discover Mercer Walk, a charming cobbled alley in Covent Garden filled with boutiques, cafes, and artistic flair, offering a peaceful urban retreat.
West End
0.1 km
Experience London’s vibrant West End, the iconic hub of world-class theatres, premier shopping streets, and rich cultural heritage.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.1 km
Shaftesbury Avenue pulses with theatre lights, historic charm, and vibrant culture at the heart of London’s West End entertainment district.
Slingsby Place
0.1 km
Discover the serene charm of Slingsby Place, a historic pedestrian courtyard in Covent Garden with lush greenery, dining, and cultural flair.
Palace Theatre
0.1 km
A grand West End theatre since 1891, now home to the magical Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the heart of London’s theatreland.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the best of London’s nightlife at Comedy Carnival Covent Garden, where top comedians bring laughter to life in an intimate setting.
Seven Dials Comedy @ The Seven Dials Club
0.2 km
Intimate stand-up comedy in the heart of Covent Garden with top international acts and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.1 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.2 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
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.
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.
Meet Fresh
0.3 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Circus
0.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Gauthier Soho
0.3 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Hoppers Soho
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
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.
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.
Noble Rot Soho
0.3 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Urban Outfitters
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.2 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.2 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
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.
Pop Boutique
0.2 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 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.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.3 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.3 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
La Boutik
0.3 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
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.
M&M'S London
0.4 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.4 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Prelude by Oriole
0.1 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.1 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)
The Escapologist Bar
0.1 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
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.
Bar Termini
0.2 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Ku Bar
0.2 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Swift Soho
0.2 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Black Book
0.3 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
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.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.3 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.3 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.3 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.3 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.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.3 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Ivy Club
0.0 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.1 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 Roxy
0.2 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.
La Capannina Club
0.3 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
0.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Sophisticats Soho
0.4 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
0.4 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.
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 Box Soho
0.4 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
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.
Tiger Tiger London
0.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
St Moritz Club
0.5 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
