Theatre Royal Drury Lane

The Basics

The best way to experience the theater is with a show. Book in advance to secure seats, opting for a matinee or evening performance to suit your schedule. Alternatively, explore behind the scenes with a guide for access to restricted spaces and deeper insight into the site’s architectural history. Many themed city tours include visits to this historic location—whether you’re a horror hunter or disco diva, you have options.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A visit to the iconic Theatre Royal Drury Lane is a must for theater lovers.

• The venue has wheelchair-accessible seating in the stalls, adapted bathrooms, and a level-access entrance on Russell Street.

• The theater is one of the West End’s most popular, so it’s a good idea to book ahead to guarantee tickets, though last-minute deals are sometimes available.

How to Get There

Theatre Royal Drury Lane is a short walk from Covent Garden and Holborn underground stations, and about 10 minutes from Charing Cross mainline station on foot. Several local buses stop along the Strand. Evening or weekend theatergoers can benefit from Q-Park's Theatreland Parking Scheme, which offers discounted parking to theater ticket holders.

When to Get There

Visitors with kids or busy evenings can take advantage of matinee shows, while worn-out sightseers can unwind after a busy day with an evening performance.

ENSA Headquarters and a Lucky Escape

During World War II, Theatre Royal Drury Lane served as headquarters for the Entertainments National Service Association. ENSA was set up to entertain the armed forces during the war. Performances were prepared at the theater, and then broadcast or toured across Allied territories. Despite fear of bombing, the stars and staff worked tirelessly on the shows. One night, a bomb did fall, though no one died. Part of the bomb is displayed at the theater.

Ways to explore

The best way to experience the theater is with a show, and there is generally a wide selection to choose from. It’s a good idea to book well in advance to secure your seat and preferred performance time—many shows offer both matinee and evening performances.

Alternatively, explore behind the scenes with a guide for access to restricted spaces and deeper insight into the site’s history. Many themed city tours feature the theater, too, from walking tours of the West End and Covent Garden to offbeat options that highlight topics such as underground culture or espionage.

Accessibility

The theater is wheelchair accessible, with suitable toilet facilities available on three of the four levels.

Age limits

Children under age 4 are not allowed at shows, unless they’re designated as “relaxed performances.” Youth ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

What to pack

Tickets, valid identification, credit card

What to wear

There’s no official dress code at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, but many guests tend to wear smart, casual attire.

Not allowed

Outside food or beverages, large bags

Amenities

Restrooms, dining, bar

Address

Theatre Royal Drury Lane is located on Catherine Street in London’s West End, near Covent Garden and King’s College London.

Driving

While it’s possible to arrive at Theatre Royal Drury Lane by car, it’s in a busy area where congestion charges apply. Opt to come by taxi or public transportation instead. The closest parking lot is Intelli-Park on Drury Lane.

Public transportation

Nearby Underground stations include Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), a 4-minute walk from the theater, and Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines), a 10-minute walk. A wide range of bus routes pass nearby, including 1, 4, and 11.

Best times to visit

Matinee shows tend to be slightly more expensive here, so consider evening performances to cut down on costs.

Best days to visit

Theater performances are generally scheduled for Monday through Saturday, with other shows on Sundays. Saturday nights often sell out first.

Best months to visit

Visit November through December to see the holiday light displays in the theater’s West End neighborhood. Spring and fall are also beautiful times to visit London.

Special events

While show business is a year-round part of city life, June’s London International Festival of Theatre fills the West End with a global coterie of performers.