Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London

One of the largest theatres in the West End, filling its own block on Catherine Street in Covent Garden, about five minutes from Covent Garden tube. It has 1,996 seats over four levels and a stage built for big musicals, so where you sit can make a real difference to your night.

Still choosing seats? The centre of the Stalls, rows F to K, or the front of the Royal Circle, rows B to E. For value, the front of the Grand Circle sees the whole stage for a lot less, and the Side Stalls are a good buy too. The Balcony is the cheapest and very high.

Already booked? Doors open an hour before, there's a lift to all four levels, and the bars are some of the most beautiful in all of Theatreland, so it pays to arrive early. Aim for 15 to 20 minutes before curtain at the latest.

Below: the seating plan and a page for each level, from the Stalls to the Balcony, which Boxes to book and which to skip, how to get here, access and facilities, restaurants, pubs and hotels nearby, and more about the building.

Quick facts

  • Address: Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF
  • Nearest tube: Covent Garden, about 5 to 6 minutes
  • Capacity: 1,996
  • Levels: Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle and Balcony, plus Boxes at Royal Circle and Grand Circle level
  • Doors: 60 minutes before the show. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before, no later
  • Operator: LW Theatres

What's On at Theatre Royal Drury Lane

The theatre is between productions until Jesus Christ Superstar opens on 16 October 2026. It plays until 9 January 2027, a strictly limited season transferring from the London Palladium, with Sam Ryder as Jesus.

Coming next:

Call us on 020 7193 9050 for seat advice on any of them.

What do tickets cost at Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

It depends on the show and the date, and each show's page has its current prices. Every ticket includes the theatre's £1.70 restoration levy, and with us it's all-in pricing, the price you see is what you pay. A seat sold with a restricted view is always marked, so you'll know before you buy.

Book Theatre Royal Drury Lane tickets

All-in pricing, the price you see is what you pay.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane FAQs

How many seats does Theatre Royal Drury Lane have?

1,996. From the ground up that's the Stalls, then the Royal Circle, then the Grand Circle, with the Balcony at the top, and there are Boxes on the two middle levels. It's one of the largest theatres in the West End.

What's on at Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

Big musicals, limited seasons and one-night concerts. Jesus Christ Superstar plays from 16 October 2026 to 9 January 2027. The full list is above.

Is The Greatest Showman Musical coming to Drury Lane?

Yes. The Greatest Showman opens here in Spring 2027, directed by Casey Nicholaw, with Oliver Tompsett as P. T. Barnum and Samantha Barks as Charity. Dates and prices haven't been announced yet, and it isn't on sale.

Who owns Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

LW Theatres, Andrew Lloyd Webber's theatre group, which also runs the London Palladium. The restored building and its bars and restaurant go by the name The Lane.

Is there a dress code? Can I wear jeans and trainers?

No, there isn't one. Most people come smart-casual, and jeans and trainers are completely fine. Some dress up because the building suits a night out, but you're just as welcome in whatever's comfortable.

Can I take food and drink in?

Snacks, yes, but alcohol bought outside isn't allowed and is taken off you at the bag search. If you need food, drink or medication for a medical condition, bring it and ask for a manager before you go through security. The bars sell drinks and snacks, and if you put in an interval order before the show starts, it'll be ready at the break.

Can I bring a bag?

Yes, but keep it small. Every bag is searched on the way in and large bags are discouraged. The cloakroom takes coats for £3 an item and bags and suitcases for £5, so a case can go there if you're coming straight from a train.

Can I bring children?

Every child needs their own ticket, and babies in arms aren't admitted. Under-4s aren't admitted to the current shows, and anyone 15 or under has to sit with an adult. The theatre also keeps free booster cushions, but there aren't many, so ask early.

What time does the Box Office open?

Midday on show days. You don't need to go in person: book with us online or call 020 7193 9050, and your tickets come as e-tickets.

Can I book by phone?

Yes. Call us on 020 7193 9050 and we'll tell you what's free on your date and which seats are the better buy for your budget. In a theatre with four levels and 1,996 seats that matters, and the price we tell you is the price you pay.

Can I do a tour of Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

Yes. A guided tour lasts roughly an hour and a quarter, covering the building's history and its restored rooms, and some dates include a look behind the scenes. They're booked with the venue, separately from show tickets, and don't take place at the same time as shows. There are a lot of stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.

Is there afternoon tea at Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

Yes. It's served in the Grand Saloon, the restored Regency saloon at Royal Circle level, and you don't need a show ticket to go. It's booked with the venue rather than with your theatre tickets.