Tom Stoppard Theatre (formerly the Duke of York's), London

Upper Circle at the Tom Stoppard Theatre

The highest level you can sit in, 23 steps up from the street, with no lift. The ends of its rows are the cheapest seats in the building for the current production. The Stalls and the Royal Circle are clearly better seats, and the legroom up here is the worst in the theatre, but from the middle of the level the stage is not far off.

Rows A to F are seats, rows G and H at the back are benches, and there are standing places.

Where to sit in the Upper Circle

• Book: the centre of rows B to D. Take row B over row A, where your knees are pressed against the wall
• The benches, rows G and H. Plain benches, no arm rests. The ends of row H leave space to stretch one leg, which makes them the comfiest spots up here. Row H can miss the back of a deep set, though
• Standing. A cheap ticket with a ledge to lean on, best kept for a short show
• Swap out of: the first and last two seats of rows B to F. The curve of the circle cuts off the front and side of the stage, and they are sold as restricted view

Legroom

The worst in the theatre. Row A, at the front, is the tightest, with your knees pressed against the wall of the circle. Rows B to F are tight too for anyone much over average height, and aisle seats help. If legroom matters more than price, the Stalls are the level for it.

What else to know up here

Above you is a balcony that is no longer in use, and doesn't make any difference to your view. There is a safety ledge along the front, and if the row in front of you leans forward on it, you lose part of the stage.

The Terrace Bar

Our favourite bar in the building is on this level. The Terrace Bar has a small balcony and a little side room. It is tiny, but get up here early and get a good spot and it is a great place before the show or at the interval, especially for some fresh air. It opens 90 minutes before curtain up.