5 Best Theaters in London's West End: Shows and Tickets

West End Theaters A World of Entertainment Awaits

Alright theatre lovers! Planning a trip to London and itching to catch a show in the West End? You've come to the right place. The West End is basically London's Broadway, a dazzling district packed with incredible theaters showcasing everything from classic musicals to cutting-edge plays. Choosing the right show and theater can feel overwhelming, so I'm here to give you the inside scoop on five of the absolute best theaters in the West End, plus tips on snagging tickets and making the most of your experience. Get ready to be amazed!

Criterion Theatre A Victorian Gem with Amazing Acoustics

First up, we have the Criterion Theatre. This place is seriously gorgeous. Built in 1874, it's a stunning example of Victorian architecture, all ornate details and plush seating. But the real magic lies in its acoustics. Seriously, even if you're sitting in the back row, you'll hear every note and every word crystal clear. The Criterion is known for its long-running productions, often comedies or plays with a bit of a quirky edge. It's an intimate space, seating around 600 people, which makes for a really immersive experience. You feel like you're right there with the actors!

Recommended Show: The Comedy About A Bank Robbery. This is pure slapstick comedy gold. Expect lots of physical humor, crazy stunts, and laugh-out-loud moments. Perfect for a fun night out!

Ticket Tip: Check for last-minute deals! The Criterion often releases unsold tickets at discounted prices on the day of the show. You can usually find these deals online or at the theater box office.

Apollo Victoria Theatre Home to Wicked and a Magical Experience

Next, let's head over to the Apollo Victoria Theatre. This theater is HUGE and grand, and it's currently home to the phenomenal musical, Wicked. If you're a fan of musicals, this is a must-see. The Apollo Victoria is a bit more modern than the Criterion, but it still has plenty of character and charm. The seating is comfortable, and the sightlines are generally excellent throughout the theater. And trust me, the set design and costumes for Wicked are absolutely breathtaking. It's a truly magical experience from start to finish.

Recommended Show: Wicked. Seriously, if you haven't seen it, go! It's a brilliant retelling of the story of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. The music is fantastic, the performances are incredible, and the story is surprisingly moving.

Product Recommendation: Wicked Merchandise Consider buying a Wicked program (£8-£12) as a souvenir, or a limited-edition Wicked plush toy (£20-£30) for a child. The program offers behind-the-scenes insights, while the plush toy becomes a cherished memory of the show. These are available at the theatre's merchandise shop during the show.

Gielgud Theatre A Historic Venue Hosting Award-Winning Plays

The Gielgud Theatre is steeped in history. It's been around since 1906 and has hosted some of the biggest names in theater. It's a beautiful theater with a classic proscenium arch stage. The Gielgud tends to feature more serious plays, often with star-studded casts. It's a great choice if you're looking for something thought-provoking and dramatic. The atmosphere inside is electric, especially when a big name is performing.

Recommended Show: Check the Gielgud's website for current productions. They often have limited-run plays featuring famous actors.

Ticket Tip: Book in advance! The Gielgud is a popular venue, so tickets for popular shows can sell out quickly. Try to book your tickets several weeks or even months in advance, especially if you want to see a specific actor.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane A Royal Theater with a Rich Past

Now, let's talk about the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. This is one of the oldest theaters in London, with a history dating back to the 17th century! It's been rebuilt and renovated several times over the years, but it still retains its grandeur and prestige. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is HUGE, seating over 2,000 people. It's known for hosting large-scale musicals and spectacular productions. Seeing a show here is a truly special experience.

Recommended Show: Frozen. This is a visually stunning production with incredible special effects. Perfect for families and fans of the Disney movie.

Product Recommendation: Binoculars for Enhanced Viewing For a grand theatre like Theatre Royal Drury Lane, consider bringing a pair of small binoculars (£15-£30). They enhance the viewing experience, especially if you're seated further back. Compact binoculars fit easily in a bag and allow you to see intricate details on stage that you might otherwise miss. Available at most opticians or online retailers.

Shakespeare's Globe A Unique Open-Air Theater Experience

Okay, this one's a little different. Shakespeare's Globe isn't technically in the West End, but it's so iconic and important that I had to include it. This is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare's plays were first performed. It's an open-air theater, which means you're exposed to the elements (so check the weather forecast!). But it's an incredibly unique and immersive experience. Seeing a Shakespeare play at the Globe is like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is electric, and the performances are usually very lively and engaging.

Recommended Show: Any Shakespeare play! Check the Globe's website for their current season. They usually have a variety of productions running throughout the summer.

Comfort Recommendation: A Comfortable Cushion Because seating can be hard, renting a cushion (£1-£2) from the Globe's shop is advisable. It will make the experience much more comfortable, particularly during longer performances. They are available at the entrance to the yard.

West End Tickets How to Snag the Best Deals and Seats

Okay, so you've picked your theater and your show. Now it's time to buy tickets. Here are a few tips for getting the best deals:

• Book in advance: As I mentioned earlier, booking in advance is always a good idea, especially for popular shows.
• Check for discounts: Many theaters offer discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Check the theater's website or call the box office to see what's available.
• Consider matinee performances: Matinee performances (afternoon shows) are often cheaper than evening performances.
• Look for last-minute deals: Many theaters release unsold tickets at discounted prices on the day of the show. You can usually find these deals online or at the theater box office. Sites like TodayTix and Official London Theatre are great for finding these deals.
• Enter lotteries: Some shows offer lottery tickets, where you can enter for a chance to win heavily discounted tickets.

Pre-Theater Dining and Drinks Fueling Up for the Show

Don't forget to fuel up before the show! The West End is packed with restaurants and bars, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:

• For a quick bite: There are tons of cafes and sandwich shops in the area. Pret a Manger and EAT are always reliable options.
• For a casual meal: Check out some of the many pubs and restaurants in the area. The Marquis is a classic pub with a great atmosphere. Dishoom is a popular Indian restaurant with delicious food.
• For a fancy dinner: If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, there are plenty of fine dining restaurants in the West End. The Savoy Grill is a legendary restaurant with a rich history.

West End Theater Etiquette Tips for a Smooth Experience

Finally, here are a few tips for theater etiquette:

• Arrive on time: Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.
• Turn off your phone: This is a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating.
• Avoid talking during the performance: It's distracting to other audience members.
• Don't unwrap noisy snacks: Crinkly wrappers are a major pet peeve for many theatergoers.
• Clap and cheer when appropriate: Show your appreciation for the performers!

Comparing Different West End Theatre Experiences Choosing the Right Fit

So, how do you choose the right theatre and show for you? Consider these factors:

• Your taste in shows: Do you prefer musicals, plays, comedies, or dramas?
• Your budget: Ticket prices can vary widely, so set a budget before you start looking.
• Your seating preference: Do you prefer to be close to the stage or further back?
• The theater's atmosphere: Do you prefer a grand, opulent theater or a more intimate space?

Ultimately, the best way to choose a show is to do your research and read reviews. Check out websites like TripAdvisor and Time Out for recommendations.

Getting to the West End Transportation Options and Parking Tips

Getting to the West End is easy. The best way to get around is by public transportation. The London Underground (the Tube) has several stations in the West End, including Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus. Buses are also a convenient option. If you're driving, parking can be difficult and expensive. Consider using a parking garage or taking public transportation instead.

Beyond the Show Exploring the West End's Attractions

The West End is more than just theaters. It's also home to many other attractions, including museums, shops, and restaurants. Here are a few things to do before or after your show:

• Visit the National Gallery: This museum houses a vast collection of European paintings.
• Explore Covent Garden: This historic market is now home to shops, restaurants, and street performers.
• Take a stroll through Leicester Square: This bustling square is home to many theaters, cinemas, and restaurants.
• Visit Trafalgar Square: This iconic square is home to Nelson's Column and the National Gallery.

So there you have it! My guide to the best theaters in London's West End. I hope this helps you plan your next theater trip. Enjoy the show!