Apollo Victoria Theatre

The Basics

You can book in advance to secure seats at the best-selling show, with options available to suit various budgets. As you settle in, notice the auditorium’s aquatically inspired decor and atmospheric lighting—the Apollo Victoria was the first theater to use an entirely LED system. To combine a visit to the venue with additional sightseeing, and for intimate insight into the history of Theatreland (aka the West End), consider joining a guided city tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Apollo Victoria Theatre is a must-visit for musical fans.

• The theater is accessible to wheelchairs via a platform elevator on Vauxhall Bridge Road.

• Contact the theater directly to arrange tickets for one of the occasional access-assisted performances.

• On-the-day ticket lines are notoriously long, so it’s wise to book before you arrive.

• Strollers and large coats can be checked into the cloakroom; large suitcases and backpacks aren’t accepted.

How to Get There

The best way to get to the Apollo Victoria is by public transit, as the theater is located right outside London Victoria station, one of the capital’s major transport hubs. The station is on the Victoria, District, and Circle underground lines; it’s also part of the National Rail network. Day and night buses serve the area as well.

When to Get There

West End theater is a treat at any time of year. However, there’s something festive about a winter matinee, followed by a wander around London’s illuminated streets. Matinees take place every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon, while evening shows run daily except on Sunday. On-the-day seats are released each morning at the Wilson Road Box Office and sold on a first-come-first-serve basis, limited to two tickets per person.

Wandering Westminster

The Apollo Victoria’s convenient location makes it an easy stop while sightseeing in London’s famous City of Westminster. As the theater is just over a 10-minute walk from iconic sights such as Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s Gallery, and the Royal Mews, spend a day admiring the royal grounds and exploring the sprawling St. James’s Park before strolling south to catch the evening show.

Ways to explore

Tickets for Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre often sell out quickly, so it’s worth booking in advance to get the best choice of dates and seats. For top views, aim for the center of the stalls between rows F and S, which offer a clear, immersive perspective of the stage. Rows B to F in the Dress Circle are also excellent, with little to no visual obstruction. If you’re on a budget, there’s good value on the outer edges of the stalls, rows A to P, or toward the back of the Dress Circle. The show lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes, including an intermission.

Accessibility

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with four wheelchair positions on Row F in the Circle. There are also accessible restrooms.

Age limits

Babies and children under 5 are not allowed at shows, and the age recommendation is 7-plus.

What to pack

Small bag, device or print-off of e-ticket

What to wear

Comfortable clothing, extra layers

Not allowed

Large suitcases or backpacks, the use of mobile phones or electronic devices during performances

Amenities

Bar, at-seat ordering, Wi-Fi

Address

The Apollo Victoria Theatre is located in central London, next to Victoria Station, so public transportation is by far the best way to get there—Victoria is one of London’s major transit hubs.

Driving

Avoid driving if possible—traffic is heavy and parking is limited. Instead, use public transportation or a ridesharing app. If you must drive, the nearest parking option is MasterPark on Rochester Row.

Public transportation

National Rail services from other cities come into Victoria Station. It’s also a London Underground station on the Victoria, Circle, and District lines. Victoria Coach Station is close by too.

Best times to visit

Matinee performances usually take place at 2:30pm and may be less busy than evening shows.

Best days to visit

Shows don’t usually run on Mondays, but otherwise consider seeing a weeknight show.

Best months to visit

Come in May, June, or September to escape the peak July and August summer crowds.

Special events

If you happen to visit in late November or December, London is a magical place to be at Christmastime, with markets and eye-catching window displays.