Palace Theatre
113 Shaftesbury Ave, London, England
One of the major theaters in London’s West End, the Palace Theatre has been welcoming visitors since 1891. Originally the Royal English Opera House, the theater has expanded its repertoire over time and hosted many notable plays and musicals, including Les Misérables, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Spamalot. Most recently, it’s been known for being home to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
The basics
Even in the West End—London’s dedicated “Theatre Land,” host to around 40 different performance venues—the Palace Theatre stands out. Its grand, ornamental exterior betrays the historic theater’s origins as an opera house, and its location on Shaftesbury Avenue (the West End’s major theatrical thoroughfare) makes it unmissable.
Since 2016, the Palace Theatre has hosted Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. With nine Olivier Awards, it's billed as one of the most awarded shows in history—and is a must for visiting fans and Harry Potter lovers. Even if you don’t attend a performance, you can admire the Palace Theatre on any number of London sightseeing excursions, including West End walking tours, Harry Potter-themed London tours, and photography tours.
Things to know before you go
There are restrooms and bars on all four levels of the theater.
The theater offers an accessible entrance to its ground-level Stalls seating for wheelchair users, though there is one small step and a slight incline to access the Stalls.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is recommended for viewers ages 10 and up.
How to get there
The Palace Theatre is located at 113 Shaftesbury Avenue, in the heart of the West End. If you’re using public transit, the theater is within walking distance of Tottenham Court Road (served by the Central, Northern, and Elizabeth lines), Leicester Square (served by the Piccadilly and Northern lines), and Piccadilly Circus (served by the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines). Buses, taxis, and rideshare services also frequent the area.
When to get there
The Palace Theatre is only open on days when performances are held; it opens one hour before showtime. Its on-site box office is open only on performance days, from midday until evening. Check your tickets to confirm the exact timings.
Notable West End theaters
The Palace Theatre is among the most notable theaters in the West End, but the neighborhood is home to a wealth of other performance venues. Other theaters known for their history, architecture, and productions include the Lyceum Theatre (home to The Lion King since 1999), the London Coliseum (the West End’s largest theater and a destination for ballet and opera), and the Theatre Royal Drury Lane (a theater has stood on site since 1663).
Ways to explore
Since 2016, the theater has hosted Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, one of the most awarded West End shows in history. Due to its popularity, many visitors purchase their tickets well in advance.
If you’re not seeing a performance, it’s also possible to admire the stunning architectural details of the theater on a range of tours. Options include West End walking tours, photography walks, and Harry Potter–themed experiences. These include self-guided strolls using a smartphone app, group tours of Harry Potter locations, and private tours for a more personalized experience.
Accessibility
The theater is wheelchair accessible, and there is an accessible restroom. There is no wheelchair access at the bars, but the staff can purchase drinks and snacks for visitors with accessibility requirements.
Age limits
Children under 5 are not permitted. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is recommended for ages 8 and above.
What to pack
Small bag, contactless payment method
What to wear
Comfortable clothing, extra layers
Not allowed
Recording performances, smoking (including e-cigarettes), outside food or drink
Amenities
Bars, restrooms, air conditioning
Address
On Shaftesbury Avenue in the West End, the Palace Theatre is easy to reach by tube, with Leicester Square nearby. Many visitors also stop outside during self-guided or guided walking tours of central London or Harry Potter locations.
Driving
Parking in the West End is limited and expensive, so driving isn’t recommended. It’s much better to use public transit, or opt for a rideshare if you want to go by car.
Public transportation
The theater is close to several Underground stations. Leicester Square (Northern, Piccadilly), Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern, Elizabeth), and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo, Piccadilly) are all convenient options.
Best times to visit
To see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, many visitors book the two parts—usually scheduled as a matinee and an early evening performance on the same day.
Best days to visit
Performances typically take place on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Wednesdays may offer better ticket availability.
Best months to visit
Since July and August tend to get very busy, try to come in June or September instead for good weather and fewer crowds.
Special events
The theater doesn’t usually host special events, but nearby Chinatown is lively for Chinese New Year, and Covent Garden is magical at Christmastime.
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