Piccadilly Theatre

The Basics

The Piccadilly Theatre is nestled in the heart of the city’s entertainment district, making it possible to admire its modern facade on a walking tour of the area. Those who book a matinee or evening show get to appreciate the 3-level auditorium’s 20th-century art deco interior. Look out for the few remaining original fittings, and benefit from the theatre’s close proximity to top Soho restaurants and bars for an immersive London nightlife experience.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The theater’s diverse program is popular with adults and children alike.

• Book your tickets ahead of time to secure the best seats and deals.

• Certain sections of the theater are accessible for wheelchair users. Alert the theater of your needs ahead of time and arrive early.

How to Get There

Piccadilly Circus is the nearest Underground station. Several local buses serve nearby Regent Street and Shaftesbury Avenue. Driving is best avoided during weekdays when the Congestion Charge applies. However, evening or weekend visitors can park in nearby Chinatown Car Park and enjoy discounted parking when tickets are validated at the theater.

When to Get There

Shows tend to run in four- to eight-month blocks, so check ahead if there’s a specific performance you want to see. Otherwise, matinees are generally popular with families and school trips, while evening shows tend to draw a more adult crowd. Be aware that Soho is often busy, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.

The West End

Piccadilly Theatre is just one of many notable theaters in London’s West End, the famous commercial theater district with a history dating back to the 1600s. Culture vultures and arts enthusiasts can discover more than 40 historic venues packed into the area, including the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, and St. Martin's Theatre.

Ways to explore

Walking tours of Piccadilly Circus often pass by Piccadilly Theatre, but to see this West End landmark from the inside, you’ll need to book tickets for a performance. Ticket prices vary depending on the day, seating, and time, with prices currently ranging from around £20 for seats at the back to £150 for the central stalls.

You can also buy ticket packages, which in addition to your seats, include access to the Ambassador Lounge, drinks, food, and a programme.

Accessibility

The theater is wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair spaces and seating. The theater has an access telephone line—listed on its website—so that anyone with access needs can call ahead and ensure the venue can accommodate specific requirements. Service dogs are welcome.

Age limits

Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the theater. Moulin Rouge! is recommended for kids aged 12 and above.

What to pack

Pack light; you can’t bring suitcases, backpacks, or bulky bags into the theater (they must be left in the cloakroom).

What to wear

There’s no dress code, so wear whatever you like, whether that’s a ball gown or sneakers and jeans.

Not allowed

Talking on your phone during performances, taking photos or recording videos, arriving well after the start of the show (slightly late, and you’ll still get seated)

Amenities

Bars, cloakroom for large bags, merchandise kiosk, complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Address

The Piccadilly Theatre is in the heart of central London, just steps from Piccadilly Circus. Its location makes it easy to reach; most audience members travel via public transport.

Driving

While it’s possible to reach Piccadilly Theatre by car, driving in London is best avoided: drivers have to pay the daily Congestion Charge and a ULEZ charge (if eligible), traffic is always hectic, and parking is limited and expensive. Take a taxi or rideshare, or opt for public transport.

Public transportation

Unsurprisingly, given the theater’s name, Piccadilly Circus is the closest tube stop, which is served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines. From there, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the theater. Multiple bus lines stop nearby, including the 24, 29, and 176.

Best times to visit

Your best bet for discounted tickets is matinee shows and weeknight performances, while weekends are typically more booked up.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday for fewer crowds in the surrounding central London area.

Best months to visit

January and February are the quietest months, so that’s when you’ll have the easiest time snagging a seat. That is, if you can stand London’s biting chill.

Special events

West End Live takes place annually at the start of the summer in Trafalgar Square. Expect free outdoor performances from top West End musicals, including new and up-and-coming shows.