London theatre ★★★

Behind the sprawl of modern London lies the secret history of the capital's most daring and controversial source of entertainment: the theater. During this London Theater Tour, we'll reconstruct London's historic stages, and come to understand the social and artistic forces that were born here and that still underpin entertainment in the western world. In particular, we'll explore the influence of one William Shakespeare, whose works, staged in London, continue to resonate throughout the world today.

• Explores the life and times of William Shakespeare
• Small group and private options
• London Theater Tour led by a theater historian

Shakespeare Tour

Any discussion of the English theater (or theatre, if you prefer) has to start with Shakespeare. Thus we will begin our walk on the South Bank, not far from the Globe Theatre, the modern reconstruction of the playhouse where many of Shakespeare's plays were premiered. Starting here, on the banks of the Thames, takes us back to a time when the theater was a public arena, when plays were a part of everyday life. At the same time, as we explore the surrounding area, we will discover why the theater was feared for so long that it was banished across the river, to this dangerous and dissolute area that was then well outside the city walls.

London Theater Tour

Crossing the river, we will find ourselves transported two centuries forward, to an era when two great royal theaters, Drury Lane and Covent Garden, dominated London's social life. We will explore one of these theaters, both of which have a two-hundred-year legacy, and talk about a few of the legendary performances that gripped audiences in a way that no star could match today. However, as we walk around the area and uncover its history, we will also discover how strong the prejudices were that theaterfolk had to overcome: Both of these historic theaters were situated on the edge of desperate slums, in the midst of an infamous district of market stalls and bagnios that were infiltrated nightly by the demi-monde.

Looking for other can't-miss sites in London? Try our Tower of London Tour or Westminster Abbey Tour.

Upward Mobility

The story of how the theatre turned respectable is also the story of how London changed from an anarchic free-for-all into the proud, somewhat pompous Victorian capital that we see around us today. It is also the story of Shakespeare: of how an obscure boy from the English Midlands awkwardly and haltingly became recognized as the greatest dramatist the world has ever known.

For a broader range of walks in this area take a look at all our history tours of London.

Take Aways

At the end of our time together we'll emerge with a deeper understanding of English theatre as it unfolded in London, from the time of Shakespeare to the grand performances of the Victorian Age. We should also, if fancy strikes, be done in time for a show.

FAQ

Do we go inside the Globe during this tour?

No, our walk includes a discussion of the Globe and the Swan theatre, but we don't go inside. The Globe offers group tours led by the theatre staff. However, we visit part of the Royal Opera House and Drury Lane Theatre.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent. Read more about a family experience on our walk.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

Generally, we cover about 2 miles at a gentle pace.

Learn about the most exciting of industries and its flagship shows on a 2-hour walking tour around the West End. Hear songs performed from some of the greatest works of all time, use this rare opportunity to share your vocal talents.

You can expect your knowledgeable guide to inform you all about the renowned performers of musical theatre, both old and new. Hear more of those we know and love, from Irving Berlin to Andrew Lloyd Webber. As you walk through the West End hear about the composers and performers thoughts about the shows they wrote and performed.
This tour has been carefully tailored to give a balance of entertainment based performance and historical fact. You will gain in-depth insights into London's famous West End theatres. There will be a short break half way round at a family friendly West End pub, for a quick drink (own expense).

This product is the perfect gift for any lover of the West End and a great night out for families. Leave your Cats at home and join us for a Wicked walking tour guaranteed to make anybody Less Miserable!

Experience the incredible true story and songwriting talents of Carole King at Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at London’s Aldwych Theatre. This inspiring, Tony-, Grammy- and Olivier-award winning musical charts King’s journey from penning her first hit ‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’ at just 17 to her rise to fame as one of the best-loved solo acts in pop history. As the story unfolds, enjoy many of her greatest hits, from ‘You’ve Got a Friend,’ to ‘Natural Woman,’ and more, all brought to life by stunning performances, music and choreography.

Make your own way to the Aldwych Theatre in central London to enjoy this captivating, award-laden show, based on the story of chart-topping pop songstress Carole King.
Your ticket guarantees you seats for the show, and ensures excellent views of the stage and every moment of the story, performances and songs.
Learn how the 17-year-old musical maestro sold her first hit, ‘Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,’ and went on to write Number 1 tracks for stars such as The Drifters, Aretha Franklin and The Monkees by the time she was 20.
Then, follow her incredible journey to a superstar in her own right, her marriage to songwriting partner Gerry Goffin, and her rise to become one of the most successful solo acts in pop history.
Along the way, listen to renditions of some of King’s classics that created a soundtrack for a generation, from ‘Up on the Roof’, to ‘Natural Woman’ and ‘You’ve Got a Friend’, all segued together in one seamless and joyous musical.
You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside the Aldwych Theatre. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the action!
Make your evening extra special by upgrading to enjoy a pre-show, 2-course dinner at the Strand Carvery. Serving traditional, mouth-watering oasts, the Strand Carvery is situated conveniently close to the Aldwych Theatre. See the Itinerary below for a sample menu.

Be swept off your feet by the dazzling Kinky Boots musical show at London’s Adelphi Theatre. Based on a true story, this high-kicking musical follows the fortunes of Brit shoe factory owner Charlie Price, and his rise to the fashion catwalks of Milan with the help of sassy cabaret singer Lola, who comes to him for a pair of slinky, kinky stiletto boots. Featuring songs by Grammy- and Tony-winning songstress Cyndi Lauper, this high-spirited, feel-good hit of a show is a must-see while in London.

Travel independently to the Adelphi Theatre in central London to enjoy this mesmerizing show. Inspired by a true story, it follows the fortunes of conservative-thinking British shoemaker Charlie Price, who rises from reluctant factory owner to the catwalks of Milan in a few high-spirited, high-heeled leaps!

Your ticket guarantees you seats, and ensures excellent views of the stage and every moment of the stunning performances, songs and choreography.

Discover how Charlie, aided by Lola, a fabulous cabaret performer in need of a new pair of sturdy stilettos, reaches the heights of fashion fame with a daring new line of erotic boots. With songs by Grammy- and Tony-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, and choreography and direction by two-time Tony-winner Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde and Hairspray); you'll be swept off your feet by this hilarious musical that celebrates friendship and how even the smallest step can end up changing the world.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside the Adelphi Theatre. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the action!

Make your evening extra special by upgrading to enjoy a pre-show, 2-course dinner at the Strand Carvery. Serving traditional, mouth-watering roasts, the Strand Carvery is situated conveniently close by to the Adelphi Theatre. See the Itinerary below for a sample menu.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionery, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Afterward, alight from your sightseeing boat in central London and visit the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre — the world’s largest and most comprehensive exhibition devoted to poet and playwright William Shakespeare.

During your visit, discover the secrets of Elizabethan special effects — from blood and gore to magic tricks — and enjoy live demonstrations including sword-fighting and costume dressings. Explore the theater — a faithful reconstruction of the open-air playhouse first built in 1599 — and learn of the many Shakespearean plays performed here.

Originating in Brighton in the early 1990s, Stomp is a group of percussionists, famed for using different parts of the body and everyday objects to dazzle, spellbind and thrill their audience. This electrifying dance display comprises of no words and little conventional melody, just a sweeping beat accompanied by memorable dance acts that combines elements of percussion, dance, theatre and comedy.

Stomp’s creators, Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas met when they were members of the theatre group Cliff Hanger and the street band Pookiesnackenburger.

The pioneering dance show has performed all over the world and received an Olivier Award nomination for Best Entertainment at Sadler’s Wells in 1994. With an impressive five year run at the Vaudeville Theatre from 2002 to 2007 when it transferred to its current home at the Ambassadors Theatre, Stomp remains one of the West End’s longest-running shows.

Stomp is made up of eight highly-qualified and hugely resourceful musicians, actors and dancers, whose short but highly creative show manages to retain the attention of young viewers and is suitable for ages five and upwards.


Make the most of your night at the theater by upgrading your ticket to include a delicious 2-course pre-show dinner at Scoff & Banter Leicester Square. Flooded with natural light and deeply comfortable, Scoff & Banter Leicester Square restaurant and bar offers a large terrace and is one of London's best al fresco spaces. In the heart of theatre and cinema land, Scoff & Banter Leicester Square restaurant is a great place to relax with a serious cocktail, and to people watch an unrivalled mixture of locals, tourists and celebrities.

Prepare to leave the auditorium aching with laughter as the ‘genuinely hilarious’ Play the Goes Wrong continues to entertain at the Duchess Theatre in London.

Described as being somewhere between Noises Off and Fawlty Towers, the play sees the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society fall into their second calamitous year on the stage, as they prepare for the staging of a 1920s murder mystery. The theatre group battles through the bloopers in a play that anything which could go wrong does go wrong.

The Mischief Theatre Company’s production is written and performed by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Burke and Henry Shields. During its sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival and two successful runs on the West End, the smash comedy has been awarded with a string of five-star reviews and was crowned winner of the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.

The show runs for two hours five minutes, including a 20 minute interval. This side-splitting comedy is fabulous family entertainment, suitable for ages eight and upwards.

Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields of Mischief Theatre and starring the Mischief Theatre Company who brought you the Olivier Award-winning Best New Comedy "The Play That Goes Wrong" and "Peter Pan Goes Wrong".

Make the most of your night at the theater by upgrading your ticket to include a delicious 2-course pre-show dinner at Planet Hollywood. Planet Hollywood is a dining experience like no other, adorned with Hollywood memorabilia such as Ursula Andress's infamous bikini from Dr. No and Rocky's boxing boots. Boasting themed areas, the James Bond Room, British Room and Hollywood Bowl, you'll feel like you are dining with the stars. Tuck into Planet Hollywood's classic burger accompanied with a hand-dipped milkshake or choose from any one of the delicious cocktails on offer. Located on the Haymarket the restaurant is within quick and easy reach of Theatreland.

Pre-book tickets to 'An American in Paris' on its debut in London's West End: choose from two classes of seat at the beautifully refurbished Dominion Theatre, or upgrade for an indulgent pre-theater dinner. Inspired by the Oscar-winning 1951 classic movie, this glorious romp, with stunning dance sequences and Gershwin score, will transport you to the vibrant world of blossoming, post-war Paris.

The show starts at 7:30pm Mondays to Saturdays, with a 2pm matinee on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Settle into your seat for a classic love story, the tale of American soldier Jerry Mulligan, and his love, Lise Bouvier. Intent on pursuing his passion for painting, Jerry decides to stay in Paris at the end of World War II. He falls head over heels in love with the beautiful Lise – but she is already engaged.

Hailed as a “sublime” musical infused with “rich, sustained creativity” on Broadway, An American in Paris makes its debut in London's West End in March 2017. It features toe-tapping Gershwin classics such as ‘Liza’, ‘Stairway to Paradise’, and ‘I Got Rhythm’, along with the signature track, 'An American in Paris'.

You can choose between two classes of seat. Standard-price seats, with a good view of the stage, are usually in the rear stalls or dress circle. For a closer view of the stage, opt for the top price seats. Get the night off to a classically British start by upgrading to a 2-course, pre-theater dinner at Scoff & Banter, just three minutes' walk from the Dominion Theatre: see the itinerary for a sample menu.

The show finishes around 10pm (evenings) or 4:30pm matinees, including an interval break.

This highly anticipated new production of 42nd Street arrives in London with an all-singing, high-kicking cast of over 50 ready to explode on to the West End’s biggest stage, Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Featuring the iconic songs We’re In The Money, Lullaby of Broadway, Shuffle Off To Buffalo, Dames, I Only Have Eyes For You and 42nd Street.

42nd Street is the song and dance, American dream fable of Broadway. Young Peggy Sawyer is fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she’s always dreamed of...

Make the most of your night at the theater by upgrading your ticket to include a delicious 2-course pre-show dinner at Boulevard Brasserie, a classic French brasserie in the heart of Covent Garden's Opera Quarter. Serving great food since 1991, this grande dame of brasseries is the perfect place to soak up Covent Garden's unique and vibrant atmosphere. Head Chef Eugen Mati and her team look forward to preparing for you classic French brasserie fare as well as dishes that recognise the influences of different countries across the Mediterranean.

Bringing the 1992 Disney movie to theatrical life, Aladdin The Musical showcases the love story of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine in London’s West End. Set in a make-believe sultanate, the theater production comes alive with adventures involving the Magic Carpet, Genie, The Sultan and more.

Critically acclaimed, the Disney Broadway hit features timeless songs such as 'Arabian Nights,' 'Friend Like Me' and 'A Whole New World,' as well as music written by renowned theatrical composers such as Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast).

Listen to the backdrop of powerful songs as you watch the stars on stage act out the Disney spectacle. Entrancing choreography and state-of-the-art props bring the tale to life in front of your eyes.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance at Prince Edward Theatre. Standard seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Top-price seats allow you to have a closer view of the stage.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the stars!

Make the most of this memorable performance and upgrade your ticket to include a 3-course pre-show dinner at L'Escargot. This restaurant acts as a tribute to modern art, with Chagall, Miro, Matisse and Hockney hanging on the walls. The interior compliments the food, which is classic French and appeals to meat-lovers, vegetarians, and seafood fans alike. Please see itinerary section below for a sample menu.

Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney's multi-award winning musical 'The Lion King' will redefine your expectations of theater.

A spectacular visual feast, this adaptation of Disney's much-loved film transports audiences to a dazzling world that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. At its heart is the powerful and moving story of Simba - the epic adventure of his journey from wide-eyed cub to King of the Pridelands!

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the stars!

Make the most of this memorable evening and enjoy a 2-course pre-show dinner at Strand Carvery. Strand Carvery is situated close to the theater and serves a traditional roast dinner menu. A sample menu can be viewed in the Itinerary section below

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the stars!

Make the most of this memorable evening and enjoy a 2-course pre-show dinner at Strand Carvery. Strand Carvery is situated close to the theater and serves a traditional roast dinner menu. A sample menu can be viewed in the Itinerary section below.

Based on a classic French thriller about the terrifying and legendary figure who emerges from the depths of The Paris Opera House and manifests the mythic opera ghost in terrifying reality. With some of the most lavish sets, costumes and special effects ever to have been created for the stage, The Phantom of the Opera is a musical phenomenon.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the stars!

Make the most of a memorable evening and enjoy a pre-show dinner at Prezzo Restaurant, Haymarket. Serving Italian cuisine, Prezzo Restaurant has something for everyone and is situated right in the heart of London's theatre district. Sample menus can be viewed in the itinerary section (below).

Based on Gregory Maguire's best selling novel, Wicked transports audiences to a fantasy land of wizardry and witchcraft, with Grammy award winning music, Tony award winning sets and costumes, and stunning special effects. Experience this magical adventure and discover the whole story about the land of Oz.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage and get closer to the stars!

Why not make the most of a memorable evening and enjoy a 2-course dinner at Sicily Restaurant in Belgravia?
Sicily is located only a few minutes away from Victoria, and offers Italian cuisine and an excellent selection of wines. A sample menu can be viewed in the itinerary section (below).

Follow the fictional story of Roald Dahl’s Matilda Wormwood, the extraordinary child brought to life in the author’s 1988 children’s novel. Brought up by cruel parents and faced with the formidable Miss Trunchbull at school, Matilda rebels and uses her telekinetic abilities to help her friend Miss Honey and change her own destiny.

Watch the antics of the beloved characters played out on stage against a medley of songs by Tim Minchin, themed around key scenes from the book. Listen to Miss Honey singing about Matilda in the first act, and enjoy The Smell of Rebellion when the children turn against Miss Trunchbull to help their favorite teacher.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside the New London Theatre. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls (stage level) or dress (upper) circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating to enjoy a full view of the stage and close-up views of the stars on stage. The performance lasts two hours and forty minutes and includes an interval break.

Make the most of this memorable evening and enjoy a 2-course pre-show dinner at Jamie's Italian. The restaurant is situated close to the theater and serves a variety of dishes made with good quality ingredients.

Lose yourself in the story and sounds of Motown at the Motown The Musical show at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre. This rousing musical tells the story of Motown founder, Berry Gordy, from his beginnings as a featherweight boxer to fabled music mogul at the head of the iconic Detroit-based record label. Enjoy Motown tracks such as ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine,’ ‘My Girl,’ and ‘Dancing in the Streets,’ all performed by an exceptional cast and 18-piece orchestra. It's a truly soulful musical sensation, not to missed while in London!

Make your own way to the Shaftesbury Theatre in central London to enjoy this life-affirming musical show, based on the hits of the Motown record label of the 1960s and '70s.
Your ticket guarantees you seats for the show, so you will enjoy excellent views, and every moment of the performances and songs that made Motown one of the world's greatest musical sensations.
Watch transfixed as you learn how, with just $800 borrowed from his family, Berry Gordy turned his back on a career as a featherweight boxer and became one of the world’s greatest music moguls.
Follow his story as he discovered acts such as The Supremes, the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and many more. And as the show unfolds, enjoy tens of Motown’s most-loved hits such as ‘Dancing in the Street,’ ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine,’ ‘My Girl,’ and more, all played by an 18-piece orchestra.
You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside the Shaftesbury Theatre. Standard seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls or dress circle. Alternatively, opt for top-priced seating and enjoy a full view of the stage.
Make your memorable evening even more special by upgrading to enjoy a pre-show, 2-course dinner at the Spaghetti House, Haymarket. Serving classic Italian fare, the Spaghetti House offers dishes to suit every taste and is located right in the heart of London's theater district. See the Itinerary below for a sample menu.

Based on a short story that was itself based on a radio play, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is a record-breaking murder mystery play that has been a fixture on London’s West End for over 60 years, making it the world’s longest running show.

Written by one of the greatest crime writers of all time, the theater show tells the story of a young couple who have set up a hotel in a converted manor house. Following a paralyzing blizzard, the couple and their guests are snowed in, but, when a detective arrives on skis to inform the group that he believes a murderer is on the way, things soon heat up.

After making your own way to the theater, settle into your plush seat and soak up the buzz as your fellow theatergoers take their seats. When the curtain rises, be transfixed as the fast-paced plot unfolds before you and gasp aloud when all is revealed during the play’s twist ending — one of the best kept secrets in theater history.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside St Martin’s Theatre. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls (stage level) or dress (upper) circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating to enjoy a full view of the stage and close-up views of the stars on stage. The performance lasts 2.5 hours and includes an interval break, after which you can find your own transport back to your accommodation.

Paying homage to the late, great Michael Jackson, Thriller Live is an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza that showcases the four-decade long musical career of the iconic ‘Smooth Criminal’ performer. From Jackson 5 right through to his later work, Thriller Live presents more than two hours of non-stop hits, including ‘ABC,’ ‘Dirty Diana,’ ‘Smooth Criminal,’ ‘Beat It’ and ‘Billie Jean,’ and highlights Michael Jackson’s legendary live performances and ground-breaking choreography.

Make your own way to the Lyric Theatre in London’s West End. Then, dance, sing and clap along as you embark on a high-energy visual and audio journey. Moonwalk through Michael Jackson’s glory days as his most popular songs are brought to life before you by an array of talented singers and dancers.

You have the choice of two seating options for the performance inside the Lyric Theatre. Standard priced seats offer a good view of the stage and are usually located in the rear stalls (stage level) or dress (upper) circle. Alternatively, opt for top priced seating to enjoy a full view of the stage and close-up views of the stars on stage. After the performance, which lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and includes an interval break, make your own way back to your accommodation.
Make the most of this memorable performance by upgrading your ticket to include a 2-course pre-show dinner at Spaghetti House. Situated in the heart of London's West End, this Italian restaurant serves classic dishes.

See the Itinerary for a sample menu.