Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a grand Victorian-era venue located on Shaftesbury Avenue in the heart of London's West End. Built in 1891, it features a striking terracotta facade and an opulent interior with gilded plasterwork, a large dome, and a horseshoe-shaped auditorium that seats about 1,400. The theatre has hosted a variety of productions over the decades, from operas and ballets to classic plays, but it is best known today as the home of Disney's 'The Lion King', which has been running since 1999. The experience of visiting is as much about the building as the show: the ornate foyer, sweeping staircases, and intricate ceiling paintings create a sense of occasion. The acoustics are excellent, and even seats in the upper balconies offer good views. The theatre's location on Shaftesbury Avenue puts it at the center of London's theatre district, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and other iconic venues. What makes the Palace Theatre distinctive is its blend of historic charm and modern blockbuster appeal, it's one of the few West End theatres that still retains its original Victorian features while hosting a world-famous musical. Whether you're a theatre buff or a first-time visitor, catching a show here is a quintessential London experience.

Don't miss

• Admire the ornate terracotta exterior and the grand staircase inside
• See 'The Lion King', one of the West End's longest-running musicals
• Look up at the painted ceiling and the large dome in the auditorium
• Visit the bar areas, which retain original Victorian decor
• Explore the surrounding area: China Town, Soho, and Covent Garden are a short walk away

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Palace Theatre

Cheapest way inLondon Theatre: Mamma Mia!4.7★ · 114 travelers~3 hoursFrom$28 per personSee dates →Best full dayTower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Day Ticket4.4★ · 7,295 travelers~24 hoursFree cancellationFrom$51 per personSee dates →Top ratedLondon's Palaces & Parliament Tour (See Over 20+ London Top Sights)4.9★ · 1,733 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before curtain; latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break.
• Dress code is smart casual; no strict rules, but avoid sportswear or large hats.
• Turn off your phone during the performance. Photography is not allowed inside the auditorium.
• Drinks can be pre-ordered for the interval to avoid queues.

A bit of history

Designed by Thomas Edward Collcutt and opened in 1891 as the Royal English Opera House, it was intended to showcase English grand opera. After financial difficulties, it became a variety theatre and later a cinema before returning to live theatre. It has hosted premieres of major works, including 'The Sound of Music' in 1961.