London Coliseum events and tickets

The London Coliseum, home to the English National Opera, is the largest theatre in London’s West End, boasting 2,359 seats. Throughout the year, it hosts a diverse array of world-class performances.  

Audiences can enjoy classic ballet favourites such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, alongside up-and-coming productions and acclaimed English National Opera performances. With something for everyone, the London Coliseum is a must-visit for all music and dance enthusiasts.  

The London Coliseum history 

Although it’s now home to the English National Opera, the London Coliseum hasn’t always staged opera. The theatre opened in 1904 and operated as a variety theatre welcoming entertainment of all forms, from concerts to musicals and comedies, acrobatics and even chariot races. In 1968, it became the home of the Sadler's Wells Opera (which was to finally become the English National Opera), confirming its status as a top London cultural institution. The London Coliseum features the city's first revolving stage, a groundbreaking innovation that brings performances to life. This cutting-edge feature was later adopted by the London Palladium. Today, the Coliseum remains the largest theatre in London’s West End, enchanting audiences with its rich history and diverse programming. 

Opera at the London Coliseum  

The London Coliseum has staged numerous performances, presenting innovative productions of both classic and contemporary operas. Its grand auditorium, renowned for superb acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing exceptional talents. The Coliseum has hosted many operas including Carmen, La Bohème and La Traviata featuring regularly in the programme alongside new productions set to entertain opera-goers. 

Musicals at the London Coliseum  

In 2024, the Coliseum welcomed the debut stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s beloved Spirited Away – a production that went on to earn four nominations at the 2025 Olivier Awards, including Best Set Design, Best Costume Design, Best Sound Design and Best New Entertainment. 

2023 saw the much-awaited return of worldwide sensation We Will Rock You, a musical by Queen and Ben Elton, taking the same stage Freddie Mercury performed at in 1979. And more recently, The Great Gatsby moved from Broadway to the West End, receiving wide applause in its debut performance.  

In 2026, Kinky Boots the Musical is making a comeback (17 March – 11 July), with Johannes Radebe reprising the role of Lola. This will be his much-awaited debut in the new adaptation of the Olivier and Tony Award-winning musical, based on the book by Harvey Fierstein and featuring music by Cyndi Lauper.

Ballet at the London Coliseum 

The London Coliseum dazzles Londoners and tourists alike with a thrilling lineup of ballet performances featuring timeless classics making a comeback. 

A yearly feature of the programme, The Nutcracker brings festive magic to Christmas in an extraordinary way, with more than 100 dancers gracing the stage. This classic holiday tale is filled with wonder and is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. 

How to get tickets for shows at the Coliseum? 

You can view the current production at the London Coliseum and book tickets through Visit London by clicking the booking button on this page.

Food and drink 

The bar at the London Coliseum opens 90 minutes before the performance starts. 

If you want to make your experience extra special, why not upgrade to a dining package with many options available. Make sure to book those in advance.

• Afternoon tea – If you’re heading to a matinee, why not treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the London Coliseum before the performance? Savour a delightful selection of traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones and tempting sweet treats.
• English National Ballet experience (evenings) – Elevate your experience at the London Coliseum with a luxurious dining option in the American Bar. Enjoy unlimited access to a buffet of hot and cold dishes through the evening, before the show and during the interval. Dishes include a variety of British and French cheese, a charcuterie board, salads and sliders, with a selection of mini cakes at the interval.

Where is the London Coliseum?

The London Coliseum is located in the heart of London’s West End on St Martin’s Lane.

How to get there: 

• Tube – Charing Cross is the closest tube station (on the Bakerloo and Northern lines).
• Bus – Several bus routes stop at St Martin's Place (24, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279), located a two-minute walk away from the theatre. 
• Cycling – Rent a Santander Cycles bike and head to William IV Street on the Strand, where you can find the nearest docking station. 

What is the dress code for the London Coliseum?

There is no formal dress code required to attend a show at the London Coliseum, and most guests opt for smart casual attire. However, attending the theatre often feels like a special occasion, so many people choose to dress up, especially for events like opera or ballet performances.

Where is it best to sit in the London Coliseum?

The best seats at the London Coliseum depend on your preferences and budget. Here’s a guide to the seating areas:

• Central Stalls – Often considered the best seats (particularly rows D-G), these offer a clear view of the stage without being too close, allowing you to enjoy the performance comfortably.
• Dress Circle – Known for providing one of the best views and acoustics, Dress Circle seats offer an unobstructed, panoramic view of the stage.
• Upper Circle and Balcony – These sections are more budget-friendly, though they’re higher up and further from the stage. Central seats in these areas still offer good views of the performance.
• Boxes – Located at the sides of the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle levels, the boxes offer a private experience and a unique perspective on the stage. Although it is worth to note that some of those seats have slightly obstructed views.

The London Coliseum is renowned for its excellent acoustics, so no matter where you sit, you’re in for a memorable experience.