Savoy Theatre

The basics

Built on the site of the former Savoy Palace by Richard D'Oyly Carte, the Savoy Theatre has been one of London’s leading theatrical venues since the late 19th century. In addition to its many Gilbert and Sullivan shows, it has also hosted Noël Coward and Oscar Wilde premieres, operas, and Shakespearean plays. Following a devastating fire in 1990, the theater’s opulent interior was refurbished. Currently, the venue is best-known for its musicals, and recent productions have ranged from Dreamgirls and Funny Girl to 9 to 5: The Musical and Legally Blonde.

You can book tickets online to the theater's productions in advance. Given its central location on the Strand—just a short stroll from Trafalgar Square—it’s also easy to glimpse the landmark as part of a Central London tour.

Things to know before you go

• Bag checks are conducted as part of the theater’s entry policy; be sure to arrive early, and avoid bringing suitcases or other large items with you.

• There are four concession areas on site, and you can also order refreshments directly to your seat via the Ordertorium smartphone app.

• Tickets to performances can be booked online, over the phone, or at the Savoy Theatre’s box office.

• The theater’s main seating section is accessible to wheelchair users, though the dress circle and upper circle are not.

How to get there

Given its central London location, the Savoy Theatre is easy to reach. Take mainline trains or the Bakerloo or Northern line to Charing Cross station; the District or Circle line to Embankment station; or the Piccadilly line to Covent Garden station. You can also take a bus or car, or bike or walk to the theater.

When to get there

Doors to the theater open 90 minutes before the performance start time. Arriving 30 minutes before showtime is recommended, in case of long lines, and if you wish to check a coat or purchase snacks.

The Savoy Hotel

Combine your trip to the Savoy Theatre with a trip to the neighboring Savoy Hotel. One of London’s legendary hotels, the Savoy is home to two world-renowned bars (the American Bar and the Beaufort Bar). Dress up, and indulge in a nightcap or two.

Ways to explore

This mid-sized theater has an interesting history; it was one of the first public buildings in Great Britain to have electric lighting and has undergone numerous renovations over the years, including after a fire in 1990 that destroyed the auditorium. While interior guided tours are not available, some London sightseeing tours pass by and may provide information in their commentary.

Most people visit the Savoy Theatre to see a show; productions run throughout the year and are always in demand. If you want to see a performance in the popular summer period, it’s wise to book online in advance. Alternatively, there is a box office for in-person purchases.

Accessibility

There is only street-level access into the Dress Circle from Carting Lane, with a small number of wheelchair-accessible seats. There is also an accessible restroom on this level. There are no elevators or ramps to other levels.

Age limits

Specific shows have their own age restrictions, so check before buying tickets.

What to pack

A small bag as there is no cloakroom; booster seat for younger kids, as the theater doesn’t provide them; credit or debit card for programs, snacks, and drinks.

What to wear

Many theater-goers like to look smart, but there isn’t a dress code to follow.

Not allowed

Outside food and drink, photography or filming during the shows, glass bottles

Amenities

Air conditioning, bars selling drinks and snacks, merchandise kiosks, restrooms, ticket office, free Wi-Fi

Address

The Savoy Theatre is on the Strand, a bustling street in London’s West End. It’s a short stroll from Soho and Covent Garden, and near attractions including Trafalgar Square and Victoria Embankment Gardens.

Driving

If driving to the theater, you’ll have to pay the London Congestion Charge and the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) fee if your vehicle is eligible. Since the theater is in central London, it’s much more convenient to use public transportation.

Public transportation

The nearest station is Charing Cross, served by the Bakerloo and Northern tube lines, which is just over a 5-minute walk away. Other nearby stations include Embankment (District and Circle lines) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly line). You can also take a bus or taxi to the Strand, Aldwych, or Trafalgar Square.

Best times to visit

Most performances start at 7pm or 7:30pm. Matinee performances are often less busy and start after lunchtime. Doors typically open 1.5 hours ahead of a show.

Best days to visit

Book a weekday show for the best chance of less-expensive tickets and a wider selection of seats.

Best months to visit

While it depends on the show, you can usually buy better-priced tickets in the spring and fall shoulder months.