her majesty's theatre london virtual tour

Her Majesty’s Theatre

Bask in the lavish décor of Her Majesty’s Theatre

Her Majesty’s Theatre is a historic West-End theatre in an opulent French Renaissance style offering a wealth of fin-de-siecle ambience and comfort.

• Admire the interior design of the auditorium and the chandelier before it is hoisted up as you wait for the show
• Enjoy a few drinks in the bar during the interval
• Listen to the music played by the live orchestra during the show

Tickets & Prices

Let the timeless romance and gothic mystery of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece, The Phantom of the Opera, sweep you off your feet at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

• The Phantom of the Opera – Revel in the melodrama and opulence of this world-renowned musical, led by a stellar cast and the iconic score that has captivated millions globally.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Food and drink during the intervals are not included with the admission, so you may want to plan accordingly before the show or during the intermission.
• Due to the popularity of the show, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the best available seats.
• The theatre’s atmosphere is a significant part of the experience; guests are encouraged to dress smart casual for the occasion.
• Remember, the show’s visual and musical elements are best enjoyed from a position where the entire stage is in view, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with the seating plan when booking.

What to see and do

The auditorium.

The auditorium of Her Majesty’s Theatre is lavish and opulent. Although it is recognisably a Phipps theatre in its architectural style, the main features of its design and the entirety of its decor were by Romaine Walker. 

The theatre boasts a two-balcony design (the gallery is a backward extension of the upper-tier) with details openly adapted from Gabriel’s Opéra at Versailles. Features to notice include a scagliola proscenium frame with three tiers of boxes on both sides lined with Corinthian columns.

There are three bar areas in Her Majesty’s Theatre and these are situated at Stalls, Royal Circle and Grand Circle levels. There is also a Champagne Bar in the Foyer.

The Phantom of the Opera

Built-in an ornate and lavish structure, the theatre is best known for hosting Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long-running musical The Phantom of the Opera.

The Gothic red and gold velvet features of the theatre’s interior make it the ideal venue for the production of the famous ‘Phantom of the Opera’ musical, which is set at the Opera Garnier. 

Original Victorian wooden understage machinery is cunningly used in the scenes where the boat travels across the lake.

Did you know: (5 interesting facts!)

• The name of the theatre alters according to the gender of the monarch. It is Her Majesty’s Theatre now but has been His King’s Theatre in the past. And it was originally known as ‘The Queen’s Theatre’.
• The building is Grade II listed and the wooden stage is regarded as one of the most historically significant in the country.
• The theatre’s capacity is currently 1,216 seats.
• The phantom of the Opera only closed for three days in 2008 allowing for the installation of an updated audio system.
• Her Majesty’s Theatre saw the opening of ‘Pygmalion’ by George Bernard Shaw.
• 1705 – The first incarnation of the theatre was founded by John Vanbrugh on Haymarket.
• The first performance was an opera – ‘Gli amori diErgasto’ by Jakob Greber.
• 1711 – Handel was appointed the resident composer of the theatre which supported the production of 25 of his original operas over the next two decades.
• 1789 – Her Majesty’s theatre burnt down during evening rehearsals – dancers had to flee the falling burning beams.
• 1791 – Work completed on a new theatre building. Opera continued to be the main focus of the theatre.
• The 1830s – Her Majesty’s Theatre heralded the era of the romantic ballet, and the theatre’s resident ballet company was widely regarded as the best in Europe.
• 1868 – A third building was constructed in 1868 within the shell of the former theatre
• and was designed to be more fireproof.
• 28th April 1897 – Phipps’ final and present incarnation of the theatre opened with a production of The Seats of the Mighty by Gilbert Parker.
• 9th October 1986 – the opening of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’, the second longest-running musical in West-end history.

Facilities and accessibility

Wheelchair users can access the Stalls and drinks can be brought to them by staff. The main entrance is step-free and there is an alternative entrance to the Stalls on Charles II Street. To use this entrance, the Theatre Manager must be notified in advance. 

It is also advisable to contact the theatre in advance with details of any additional requirements. Discounted tickets are available for the companions of disabled patrons.

Assistance or guide dogs are always welcome in Her Majesty’s Theatre.

Extra legroom is available in the seats of the Royal Circle. A cloakroom is available where items can be checked in for a fee of £1.

Toilets – there is one accessible toilet suitable for wheelchair users and two standard Ladies toilets, one of which has three steps. There is one Gents toilet.

Strobe and special lighting effects are frequently used during the shows performed at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

Headsets can be borrowed from the box office at no additional expense.

Visitor info in your language

• English (United Kingdom)
• Française

Experience.

His majesty's theatre.

Originally named Her Majesty's Theatre, the theatre was renamed to His Majesty's Theatre in April 2022 to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

Monday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday: Closed

Renamed and refurbished on many occasions since its opening in 1705, His Majesty's Theatre started as an opera house, and has since diversified, however still hosts the timeless opera classic, The Phantom of the Opera.

The theatre was dominated by musicals throughout the 20th century, most notably West Side Story and Bye Bye Birdie .

What's On

Phantom of the opera.

Booking until March 2025

Since opening in 1986, the Phantom of the Opera has become one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time and been seen by more than 140 million people around the world.

Packed with mesmerising scenery, special effects and Andrew Lloyd Webber's score, the tale of the shadowy existence beneath the Paris Opera House is a must-see. Shamed and feared by society for his physical appearance, the love he holds for his beautiful protégée Christine Daaé is so strong that even her heart cannot resist.

• Tickets from £28

Looking for your next home or office in Covent Garden? Look no further.

Stay up-to-date

His majesty’s theatre, shows at this venue, the phantom of the opera, more information.

0203 925 2998 | [email protected]

Sound Amplification:

Infra-red System with 10 headsets available. Headsets can be collected from the cloakroom, or ask a member of staff for one. You will be asked to sign a receipt.

Mens and Womens throughout. There is an accessible toilet located on the left inside entrance on Charles II Street.

Guide Dogs Policy:

Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff can also dog-sit for two dogs per performance in the Manager’s office.

Wheelchairs:

Please ask a member of staff in the Foyer to open the second side EXIT door on Charles II Street. There is a slight slope to the rear right Stalls. 4 spaces for wheelchair users in row S next to S12. Transfer seating available to any aisle seat in the Stalls. An usher will be assigned to disabled theatregoers, but each wheelchair user must bring a non-disabled companion.

Access from Street to Foyer:

Access from theatre foyer to seat:.

22 down and 18 up to Stalls, 32 to Royal Circle, 62 to Grand Circle, 89 to Balcony

Level Access:

Stalls from Charles II St

0203 925 2998

Security note: For your comfort and security, you may be subject to additional checks on your visit to London theatres. Please contact the venue for more information.

3 licensed bars. 22 steps down to the Stalls bar, 32 to the Royal Circle bar and 62 to the Grand Circle bar. All have moveable seats. Drinks may be brought to disabled customers in the auditorium in plastic cups.

Accepts Theatre Tokens:

Since 1705 there have been four theatres on the site where His Majesty’s Theatre now stands. Excluding the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, this site has been associated with a playhouse longer than any other theatre in London. The original theatre situated there was built in 1705. The current building was built by the famous Actor-Manager Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and was opened in 1897. The venue currently seats over 1,200 people.

The name of the theatre changes with the sex of the British Monarch. It became the King’s Theatre in 1714 on the accession of George I and was then renamed Her Majesty’s Theatre in 1837. The theatre last changed its name in 1952 following Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne following the death of her father George VI.

The original design of the current theatre company came about as the Crown Estate which owns the site, then known as The Commissioners of Woods, Forests and Land Venues, wanted to redevelop the outdated theatre. It was designed as part of a pair with the Carlton Hotel, which has since been redeveloped.

The French Renaissance design of the theatre is much admired today for its successful imitation of the style. The theatre has played host to several record-setting productions including its current occupant The Phantom Of The Opera. The musical opened in 1986 and is the second longest-running musical in West End history.

Editor's Pick

Tell us in ten – nadine benjamin, tell us in eleven – the play that goes wrong, tell us in ten – vivienne acheampong.

• Festivals 2024

Her Majesty's Theatre

What's on at her majesty's theatre.

Her Majesty's Theatre is part of LW Theatres, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s family of theatres in London’s West End.  It is l ocated in the City of Westminster, and depending on whether we have a male or female monarch, the name of the theatre changes. During the years 1901-1952, it was known as ‘His Majesty’s Theatre’ and has hosted some spectacular shows.

At present, the stage is home to the famous romantic tragedy, ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ which is now celebrating its 35th anniversary

Explore the current shows at Her Majesty's Theatre London and book tickets here!

Click here for our full West End show guide

The Phantom Of The Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera has returned to its home, Her Majesty’s Theatre and is now celebrating it’s 35th anniversary in London’s West End.Experience the thrill of the West End’s most haunting love story, starring double Olivier Award nominee Killian Donnelly as The Phantom, Lucy St. Louis...

Christmas with Anton Du Beke

Things to do around The West End

Chauffeur drive, bars and clubs, where to stay, where to eat.

Her Majesty's Theatre Seating plan

Backstage Bible

Promote your business or event, theatres worldwide, signup to our newsletter.

Thank you for your support!

An error occurred. Please try again.

HIS MAJESTY'S THEATRE, LONDON

Book online, the phantom awaits at his majesty's theatre.

Experience the thrill of the West End’s most haunting love story, starring Dean Chisnall as The Phantom, Lily Kerhoas as Christine Daaé and Joe Griffiths-Brown as Raoul.

The Phantom of the Opera is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history, playing to over 160 million people in 46 territories and 195 cities in 21 languages. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes Music of the Night , All I Ask of You , Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again , Masquerade and the iconic title song.

Sign up to the newsletter

Sign up to receive the latest news and offers from Phantom, Andrew Lloyd Webber and his other shows.

His Majesty's Theatre

His Majesty’s Theatre Seating Plan – Best Seats, Real-Time Pricing, Tips & Reviews

Things to do in London London Theatre Tickets Theatres in London Her Majesty's Theatre Seating Plan

This guide on His Majesty's Theatre seating plan will help you find good seats in the house - both in terms of the view and value for money. Get real-time seat availability and pricing, and find the best seats for His Majesty's Theatre.

His Majesty's Theatre Seating Plan

Which seats should you choose?

💸 value for money seats stalls: rows e - h royal circle: seats 6 - 31 in rows a - c, and middle seats in rows d - f grand circle: seats 5 - 10 and 26 - 32 in rows a - c or middle seats in rows d - e the balcony has reasonably priced seats, but may not give the best views 🎟️ if money were no matter stalls: any seats in the middle of rows b - d in the stalls royal circle: any seats in the middle of rows a - c 🎭 best views of the stage stalls: rows b - f royal circle: seats 13 - 24 in rows a - c grand circle: seats 12 - 23 in rows a - c, now playing at his majesty's theatre, guide to his majesty's theatre seating plan, which seats would offer me the best views.

• Which Seats Would Offer me the Best Value for Money?

30-Second Takeaway: His Majesty's Theatre

His majesty's theatre reviews, frequently asked questions about his majesty’s theatre seating plan, his majesty's theatre stalls.

The stalls have an intimate seating arrangement with each row having a maximum of 35 seats. There is an aisle that runs mid-way through the auditorium, and the best seats are on either side of this aisle as these are the centre seats. The seats on the rear side of the Stalls section may offer an obstructed view because of the overhang from the Royal Circle.

His Majesty's Theatre Royal Circle

The Royal Circle level of the theatre offers great view of the stage and is divided into three sections. The centre seats of the first six rows are among the best in the house. Since there is a curve in the seating, the seats on either end of the rows in this section have an obstructed view of the stage, and therefore tickets for these seats come at a lower price too. There are support pillars located in Row E and these hinder the view from rows in the rear side of Royal Circle.

His Majesty's Theatre Grand Circle

The seating in the Grand Circle is divided into three blocks, with the largest being the central section. All seats of the central block are priced the same. Although the legroom is restricted, the seats on the left and right sides of the Grand Circle are fairly decent as they are angled towards the stage and offer great views of the stage at a lower cost. The Balcony overhang does not affect the views from this section, and there are no pillars to restrict the view either.

His Majesty's Theatre Balcony

For those on a budget, the balcony is a good option. But the section is steeply raked and it is known to get warm during a show. The legroom in this area is quite restricted. Those seated in this section will also realise that the sound quality is not as good as it is in other sections. The view of the stage may not be so great either.

The Stalls obviously offer the best views in the house. The best seats are in rows B-F of this section. The Royal Circle has some good views as well, with seats 13-24 in rows A-C giving you the best views from this section.

The middle seats (12-23) in rows A-C in the Grand Circle also give you decent views of the stage.

Which Seats Offer me the Best Value for Money?

The middle seats in rows E-H in the Stalls section offer good views without burning a hole in your pocket. The same applies to seats 6-31 in rows A-C of the Royal Circle. The seats on left and right sides of the Grand Circle are priced lower but still offer a good view of the stage, without any obstructions as the seats are angled towards the stage. The seats in the Balcony section are good for those on a budget- but it may not give you the best experience of the show.

• The theatre has a capacity to accommodate 1216 persons.
• Seating in the theatre is divided into four sections- Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony
• The best seats in the house are those that are centrally located in each section Balcony offers affordable seats but does not guarantee a good experience as it is cramped and tends to get warm during the show.
• If you are looking at a more comfortable seating, consider seats E1, E25, F1, F25, G1, G25, N1, and N28 - these have better legroom.
• Four Wheelchair accessible seats are there in Row S in the Stalls section.

Her majesty’s Theatre is a very beautiful building and has old fashioned splendour. I watched phantom here and it’s an amazing production which really suited the place the cast are so so talented with excellent acting and majestic voices. It’s no surprise why its played for so long . The Staff at the Theatre are very professional and have a human touch and are not robotic.

- Ukescapisam, Tripadvisor, October 2022

I've wanted to see this musical for years and got it bought me as Christmas present, so my wife and I had an overnight stay taking in The Phanton of the opera on the night. The theatre was a small 10 minute walk from our hotel just passed Traffalger Square and easy enough to find. My only fault was the stairs we had to climb to our seats not sure if there was a lift I struggled up the stairs as I have problem with my hip. Inside the seating was fine and the view fantastic, the show was absolutely brilliant better than I imagined, overall I had a brilliant time will go again to see again.

- Dave , Tripadvisor, January 2022

How many sections does His Majesty's Theatre have?

His Majesty's Theatre has 4 sections - Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle, Balcony.

Which seats offer the best view of the stage in Hi Majesty's Theatre?

The best seats in His Majesty's Theatre are in the Stalls. The best seats are in rows B-F of this section. The Royal Circle has some good views as well, with seats 13-24 in rows A-C giving you the best views from this section.

Which seat offers the best value for money in the His Majesty's Theatre?

The best value for money seats at His Majesty's Theatre are Stalls: Rows E-H. Royal Circle: Seats 6-31 in Rows A-C, and middle seats in rows D-F. Grand Circle: Seats 5-10 and 26-32 in rows A-C or middle seats in rows D-E. The Balcony has reasonably priced seats, but may not give the best views.

What is the Stalls section in His Majesty’s Theatre?

The stalls have an intimate seating arrangement with each row having a maximum of 35 seats. There is an aisle that runs mid-way through the auditorium, and the best seats are on either side of this aisle as these are the centre seats

What is the Dress Circle in His Majesty’s Theatre?

The Dress Circle is the middle level of the auditorium. The seating in the Dress Circle is stepped so that each row is raised one or more steps above the row in front.

What is the Upper Circle in His Majesty’s Theatre?

With a seating capacity of 1,216, Her Majesty's Theatre is built across four levels; the Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle and Balcony.

More West End Guides

For more West End information, here are some helpful quick links!

See more London. Save more money.

Save £7 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code GOLDN

EXPLORE NOW

Manisha Choudhari

If there's one thing Manisha loves more than cake, it's travelling. While studying in London, she fell in love with the city, and decided that she wanted to combine her two interests - writing and travelling. Having made London her home, she now travels through Europe during summers, spends winters under ten blankets, and writes about her adventures in between.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

LW Theatres

• VIP Packages
• LW Theatres & War Child
• What’s On
• Plan Your Visit

His Majesty's Theatre

Back in April 2023 we announced that Her Majesty’s Theatre would be renamed to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

Now known as His Majesty’s Theatre , read more about the history of the iconic theatre here , and watch the new signage being installed in the video below.

Back to top

The Phantom of the Opera

Tickets from £25

Coming to see a show here?

Why not start planning your day to make sure your time with us at His Majesty’s Theatre is as smooth as possible? Check how and where to find us, have a look over our seating plan, familiarise yourself with disabled access to the theatre, and get ready to experience the extraordinary.

Plan your visit

About His Majesty's Theatre

If the walls of this historic theatre could talk, they’d doubtless tell some fascinating stories. Renamed, rebuilt and refurbished numerous times since 1705, His Majesty’s Theatre is still at the beating heart of London’s live performance scene and continues to embody the sophisticated soul of British musical theatre. There is a fitting sense of symmetry that, having started life as an opera house, it still hosts the West End’s second-longest running production: the timeless classic that is The Phantom of the Opera .

Looking to hire His Majesty's Theatre?

Located on Haymarket around the corner from London’s legendary Pall Mall, His Majesty’s Theatre holds a historic auditorium that can seat over 1200 guests, and is itself a rich and exciting part of musical theatre legacy. Marrying magnificent history with modern amenities and technical capabilities, along with a professional staff who are here to serve your needs, His Majesty’s Theatre is sure to help you deliver a show-stopping performance.

Hire His Majesty's Theatre

Send someone a hint ?

Have you been very good this year? Then help your Santa out and drop them a hint for your perfect gift.

• Friends first name
• Friends last name
• Friends email address
• I'd love to see... 42nd Street Matilda School of Rock

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Search LW Theatres

Hit enter to search or ESC to close

Our Theatres

His Majesty's Theatre London

His Majesty's Theatre Tickets

The Phantom of the Opera

What’s on at his majesty's theatre.

Since 1986, crowds have flocked to His Majesty’s Theatre to fall under the spell of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical The Phantom of the Opera . With its haunting tale of obsessive love soundtracked by an electrifying score, it has rightfully earned its place as the second longest-running musical in the West End, just behind Les Misérables (currently at the Sondheim Theatre ). The Phantom of the Opera London production is one of the most popular choices for theatre fans and tourists from all over the world who want to experience a quintessential West End show. Once you hear the thrilling opening notes, you will understand why it has reigned over Theatreland for almost 40 years.

About the His Majesty's Theatre

The resplendent His Majesty’s Theatre was designed by architect Charles J. Phipps and opened in 1897. The theatre's first manager was Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, who founded one of the most prestigious drama schools in the world; the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) at the theatre in 1904. A theatre has stood on the site since 1704 when the Queen's Theatre opened, primarily as an opera house, which staged over 25 operas by the renowned composer George Frideric Handel. The name of the theatre changes with the gender of the monarch and was named Her Majesty's on Queen Elizabeth II's ascension to the throne. Over the years His Majesty's Theatre has housed world premieres of works by some of the most acclaimed playwrights, including Noël Coward, George Bernard Shaw and J. B. Priestly. Musical theatre dominated the theatre's programming post-war and saw many Broadway transfers of hit musicals including West Side Story , Fiddler on the Roof and Brigadoon . In May 2023, the theatre was renamed His Majesty's Theatre, coinciding marking the coronation of King Charles III. This change of name under a new monarch is a long-held tradition for the venue.

Map and Address

57 Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4QL

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the his majesty's theatre box office open and how do i collect tickets, what time does his majesty's theatre open for a show, what food and drink are available at his majesty's theatre, is there a dress code at his majesty's theatre, does his majesty's theatre have a cloakroom, is his majesty's theatre air-conditioned, where should i eat near his majesty's theatre, what is the best hotel to stay at near his majesty's theatre, why is the theatre called his majesty’s theatre and will it be renamed, how do i contact the box office.

Redesigned Her Majesty's Theatre Will 'Blur the Boundary Between Stage and Auditorium' for West End's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

Restorations include "internal works to the stage area including alteration to the proscenium, boxes and orchestra pit and repainting of the ceiling."

As BroadwayWorld previously reported , work is underway on Her Majesty's Theatre in London, for a newly renovated venue upon the reopening of The Phantom of the Opera in the West End.

LATEST NEWS

Details are emerging on what audiences can expect when the show returns, as per a planning application submitted last month.

The documents are available on City of Westminster's official site, and detail the plans which include "internal works to the stage area including alteration to the proscenium, boxes and orchestra pit and repainting of the ceiling."

According to the document , "the new set design will not be limited to the stage area and will move into the auditorium, covering the proscenium and parts of the boxes."

It is noted that "this is important to the production which, for dramatic effect, requires a strong connection between stage and auditorium - this is particularly important for Phantom of the Opera which seeks to blur the boundary between stage and auditorium such that the auditorium and the audience become part of the production. This is an unusual situation as most productions would limit the set to the stage."

There will be repairs made to the proscenium, including the fixing of cracks and removal of black paint. The restoration will also allow for the use of new sound equipment. Additionally, the original orchestra pit rail will be reinstated, including the balustrade detailing.

These restorations to Her Majesty's Theatre will preserve it as a Grade II listed building, and will sustain and enhance its architectural and historical significance.

For more details about the work that is being outline, read the full documents .

With the new year almost upon us, we are excited to see work at Her Majesty's underway and are looking forward to sharing updates as we prepare to return the Phantom to its London home in June. pic.twitter.com/y2Jl8Gf9Ry - The Phantom Of The Opera (@PhantomOpera) December 14, 2020

As previously reported, The Phantom of the Opera is currently planning for a June 2021 return to the West End.

The show is currently planning previews from June 5, provided that government social distancing rules are lifted in time.

Irish actor Killian Donnelly will don the Phantom's iconic mask when the show makes its return to Her Majesty's Theatre. This summer, Mackintosh confirmed that a "brand new physical production" of the show will run in the West End when it returns.

Recommended For You