London’s theatre scene stretches back hundreds of years, with some venues standing on sites that have hosted performances since the Restoration period of the 17th century. While many buildings have been rebuilt over time due to fires, redevelopment or expansion, several theatres still operating today trace their origins back centuries.
Here are some of the oldest theatres in London’s West End.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane – First Opened 1663
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is widely considered the oldest theatre site in London still in continuous theatrical use.
The original theatre opened in 1663 shortly after King Charles II restored theatre to England following the Puritan ban on performances.
Although the building has been rebuilt several times, the current structure dates from 1812. Over the centuries Drury Lane has hosted many landmark productions and remains one of the most famous theatres in the West End.
Major productions staged there have included large-scale musicals such as My Fair Lady, Miss Saigon, and Disney’s Frozen.
Theatre Royal Haymarket – Opened 1720
The Theatre Royal Haymarket opened in 1720, making it one of the earliest surviving theatres in London’s West End.
Originally associated with comedy and satirical plays, the theatre quickly became an important venue during the 18th century. The building standing today dates from 1821, designed by architect John Nash.
Today the theatre continues to stage major productions, often hosting limited runs of plays and star-led performances.
Royal Opera House – Opened 1732
The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden first opened in 1732 as the Theatre Royal Covent Garden.
Like many historic theatres, the building has been rebuilt multiple times after devastating fires. The present structure dates largely from the mid-19th century.
It is now home to two of Britain’s most prestigious performing companies: The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet.
Adelphi Theatre – Opened 1806
The Adelphi Theatre first opened in 1806, originally known as the Sans Pareil Theatre.
In the 19th century it became famous for melodramas and popular entertainment. Over time it evolved into a major West End musical theatre venue.
The theatre standing today is a later reconstruction, but the Adelphi name and site have been associated with theatre for over two centuries.
Vaudeville Theatre – Opened 1870
The Vaudeville Theatre opened in 1870 and quickly became known for hosting variety entertainment and light comedy productions.
During the late Victorian era the theatre achieved considerable success, including long-running plays that were unusually popular for their time.
Today the Vaudeville Theatre continues to stage plays and limited-run productions in the heart of the West End.
A Note on London’s Even Earlier Theatres
London’s theatrical history actually stretches back even further to the Elizabethan playhouses of the 16th century.
These included venues such as:
- The Theatre (1576)
- The Curtain Theatre (1577)
Both were used by Shakespeare’s acting company before the famous Globe Theatre was built. However, these early playhouses no longer survive, which is why theatres like Drury Lane are considered the oldest still in operation today.
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