Apollo Theatre London: Everything You Need to Know for 2025
The Apollo Theatre, located on Shaftesbury Avenue London, is a stunning West End venue known for its historic charm and unforgettable performances.
Opened in 1901, the Apollo Theatre has hosted a variety of productions, from Twelfth Night to contemporary hits like The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Whether you’re booking premium seats or searching for cheaper seats, this guide covers everything you need to know about the theatre, its seating options, accessibility features, and how to plan your visit.
Key Takeaways
- Seating at the Apollo Theatre: Explore the Apollo Theatre seating plan, with tips on the best seats, including centre stalls, dress circle, and upper circle options.
- Accessibility Information: Learn about wheelchair spaces, guide dog policies, and navigating stairs in this historic London theatre.
- Planning Your Visit: Get information about nearby transport links such as Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, and refreshments at the theatre’s bars.
About the Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Theatre is a Grade II listed building and one of the most iconic venues in London’s West End. With a seating capacity of 775, it offers an intimate yet grand experience for theatregoers. Designed by Lewin Sharp and featuring a Renaissance-style exterior, the venue stands out among the other West End theatres on Shaftesbury Avenue.
Named after the Greek god of the arts, the theatre opened its doors in February 1901, shortly after the death of Queen Victoria, making it the first theatre completed in the Edwardian period. Owned by Nimax Theatres, it continues to host acclaimed productions and musical theatre performances.
History of the Apollo Theatre
When the Apollo Theatre opened, it was the fourth theatre built on Shaftesbury Avenue, further establishing the street as the heart of London theatre. Over the decades, it has hosted a mix of dramas, comedies, and musical theatre.
Some notable recent productions include Twelfth Night starring Mark Rylance and Stephen Fry, and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof with Sienna Miller. The theatre’s history also includes a dramatic event in 2013 when part of its ceiling collapsed during a performance of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. After repairs and upgrades, the theatre reopened in 2014 with an updated roof.
The Apollo remains a vital part of London’s theatre scene, beloved for its rich history and unique auditorium design.
Accessibility at the Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Theatre offers several accessibility features to ensure all guests can enjoy their visit.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair spaces are available in the Stalls, accessible via a lift from the Shaftesbury Avenue entrance. Due to the building’s historic design, there is no lift access to the Dress Circle, Upper Circle, or Balcony.
Guide Dogs
Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, and staff can dog-sit for up to two dogs per performance in the Stalls bar or Manager’s office.
Accessible Toilets
An adapted toilet is located near the entrance to the Stalls.
Stairs and Lifts
The venue has several staircases:
- 22 stairs to the Stalls
- 21 stairs to the Dress Circle
- 41 stairs to the Upper Circle
- 48 stairs to the Balcony
For those with mobility issues, the lift to the Stalls provides the most accessible option.
For more information, contact the theatre box office at 0330 333 4815 or email access@nimaxtheatres.com.
Seating Options at the Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Theatre seating plan is divided into four main levels: the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle, and Balcony. With a seating capacity of 775, the theatre offers a range of options to suit all budgets.
Stalls
The Stalls provide great seats for viewing the entire stage, especially in the central rows and centre stalls. The design ensures a clear view, but rows toward the sides may have a partially blocked perspective. Leg room in the Stalls is generally comfortable, though it varies by row.
Dress Circle
The Dress Circle is located one level above the Stalls and offers excellent views of the stage, particularly from central rows. The rows curve slightly, so seats at the edges may not have a clear view of the whole stage. However, the decent rake of the seating helps ensure visibility throughout.
Upper Circle and Balcony
The Upper Circle and Balcony are the highest levels, providing cheaper seats for those on a budget. While these levels offer a whole stage view, the incline is steep, and some seats may feel cramped or have restricted views.
Bars and Refreshments at the Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Theatre features bars on the Stalls and Upper Circle levels, offering a variety of drinks and snacks for guests. While wheelchair users cannot access the bars directly, staff are happy to bring refreshments to your seat.
Transport and Travel Tips
The Apollo Theatre, at Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7EZ, is located in the heart of central London, making it easy to reach via public transport.
Nearest Tube Stations
The nearest tube stations are Piccadilly Circus (250 metres) and Leicester Square. Both are within walking distance and provide connections to the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines.
Nearest Train Stations
The closest train station is Charing Cross, located 800 metres from the theatre, offering national rail services and additional tube connections.
Nearby Bus Routes
Buses 1, 14, 19, 22, 24, 29, 38, 55, and 176 stop near the theatre, providing convenient access from various parts of London.
Overall
The Apollo Theatre is a standout venue in London’s West End, offering a perfect mix of historical charm and modern amenities.
Whether you’re seated in the centre stalls for the best seats or opting for cheaper seats in the Upper Circle, the venue promises an intimate and memorable experience.
With its prime location on Shaftesbury Avenue, rich history, and diverse productions, the Apollo remains a must-visit for London theatre fans.
FAQs
Where is the Apollo Theatre located?
The theatre is at Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7EZ, in central London.
What is the nearest tube station to the Apollo Theatre?
The nearest tube stations are Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.
How many seats does the Apollo Theatre have?
The seating capacity is 775, spread across the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle, and Balcony.
Are there accessible toilets at the Apollo Theatre?
Yes, an adapted toilet is located near the entrance to the Stalls.
Can I bring my guide dog to the Apollo Theatre?
Yes, guide dogs are welcome, and staff can dog-sit during the performance.
What are the best seats at the Apollo Theatre?
The centre stalls and central rows of the Dress Circle offer excellent views and are ideal for enjoying the whole stage.
Does the Apollo Theatre offer sound amplification?
Yes, Williams Sound Infrared systems are available for guests with hearing impairments.
Where can I park near the Apollo Theatre?
Parking is limited in the area, so it’s recommended to use public transport for your visit.
Is there a bar at the Apollo Theatre?
Yes, the theatre has bars on the Stalls and Upper Circle levels, offering drinks and snacks.
What productions have been performed at the Apollo Theatre?
Notable productions include Twelfth Night with Mark Rylance and Stephen Fry, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
