London Theatres with Air Conditioning: Every Theatre with Air Con

When planning to see a show in London’s West End, comfort is key, especially during the warm summer months. With temperatures occasionally soaring past 30°C, it’s good to know which London theatres with air conditioning are available to ensure your experience is enjoyable from start to finish.

Whether you’re heading to the theatre for a classic London theatre show or one of the best London theatre shows, staying cool can make all the difference. This guide covers some of the best air-conditioned theatres in London, offering both historical charm and modern comfort in the heart of the city.

Key Takeaways

• Find Cool Comfort in London’s Best Air-Conditioned Theatres: Discover which London theatres with air conditioning offer a comfortable escape from the summer heat, ensuring a pleasant experience while you enjoy the best of London’s West End shows.
• Plan Your Visit to the West End: This guide covers West End theatres equipped with air conditioning, so you can easily choose where to book your London theatre tickets and enjoy a cool, relaxed evening.
• Stay Cool in Historic and Modern Venues: From the historic charm of the Adelphi Theatre to the modern design of the Gillian Lynne Theatre, learn about the London theatres that combine history with the comfort of air conditioning.

Adelphi Theatre

Address: The Strand, London WC2R 0NS

The Adelphi Theatre is a well-known venue on the Strand, with a rich history dating back to 1806. Originally named the Sans Pareil, it became the Adelphi in 1819. Over the years, this theatre has seen many changes and renovations, with its most significant rebuild occurring in 1930.

Today, the Adelphi Theatre boasts air conditioning, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a show without worrying about the heat. The theatre is famous for its impressive Art Deco interior, which has been carefully preserved to offer audiences a blend of historical elegance and modern comfort.

Aldwych Theatre

Address: The Strand, London WC2B 4DF

Located on the Strand, the Aldwych Theatre has been a staple of London’s theatre scene since it opened in 1905. This theatre, designed by W.G.R. Sprague, shares its architecture with the nearby Novello Theatre, creating a pair of historic landmarks.

The Aldwych Theatre is equipped with air conditioning, ensuring that visitors can enjoy performances in a cool and comfortable environment. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of significant productions, cementing its reputation as a key venue in the West End.

Ambassadors Theatre

Address: West Street, London WC2H 9ND

The Ambassadors Theatre, situated on West Street, opened its doors in 1913. This intimate theatre is close to Leicester Square and has been a popular venue for a range of productions. Despite its smaller size, the theatre features an effective air cooling system, making it an ideal choice for those looking to stay cool while enjoying a show.

The theatre’s history is marked by long-running performances, including the original production of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, which later moved to the nearby St Martin’s Theatre.

Apollo Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EZ

The Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue is another historic venue in London’s West End. Opened in 1901, this theatre was the first on Shaftesbury Avenue to be built in the Edwardian style.

The Apollo Theatre is equipped with an air cooling system, providing a comfortable atmosphere for audiences. Its beautifully preserved interior and rich history make it a must-visit for theatre enthusiasts, offering both aesthetic appeal and modern amenities.

Arts Theatre

Address: Great Newport Street, London WC2H 7JB

Located on Great Newport Street near Leicester Square, the Arts Theatre is a smaller, independent venue that first opened in 1927. It has a reputation for showcasing new and experimental productions.

The theatre is fully air-conditioned, ensuring that even on the hottest days, audiences can enjoy performances in comfort. The Arts Theatre is known for its cosy atmosphere and commitment to supporting emerging talent in the theatre industry.

Cambridge Theatre

Address: Earlham Street, London WC2H 9HU

The Cambridge Theatre in the Seven Dials area of London, close to Covent Garden, opened in 1930 and is one of the city’s younger theatres. Designed by Wimperis, Simpson, and Guthrie, this theatre features a modernist style with influences from the German Expressionist movement.

The Cambridge Theatre has a comfort cooling system that ensures a pleasant temperature for its audiences. The venue has hosted a variety of shows over the years, and its sleek design continues to attract visitors looking for a unique theatre experience.

Criterion Theatre

Address: Piccadilly Circus, London W1J 9HT

Located at Piccadilly Circus, the Criterion Theatre is one of London’s most distinctive venues, primarily due to its location below street level. This theatre opened in 1874 and has undergone several renovations to maintain its Victorian charm while introducing modern comforts.

The Criterion Theatre features air conditioning, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the heat while enjoying a performance in one of London’s most central locations.

Dominion Theatre

Address: Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7AQ

The Dominion Theatre on Tottenham Court Road is one of London’s largest theatres, with a seating capacity of over 2,000. Opened in 1929, this venue has hosted a variety of performances, from films to live shows.

The Dominion Theatre is equipped with a comfort cooling system, ensuring that even in a packed house, the temperature remains comfortable. Its grand Art Deco interior adds to the theatre’s allure, making it a favourite among both locals and tourists.

Duchess Theatre

Address: Catherine Street, London WC2B 5LA

Located on Catherine Street near Covent Garden, the Duchess Theatre opened in 1929 and is one of the smaller West End theatres, offering an intimate setting for its audiences.

Despite its size, the theatre is fully air-conditioned, providing a cool and comfortable environment. The Duchess Theatre has a long history of hosting popular shows and remains a key player in London’s vibrant theatre scene.

Duke of York’s Theatre

Address: St. Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG

The Duke of York’s Theatre on St. Martin’s Lane opened in 1892 and was originally known as the Trafalgar Square Theatre. This historic venue has been a cornerstone of London’s West End for over a century.

The theatre is equipped with air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant experience for audiences. The Duke of York’s Theatre is renowned for its beautiful architecture and has hosted numerous notable productions throughout its history.

Fortune Theatre

Address: Russell Street, London WC2B 5HH

The Fortune Theatre, located on Russell Street near Covent Garden, is one of London’s smaller venues, with a seating capacity of just over 400. Opened in 1924, it was the first theatre built in London after World War I.

The Fortune Theatre is fully air-conditioned, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a show in a cool, comfortable setting. The theatre’s intimate atmosphere and rich history add to its charm, making it a favourite among theatre-goers.

Garrick Theatre

Address: Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0HH

Named after the famous actor David Garrick, the Garrick Theatre on Charing Cross Road has been a staple of the London theatre scene since it opened in 1889. This theatre is equipped with a comfort cooling system, ensuring a comfortable environment for audiences.

The Garrick Theatre is known for its beautiful interior and long history of hosting popular productions, making it a must-visit for any theatre enthusiast.

Gielgud Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 6AR

The Gielgud Theatre, located on Shaftesbury Avenue, opened in 1906 as the Hicks Theatre and was later renamed in honour of Sir John Gielgud. This theatre has a comfort cooling system that keeps audiences cool during performances.

The Gielgud Theatre is renowned for its elegant Edwardian architecture and continues to be a key venue in London’s West End.

Gillian Lynne Theatre

Address: Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW

Previously known as the New London Theatre, the Gillian Lynne Theatre on Drury Lane was renamed in 2018 in honour of the legendary choreographer and director. This modern theatre, built in 1973, is fully air-conditioned and features a flexible stage that has hosted a wide range of productions.

The Gillian Lynne Theatre is a prime example of how contemporary design can meet audience comfort in the heart of Covent Garden.

Harold Pinter Theatre

Address: Panton Street, London SW1Y 4DN

The Harold Pinter Theatre on Panton Street, near Leicester Square, originally opened in 1881 as the Royal Comedy Theatre. This theatre, named after the renowned playwright Harold Pinter, features air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable experience for its patrons.

The Harold Pinter Theatre has a long history of showcasing a diverse range of productions, from classic plays to modern hits.

Her Majesty’s Theatre

Address: Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL

Located on Haymarket, Her Majesty’s Theatre is a historic venue that dates back to 1897. The theatre has undergone several reconstructions since its original opening in 1705, with the current building being a prime example of Edwardian architecture.

Her Majesty’s Theatre is fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a show in the heart of London’s West End.

Kit Kat Club at the Playhouse Theatre

Address: Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5DE

The Playhouse Theatre, now branded as the Kit Kat Club, is located on Northumberland Avenue, close to Trafalgar Square. This theatre originally opened in 1882 and has undergone several name changes and renovations over the years.

The Kit Kat Club at the Playhouse Theatre features air conditioning, ensuring that audiences remain comfortable throughout their visit.

London Palladium

Address: Argyll Street, London W1F 7TF

The London Palladium on Argyll Street near Oxford Circus is one of the most famous theatres in the world. Opened in 1910, this grand venue has hosted a wide range of performances, from variety shows to major musicals.

The London Palladium is equipped with an air cooling system, providing a cool respite from the bustling streets of central London.

Lyceum Theatre

Address: Wellington Street, London WC2E 7RQ

The Lyceum Theatre on Wellington Street near Covent Garden has a history dating back to 1765, though the current building was constructed in 1834. This iconic theatre is fully air-conditioned, offering a comfortable environment for its audiences. .

The Lyceum Theatre is known for its grand architecture and has been home to many long-running productions.

Lyric Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES

Located on Shaftesbury Avenue near Piccadilly Circus, the Lyric Theatre is one of London’s oldest surviving theatres, having opened in 1888.

The theatre is equipped with an air cooling system, ensuring a comfortable experience for its patrons. The Lyric Theatre has a rich history and remains a prominent venue in London’s West End.

Novello Theatre

Address: Aldwych, London WC2B 4LD

TheNovello Theatre, located on Aldwych near Covent Garden, opened in 1905 as the Waldorf Theatre and has undergone several name changes over the years. The theatre was renamed the Novello Theatre in 2005 in honour of Ivor Novello, the Welsh composer and actor.

The theatre is fully air-conditioned, offering a comfortable environment for its audiences. The Novello Theatre is known for its beautiful Edwardian architecture and has been home to many popular shows.

Palace Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 5AY

The Palace Theatre is an iconic venue on Shaftesbury Avenue, first opening its doors in 1891. Originally built as a grand opera house, the Palace Theatre has since become a staple of the West End, hosting a wide range of performances over the decades.

The theatre is equipped with an air cooling system, ensuring that audiences can enjoy shows in a cool and comfortable setting. Its impressive red-brick façade and rich history make it a standout in London’s theatre scene.

Piccadilly Theatre

Address: Denman Street, London W1D 7DY

Located on Denman Street, just off Piccadilly Circus, the Piccadilly Theatre opened in 1928. The theatre initially served as a cinema before transitioning to live performances. The Piccadilly Theatre is equipped with an air cooling system, providing a refreshing atmosphere for its visitors.

The venue’s Art Deco design and central location make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a West End show.

Prince of Wales Theatre

Address: Coventry Street, London W1D 6AS

The Prince of Wales Theatre is situated on Coventry Street, close to Leicester Square. It originally opened in 1884, though the current building dates from 1937. The theatre has a rich history and has been a significant part of the West End for over a century.

The Prince of Wales Theatre is fully air-conditioned, ensuring that audiences remain comfortable during performances. Its sleek, modern design, following a major renovation in the early 2000s, contrasts beautifully with its long-standing history.

Shaftesbury Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8DP

The Shaftesbury Theatre opened in 1911 and is the youngest theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. Despite facing potential demolition in the 1970s, the theatre has survived and continues to be a prominent venue in London’s West End.

The theatre is fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a show, particularly during the summer months. The Shaftesbury Theatre is known for its spacious auditorium and continues to host a variety of popular productions.

Sondheim Theatre

Address: Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 6BA

The Sondheim Theatre, located on Shaftesbury Avenue, originally opened in 1907 as the Queen’s Theatre. It was renamed in 2019 in honour of the legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim.

The theatre has undergone significant renovations over the years, including updates to its facilities and seating. The Sondheim Theatre is fully air-conditioned, ensuring a cool and comfortable environment for all visitors. Its elegant design and rich history make it a favourite among West End audiences.

St Martin’s Theatre

Address: West Street, London WC2H 9NZ

The St Martin’s Theatre on West Street is best known as the home of the world’s longest-running play, The Mousetrap. The theatre opened in 1916 and has since become a historic landmark in London’s theatre district.

The St Martin’s Theatre is equipped with air conditioning, providing a pleasant atmosphere for its guests. The theatre’s intimate setting and historic significance make it a unique venue in the West End.

The Old Vic

Address: The Cut, London SE1 8NB

The Old Vic is one of London’s most storied theatres, with a history dating back to 1818. Located on The Cut near Waterloo, the theatre has been a significant cultural institution for over 200 years. Nearby, the National Theatre, also located near Waterloo, offers a diverse array of programming and acclaimed productions, adding to the rich array of theatre choices available in the city.

The Old Vic is fully air-conditioned, ensuring that audiences can enjoy performances in comfort. The theatre is renowned for its contributions to the arts, having hosted some of the most famous actors and productions in British theatre history.

The Other Palace

Address: Palace Street, London SW1E 5JA

Situated on Palace Street near Victoria, The Other Palace is a modern theatre that opened in 2012. Originally named St. James Theatre, it was rebranded in 2017 and has since become a hub for new musicals such as Babies the Musical.

The Other Palace is fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable venue to visit even on the hottest days. The theatre’s contemporary design and focus on emerging talent make it a unique addition to London’s theatre scene.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Address: Drury Lane, London WC2B 5JF

The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, known as the West End’s oldest theatre, is one of London’s most prestigious venues, with a history dating back to 1663. Located on Drury Lane near Covent Garden, the theatre has undergone numerous renovations and rebuilds over the centuries.

While the theatre has restricted air conditioning, it still provides a level of comfort for its audiences. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is an iconic venue, known for its grand architecture and storied past.

Theatre Royal Haymarket

Address: Haymarket, London SW1Y 4HT

The Theatre Royal Haymarket is a historic venue on Haymarket, close to Piccadilly Circus. Established in 1720, it is one of the oldest theatres in London, with a rich tradition of hosting some of the most famous productions and actors in British theatre.

After the ban on theatres was lifted in 1660, several notable London theatres opened, including Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1663 and Theatre Royal Haymarket in 1720, marking significant milestones in the evolution of London’s cultural scene.

The theatre is fully air-conditioned, ensuring that visitors remain comfortable throughout their experience. The Theatre Royal Haymarket is renowned for its beautiful architecture and continues to be a leading venue in the West End.

Trafalgar Theatre

Address: Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY

The Trafalgar Theatre is located on Whitehall, close to Trafalgar Square. Originally opened in 1930 as the Whitehall Theatre, it was recently refurbished and reopened in 2021 under its new name.

The theatre is fully air-conditioned, providing a cool and inviting atmosphere for its guests. The Trafalgar Theatre combines its rich history with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for theatre-goers in central London.

Vaudeville Theatre

Address: The Strand, London WC2R 0NH

The Vaudeville Theatre, located on the Strand, first opened in 1870 and has been a significant part of London’s theatre scene ever since. The theatre is equipped with an air cooling system, ensuring a comfortable environment for its audiences.

The Vaudeville Theatre has a long history of hosting popular shows and continues to be a prominent venue in the West End and the home of Six the Musical.

Victoria Palace Theatre

Address: Victoria Street, London SW1E 5EA

The Victoria Palace Theatre is located on Victoria Street, close to Victoria Station. The theatre originally opened in 1911 and has been a fixture in the West End for over a century.

The Victoria Palace Theatre is fully air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The theatre underwent extensive renovations in recent years, restoring its Edwardian splendour while updating its facilities to modern standards.

Wyndham’s Theatre

Address: Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DA

The Wyndham’s Theatre, located on Charing Cross Road near Leicester Square, opened in 1899. This beautifully preserved Edwardian theatre is fully air-conditioned, offering a cool and comfortable environment for its audiences. The Wyndham’s Theatre is known for its intimate setting and has hosted a wide range of critically acclaimed productions throughout its history.

Final Word

London’s theatre scene offers an unparalleled mix of history, culture, and entertainment, and with many London theatres now equipped with air conditioning, you can enjoy the best West End shows in comfort, no matter the weather.

Whether you’re visiting the iconic London Palladium, the historic Her Majesty’s Theatre, or the modern Gillian Lynne Theatre, you can be sure that these air-conditioned theatres will keep you cool and comfortable.

So, the next time you book your London theatre tickets, rest assured that a refreshing, air-conditioned environment awaits you, enhancing your unforgettable experience in the heart of London’s West End.

FAQs

Are theatres in London air conditioned?

Yes, many theatres in London, particularly those in the West End, are equipped with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable experience for audiences, especially during the warmer months.

Does Palace Theatre London have air conditioning?

Yes, the Palace Theatre London does have an air cooling system in place. This ensures that visitors can enjoy their shows in a comfortable and cool environment, even during the summer.

Is the Victoria Palace Theatre air conditioned?

Yes, the Victoria Palace Theatre is fully air conditioned. Located near Victoria Station, this theatre offers a cool and comfortable atmosphere for all its guests.

Does the Piccadilly Theatre London have air conditioning?

Yes, the Piccadilly Theatre London is equipped with an air cooling system. This makes it a great choice for those looking to stay cool while enjoying a show in central London.

Does the Duchess Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Duchess Theatre has air conditioning. Located on Catherine Street near Covent Garden, it provides a comfortable experience for audiences during performances.

Is the Adelphi Theatre air conditioned?

Yes, the Adelphi Theatre on the Strand is fully air conditioned. This historic theatre offers a cool and comfortable environment for its visitors.

Does the Aldwych Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Aldwych Theatre is equipped with air conditioning. This ensures that audiences can enjoy performances in a pleasant atmosphere, even on hot days.

Does the Ambassadors Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Ambassadors Theatre features an air cooling system. This small, intimate theatre near Leicester Square keeps its audience cool and comfortable.

Is the Apollo Theatre in London air conditioned?

Yes, the Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue has an air cooling system. It ensures a comfortable viewing experience for all its guests.

Does the Lyceum Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Lyceum Theatre in Covent Garden is fully air conditioned. This allows guests to enjoy their shows in a cool and comfortable setting, regardless of the weather outside.

Does the Garrick Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Garrick Theatre on Charing Cross Road is equipped with a comfort cooling system. This ensures that the theatre remains cool and comfortable during performances.

Is the Sondheim Theatre air conditioned?

Yes, the Sondheim Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue is fully air conditioned. This theatre offers a cool environment for audiences to enjoy their favourite shows.

Does the Shaftesbury Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Shaftesbury Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue is fully air conditioned. This provides a comfortable setting for theatre-goers, particularly during the warmer months.

Is the London Palladium air conditioned?

Yes, the London Palladium is equipped with an air cooling system. Located on Argyll Street, this theatre ensures that visitors can enjoy their shows in a comfortable and cool environment.

Does the Lyric Theatre have air conditioning?

Yes, the Lyric Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue has an air cooling system. It ensures that audiences remain comfortable and cool during performances.