Peacock Theatre London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction to the Peacock Theatre: History and Cultural Significance
Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, the Peacock Theatre is a cultural landmark steeped in history and renowned for its dynamic blend of classical heritage and contemporary performing arts. Originally opened in 1911 as the London Opera House, the venue has evolved through multiple incarnations—including the Stoll Picture Theatre, Royalty Theatre, and its current form as the Peacock Theatre. Today, it stands as a vibrant hub for dance, theatre, and physical performance, operated in partnership with Sadler’s Wells, London’s leading contemporary dance institution. Its proximity to major transport links and iconic London historical sites like the British Museum and Covent Garden makes the Peacock Theatre an essential destination for cultural exploration (Theatre-Tickets.com, LondonTheatre.co.uk, Sadler’s Wells).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Theatres Through Time: From Opera House to Peacock Theatre
- The Stoll Theatre Era and Transformations
- The Royalty Theatre: Rebirth in the 1960s
- Multipurpose Venue: Cinema, TV, and LSE
- The Modern Peacock: Renovation and Sadler’s Wells Collaboration
- Cultural Impact and Signature Performances
- Essential Visitor Information
- Final Tips for Visitors
- References
Theatres Through Time: From Opera House to Peacock Theatre
The Peacock Theatre’s story begins with the 1911 London Opera House, an ambitious project spearheaded by Oscar Hammerstein I. Built to rival Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House, the grand venue featured Versailles-inspired architecture and seated 2,600 patrons (Arthur Lloyd). However, financial challenges prompted its sale in 1916 to Oswald Stoll, who transformed it into the Stoll Picture Theatre, broadening its programming to embrace variety shows, revues, and cinema (Theatre-Tickets.com).
The Stoll Theatre Era and Transformations
As the Stoll Picture Theatre, the venue flourished during the interwar years, hosting variety and ballet performances, including Anton Dolin’s Festival Ballet. The rise of new entertainment mediums, however, led to its eventual closure and demolition in 1958, making way for urban redevelopment along Kingsway (Arthur Lloyd).
The Royalty Theatre: Rebirth in the 1960s
In 1960, a new theatre—named the Royalty Theatre—was constructed in the basement of the new office block. With a capacity just under 1,000, it opened with Peter Brook’s production of “The Visit” and boasted a modern auditorium with Burmese rosewood paneling and a photomural celebrating the site’s theatrical history (Arthur Lloyd).
Multipurpose Venue: Cinema, TV, and LSE
The Royalty Theatre’s identity shifted repeatedly, serving as a cinema for major films such as “My Fair Lady,” then as a television studio, and later as a lecture hall under the London School of Economics (LSE). Between 1980 and 1986, it famously hosted ITV’s “This Is Your Life” (LondonTheatre.co.uk, Wikipedia).
The Modern Peacock: Renovation and Sadler’s Wells Collaboration
In 1996, the venue was renamed the Peacock Theatre, honoring LSE benefactor Michael Peacock, and underwent significant renovations by Burrell Foley Fischer. The updated theatre now seats 999 and features two levels—Stalls and Dress Circle—with excellent acoustics and sightlines, making it ideal for dance and physical theatre (London Theatre Direct). The partnership with Sadler’s Wells established the Peacock as the West End home of contemporary dance, hosting UK and international companies, innovative premieres, and family favorites (Londontopia).
Cultural Impact and Signature Performances
The Peacock Theatre is known for its diverse programming, from the internationally acclaimed Drum TAO—a Japanese drumming ensemble—to the Irish cabaret of THISISPOPBABY’s WAKE, and beloved annual events like “The Snowman” Christmas production (Sadler’s Wells). The theatre’s dual use as a daytime lecture hall and evening performance space further underscores its unique role in London’s cultural and academic life (Theatre-Tickets.com).
Essential Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- Box Office: Monday–Saturday, 12:00–18:00
- Theatre Doors: Open one hour before performance
- Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to showtime for security checks and pre-show activities (Sadler’s Wells)
Tickets and Booking
- Tickets available online via Sadler’s Wells, by phone (020 7863 8000), or in-person
- Advance booking recommended for popular shows
- Prices typically range from £20–£70; discounts for students, seniors, and groups may be available (West End Theatre)
Accessibility
- Step-free and wheelchair access throughout the venue
- Accessible toilets and trained staff for assistance
- Contact [email protected] for special requirements (Sadler’s Wells)
Directions & Transport
- Address: Portugal Street, Kingsway, London WC2A 2HT
- Tube: Holborn (Central, Piccadilly), Temple (District, Circle)
- Buses: Multiple routes on High Holborn, Kingsway, Aldwych/Strand
- Cycling: Bike racks and nearby cycle hire stations
- Car: Limited parking; in congestion charge zone (TfL)
Nearby Attractions
- British Museum (10 min walk)
- Covent Garden Market (15 min walk)
- Somerset House (15 min walk)
- Lincoln’s Inn Fields Park (5 min walk) (LoveToVisit)
Facilities and Food
- Bars on each level serving drinks and snacks
- The Delaunay Counter Café offers a 10% discount to ticket holders (walk-in only, up to four people, excludes main restaurant)
- No hot food or large bags allowed; cloakroom for small items (Sadler’s Wells)
Show Experience & Etiquette
- Modern, comfortable seating for ~1,000 guests
- No photography/filming during performances
- Arrive on time; latecomers admitted during suitable breaks only
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult; check age restrictions for specific shows (Sadler’s Wells)
Safety and Security
- Bag checks and security screening at entry
- Staff trained in emergency procedures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Peacock Theatre’s visiting hours?
Box office: 12:00–18:00; doors open one hour before showtime.
How do I buy tickets?
Online via Sadler’s Wells, by phone, or at the box office.
Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with step-free access and facilities for visitors with disabilities.
Are there family-friendly shows?
Yes, including “The Snowman” and other child-appropriate productions.
What are the best nearby attractions?
British Museum, Covent Garden, Somerset House, and Lincoln’s Inn Fields.
Final Tips for Visitors
- Book tickets early, especially for popular or limited-run performances.
- Arrive ahead of time to enjoy the pre-show ambiance and avoid queues.
- Explore nearby historic and cultural sites before or after your show.
- For family visits, check age restrictions and seating arrangements in advance.
- Download the Audiala app or follow the Peacock Theatre on social media for the latest updates, ticket deals, and event news.
References
- Theatre-Tickets.com – Peacock Theatre History
- LondonTheatre.co.uk – Peacock Theatre Venue Information
- Sadler’s Wells – Visiting the Peacock Theatre
- West End Theatre – Ghost Stories Announcement
- SeatPlan – Peacock Theatre Guide
- LoveToVisit – Peacock Theatre Visitor Info
- Londontopia – Peacock Theatre History
- Sadler’s Wells – Drum TAO
- Arthur Lloyd – Stoll and Royalty Theatre
- London Theatre Direct – Peacock Theatre
- TfL – London Transport
