
The Criterion Theatre, opened in 1874, is a unique subterranean venue built entirely underground beneath Piccadilly Circus. Designed by Thomas Verity, its distinctive Victorian architecture features an ornate interior adorned with Doulton's faience tiles, giving it a charming and intimate atmosphere. A Grade II* listed building, it remains a significant example of Victorian theatre design and a beloved West End landmark.
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Seating
- StallsImmersive upfront, but tight legroom and an early overhang from row G/H.
- Dress CirclePrime views, especially central, but watch for the curve and later overhang.
- Upper CircleElevated views for the big picture, but details fade and legroom is tight.
- BalconyBudget-friendly, but distant views, tight legroom, and a safety rail.
Stalls
For an immersive experience, the Stalls put you right in front of the relatively low stage, particularly in rows A-C, though you'll be looking up a bit. Access is via several flights of stairs down.
Legroom is generally tight throughout, especially in central rows. The Dress Circle overhang begins around row G or H, significantly impacting your view of the top of the stage from rows further back (from J/K onwards), potentially cutting off the set's upper reaches or high-stage action.
The moderate rake can lead to obstructed views for shorter patrons behind taller people, particularly in middle to back sections. Side seats offer good value, but expect a slight head turn.
Dress Circle
Widely considered to offer some of the best overall views, the Dress Circle is at street level for easy access. Central rows (A-E) provide a clear, comprehensive perspective of the entire production.
However, the pronounced curve of the circle means extreme end seats (e.g., A1, A2, A20, A21) will have a more angled view, potentially missing action at the very sides of the stage. Legroom is generally better than in the Stalls but can still be snug for taller individuals.
The Upper Circle overhang starts around row F or G, potentially affecting the view of the very top of the stage from the back rows. The good rake ensures clear sightlines over heads.
Upper Circle
Ascend via stairs to the Upper Circle for a good elevated view, providing a full perspective of the set design and overall staging. However, the increased distance from the stage means finer details of the performance may be harder to discern.
Legroom here is generally tighter than in the Dress Circle. The Balcony overhang is present, potentially affecting your view of the very top of the stage from the back rows (e.g., from row F/G onwards).
The rake is steep, which effectively aids in providing clear sightlines over heads, but the height can feel quite significant for some. Side seats in this section will have more pronounced angled views.
Balcony
For the most affordable tickets, head to the Balcony, but be prepared for significant compromises. This is the highest and furthest seating level, accessed via multiple flights of stairs.
Views are distant, making the stage and performers appear small. Legroom is typically the most restricted in the entire theatre, often very tight.
For shorter individuals, the safety rail in front of the first row (Row A) can cause a partial obstruction, requiring you to lean forward. The rake is very steep, which helps with sightlines over heads but can feel disorienting for some.
The overall experience can feel quite detached from the performance, best suited for those prioritizing budget over an intimate viewing.
See the view from your seat
SeatPlan has photographs taken from individual seats at the Criterion Theatre, alongside a full seating plan and reviews from people who sat there. Worth a look before you commit to a restricted-view seat.
View seat photos and planAffiliate link — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Staying nearby
The nearest hotels to the Criterion Theatre, for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.
- Zedwell Piccadilly Circusabout 5 min walk
- Hotel Café Royalabout 5 min walk
- Ham Yard Hotelabout 5 min walk
Hotels.com affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Prices and availability are shown on their site.
Facilities
Toilets
Gents and Ladies: between Stalls and Dress Circle levels; Accessible: Upper Circle.
Box office
Tickets can be collected an hour before the performance begins.
Stage door
Opposite side of the Criterion Block, underneath the covered walkway in Jermyn Street. Wheelchair entrance is to the left of the stage door on Jermyn Street.
Location
Piccadilly Circus, St. James's, London SW1Y 4XA
Getting there
nearest first
- 1 min
Piccadilly Circus
BakerlooPiccadilly - 10–15 min
Leicester Square
NorthernPiccadilly - 10–15 min
Charing Cross
BakerlooNorthernNational Rail
Step-by-step walking directions
The Criterion Theatre is located directly on Piccadilly Circus. The nearest Tube station is Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines), which has an exit directly opposite the theatre entrance. Other nearby stations include Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern, and National Rail services), both within a 10-15 minute walk.

