Criterion Theatre
West End
Theatre District

Criterion Theatre

Capacity587 Seats
Seating Tiers4 Levels
Venue SizeSmall

About The Venue

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.

Seating

The Stalls are located below street level, requiring descent via several flights of stairs. The stage is relatively low, offering an immersive experience in the front rows (A-C), though some people may find the proximity requires looking up. Legroom throughout the Stalls is generally considered tight, particularly in central rows. The Dress Circle overhang begins around row G or H, significantly impacting the view of the top of the stage from rows further back (from J/K onwards), potentially cutting off the top of the set or any action occurring high on stage. The rake is moderate, which can lead to obstructed views for shorter people if someone tall is seated directly in front, especially in the middle to back sections. Side seats offer good value but may require a slight head turn to follow the action.

Toilets

Gents and Ladies: between Stalls and Dress Circle levels; Accessible: Upper Circle.

Bars

2 bars: Greene Bar (Stalls level) and Lord Attenborough Bar (Dress Circle level), which also has a coffee bar.

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

Open in Maps

Piccadilly Circus, St. James's, London SW1Y 4XA

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.

At this Venue