Peacock Theatre

The Peacock Theatre, opened in 1960 as a lecture theatre for the LSE, was converted into a proscenium arch theatre. Managed by Sadler's Wells since 1996, it is renowned as London's premier venue for international and national dance, alongside musicals and family shows. Its modern, functional design ensures excellent sightlines and a comfortable, intimate atmosphere for its 999-seat capacity.

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Seating

Stalls

The Peacock's Stalls fill most of the ground floor, a deep block of seating split into left, centre, and right sections by two vertical aisles. While the sheer depth means intimacy wanes in the very back, a consistent floor slope generally ensures clear sightlines over heads.

For dance, you'll want to avoid Rows A to D, where the proximity can actually restrict your view of footwork and full choreography. Instead, aim for the Centre block, Rows G through M, which offer the ideal balance of closeness and a complete stage picture.

Be warned, though: the Dress Circle overhang starts around Row S. From Row U all the way back to ZB, the low ceiling creates a tight, letterbox-like view, dampening acoustics and shrinking the visual impact of large productions.

Dress Circle

A shallow, single balcony, the Dress Circle sits above the rear half of the Stalls. This elevated perspective is a favourite among dance enthusiasts, perfect for tracking complex choreographic formations, lighting dynamics, and the overall geometry of the stage floor.

For an absolutely brilliant, panoramic, and unobstructed view, aim for the Centre seats in Rows A through D. While sightlines generally remain clear across the entire tier, be aware that legroom in the rear rows (Rows F to J) is notoriously cramped.

Taller patrons should definitely target Row A or secure an aisle seat for a more comfortable experience.

See the view from your seat

SeatPlan has photographs taken from individual seats at the Peacock 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 plan

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Staying nearby

The nearest hotels to the Peacock Theatre, for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.

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Facilities

Toilets

Accessible toilets are in the Foyer (left of main entrance) and on the Stalls level (near stalls bar). A Radar key is required for accessible toilets and is available from staff.

Bars

2

Open 60 minutes before show.

Cloakroom

Yes

off the stalls bar seating area

Box office

Open 1 hour before performance until 20 minutes after show starts. Located straight ahead from the main entrance on Portugal Street.

Available for coats and small items, not large bags or suitcases.

Stage door

Kingsway (side of the theatre), accessible via a ramped entrance.

Location

Open in Maps

Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London, WC2A 2HT

Getting there

nearest first

  • 5–10 min

    Holborn

    CentralPiccadilly
  • 5–10 min

    Temple

    DistrictCircle
  • 5–10 min

    Chancery Lane

    Central

Bus stops on Aldwych and Kingsway.

Step-by-step walking directions

The Peacock Theatre is conveniently located in central London. The nearest Tube stations are Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines), Temple (District and Circle lines), and Chancery Lane (Central line), all within a 5-10 minute walk. Numerous bus routes serve Aldwych and Kingsway, both very close to the theatre. The theatre is situated on Portugal Street, just off Kingsway.

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