
The Savoy Theatre, opened in 1881 by Richard D'Oyly Carte, holds the distinction of being the first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, revolutionising theatre design. Originally home to the famous Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, it was rebuilt in 1929 in a stunning Art Deco style, making it a luxurious and architecturally significant venue. Its opulent interiors and intimate atmosphere continue to host a variety of acclaimed plays and musicals, offering a truly elegant theatrical experience.
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Seating
- StallsPrime views mid-Stalls, but mind the legroom and Dress Circle overhang from Row P.
- Dress CircleOften the best seats in the house for a balanced view, but legroom is tight.
- Grand CircleGreat value for a comprehensive view, but expect tight legroom and a climb.
Stalls
Target central seats in rows D-M for excellent, unobstructed views. The Stalls offer a direct, ground-floor perspective, with a generally good rake providing decent sightlines, though this can vary depending on those in front.
Rows A-C are immersive but mean looking up. Legroom is typical for a historic West End theatre – expect it to be restrictive for taller patrons, especially in central blocks.
Aisle seats may offer slightly more space. From approximately Row P backwards, the Dress Circle overhang begins to affect the view of the very top of the stage, potentially cutting off high-set scenery or lighting rigs.
Dress Circle
Often considered the best seats, the Dress Circle offers excellent panoramic views from the first elevated tier. The rake is generally very good, ensuring clear sightlines over heads.
Central seats in rows A-F are highly sought after, providing a comprehensive and balanced perspective of the production. Front row A offers an unobstructed view, though a safety rail can be a minor visual intrusion for shorter patrons.
Side seats provide good views with only a slight angle to the stage. Legroom is comparable to the Stalls, so taller individuals should expect it to be tight.
The Upper Circle overhang does not typically affect views from this level.
Grand Circle
For good value, the Upper Circle (the second and highest tier) offers a more distant but often comprehensive view of the stage. The rake is typically steep, ensuring good sightlines over heads, though the height can feel considerable.
Legroom is generally more restricted than in the Stalls or Dress Circle. Front row A provides a clear view, but a safety rail may cause a minor obstruction for shorter audience members.
While central seats generally offer good value, those towards the sides and rear may experience slight restrictions due to the theatre's architecture or angle. The stage can appear smaller from this height, but the overall production is usually visible.
See the view from your seat
SeatPlan has photographs taken from individual seats at the Savoy 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 Savoy Theatre, for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.
- Strand Palaceabout 5 min walk
- The Z Hotel Covent Gardenabout 5 min walk
- Zedwell Piccadilly Circusabout 15 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
Toilets on all levels. Accessible toilet on Dress Circle level. All-gender bathrooms in Stalls and Mezzanine. Male toilets in Stalls require one flight of stairs.
Bars
4 bars: Stalls, Dress Circle, Mezzanine, and Upper/Grand Circle. Bars are on all levels. Drinks can be brought to seats as there is no level access to bars.
Cloakroom
Currently no cloakroom facility. Small bags and jackets can be stored under seats. Large items not permitted; external storage (e.g., Stasher) recommended.
Box office
For in-person ticket collection: from 1 hour before the performance starts until shortly after it commences.
Stage door
On Carting Lane. Patrons needing to use the accessible entrance on Carting Lane should contact Stage Door on arrival (020 7845 6050).
Location
Savoy Court, Strand, London, WC2R 0ET
Getting there
nearest first
- 5 min
Charing Cross
BakerlooNorthernNational Rail - 7 min
Covent Garden
Piccadilly - 7 min
Embankment
BakerlooNorthernCircleDistrict
Bus stops on the Strand and Aldwych are served by routes 1, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 139, 171, 172, 176, 188, and RV1.
Step-by-step walking directions
The Savoy Theatre is located on the Strand. The nearest Tube stations are Embankment (District & Circle, Bakerloo, Northern lines), which is approximately a 3-minute walk, and Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern lines, and National Rail services), approximately a 5-minute walk. Temple (District & Circle lines) is also within walking distance, about 7 minutes. Numerous bus routes serve the Strand area.

