Going to the theatre in London’s West End is more than just buying a ticket—it’s about choosing the right seat. A good seat can make the whole experience amazing, letting you see and hear everything properly. But the wrong seat? It might leave you with a sore neck, a blocked view, or trouble hearing what’s going on.
1. Go for the Middle
The best views and sound are usually in the middle, especially in the Stalls or front of the Circles. Try to avoid far-left or far-right seats.
2. Think About Legroom
If you’re tall, check websites like SeatPlan.com for legroom tips. Some theatres (like the Apollo or Palace Balcony) are really tight on space.
3. Watch for Overhangs
Balconies or upper circles sometimes block the view of the stage below. Don’t sit too far back under one if you want to see everything.
4. Cheaper Doesn’t Always Mean Worse
Front rows of the Circle in smaller theatres can be a bargain with great views. Also check out rush tickets, day seats, or even standing spots—especially at places like Shakespeare’s Globe.
5. Read Reviews First
Before booking, check out seat reviews online—SeatPlan and Secret Stage Reviews are great. Every show is different, so what worked for one might not work for another.
6. Know What a “Rake” Is
The rake is how steep the seats go up. A good rake means you won’t be stuck staring at the back of someone’s head. The Olivier and Palace have good rakes; others don’t.
7. Sound Quality Isn’t Always Equal
Older theatres like the Apollo can have dodgy sound at the back. Newer ones like the National usually don’t have this problem.
8. Don’t Ignore “Restricted View” Warnings
If a seat is marked as restricted, it’s for a reason. It might have a pillar in the way, or you might miss part of the stage. These seats can really affect your enjoyment.
There’s no one perfect seat—it depends on what kind of experience you want. Want to feel like you’re part of the action? Go for mid-Stalls. Prefer to take everything in at once? Choose the front row of a Circle. Need more space? Aim for the aisles or back of the Dress Circle.