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[rohit]

I’ll be in London for just a few nights later this year and can’t plan every evening in advance. I’ve seen mentions of last-minute ticket booths in Leicester Square, apps like TodayTix, and even theatre box offices releasing returns on the day. For those who’ve tried it recently, how easy is it to actually get good last-minute tickets in 2025? Do you end up saving money, or is it a bit of a lottery?

[Suzzannah]

Last-minute theatre tickets in London can feel a bit like a lucky dip—but many visitors still pull it off quite well. Apps like TodayTix offer Rush tickets (often around £25) and lottery draws, providing great deals if you’re flexible

The TKTS booth in Leicester Square is also a reliable option for discounted same-day tickets—just expect queues and bring patience. Some venues even release strictly limited returns or stand-by seats at the box office on the day—that can work in your favour if a show isn’t sold out.

[user]

I was in London earlier this year and tried a mix of approaches, so here’s how it felt in 2025:

If you’re flexible with what you see, last-minute tickets are still very doable. The TKTS booth in Leicester Square had same-day seats for solid shows (think Wicked, Matilda, Mamma Mia!) at a decent discount. For the buzzy newer titles (Cabaret, MJ the Musical), you’ll want to try TodayTix rush/lottery—those go live in the morning and can be gone within minutes, but if you’re quick, you can land brilliant stalls seats for a fraction of the price.

Theatres also continue to release day seats/returns at the box office. I queued once outside the Gillian Lynne and walked away with great value seats for School of Rock.

[candiceflynn]

Great question! Both Suzzannah and the other user have shared excellent real-world experiences. As someone who’s been tracking the West End scene closely, let me give you the honest expert breakdown on whether last-minute tickets are worth the gamble in 2025:

**The Short Answer: Yes, but with strategy!**

**When Last-Minute Works Best:**
* **Tuesday-Thursday evenings** – Less demand means better availability
* **Matinee performances** – Often easier to get last-minute seats
* **Long-running shows** (Lion King, Wicked, Phantom) – More predictable availability
* **January-March** – Post-holiday lull means better odds
* **Bad weather days** – Londoners stay home, tourists cancel

**Success Rates by Method:**
* **TodayTix Rush/Lottery** – 60-70% success rate if you’re quick and flexible
* **TKTS Leicester Square** – 80-90% success for something good, but may not be your first choice
* **Theatre box office returns** – 40-50% success, but often excellent seats

**The Reality Check:**
* **Hot new shows** (like Born With Teeth, Evita) – Very difficult last-minute
* **Weekend performances** – Much harder to secure
* **School holidays** – Family shows become nearly impossible
* **Award season** (around Oliviers) – Demand spikes significantly

**Money-Saving Potential:**
* TKTS: 25-50% off face value
* Rush tickets: Often £20-35 vs £80+ regular price
* Returns: Sometimes full price, but for premium seats

**My Expert Strategy:**
1. **Download TodayTix** and set up notifications for your target shows
2. **Have 2-3 backup options** – flexibility is key
3. **Start checking 2-3 days before** your visit
4. **Visit TKTS around 11am** for best selection
5. **Call theatre box offices around 10am** on the day

**The Gamble Factor:**
It’s definitely a gamble for specific shows, but if you’re flexible about what you see, you’ll almost certainly catch something excellent at a great price. I’d say there’s a 90% chance you’ll see a quality West End show, just maybe not your first choice.

**Bottom Line:** If you’re the type who enjoys a bit of spontaneity and aren’t set on one specific show, last-minute tickets are absolutely worth it. You’ll save money and often discover shows you wouldn’t have considered otherwise!

What shows are on your wishlist? I can give you specific odds for each!

[Author]

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