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From my experience, yes, most London theatres do conduct bag checks as a standard security procedure these days. It’s usually a quick visual check, but sometimes they might ask you to open compartments. It’s all for everyone’s safety, so it’s best to be prepared and cooperate.
Now, regarding bag size, this is where it gets a bit tricky, as it can vary slightly from theatre to theatre. However, a general rule of thumb that I always stick to is: only bring a small bag that can comfortably fit under your seat. Many theatres explicitly state that large bags, suitcases, and even large rucksacks are not allowed into the auditorium, and some don’t have cloakroom facilities for them.
For example, I know for a fact that places like the Lyceum Theatre (home of The Lion King) and the Palace Theatre (for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) are quite strict about this. They often have specific size limits mentioned on their websites – something like 40cm x 35cm x 19cm or even smaller, like A4 size. The reason is purely practical: there’s simply not enough space under the seats or in the aisles for larger items, and they can become a tripping hazard or block emergency exits.
My personal advice? If you’re coming straight from a train station or have been out and about with a larger bag, it’s always best to find a luggage storage service nearby before you head to the theatre. There are services like Stasher.com that partner with local businesses for secure bag storage.
Of course, the big classics like The Lion King and Matilda The Musical are always a hit. They’re visually stunning and have fantastic music that appeals to all ages. I’ve taken my nieces and nephews to both, and they really enjoyed it. Frozen is another one that’s very popular with the younger crowd, especially if they’re fans of the film.
Beyond the big West End productions, I always recommend looking into some of London’s dedicated children’s theatres. Places like the Unicorn Theatre near London Bridge, the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon, and the Little Angel Theatre in Islington (which specialises in puppetry!) consistently put on incredible, age-appropriate shows. They often have shorter run times and more relaxed atmospheres, which can be perfect for younger attention spans. I’ve seen some truly innovative and delightful productions at these venues over the years.
For the ‘sweet spot’ of good views without paying top price, I’d often lean towards the front of the Royal Circle. You get a fantastic panoramic view of the stage, which is brilliant for seeing all the incredible choreography and the animals entering through the aisles. It feels grand, but often comes at a slightly more palatable price than the very front of the Stalls.
Speaking of the Stalls, they are absolutely worth the extra if you want to be truly immersed. The animal procession at the beginning of the show, and at various points throughout, comes right through the aisles, and being up close for that is an unforgettable experience. If you can snag seats in the central Stalls, especially rows A-D, you’ll be right in the heart of the action. However, do be aware that some of the side Stalls seats can have slight restrictions due to the stage design, so always check SeatPlan.com if you’re unsure.
Now, for my taller friends asking about legroom at the Lyceum, I feel your pain! Older theatres, bless their hearts, weren’t always built with modern leg-stretching in mind. For extra legroom, I’ve found that the Box seats (if available and within budget) are often a good shout, as they usually have movable chairs. In the Stalls, Row R, particularly the outer seats, is often cited as having better legroom. It’s not a guarantee for every seat, but it’s a good starting point. The Lyceum is known for being a bit snug, so if legroom is a top priority, those are the areas to target. You might also find a bit more space on aisle seats, but that’s always a bit of a gamble!
For a reliable and classic pre-theatre experience, I recommend Browns Brasserie & Bar in Covent Garden. They do a fantastic pre-theatre menu that’s usually great value, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. It’s perfect if you want something that feels a bit traditional but still has a lively vibe. Another solid choice, especially if you’re looking for something quick and tasty, is Joe Allen. It’s a Theatreland institution, and they really understand the need for speed when you have a curtain to catch!
Now, for my fellow plant-based theatre-goers, you absolutely must check out Mildreds in Covent Garden. It’s a completely plant-based restaurant. They have a great pre-theatre selection, and it’s always packed, which tells you something! It’s my go-to when I want something delicious and wholesome before a show.
Generally, a ‘restricted view’ means that some part of the stage will be obscured. This could be anything from a pillar (the most common culprit, especially in older, grander theatres!) to a safety rail, or even the overhang from an upper circle cutting off the very top of the stage. The severity really does vary wildly from theatre to theatre, and even from seat to seat within the same theatre. Some theatres are much better than others at indicating exactly what the restriction is when you book.
As for whether upper circle restricted seats are harder to enjoy than restricted stalls seats, in my experience, it depends on the show and the theatre’s architecture. In the upper circle, the restriction often comes from the height and distance, sometimes cutting off the very top of the proscenium arch or high-up set pieces. In the stalls, it’s more likely to be a pillar or the heads of taller people in front of you. Personally, I find a pillar more disruptive than a high-up overhang, as it can block key moments of the action. However, some people find the steep rake of the upper circle uncomfortable or disorienting.
My top tip? Always check SeatPlan.com or AViewFromMySeat.co.uk before booking a restricted view seat. These websites have user-submitted photos and reviews from specific seats, which are invaluable.
