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London's West End is one of the two great theatre capitals of the world, with around 40 theatres staging everything from decades-long blockbuster musicals to cutting-edge new plays and limited celebrity runs. Whatever night you are in town, there is a world-class show on. Here is how to choose the right one and book it well.
The long-running musicals
The safest bets are the established hits that run for years: The Lion King, Wicked, Les Miserables, The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, Matilda, Hamilton and Moulin Rouge. See our best musicals guide for the full picture.
Plays and limited runs
Alongside the musicals, the West End and the subsidised theatres (the National, the Old Vic, the Bridge) stage acclaimed plays and starry limited runs. These change constantly and the best sell out fast, so check current listings and book early.
How to book and save
Book through the official theatre or an authorised agent. For discounts, see our cheap theatre tickets guide, which covers day seats, lotteries, the TKTS booth and rush schemes.
Good to know
Most theatres cluster around Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden and the Strand, all walkable. Make a night of it with our things to do at night guide and a pre-theatre dinner.
