Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House

Bow Street, London WC2E 9DD

The Royal Opera House is an opera house and major performing arts venue in the London district of Covent Garden. The large building is often referred to as simply "Covent Garden", after a previous use of the site of the opera house's original construction in 1732. It is the home of The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Originally called the Theatre Royal, it served primarily as a playhouse for the first hundred years of its history. In 1734, the first ballet was presented. A year later Handel's first season of operas began. Many of his operas and oratorios were specifically written for Covent Garden and had their premieres there.

The current building is the third theatre on the site following disastrous fires in 1808 and 1857. The façade, foyer and auditorium date from 1858, but almost every other element of the present complex dates from an extensive reconstruction in the 1990s. The Royal Opera House seats 2,268 people and consists of four tiers of boxes and balconies and the amphitheatre gallery. The proscenium is 12.20 m wide and 14.80 m high. The main auditorium is a Grade 1 listed building.

Royal Opera House Seating Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

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Royal Opera House is located in London. The full address is Royal Opera House, Bow Street, London WC2E 9DD.

Yes, you can wear jeans to The Royal Opera House. Like most modern theatres, the Royal Opera House doesn't have a formal dress code. So wear what you feel comfortable in.

Tall Seats refer to the seats in the back row of the Balcony. The Balcony is the section at the top of the theatre. 

The majority of theatregoers regard the centre of the Grand Tier, specifically rows A-C, as the best seats.  This level offers a great view of the stage without being too far back, and is considered the most desirable section for an optimal viewing experience. Of course, everyone's tastes and preferences are different.

Getting here

Closest Tube Station

Covent Garden

Closest Train Station

Charing Cross