Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House which includes heritage elements, interior views and a bar
Royal Opera House featuring modern architecture and interior views
Royal Opera House which includes interior views and modern architecture
Royal Opera House
Royal Opera House


Marvel at the graceful movements of the ballerinas on stage and hear the sweet music of the orchestra in a theatre that has been popular since the 1700s.

The Royal Opera House is a theatre of world renown in the heart of London, where the troupes of the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet often grace the stage. With its six imposing columns and strong pediment, the current 19th-century building is a wonder to behold. Take a look around the structure for free in the afternoon for a sense of its majesty.

Today’s theatre stems from tumultuous origins, this being the building’s third incarnation. Fires in 1808 and 1856 destroyed the formers sites, the first of which was constructed in 1732.

Book a guided tour in advance for a detailed understanding of the opera house, its history and its shows. Stop for lunch or hot drinks and snacks at the Amphitheatre Restaurant. Its terrace offers an excellent vista of the Covent Garden Piazza.

Ballet and opera are among the upscale events that regularly take place here. Listen to the collective sound of the myriad performers that make up the Royal Opera House Orchestra. Red seats pack the auditorium, which is flanked by golden balconies and a flurry of lights. Its main gallery and four tiers of balconies and boxes combine to seat 2,256 people.

Browse the array of items on sale at the Royal Opera House Shop, where you’ll find DVD box sets, books and recordings relating to the opera. Inspect the Young Dancer statue by Italian-born sculptor Enzo Plazzotta in front of the theatre’s majestic façade. It depicts a ballerina preparing to dance.

Book tickets Monday through Saturday from morning to evening at the box office near the main building.

Find the Royal Opera House in the Covent Garden area, a little west of central London. Arrive at the Covent Garden stop of the London Underground and walk east for a few minutes to get here. See other nearby attractions such as the London Film Museum, the Lyceum Theatre and the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

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Things to do near Royal Opera House

Experience the vibrant offerings near the Royal Opera House, where you can enjoy thrilling theatre performances, explore captivating art galleries, and indulge in shopping. Don't miss the chance to take a backstage tour for a unique glimpse behind the scenes. Whether you're seeking a leisurely daytime getaway or a variety of entertainment options, the Royal Opera House area promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Shopping

just 1.6km from the Royal Opera House, Borough Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with artisanal goods, while Selfridges provides a high-end shopping experience. The Royal Exchange, also 1.6km away, combines shopping with entertainment in a family-friendly setting.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at O2 Arena, just 8.0km from the Royal Opera House, where you can enjoy thrilling sporting events. Alternatively, unwind at Hampstead Heath, 6.4km away, with its serene landscapes perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, offering stunning views 9.7km from the Royal Opera House. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill is a mere 161m away, providing an exciting sports adventure. Don't miss the adrenaline rush at Oasis Go-Kart Track, located 4.8km away.

Nightlife

The Royal Opera House area comes alive at night with the Dominion Theatre's vibrant shows, perfect for culture and romance. Just a short stroll away, All Star Lanes-Holborn offers adventurous fun, while Cineworld London - Leicester Square presents entertaining films in a charming setting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Royal Opera House

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a family looking for fun, or simply seeking to explore the vibrant city, the Royal Opera House and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions. Discover charming streets, the lively piazza, and tranquil urban parks, all perfect for immersing yourself in local experiences. With so much to see and do, your visit promises to be both enriching and enjoyable.

  • Piccadilly Circus: A vibrant hub of activity, Piccadilly Circus is famous for its neon lights and bustling atmosphere. With theatres, shops, and street performers, it offers an electric city vibe, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying the lively London spirit.
  • Buckingham Palace: The iconic residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a symbol of British culture and history. Visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, explore the stunning gardens, and admire the grand architecture of this historic palace.
  • Big Ben: A world-renowned clock tower, Big Ben stands as a quintessential emblem of London. Its impressive Gothic architecture and the rhythmic chime of its clock create a captivating atmosphere, embodying the cultural and urban essence of the city.

Best time to go to Royal Opera House

The best time to visit Royal Opera House is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Royal Opera House

To save money on your visit to the Royal Opera House, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider package deals for flights and activities. Additionally, check availability and cancellation options to ensure flexibility in your travel plans.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Royal Opera House are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Royal Opera House is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Royal Opera House is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Royal Opera House is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay at the Royal Opera House with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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