Practical · Theatre
Buying theatre tickets in London
The West End has more than forty theatres, and ticket prices vary widely. A few simple rules help you get good seats at fair prices.
Updated October 2026
Book direct
The safest way to buy is from the theatre’s own box office or website, or from its owning group, such as LW Theatres, Delfont Mackintosh, ATG or Nimax. Check the exact seat, its view and any booking fee before you pay.
The Official London Theatre Ticket Booth
The Official London Theatre Ticket Booth, long known as TKTS or the half-price booth, stands in the Clocktower Building on the south side of Leicester Square. It is run by the Society of London Theatre, a not-for-profit body, and sells on-the-day and advance tickets for many shows at official prices.
Day seats, lotteries and rush tickets
Many productions release a small number of lower-priced day seats, lotteries or app-based rush tickets, usually on the morning of the performance. Rules differ by show, so check each production’s official website.
Opera, ballet and the South Bank
The Royal Opera House, the London Coliseum, Sadler’s Wells and the National Theatre sell tickets on their own websites, and some offer standing places or day tickets. Concerts at the Southbank Centre, the Barbican and Wigmore Hall are booked direct with each venue.
Questions and answers
Where is the official half-price ticket booth?
In the Clocktower Building on the south side of Leicester Square, run by the Society of London Theatre.
Is it cheaper to buy on the day?
Sometimes: day seats and the official booth can offer good prices, but popular shows sell out, so book ahead for anything you must see.
Prices, schemes and booking rules change. Always check the theatre’s official website.