Royal Opera House

Rich in history, the Royal Opera House is a major venue for performing arts in London

Bow Street entrance to the Royal Opera House
Bow Street entrance to the Royal Opera House cc licensed photo by markhillary

The Royal Opera House, a prominent venue for opera and performing arts in London is located in the district of Covent Garden the building is often referred to by the same name.

The theatre is home to The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet and to the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House.

The original building called the Theatre Royal was built in 1732 and functioned primarily as a playhouse for it's first 100 years. The theatre was destroyed by a fire in 1808 and rebuilt by 1809. It was later destroyed in yet another fire in 1856 and replaced by a new building in 1858, which still forms much of the present building. In 1892 the theatre was named the Royal Opera House or ROH for short. It served as a dance hall during the Second World War. From 1996 through 2000 major reconstruction and enhancement took place which included the old Covent Garden Market creating an extensive new gathering place.

The Royal Opera House has collections of several hundred thousand items that highlight the history of the ROH. You can visit exhibitions of some of these collections on Monday to Friday from 10am to 3:30pm.

For more information about the Royal Opera House as well as performances and schedules visit their official site at the link below.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Royal Opera House Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM

Address: Bow St, London WC2E 9DD, UK

Phone: 020 7304 4000

Official Website: Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House Reviews

Rated 4.8 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating One of the theatres with a long history,a venue that masterfully combines stunning architecture with world-class performances. The interior is a visual feast. Dining options in the venue are also commendable with an amazing view from the terrace.
Deepak Joseph - 3 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating It is amazing feeling to engulfed in the thought that spectacular and brilliant ballet takes place in this Opera House. They also have a visually appealing rooftop restaurant with a top view of the Convent Garden courtyard and restaurants.
Katia Graca-Caldeira - a month ago

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5 Star Rating What a beautiful venue this is. Stunning architecture inside and out and such craftsmanship inside. A selection of bars for pre event drinks and restaurants also available. Friendly and helpful staff. The second time I've been here, both times to see Pet Shop Boys. There is something truly magical about it.
Stimpy Goat - 3 months ago

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4 Star Rating Went to see Brian Cox was in the gods was very hot and claustrophobic. Had to change to standing at the back as found it too difficult in the seats. I would recommend taking a fan. The show was good complicated but good the music was great. Would recommend spending a bit more on a lower down seat.
helen edgington - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating Had lovely cake & Coffee here. Mango& Passion Fruit cake was delicious. Latte was perfect. Went on top floor for drinks, view and atmosphere was amazing.
Misha Patel - 2 months ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Picadilly LineCovent Garden2 Minutes

How to get to Royal Opera House by Tube

From Covent Garden Tube Station exit onto Long Acre and go right(east), then go right onto Bow Street. The Royal Opera House is just ahead on the right.

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