Stalls at the Ambassadors Theatre

Rows A to P, below street level, in a single block that curves gently towards the stage. It's where we'd sit at the Ambassadors: it has the better legroom of the two levels, and it's the step-free level, by platform lift. There's no centre aisle, so you reach your seat from one side or the other.

Where we'd put you

The middle of rows D to J. You're close enough to catch every expression without looking up at the stage, and the floor rises enough from row D that the person in front isn't in your way. Row A is closer still, with all the legroom you could want, but the stage is high, so you spend the night looking up: for Paranormal Activity the stage sits at about eye level for someone 5ft 7.

If you'd rather spend less, look at the side seats. The rows run all the way across without a break, so a seat towards the end of a row costs less, still sees the full stage, and means climbing over fewer people to reach it. Some people book the row ends for exactly that reason. Further back, rows M and N are good value when they're priced lower. Most shows here play low on the stage, so from back there you lose a little of the atmosphere rather than any of the action.

What to avoid

Row P is the one to skip. It's nine seats squeezed either side of the sound desk, behind doors marked Box A and Box B, and from there the top of the stage is cut off. The seats aren't raised enough to see round a tall person in front either, so they're only worth it at a real discount.

The Circle overhangs the back of the Stalls, and you'll notice it from around row L. It doesn't make much difference for most shows here, because they play on the floor of the stage rather than high up on the set.

Legroom

Row A has all the legroom you could want, and rows B and C are a little roomier than the rest. Behind them it gets snug for anyone over about 5ft 8, though it's still better than the Circle. If you're tall, take an end seat: it's the easiest to get in and out of.

Getting there, bars and toilets

The Stalls are below street level, about 26 steps down from the foyer. If stairs are difficult, a platform lift from the foyer takes you down instead, and the wheelchair spaces are in rows E and G. The access page has the detail.

The Stalls Bar is next to the auditorium entrance, and it's very small, so order your interval drinks before the show and they'll be waiting for you. You'll find Ladies and Gents on this level, with the accessible toilet by the Stalls Bar.