Royal Circle at Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Rows A to L, the first level above the Stalls. The front of it is one of the two best places to sit in the building, with a wide view of the whole stage from just above it.

Where we'd put you

Rows B to E, in the centre. You see the full width of the stage from just above it, which is the best way to take in big dance numbers and anything projected onto the set.

For value, go to the back. Rows K and L in the centre often feel closer to the stage than you'd expect, and they cost less than the front blocks.

What to avoid

  • A8 and A45. Each has a safety rail in view. They're usually sold cheaper, which is the trade.
  • The seat right next to the centre aisle, rows B to G. A rail at the end of the aisle clips part of the stage.
  • The slip seats. A single row runs along each side towards the stage, and it's angled. You lose a quarter of the stage or more from most of them.
  • From row F back, if you're short. The rows rise gently here rather than steeply, so a tall person in front can get in the way.
  • The back rows, for a show staged high. The Grand Circle comes over this level from row E, and from around row J you lose the top of the stage. For most shows the loss is small.

Legroom in the Royal Circle

Fine for most people up to about 5ft 9. Row A and the slip seats are a little tighter. There's no seat on this level with nothing in front of it, so if you're tall, an aisle seat gives one leg somewhere to go.

Steps and the lift

Take the lift from the foyer, or climb 39 steps to reach the back of this level. The lift arrives at row K, which is step-free and has the level's one wheelchair space.

The Royal Circle Boxes

On each side, between the end of the seating and the stage, is a named Box, the King's on one side and the Prince's on the other, with Boxes A and J next to them. Boxes B to H run across the back of the level. The Boxes route says what each is like and what we'd book instead.

Drinks and toilets

The Grand Saloon and The Terrace are both on this level, and the lift stops here. The Grand Saloon is the restored Regency saloon, and it serves afternoon tea during the day. There are toilets on this level, and accessible ones on both sides, off row K.

Royal Circle FAQs

Is the Royal Circle good at Theatre Royal Drury Lane?

Yes. Rows B to E in the centre are among the best seats in the building, with the whole stage laid out in front of you, and rows K and L are good value. Watch for A8, A45 and the slip seats, which have rails or an angle to contend with.

Is there a lift to the Royal Circle?

Yes, from the foyer, and it's step-free from there to row K. Otherwise it's 39 steps.

Where is the bar in the Royal Circle?

On the same level: the Grand Saloon and The Terrace are both at Royal Circle level, and the lift reaches them.