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

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: YesAddress: Bow St, London WC2E 9DD, UK
Phone: 020 7304 4000
Official Website: Royal Opera House
Royal Opera House Reviews
Rated
We made a booking to see the ballet here. What an amazing experience to see it in this historical place. Although we didn’t get a good seat it was good enough to see the wonderful ballet. I really enjoyed the ballet and will never forget this great memory in my life.
I remember that once Charles Dickens said “
You never get bored in London” . I think he was right. 😃 There are so many fun things to do in London even if you don’t get drunk. 😋
June Lee - 2 weeks ago
A special birthday treat for my daughter's 17th, we watched Alice in Wonderland, a most magical ballet performance, with graceful dancing, superb special effects and costumes. Loved every moment, especially when the confetti came cascading down from the dome.
The Queen of Hearts was at her wicked best - for me, she stole the show.
At £ 190 each, sitting in J row was well worth the expense.
Nive Raitz von Frentz - 2 weeks ago
The Behind the Scenes Tour at the Royal Opera House was fantastic! The guide shared great insights into the history, stage machinery, and costume workshops. I loved seeing areas like the rehearsal rooms and prop storage that are usually off-limits. A must-do for anyone visiting London!
Ann Chung - a week ago
Stepping into the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, is like stepping into history itself. This grand institution, with its opulent interiors and a legacy stretching back centuries, holds a story in every corner, an experience captured in every performance. The moment we entered, we felt the weight of artistry, passion, and tradition that has graced this stage for generations.
From the grandeur of the Paul Hamlyn Hall to the breathtaking view of the auditorium, every inch of the ROH is a testament to its dedication to excellence. The red velvet seats, the golden glow of the chandeliers, and the hushed anticipation before the curtain rises—all create a sense of magic that no recording or cinema screening could ever replicate. The acoustics are impeccable, ensuring that every note resonates through the soul, while the staging and production values are nothing short of world-class.
My partner and I attended Puccini’s Turandot on March 29, 2025, a night that will remain etched in our memories. It was her favorite opera—one she had seen a million times on DVD—but seeing it live for the first time at the ROH was a revelation and for me this was my first ever opera. The sheer power of the orchestra, the soaring voices of the performers, and the sheer majesty of the set design brought the story to life in a way that only live opera can.
The Royal Opera House is not just a venue—it is an experience, a sanctuary for the arts, and a temple for those who seek beauty in music and performance. Whether it’s your first opera or your hundredth, there is nothing quite like witnessing a masterpiece unfold on this legendary stage.
Vijay Sud - 3 months ago
Went to roof bar for drinks with friends, good location and view of covent garden. Service minimal, you order your own drinks at the bar. Very limited list of cocktails, nothing fancy. Restaurant looks more interesting, will try that next time. Royal ballet and opera looks fabulous, good amenities.
Florence M Fisher - a week ago
Directions
Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Picadilly Line | Covent Garden | 2 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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Photo Gallery
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View from balcony inside the Royal Opera House cc licensed photo by Chris -
Photo Credit: Donnchadh H - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Donnchadh H - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Donnchadh H - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Donnchadh H - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr