London's Oldest Theatres

London is well known for its theatres, to the extent that the West End has been nicknamed 'Theatreland.' Ticket sales in recent years have been stronger than ever, partly thanks to the high-profile shows of Andrew Lloyd Webber and others bringing the centuries-old theatrical tradition into the lives of new generations.



And some of London's most prestigious theatres have seen it all, with establishments like the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane and Sadler's Wells in Islington dating back as far as the 17th century. Although some of these classic theatres are today relegated for niche performances, or may no longer operate as theatres at all, some such as the Theatre Royal itself are still a core part of the London theatre scene.



The Theatre Royal was first constructed in 1662 by Charles II during the Restoration period, and over the centuries it's received a number of facelifts to keep up with changing trends. Nevertheless, the main auditorium still contains many elements dating back to 1820, giving it a regal and historical air unseen anywhere else in the West End.

Having staged the works of Noel Coward, Ivor Novello and Britain's other great playwrights, the Theatre Royal has a reputation for family-friendly shows in modern times - as seen with its decision to stage the award-winning Broadway hit Shrek The Musical when it comes over the pond this May.



The Adelphi Theatre on the Strand may not be as old as the Theatre Royal, but opened in 1806 it still has many tales to tell. This was the first theatre to use now-famous techniques such as a sinking stage and gas lighting, and still retains its historical charm, whether it's staging a classic adaptation of a Dickens novel or something more contemporary, like Andrew Lloyd Webber's Sunset Boulevard. Mr Webber is currently holding the reigns at the Adelphi once again, with the sequel to his successful Phantom of the Opera - Love Never Dies - playing at the theatre until March 2011.



Another historical London theatre that's still pulling in the crowds is the Old Vic, currently staging George Feydeau's farce A Flea In Her Ear. Many generations of stars have treaded the boards at this famous theatre, from Laurence Olivier to Kevin Spacey, and it made history as the first theatre to stage the complete works of Shakespeare. With so many theatres across the city, you'll never be far from a great night out when staying at London hotels.