London is one of the world’s most famous theatrical centres and taking in a show at London’s West End Theatre disctict is a must for anyone visiting London.  With musicals, comedies, dramas plus some of the longest running classics you are bound to find something you will enjoy.  Billy Elliott, Blood Brothers, Buddy, Chicago, Grease, Hairspray, Jersey Boys, Joseph, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Wicked and the Lion King are just some of the big name shows.  Around 13million people attended the London theatres in 2007!

London’s main theatre district is in the heart of the West End of the city centre, hence the nickname.  The area contains around 40 major theatres and is often referred to as ‘Theatreland’.  The main theatre streets include Drury Lane, Shaftesbury Avenue and The Strand.  Most of the theatre buildings in the area are late Victorian or Edwardian and are major tourist attractions in their own right.  Many have great character and charm and feature luxurious facades with intricately detailed interiors. 

Among this famous theatre areas is a wide array of dining too.  Hundreds of restaurants line the streets, offering quick pre-theatre dinners and late night post-show entertainment.  Try Wagamama in Covent Garden for some noodles or head down to Bar Italia in Soho for a late night snack.

After dinner and a show, why not spend the night at the Strand Palace Hotel, London.  Located on the doorstep of London’s ‘Theatreland’ and in the heart of cosmpolitan Covent Garden, this hotel was originally built as an Art Deco showpiece and has been carefully modernised.  Sip on a cocktail at the Mask Bar before retiring to your Club Room with contemporary furnishings, plasma TV and dedicated Club check-in.  Standard rooms start at around GBP178 per night.

For a night of pure indulgence check into the Ritz Hotel, London.  This elegant hotel opened in 1906 and stands proud as an historical London icon.  The rooms and suites are decorated in Louis XVI furnishings alongside modern amenities and facilities.   Visit the Ritz Salon for a massage, facial or body treatment.  Standard rooms start at around GBP440 per night.

If a night at the Ritz, London is out of your budget at least make a reservation for the world famous ‘Tea at the Ritz’ (around GBP37 per person).  With a choice of several varieties of tea, finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones, jam and clotted cream and a range of delicate pastries this is a truly civilised way to spend an afternoon.

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