As tourists planning your trip to London, you certainly would not want to miss the exciting opportunity to experience a play in the West End. Known as London’s Broadway, the West End is home to some of the world’s most famous and highly-acclaimed theatre performances. Yet, the price of tickets can sometimes be daunting. Fear not, this guide is here to help you. There are several ways you can buy discounted theatre tickets, without compromising on the quality of your seats. Let’s delve into the various methods you can use to secure the best price tickets.
1. Visit the TKTS booth on the day
If you like to keep your options open and prefer making decisions at the last minute, this method is for you. The TKTS booth, located at Leicester Square in the heart of the West End, offers discounted tickets for a wide range of shows on the day of performance. The booth opens at 10 AM, and it’s best to get there early to secure tickets for the most popular shows. Bear in mind, the availability of shows and seats will vary each day, so it’s always worth checking out what’s on offer.
2. Explore online ticket forums and posts
In the digital age, the internet is a treasure trove of information and deals. Various forums and posts exist, dedicated to helping you find the best deals on West End theatre tickets. Websites such as TheatreMonkey and WhatsOnStage have forums where users share tips and tricks on scoring the best prices. They often update their posts with the latest discounts and offers, so it’s worth keeping an eye on these platforms regularly. Remember, it’s important to verify the credibility of the users and the offers they post to ensure you’re not falling for a scam.
3. Check out the theatre’s box office
While it’s easy to overlook the traditional method of buying tickets directly from the theatre’s box office, it can sometimes offer the biggest savings. Many theatres will sell tickets that have been returned or not picked up on the day of the performance, often at discounted rates. Be sure to call or visit the box office in person to inquire about these last-minute deals. This method does require a bit of luck and timing, but the potential savings make it worth the effort.
4. Sign up for last-minute ticket alerts
Several online ticket retailers offer a service where you can sign up to receive alerts for last-minute ticket deals. Websites such as LastMinute and TodayTix will send notifications directly to your phone or email with the latest offers. This is an excellent option if you have a flexible schedule and are open to watching a variety of shows. It’s crucial to act fast when you receive these alerts, as these deals tend to sell out quickly due to their attractive prices.
5. Take advantage of group booking discounts
If you’re travelling with a large group, it’s worth looking into group booking discounts. Many theatres offer substantial discounts for large parties, usually groups of 10 or more. This is a great way to enjoy a theatre show together without breaking the bank. Contact the theatre directly or check their website for information on group booking discounts. Be aware that these discounts will often require booking in advance, so this method requires some planning ahead.
By exploring these options, you’ll be well on your way to securing discounted West End theatre tickets, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant London theatre scene without exhausting your travel budget. Whether you choose to line up at the TKTS booth, scour online forums, check the box office, sign up for last-minute alerts, or take advantage of group booking discounts, there’s a method to suit every type of tourist. So, prepare to immerse yourselves in the magic of the West End, and enjoy a memorable theatre experience at a fraction of the usual price.
6. Rush Tickets and Lottery
Perhaps one of the most thrilling ways to secure cheap tickets to West End plays is through rush tickets and ticket lotteries. These methods are typically associated with the excitement of spontaneity and the unpredictability of luck, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your theatre experience.
Rush tickets are a limited number of tickets that go on sale at the box office on the day of the performance, usually at a significantly reduced price. They are called ‘rush’ tickets because there tends to be a rush of people trying to buy these tickets as soon as the box office opens, typically in the morning. For the best chance at rush tickets, it’s recommended to arrive at the box office early. Both the National Theatre and Leicester Square are known to offer rush tickets, so be sure to check their schedules and box office opening times.
Ticket lotteries, on the other hand, give you the chance to win cheap tickets to some of the most popular shows in the West End, including major hits like The Lion King. Playing the ticket lottery can be a fun and exciting way to try your luck at securing discounted tickets. Most theatres in the West End run their own ticket lotteries, either online or in-person at the box office. To enter, simply register your details and you’ll be entered into the draw to win. If you’re lucky, you could be watching a top-quality play for a fraction of the usual price.
7. Attend Previews and Midweek Performances
Previews are performances that take place before the official opening night of a play. These shows give the production team an opportunity to tweak and refine the performance based on audience reaction and feedback. Previews are generally cheaper than regular performances, and therefore a great way to save money on your theatre tickets. They can be a unique opportunity to see the show before the rest of the world, and perhaps even witness the evolution of the production.
In addition to previews, midweek performances – particularly matinee shows, which are afternoon performances, usually offer cheaper tickets compared to evening and weekend shows. The reason is simple: these shows are less in demand. Many tourists and locals alike are unable to attend midweek matinees due to work and other commitments, leading to reduced ticket prices. If your schedule is flexible, attending a midweek matinee can be a delightful way to experience the magic of the West End at a significantly reduced cost.
Experiencing the magic of the West End doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. There are numerous ways to find discounted theatre tickets, from visiting the TKTS booth, exploring online forums, checking the theatre’s box office, signing up for last-minute ticket alerts, group bookings, rush tickets, to attending previews and midweek performances. These methods can help you save money and make your trip to London all the more enjoyable.
Remember to always keep an eye out for the latest offers and be flexible with your options. Whether you’re a fan of classics like The Lion King or new productions, there’s always a way to experience the thrill and excitement of the West End without exhausting your budget. So, prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of London theatre and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
