How to find cheap London theatre deals
London might be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but that doesn’t mean theatre lovers need to break the bank. In fact, I managed to see 53 shows last year with an average ticket price of just £37. It’s all about knowing where to look and being a little strategic. Here’s a breakdown of my top tips and tricks for scoring cheap tickets, whether you're booking on the day or in advance.
1. Rush Tickets: Best Value If You’re Flexible
Rush tickets via the TodayTix app are my go-to recommendation for incredible deals. I’ve seen top-tier productions like Mean Girls, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and Stranger Things for under £30 with brilliant seats in the stalls.
Here’s how it works:
You need a TodayTix account.
Only select shows offer Rush tickets.
You can usually book only up to two tickets.
Tickets are released daily at 10 a.m. and go fast, but it’s worth refreshing the app for several minutes — people often abandon their baskets.
Trying for just one ticket increases your chances since many single seats go unclaimed.
Rush tickets are a game of luck, but if you get one, the value is unbeatable.
2. Lotteries: Try Your Luck for Big Savings
Some productions run their own ticket lotteries, offering a small number of deeply discounted seats. The most famous? Hamilton, with £10 tickets up for grabs.
Other shows offering lotteries or similar schemes:
Cabaret (TodayTix)
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Friday Forty)
You can find some lotteries via TodayTix, while others (like Matilda) are hosted directly on the show’s website. Google the show’s name + “lottery” to find the details. These can be weekly draws rather than same-day sales, so plan ahead!
3. Scheduled Ticket Drops: Be Ready at 10 a.m.
Some productions drop extra discounted tickets at the same time each week. For instance, Romeo & Juliet offered £25–£30 seats every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Similarly, Macbeth released £20 standing tickets daily.
Check each production’s official website to learn if and when these drops happen. Or call the box office — a criminally underrated move. Staff can often tip you off about deals or return tickets.
The National Theatre also offers Friday Rush tickets online at noon every Friday for the following week’s shows — fantastic value!
4. TKTS Booth: Good for Spontaneous Visits
The TKTS booth in Leicester Square (and its website) lists same-day deals for shows that haven’t sold out. Discounts can range from 30%–50%, though some prices don’t offer huge savings.
This is a great option if:
You're open to seeing any show.
You want to browse deals on the day.
You don’t have a specific production in mind.
5. The Good Old Box Office Call
Don’t underestimate a phone call or visit to the box office. This is especially helpful for sold-out shows or last-minute returns. You might even be offered an unlisted deal if you simply ask. Say something like, “I’m on a budget — do you have anything cheaper?”
Booking in Advance? Go for Previews
Most shows offer preview performances (before official opening night) at reduced prices. These are usually just as polished as the final run, but cheaper! I’ve scored preview seats at the Young Vic and The Old Vic for as little as £10–£20.
Also, look for the cheapest seats in the theatre — even the back row of a small venue can offer a great view. These usually sell out quickly, so book early!
With a little research and some persistence, it's absolutely possible to enjoy the magic of the West End without draining your wallet. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or a local theatre lover, these tips will help you make the most of London’s vibrant stage scene — without the sky-high prices.
