Cambridge Theatre

The Cambridge Theatre is one of London’s most distinctive West End venues. Located in the vibrant Seven Dials district, this Grade II listed theatre is known for its striking Art Deco design, featuring bronze friezes by Anthony Gibbons Grinling and a circular entrance foyer that sets the tone for a stylish night out. Its clean lines and elegant interiors make it one of the most architecturally unique spaces in the West End.

A favourite for musical theatre lovers, the Cambridge Theatre London is currently home to the Olivier Award-winning Matilda the Musical. With its intimate yet grand setting, the Cambridge Theatre offers a compelling blend of historic charm and contemporary West End energy — the perfect destination for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

The History of Cambridge Theatre

The Cambridge Theatre opened in 1930, designed by Wimperis, Simpson and Guthrie, with interiors by Serge Chermayeff. Its modernist elegance and steel-framed construction made it a standout from the start. After being redecorated in the 1950s and again in 1987 to restore its original Art Deco glory, the venue has remained a striking presence in the West End. Over the decades, the Cambridge Theatre London has hosted a string of iconic productions, from Half a Sixpence and Chicago to Return to the Forbidden Planet. These legendary runs have helped cement the Cambridge Theatre’s reputation as one of the capital’s most exciting stages.

Where is Cambridge Theatre?

The Cambridge Theatre is located in the heart of London’s West End, in the Seven Dials area of Covent Garden. The address is Earlham Street, London WC2H 9HU. It’s a short walk from Covent Garden and Leicester Square, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and landmarks such as the Royal Opera House and Neal’s Yard.

Travelling to the theatre is simple via public transport. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to enjoy a meal or drink nearby before or after your show at the Cambridge Theatre.

Cambridge Theatre nearest tube

The Cambridge Theatre nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), both just a 4–6 minute walk away. From Covent Garden station, head south down Neal Street, then turn right onto Earlham Street. From Leicester Square, walk up Charing Cross Road and turn right onto Shaftesbury Avenue and into Seven Dials.

Cambridge Theatre nearest train station

The nearest mainline train station is Charing Cross, around a 12-minute walk from the Cambridge Theatre. Upon exiting the station, walk up St Martin’s Lane and turn onto Earlham Street, following signs to Seven Dials. Alternatively, Tottenham Court Road station, which connects to the Elizabeth Line, is also within walking distance.

Buses to Cambridge Theatre

Day and night buses stopping near the Cambridge Theatre include routes 14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 176, and N29. The closest bus stops are on Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue. From there, follow signs to Seven Dials and you’ll find the theatre nestled on the corner of Earlham Street.

Cambridge Theatre Accessibility

The Cambridge Theatre offers step-free access to the foyer and accessible seating in the stalls. There are adapted toilets and wheelchair spaces available, as well as facilities for those with hearing impairments, including induction loops and captioned performances.

Cambridge Theatre Safety Policy

The Cambridge Theatre follows robust safety procedures to ensure the wellbeing of all guests. Bag checks are in place at the entrance, and large bags or suitcases may not be permitted. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security screening.

Cambridge Theatre Dress Code

There is no formal dress code at the Cambridge Theatre. Most theatregoers wear smart-casual clothing, but you’re welcome to dress up for a special occasion. Whether you’re attending a matinee or an evening show, comfort is key — just avoid anything too informal like sportswear. Be sure to check out our dressing for the theatre guide to find out more.

Cambridge Theatre Notable Productions

Throughout its history, the Cambridge Theatre has hosted an array of memorable productions. These include Half a Sixpence with Tommy Steele, Little Me with Bruce Forsyth, and the original London run of Chicago. The Olivier Award-winning Return to the Forbidden Planet also found success here, running for nearly four years.

Cambridge Theatre Recent Productions

Recent decades have seen the Cambridge Theatre stage major hits such as Grease, Jerry Springer – The Opera, Our House, and The Beautiful Game. From jukebox musicals to original West End debuts, the theatre has remained at the forefront of contemporary theatre. Since 2011, it has been the proud home of Matilda The Musical.

Cambridge Theatre Seating Plan

The Cambridge Theatre has a seating capacity of around 1,200, spread across three levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle. The layout offers excellent sightlines from most areas, with particularly immersive views available from the centre of the Stalls. The Dress Circle offers a panoramic perspective of the stage, while the Upper Circle is ideal for budget-conscious theatregoers without compromising too much on the Cambridge Theatre seat view.

The theatre’s compact design ensures an intimate experience from any section. There are dedicated wheelchair spaces and accessible seats in the Stalls, along with companion seating available on request. Be sure to read our guide to find out which are the best seats at the Cambridge Theatre.