Duke of York’s Theatre (Royal Court)

The Duke of York's Theatre was formally known as The Trafalgar Square Theatre in 1892 and by 1895 it had changed its name to the Duke of York’s Theatre, to honour the future King George V. Whilst it has undergone several transformations over the course of its history, it has always maintained its original character as designed by architect Walter Emden and is a Grade II listed building. The venue was originally built for performers Frank Wyatt and his wife, Violet Melnotte.

In 1980 the venue was bought by Capital Radio, who maintained patronage until it was sold to Ambassadors Theatre Group in 1992, who have since based their headquarters in the theatre. Many iconic shows have been staged at The Duke of York's, including the debut of Jim Barrie's classic fairy tale Peter Pan and several productions of Richard O'Brien's The Rocky Horror Show. Many legendary British actors have also performed at the Duke of York's Theatre, including Ian McKellen, who played the title role in King Lear in 2018, Michael Gambon, Zoë Wanamaker and Sally Hawkins. Even a young Charlie Chaplin made his West End debut here in 1905, playing a sprightly pageboy in Sherlock Holmes.

The Duke of York’s Theatre is one of the West End’s best venues for audiences who prefer intense drama over the bright lights of musical theatre. Events include a mixture of European classics and new work from the UK and further afield, produced by prestige creative teams and star casting that reflects the best of British and international talent. One of the top productions at the Duke of York’s Theatre in 2025 was Elektra, starring Academy Award winner Brie Larson an epic Greek tragedy. It’s followed by the West End premiere of Broadway hit Stereophonic.

Seating

With a seating capacity of 640 seats, the Row H bench in the Upper Circle is an excellent bargain seat, offering great views for the lowest price possible. The best seats for this theatre are towards the front of the Stalls, around row E and F in the centre or alternatively, sitting in the Royal Circle allows for some more excellent, unrestricted views.

Facilities

Cocktails are available from the Terrace Bar, which is open from 6pm. Other bars are located on the Stalls and Upper Circle levels. All bars sell beers, wines, soft drinks and snacks such as crisps, sweets and ice creams.

There is a cloakroom located in the foyer, next to the box office. Bags and coats can be held for a small charge. 

The theatre is fully air-conditioned.

Access: (Access Booking Line:​ 0333 009 5399)

The Duke of York’s Theatre entrance is on street level where the box office, main foyer area and access toilet are located. The seating design incorporates two wheelchair spaces in the Royal Circle (level access), with an accompanying companion seat. Hearing enhancement systems and captioned performances in association with STAGETEXT are available and a maximum of two assistance dogs can be admitted per performance.