Typical show times
Most evening performances start at around 7.30pm and finish between about 10pm and 10.30pm, depending on the length of the show. Matinees run in the afternoon on selected days. Check the exact start time and running time on your ticket, because they vary from show to show.
Same-day tickets
The Official London Theatre ticket booth, home of TKTS, sits on the south side of Leicester Square and sells same-day and advance tickets for West End shows, often at a discount. It is usually open Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 6pm and on Sundays from 12pm to 4.30pm. Buy from official outlets rather than street sellers.
Pre-theatre dinner
Many restaurants around Covent Garden and Soho offer pre-theatre menus served from around 5pm, timed so you can eat and walk to the theatre by curtain-up. Book ahead, and tell your server you have a show to get to.
Arriving
Theatreland's streets are narrow and some are pedestrianised, so cars can't always stop outside the theatre. Aim to arrive 20 to 30 minutes before the start to find your seat, collect tickets and visit the cloakroom.
Getting home
When the shows let out, thousands of people leave at once, and Tube stations like Leicester Square and Covent Garden get very crowded. Some options:
- Pre-book a car to meet you at an agreed point a short walk away, for example on the Strand or Shaftesbury Avenue. We confirm the spot in advance and the driver messages you when the show ends.
- Hourly hire works well for a full evening: hotel to dinner, dinner to theatre, and home, with the car on standby.
- On Friday and Saturday nights, the Night Tube runs on the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines.
Frequently asked questions
What time do West End shows finish?
Most evening shows start around 7.30pm and finish between about 10pm and 10.30pm, depending on the running time. Check your ticket for exact times.
Where can I buy discounted same-day theatre tickets?
The Official London Theatre ticket booth (TKTS) on the south side of Leicester Square sells same-day tickets, often at a discount.
Can a car pick me up outside the theatre?
Not always, because many Theatreland streets are narrow or pedestrianised. Agree a pickup point a short walk away, and your driver will message you when the show ends.
Can I book a car for a whole theatre evening?
Yes. Hourly hire keeps the car and driver with you for dinner, the show and your journey home.
Sources
Checked on 30 October 2026. Rules and dates can change, so please confirm with the official source before you travel.