Thanks to Patrick for sending us this post on accessing the West End. He’s given his verdict on a host of different London theatres here.
The standard of access for people in a wheelchair to the West End Theatres is generally pretty grim. Steps everywhere and very little chance of finding any disabled toilets. Do bear in mind that they were built in the 19th Century when disabled access was not something that was considered. I do not use a wheelchair instead I use a very light mobility scooter and can walk a short distance.
Access at the Southbank, NT, Young Vic are good, never visited the Old Vic. The bigger West End theatres are much better, never tried the opera houses. The Whyndham theatre has two little boxes that provide Access from the street. That’s good but I suffer from Uhtoffs syndrome and after a show my body temperature has increased and this affects the use of my legs.
Noel Coward theatre staff are very helpful but wheelchair access is a non-starter. Some theatres have a side entrance that is at pavement level but to my knowledge every West End theatre will have steps inside the building and no lift.
O2 stadium is good on wheelchair access as is the Royal Albert Hall.
For more information on many of the theatres listed here, plus others (including some more positive access stories), check out our reviews of individual venues. If you want to contribute your own verdict please get in touch!