London Palladium

The London Palladium opened in 1910 and was designed by Frank Matcham, one of Britain’s most celebrated theatre architects. Built on Argyll Street, close to Oxford Circus, it quickly developed a reputation as one of the capital’s great entertainment venues.

Unlike some West End theatres that are chiefly associated with drama or musical theatre, the Palladium became famous for variety. Its stage has welcomed comedians, singers, dancers, magicians, television stars, concert performers and musical theatre productions, giving it a broader popular identity than almost any other London theatre.

The venue became especially famous through Sunday Night at the London Palladium, the television variety show that helped turn the theatre into a household name. Over the decades, the Palladium has also hosted major pantomimes, concerts and large-scale musicals, while retaining a sense of occasion that makes it feel different from a standard theatre visit.

Oxford Circus is the nearest Underground station and is only a short walk away. Bond Street, Piccadilly Circus and Tottenham Court Road are also within walking distance, depending on your route. The theatre sits just off Regent Street, close to Carnaby Street and Soho, making it very convenient for shopping, restaurants and central London hotels.

The Palladium is ideal when you want a big West End event rather than a small, intimate theatre evening. Because the area around Oxford Circus can be extremely busy, especially at weekends and around Christmas, allow extra time for arrival. For pre-theatre food, Soho and Carnaby are often better bets than trying to eat directly on Oxford Street.