The London Coliseum

The London Coliseum, commisioned by the great theatrical impressario Oswald Stoll and designed by the flamboyant theatre architect Frank Matcham, opened as a Music Hall in 1904. It is considered to be Matcham's masterpiece and is a sensational example of Edwardian architecture in the grand style. It quickly became known as 'The People's Palace'; a theatre that was affordable to enter but which would also inspire a sense of wonder and excitement.

Our friendly and informal guided tours include a great deal of this extraordinary building, taking in the old Gentleman's Baronial Smoking Hall, Stoll's Balcony, some Private Rooms, the Upper Glassed Terraces, the fabulous auditorium as well as the warren of staircases backstage including beneath the vast revolving stage and orchestra pit (when possible).

Arranging a Tour

We have a number of scheduled tours to coincide with productions through the season. This means that you can spend a memorable day exploring the theatre, before seeing it in action by enjoying one of our performances!

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Private Tours

Alternatively, we are sometimes able to arrange private tours upon request. We try to accomodate your group around rehearsals or technical rehearsals that may be taking place. Please contact the Box Office on 020 7845 9300 to discuss your tour, or email bomanagers@eno.org with your request.

Guided tours are priced at £10 per person with concessionary places priced at £8 per person.

Each tour lasts approximately 1 hour and includes quite a lot of walking so please be aware that there are quite a few stairs to climb!