TBC June 2025
Trafalgar Square London
West End Live is a free weekend of live theatre that showcases the best of London's musicals and plays. Whether you want to see the classics like Les Miserables and The Lion King, or discover new shows like Six and Back to the Future, you will find something to suit your taste. However, since the event is free and open to everyone, it can also be very crowded and chaotic. To make the most of your experience, here are some tips to follow:
Tip #1 - Get in Queue early!
If you are planning to attend the event at the square, you should be aware of some important details. The queue for the entrance begins near the Canadian Embassy, which is located on the north side of the square. The queue can get very long and crowded. 2023's queue reached Holborn and snaked around various other parts of the West End.
Therefore, it is advisable to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot near the stage or catch a specific performance. The square has a limited capacity for safety reasons, so once it is full, you will have to wait until someone leaves before you can enter. The event runs from 11am to 5pm on Saturday and from 12pm to 5pm on Sunday, with gates opening on 10.15am on Saturday and 11.15am on Sunday.
Tip #2 - Pack with essentials!
First of all, make sure you have enough drinks and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized throughout the day. You will also need sun cream to protect your skin from the sun's rays, especially if you are going on a sunny day. Don't forget to bring power banks for your phone or camera, as you will have many opportunities to take photos and videos of the stunning views from the top of the wheel. Secondly, pack a small raincoat in case the weather changes suddenly. This is England after all, and you never know when it might rain! You should also wear sensible shoes that are comfortable and sturdy, as you will be standing for quite some time in the queue and on the ride. Lastly, remember that the more items you bring, the longer it will take for you to pass through the bag search.
Tip #3 - Plan
The schedule of performances is released a week before the event. This will help you plan your day and make sure you don't miss any of your favourite shows. Most of the big shows, such as Six, Phantom of the Opera and others, play before 2 pm due to their matinee performances. So check the schedule carefully and decide which ones you want to see. You can also enjoy visiting some of the various booths and merchandise stands that line the edge of the square.
There you can find souvenirs, snacks, drinks and more. You can also visit the online shop for the event so you can head straight to the stage with the merchandise already purchased.
West End Live is a great opportunity to experience the best of London's theatre scene for free!
Tip #4 - Book a show!
If you love musical theatre, there is nothing better than finishing a day at West End Live than seeing a show. . There are plenty of opportunities to buy tickets at the Official London Theatre ticket stands in Trafalgar Square and in Leicester Square. You can use the opportunity to see a new show that you discovered at the event or just see an old favourite that you love. Either way, you will have a memorable night of entertainment and culture in the heart of London.
Tip #5 - Stay after 2pm
This tip applies for the Saturday event only. Traditionally the bigger shows such as Wicked and Hamilton perform before 2pm to allow the cast to get back for their matinee performance.
After the rest of the performances are either new shows or solo acts. This is where you may discover your new favourite. I have discovered the Choir of Man and The Little Big Things and they are 2 of my all-time favourites ever.
Tip #6 - Have Fun!
West End Live is a unique opportunity to see some of the best theatre in London for free. Enjoy the variety and quality of the shows and have a wonderful time!
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