Cambridge Theatre
London
A West End venue in Seven Dials, the Cambridge Theatre is known for ambitious musicals and an intimate auditorium.
Reviewed by Nandini J ·
AddressEarlham St, London WC2H 9HU, UK
Official websitelwtheatres.co.uk
About
The Cambridge Theatre stands on Earlham Street at Seven Dials in Covent Garden. Operated by LW Theatres, it has been home to the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda The Musical since the production transferred here in 2011.
The auditorium has three levels: the Stalls, Dress Circle and Upper Circle. The building dates from 1929–30 and is Grade II listed. Architects Wimperis, Simpson and Guthrie designed it, with interiors partly by Serge Chermayeff. The curved foyer, bronze friezes and concealed lighting are distinctive features of its 1930s interior.
Its stage has also hosted Jerry Springer: The Opera. The Seven Dials location places the theatre among Covent Garden’s restaurants and shops, with the main entrance facing the central junction.
Access
The first two rotunda entrances on the left provide step-free access to the foyer. There are three steps from the foyer down to the Stalls. To avoid these, make yourself known to staff: an Access Host can escort you to the Earlham Street entrance, which provides level access to the Stalls.
Two wheelchair spaces, each 80 × 80 cm, are beside Row N. Stalls aisle seats between Rows L and S can be used by visitors transferring from a wheelchair. Confirm suitability with the theatre if your wheelchair or mobility aid may not fit. There is no lift; the Dress Circle is reached by 31 steps from ground level and the Upper Circle by 67.
An accessible toilet is off the Stalls corridor. Infra-red hearing-assistance headsets and hearing-aid loops are available from the Stalls Kiosk; mention your requirements when booking so staff can advise on suitable seats. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff can look after them during the performance. Audio-described, captioned, BSL-interpreted and relaxed performances are offered on selected dates.
Contact 020 3925 2998 or access@lwtickets.co.uk to confirm your requirements. The LW Theatres Access Scheme explains eligibility and Essential Companion arrangements; the team can also verify access bookings manually.
Nearby guides
- Where to eat and drink near Cambridge Theatre
Planning a theatre visit to Cambridge Theatre? These nearby restaurants, Seven Dials Market stalls, pubs and cocktail bars cover sit-down pre-show meals, quick food and post-show drinks.
- Where to stay near Cambridge Theatre
Planning a visit to Cambridge Theatre? Compare full-service hotels, compact central rooms and self-catering units in and around Seven Dials, with practical details on facilities, check-in and access.
Related reading
- Matilda: Book Versus Film Versus West End Musical
Roald Dahl’s Matilda changes shape across the page, the 1996 family film, the 2022 musical film and the RSC’s West End production. Here’s what each version gains—and what London audiences should expect from the musical at the Cambridge Theatre.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Cambridge Theatre?
Where is Cambridge Theatre?
It is on Earlham Street in Seven Dials, Covent Garden, within London’s West End.
What kind of work is Cambridge Theatre known for?
What kind of work is Cambridge Theatre known for?
Its documented programme history includes Jerry Springer: The Opera and the stage musical Matilda, alongside other prominent plays and musicals.
How large is Cambridge Theatre?
How large is Cambridge Theatre?
The main auditorium is described as having around 1,200 seats and is arranged across Stalls, Dress Circle and Upper Circle levels.
Is there step-free access to the Cambridge Theatre Stalls?
Is there step-free access to the Cambridge Theatre Stalls?
Yes. The foyer has a step-free route through the first two rotunda entrances, and an access host can escort visitors via the Earlham Street access entrance to avoid the three steps down into the Stalls.
Are wheelchair spaces and transfer seats available?
Are wheelchair spaces and transfer seats available?
There are two 80cm by 80cm wheelchair spaces beside Row N. Any aisle seat between Rows L and S in the Stalls can be used for a transfer from a wheelchair.
What hearing support is available?
What hearing support is available?
An infra-red audio-enhancement system is available, with headsets and hearing-aid loops collected from the Stalls Kiosk. The venue asks visitors to mention this when arranging seats.
How can access arrangements be requested?
How can access arrangements be requested?
Use the LW Theatres Access Scheme online, call 020 3925 2998, or email access@lwtickets.co.uk. New scheme registrations require a validated free Digital Access Pass or an Access Card number.