Royal Opera House, Opera house in Covent Garden, United Kingdom.
The Royal Opera House sits in Covent Garden and holds a large auditorium with four tiers and a gallery for a total of 2,255 seats. The surrounding areas include rehearsal rooms, costume workshops, and technical facilities that are accessible during guided visits.
The first theatre at this location opened in 1732 and experienced several fires throughout its history. The present building was designed by Edward Middleton Barry and began operations in 1858.
The building takes its name from the British monarchy and remains one of Europe's leading stages for opera and ballet. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of an evening when audiences gather in formal dress and performances continue a centuries-old tradition.
Tours take place during daytime and provide access to areas behind the stage and workshops. Most performances occur in the evening, so an afternoon visit allows for a calmer exploration.
The Paul Hamlyn Hall was built in 1860 as the Floral Hall and now serves as a glass-covered dining area. Guests can sometimes watch rehearsals taking place in adjacent rooms from there.
Location: City of Westminster
Location: London
Inception: 1732
Architects: Edward Middleton Barry
Official opening: May 15, 1858
Capacity: 2255
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Operator: Royal Ballet and Opera
Address: 7 Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD, England
Phone: +442073044000
Website: https://roh.org.uk
GPS coordinates: 51.51306,-0.12278
Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:05
The most important opera houses of the 19th century form an architectural group that reflects the history of classical music. These buildings, located in major world capitals, showcase various styles: neoclassical, neobaroque, modern. Their architectures reflect the evolution of acoustic techniques and performing arts. From the Teatro San Carlo in Naples to the Palais Garnier in Paris, these buildings are references in theatrical architecture.
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Northernmost K2 Telephone Kiosk In Group To North Of Bow Street Magistrates Court
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Southernmost K2 Telephone Kiosk In Group To North Of Bow Street Magistrates Court
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7 And 8, Bow Street Wc2
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Central K2 Telephone Kiosk In Group To North Of Bow Street Magistrates Court
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46 And 47, Floral Street Wc2
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Bridge of Aspiration
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Two K6 telephone kiosks at the south end of James Street on the edge of Covent Garden
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K2 Telephone Kiosk Adjacent To Northernmost Kiosk In Group To North Of Bow Street Magistrates Court
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K2 Telephone Kiosk Adjacent To Southernmost In Group To North Of Bow Street Magistrates Court
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41 And 43, Wellington Street Wc2
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38, Wellington Street
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48-52, Long Acre Wc2
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30, Wellington Street Wc2
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Mortuary Lodge And Linking Walls And Gate Piers Of Drury Lane Gardens Mortuary, Lodge And Linking Walls And Gate Piers, Drury Lane Gardens
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