The Apollo Victoria Theatre has been home to Wicked since 2006, and it remains one of the hottest tickets in the West End. The venue itself is a former cinema from the 1930s, and it feels different from the traditional Victorian theatres that dominate Theatreland. This guide covers the practical stuff: what the seating is like, how to find the best bars, where to get dropped off, and the tips that make the difference between a smooth visit and a frustrating one. If you are heading to the Apollo Victoria for the first time, this is everything you need.

What is the Apollo Victoria Theatre like inside?

The Apollo Victoria is one of the larger West End venues, seating around 2,328 people. It was originally built as a cinema in 1930, which gives it a distinctive feel compared to older West End theatres. The auditorium is wide rather than deep, with an Art Deco interior that has been well preserved.

The seating is split across three main levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, and Balcony. The Stalls are the largest section and offer a good perspective on Wicked's elaborate set design, which uses the full height of the stage. The Dress Circle is popular for its raised view, and centre seats here are often considered the sweet spot for seeing the flying sequences clearly. The Balcony is the highest and furthest section, but centre seats still give a reasonable view.

If you are looking at Wicked tickets, the Stalls and front Dress Circle tend to sell fastest, so booking early helps if those sections matter to you.

How is the legroom and comfort?

The Apollo Victoria has better legroom than many West End theatres, thanks to its cinema origins. The rows are spaced slightly wider than in the older Victorian venues. That said, the Balcony is the tightest section, and taller visitors may find the seats compact.

Looking at the seating plan, the seats are padded and generally comfortable for a 2 hour 45 minute show. The Stalls have a gentle rake, so you get a clear view over the person in front without too much craning. The Dress Circle rake is steeper, which is actually an advantage for visibility.

What are the bars and interval facilities like?

The Apollo Victoria has several bar areas across its levels. The main foyer bar on the ground floor is the busiest, so if you want to avoid the crush, head upstairs to the Dress Circle or Balcony bars, which are usually quieter.

Pre-ordering interval drinks is available and highly recommended. You collect from designated points when the interval starts, which saves you the 10-minute queue. Prices are standard for the West End.

The interval for Wicked is approximately 15 minutes, which feels short when you factor in toilet queues and drink collection. The women's toilets on the Stalls level get particularly busy, so using the facilities on other levels is a smart move.

Ice cream and snacks are sold by ushers during the interval and sometimes before the show starts.

How do I get to the Apollo Victoria Theatre?

The Apollo Victoria is on Wilton Road, directly opposite Victoria station. This is one of the easiest theatres in the West End to reach.

Victoria station is served by the Victoria, District, and Circle lines, plus the Gatwick Express and several national rail services. The theatre is literally a 2-minute walk from the station's main exit. If you are coming from outside London by train, this is about as convenient as it gets.

By bus, Victoria is a major hub with dozens of routes stopping nearby. The 2, 11, 24, 36, 38, 52, 73, and 170 all serve Victoria station.

There is no dedicated theatre car park, but NCP Victoria on Semley Place is a short walk. As always in central London, public transport is the better option.

Is there a cloakroom?

The Apollo Victoria does have a cloakroom facility, though space can be limited on busy nights. There is a small charge per item. If you are travelling light, keeping bags and coats under your seat is often easier, especially in the Stalls where there is more room.

Is the Apollo Victoria Theatre good for a first West End visit?

The Apollo Victoria is a strong choice for first-timers. The venue is easy to reach, the legroom is generous, and Wicked is an accessible show that does not require any prior knowledge. The Art Deco interior also feels different from the traditional red-and-gold theatres, which gives the evening a slightly unique atmosphere. If you are bringing someone who has never been to the West End before, the combination of the venue and the show makes for a reliable night out.

What should I know about the show itself?

Wicked runs for approximately 2 hours 45 minutes including one interval. The show contains some loud sound effects and moments of darkness, plus dramatic lighting changes and flying sequences. It is suitable for most ages, though very young children may find some scenes intense.

The merchandise stall in the foyer does brisk business, especially for the Wicked-branded items. If you want to browse, arrive a bit early or check it out during the interval.

For a broader view of how the Apollo Victoria compares to other West End venues, the best seats at every West End theatre guide is worth a read before you book.

What is the area around the theatre like?

The Apollo Victoria sits in Victoria, which is more of a transport hub than a dining destination. That said, there are options nearby. The surrounding streets have a mix of chains and independent restaurants. For better pre-theatre dining, it is worth walking 10 minutes towards Pimlico or taking the tube one stop to Green Park or Westminster for more choice.

For budget-friendly options, check our guide to the best affordable West End shows.

If you are planning a full evening out, you might want to browse other London theatre tickets in areas like Covent Garden or Soho, where the dining and nightlife options are more concentrated. But if convenience matters most, the Apollo Victoria's location right at Victoria station is hard to beat.

For more ideas on making a night of it, check out the wider range of things to do in London around your theatre visit. If you fancy seeing another big West End musical in a more central location, Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty's Theatre in Haymarket puts you right in the middle of Soho's restaurant scene. Book your Wicked tickets through tickadoo to compare seats and prices.

FAQs

How do I get to the Apollo Victoria Theatre?

The easiest way is via Victoria station, which is directly opposite the theatre. Victoria is served by the Victoria, District, and Circle tube lines, plus national rail and the Gatwick Express. It is a 2-minute walk from the station exit to the theatre doors.

How long is Wicked at the Apollo Victoria?

Wicked runs for approximately 2 hours 45 minutes, including one interval of around 15 minutes. Evening performances typically start at 7:30pm, so you will be out by roughly 10:15pm.

Are there good places to eat near the Apollo Victoria?

The immediate area around Victoria station is more transport hub than restaurant district, but there are chains and casual restaurants on Wilton Road and Victoria Street. For a wider choice, walk 10 minutes towards Pimlico or take the tube one stop to explore more options.

Is the Apollo Victoria Theatre accessible for wheelchair users?

The theatre has wheelchair-accessible spaces in the Stalls with step-free access from the main entrance. Contact the theatre's box office in advance to arrange accessible seating and any assistance you may need.

Can I buy merchandise at the Apollo Victoria?

Yes, there is a merchandise stall in the foyer selling Wicked-branded souvenirs. It is busiest after the show, so browse before the performance or during the interval if you want to avoid the crowds.

Know Before You Go

• The Apollo Victoria seats around 2,328 people across Stalls, Dress Circle, and Balcony

• Victoria station is directly opposite the theatre, a 2-minute walk

• Wicked runs for approximately 2 hours 45 minutes with one interval of about 15 minutes

• Pre-order interval drinks to avoid the queue; the interval is short

• The theatre was originally a 1930s cinema, so legroom is better than most older venues

• A cloakroom is available but space is limited on busy nights

• The show includes loud effects and flying sequences; very young children may find some moments intense