Les Miserables Tickets

London theatreland may sound like something from a fairytale, but we can assure you that it’s a very real place in the heart of the city. We often refer to the London theatre district as London theatreland or, more commonly, the West End. It’s a central area of London where many of London’s commercial theatres are located. It’s London’s answer to New York’s Broadway, and its musicals, plays and comedies are some of the best in the world. If you’re new to theatre or London, or you’re visiting for a short time, here is your ultimate London theatre district guide. Where is the London theatre district? The London theatre neighbourhood is technically defined as the area spanning between The Strand to the south, Oxford Street to the north, Regent Street to the west, and Kingsway to the east. If you were to look at a London theatre map, you’d spot approximately 40 commercial theatre venues within this relatively small footprint. The term “West End” originated in the early 19th century to describe the fashionable areas to the west of Charing Cross, including Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street. The majority of the theatres are privately owned and have great character of Victorian or Edwardian construction. The three largest theatres in London Theatreland are the Coliseum Theatre, The Apollo Victoria Theatre and the London Palladium, followed closely by the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the Royal Opera House. How many theatres are in the London theatre neighbourhood? So, technically, there are 39 commercial theatres in the West End. But if you’re talking about the capital as a whole, there are far, far more. If you take pop-up and temporary theatre venues into account, there are between 250-300 performance spaces in London. There is so much to say on this subject that we have a whole page dedicated to how many theatres are in the London theatre neighbourhood. What are the best theatres in London's West End? With so many beautiful venues in the London theatre district, it’s hard to choose which are the very best theatres in London's West End. Theatre Royal Drury Lane is beautiful and steeped in history. @sohoplace is state-of-the-art with an adaptive space offering unique immersive experiences. The London Coliseum is the biggest (and most ornate) theatre in the West End. All West End theatres offer something special, so best is very subjective. However, if you want a bit more about a selection of the best theatres in London West End, you can check out our top 10 best theatres in London list.

Need an escape from reality? Same. Lucky for you, you can enter another world by seeing one of the best musicals in London. From new, exciting shows to the absolute classics, we've carefully listened to the most infectious melodies, gotten lost in timeless stories, and witnessed marvellous spectacles on stage to curate a list of must-see West End musicals for you. So here are the top 10 best musicals in London right now, many of which you’ll find are West End best sellers! The West End is iconic for delivering larger-than-life, unforgettable performances, and we’ve included London musical theatre shows for all ages. So, without further ado, let's explore the top 10 best musicals in London.

It’s the longest-running musical in the world and has arguably some of the best songs in musical theatre history. No wonder you love Les Misérables. The story of redemption set against the French Revolution has been seen by millions of people. It’s so well-loved around the world, it’s become one of London’s biggest tourist attractions, putting the Sondheim Theatre on the map. But if you’ve faced the barricades a few too many times and want to try something new, here are some musicals similar to Les Misérables that you’re bound to love. What musical is most like Les Misérables? In many ways, the musical most like Les Misérables is Hamilton. Both shows take place during a revolution. Both shows feature a protagonist trying to prove himself. And they both completely changed musical theatre forever. Les Misérables put megamusicals on the map. It was one of the first large-scale productions that had a huge budget and the spectacles to match. It popularised the use of revolving stages, and the music was like nothing seen in musical theatre before. Basically, Les Mis walked so Hamilton could charge. Not only did Les Mis change the visuals of theatre, it also helped fuel a change in sound… just like Hamilton. In 1985, it was groundbreaking to use electronic instruments. It was also one of the first major musicals to use continuous storytelling through song, and is now one of the most famous sung through musicals in the world. Just like Les Mis, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton shattered people’s expectations and popularised the use of rap in musical theatre. It’s also rapped/sung through.

Musicals have been around for a long time. Following the success of operas, the first musical comedy, The Black Crook, hit the New York stage in 1866. But a lot has changed since then. Over the past 160 years, the art form has evolved and continues to change. However, some shows are just as good today as they were on opening night. To guide you through some of the best musicals in the world, we’ve created a detailed list of the top 10 musicals of all time, plus listed the 100 of the best musicals ever. The top 10 musicals of all time Rent Daring and heartbreaking, Jonathan Larson’s tragic rock musical about impoverished artists struggling to survive in NYC was unlike anything else on stage at the time. Rent was one of the first shows to portray people living with HIV in a positive light. The sung-through musical features the song Seasons of Love, which is often regarded as one of the top songs in musical history. Rent’s history is laced with tragedy as the show’s creator suddenly passed the day before opening night. Sadly, he never knew his seminal work would be regarded as one of the best musicals of all time. Into The Woods Stephen Sondheim was the grandfather of musical theatre. He wrote some of the most highly regarded and best musicals in the world. Among his masterpieces is the twisted fairytale, Into The Woods. Interweaving several Brothers Grimm stories, Into The Woods features characters and tales we all know well. The dark interpretation is accompanied by a haunting and beautiful score. Written in collaboration with James Lapine, the dark twist on a classic won multiple Tony and Olivier Awards when it was first staged in the 80s and 90s. Cabaret In the 1960s, Kander & Ebb braved criticism and backlash when they invited theatregoers to the Kit Kat Club. Set in 1920s Berlin, Cabaret deals with themes of war, abortion, and discrimination — all set to a jazz-infused score. It’s a show that keeps growing and showing. The most recent iteration (which is on in both London and New York) has had theatre lovers around the world debating the take. And it’s that constant discussion and discourse that keeps it fresh and earns its place as one of the best musicals of all time. Guys and Dolls Thanks to some of the most well-known and beloved songs in musical theatre history, Guys and Dolls has firmly won its spot on the top 10 musicals list. The timeless tale of a gambler betting on love makes it a fun, fast-paced and glamorous musical that’s been loved since 1950. The recent production at the Bridge Theatre has artfully shown that you don’t have to change much about a musical to update it. The incredible promenade version of Guys and Dolls has reminded West End audiences of the potential of musical theatre. Disney’s The Lion King When Disney’s The Lion King first hit the stage in 1997, audience members could not believe their eyes. Accompanying the award-winning score from Elton John and Tim Rice were life-size puppets that had never been seen before. Almost 30 years later, it’s still wowing both children and adults alike. And if its longevity and wonder weren’t enough to earn The Lion King a place on the best musicals of all time list, its status as the highest-grossing Broadway production ever should. Hamilton It was the most talked about show of the 2010s. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s multi-award-winning retelling of Alexander Hamilton completely revolutionised musical theatre. With a minimal set, diverse casting and a score comprised of predominantly rap music, Hamilton brought a new face and audience to Broadway and the West End. It received a record-setting 16 nominations in 13 categories at the 2016 Tony Awards, winning 11. Wicked The enchanting reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz has cast its spell on theatregoers for over 20 years. It opened on Broadway in 2003 and flew over the pond to the West End in 2006. With its glitzy costumes, grand set design, and some of the catchiest songs in musical theatre history, Wicked is a family favourite. Telling the tale of the Wicked Witch of the West before she earned the moniker, Wicked explores the true meaning of good and evil. Oklahoma! Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first Broadway show shifted the framework for musical theatre. Before Oklahoma!, most musicals featured songs purely for spectacle. But the legendary duo blended comedy, drama, dance and story-driven songs into one show. The result was a cohesive story about a young farmer named Laurey who wants to pursue her feelings for Curly, a cowboy, but a new farmhand tries to win her over instead. Full of fun numbers that have lasted the test of time, along with the fact that musicals wouldn’t be what they are today without it, Oklahoma! has made it into the top five of our best musicals of all time list. West Side Story Jerome Robbins, Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein’s modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet set the world ablaze when it opened on Broadway in 1957. And it’s still hot today. Set in Manhattan in the mid-1950s, West Side Story is the familiar story of forbidden love. Despite belonging to rival gangs, Tony and Maria fall in love. But tension is rising between the foes and tragedy is awaiting the young couple. The show received six Tony Award nominations and won two in 1958. The 1961 film adaptation was nominated for 11 Oscars and won 10. The 2021 Steven Spielberg film was nominated for seven Oscars and won one. Les Misérables The record-breaking musical has left audiences weeping and breathless since its first staging in 1985. Cameron Mackintosh’s epic Les Misérables has been seen by 130 million people in 53 countries and 22 languages around the world. It’s the longest-running musical in the West End and the second longest-running musical in history. The stage adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel follows ex-prisoner Jean Valjean attempting to become a good man despite his jailer’s pursuit. Encountering tragedy and living through the French Revolution tests his morals, and the fate of others is left in his hands.

New cast members are set to join the West End company of Les Misérables, Cameron Mackintosh’s celebrated production of Boublil and Schönberg’s iconic musical, currently playing at the Sondheim Theatre. From Monday 2 February 2026, acclaimed performers Harry Hepple and Lizzie Bea will take on the roles of the infamous innkeepers Thénardier and Madame Thénardier. Hepple’s previous credits include Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium, Assassins at Chichester Festival Theatre and Hamilton in the West End, while Bea is well known for her performances in Sister Act and Hairspray. Also joining the company is Jess Folley, who will play Éponine. Folley previously originated the role of Ali Rose in the world premiere of Burlesque: The Musical in Manchester and London.

It may be a new year, but an old favourite is returning to the revolution. Following a very special performance at Les Misérables’ 40th anniversary last year, it has today been confirmed that Lucie Jones (Wicked, Waitress: the Musical, 13 Going on 30 the Musical) will reprise her role of Fantine. The Welsh wonder will be dreaming dreams of time gone by from 19 January to 11 April 2026.  This will mark Jones’ fourth turn in Boublil and Schönberg’s musical. The former Eurovision and X Factor contestant made her West End debut in Les Misérables back in 2010, playing Cosette. She then returned 11 years later to play Fantine, which she reprised in 2023.  

Since opening at the Barbican in 1985, the revolutionary musical has become a global phenomenon, playing in 55 countries, reaching 130 million theatregoers, and inspiring the Oscar-winning 2012 film. Now, Cameron Mackintosh presents a special eight-week 40th anniversary season at the Sondheim Theatre, with a powerhouse cast of Les Mis legends taking over from 8th September - 1st November 2025. Been a while since you've seen it? Here’s your guide to the anniversary company, from Éponine to Enjolras. Killian Donnelly as Jean Valjean West End favorite Killian Donnelly leads the anniversary cast as Jean Valjean, the heart of Les Misérables. A veteran of the show since 2008, Donnelly has been around the barricades having played Enjolras, Courfeyrac, and Combeferre before becoming one of the most acclaimed Valjeans on stage and in the international tour. His commanding voice and emotional depth make him the perfect choice to headline this landmark production. Ian McIntosh as Jean Valjean Sharing performances with Donnelly, Ian McIntosh also takes on the demanding role of Valjean. Having joined the West End cast in 2024, McIntosh brings grit and humanity to the ex-prisoner’s journey from outcast to protector. He will continue as Valjean beyond the anniversary run, ensuring fans can see his powerful interpretation for years to come. Bradley Jaden as Javert Opposite Valjean, Bradley Jaden returns as Javert, the relentless inspector who embodies law and order. Since his debut in 2014, Jaden has become one of the definitive Javerts of his generation, commanding the stage with intensity and precision. His return for the 40th anniversary promises fiery showdowns with Donnelly’s Valjean. Katie Hall as Fantine Katie Hall, once a memorable Cosette, now shines as Fantine. She first played the role on the UK and Ireland tour in 2018 before joining the West End in 2023. Her moving performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” makes Fantine’s tragic arc unforgettable in this celebratory season. Beatrice Penny-Touré as Cosette Beatrice Penny-Touré takes on the role of Cosette, Valjean’s adopted daughter and the romantic heart of the story. After delivering stunning vocals as Cosette on the arena world tour, she now brings her voice and charm to the anniversary production.

A West End Legacy Since 1985 Since it first opened at the Barbican Centre in 1985, Les Misérables has become a cornerstone of London’s West End. The production transferred to the Palace Theatre shortly after its debut and later found a long-term home at the Queen’s Theatre (now the Sondheim Theatre). Over nearly four decades, the show has seen a host of remarkable performers take on its powerful roles, making stars of many and attracting household names along the way.

When you step off the train and onto that Central London platform, money magically disappears from your bank account. That’s how it feels, at least. After paying for travel, tickets to one of the top West End plays, and that delicious pre-theatre dinner, it’s perfectly reasonable to want to save a bit of dosh. But how can you make the most of visiting the Capital if you don't shell out a fortune? Let us help you plan the perfect trip. Here is a list of the best things to do in London for free. See the theatrical sites Theatreland is relatively small. The West End measures less than one square mile and is located smack bang in the centre of London. It's home to some of the world’s most famous and beloved theatres. Spend the afternoon visiting St Martin’s Lane, where you can see the beautiful architecture of the London Coliseum before strolling past the Duke of York’s Theatre and Noël Coward Theatre. Venture onto The Strand, where The Vaudeville Theatre, The Savoy Theatre, and Adelphi Theatre sit. Get the full West End experience by walking up Shaftesbury Avenue to see the glittering lights of the Lyric Theatre, Apollo Theatre, Gielgud Theatre, Sondheim Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Shaftesbury Theatre. And that's just three streets. The West End is home to approximately 40 theatres, so why not see if you can visit them all? For a theatre lover, it’s one of the best things to do in London for free. And, while your wandering theatreland, keep an eye out for West End plays that sometimes offer standing tickets or discounted previews, allowing you to experience top-tier theatre for less. As you enjoy these free adventures, you may just find yourself drawn to discover more about London's bustling stage scene. Shakespeare’s London Walking Tour Thanks to the power of the internet, you can access countless free, self-guided walking tours of London. But for the theatrically inclined, a walking tour of Shakespeare’s London could be perfect.  Discover the history of London and Shakespeare’s Globe as you journey down the Thames. Discover where the original Globe Theatre lived and all the local haunts the Bard frequented. Free written and GPS tours are available to download. Free guided tours are available to book (usually subject to tipping) if you want a more in-depth experience. Visit Sherling Backstage Walkway Peek behind the curtain at the Sherling Backstage Walkway. The busy production workshops allow you to see how sets are constructed and assembled. Explore the workshops for free Monday to Saturday, one hour before performances at the Dorfman Theatre commence. Guided tours are available for £18. Wander the South Bank If you’ve visited the Sherling Backstage Walkway, take the time to wander around the South Bank. Peruse the brutalist architecture of the National Theatre and Royal Festival Hall before visiting the shops, bars, and restaurants on the riverbank. During the colder months, you can find stalls and markets offering festive cheer, and the summer brings free child-friendly entertainment.  Take a trip to the Barbican Another Brutalist building that offers plenty to see and do is the Barbican. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the arts hub often has free exhibitions, too. Along with an eclectic schedule of events, the Barbican is home to the conservatory - a beautiful, urban, tropical oasis that’ll transport you from the concrete jungle into a plant covered concrete jungle. Visiting is one of the best things to do in London for free. And if you’re already there to see Mathew Baynton in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, we’ve just helped you kill another couple of hours. You’re welcome.  Pop to a museum London is full of free museums. From the British Museum to the Natural History Museum, the Young V&A to the National Maritime Museum. There’s a free museum to suit everyone’s interests in London. You can even glimpse the inner workings of animals at the Grant Museum of Zoology or humans at the Wellcome Collection. Get an eyeful at a gallery Just like museums, London is full of incredible, free art galleries. Experience a spectrum of art styles at institutions such as the Tate Modern, National Gallery, and God’s Own Junkyard.  Step into a virtual space Before heading to @sohoplace to see A Christmas Carol(ish) or Kyoto, be sure to check out Outernet.   The digital art space offers free exhibitions and virtual experiences on giant screens. Step into immersive visual scapes for free and enjoy seasonal displays, pop culture references and more. Since opening in November 2022, it's fast become one of the best things to do in London for free. 

Les Misérables is one of the longest-running musicals in the West End and has been impressing audiences across the globe with its heart-wrenching story. Meet the cast that has been breaking audiences' hearts and taking them on an emotional journey through the French Revolution. Check out the cast below.  Who plays Jean Valjean in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Ian Mcintosh plays ex-prisoner Jean Valjean in the West End. Before taking on this iconic role, Mcintosh embarked on the UK tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing the titular role. He previously won an Olivier Award for his role in Beautiful: The Carole King for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, portraying Barry Mann Who plays Javert in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Sam Oladeinde plays the stubborn Javert in the West End. Oladeinde previously played Aaron Burr in the Original UK & Ireland Tour of Hamilton, and the original West End cast of The Prince of Egypt . Who plays Marius in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Thiago Phillip Felizardo plays love-struck Marius in the West End. This marks his West End debut! Who plays Cosette in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Izzi Levine plays Fantine’s innocent and kind-hearted daughter, Cosette. Les Misérables is her West End debut. Who plays Fantine in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Martha Kirby plays the strong-willed and resilient Fantine in the West End. Hall’s previous credits include Evita and The Last Five Years. Who plays Eponine in the West End cast of Les Misérables? Jess Folley plays the dejected Eponine in the West End. Folley recently starred as Ali in the world premiere of Burlesque: The Musical at the Savoy Theatre. She won The Voice Kids UK before winning X Factor: The Band.