The Royal Opera House is a renowned performing arts venue in London, serving as the home of The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet. Located in Covent Garden, it features an iconic neoclassical façade and a stunning auditorium. The venue hosts a variety of performances including operas, ballets, and concerts throughout the year, attracting audiences from around the world. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, it has undergone several renovations, providing modern amenities while preserving its historic charm.
What each source says
- Viator 3.7 11,147
- Google Places 4.8 10,948
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-21.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Excellent Amenities The venue offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and shops, allowing visitors to enjoy pre- or post-performance refreshments and explore unique souvenirs.
- Historical Significance Immerse yourself in the rich history of this grand institution, experiencing the weight of artistry and tradition that has graced its stage for generations.
- Prime Location & Accessibility With its Covent Garden location, the Royal Opera House offers easy access and stunning views, allowing visitors to combine their visit with other cultural experiences in the area.
- Stunning Architecture The Royal Opera House boasts a breathtaking neoclassical design, with opulent interiors that blend history and modernity, creating a visually stunning experience even before the performance begins.
- World-Class Performances Expect exceptional artistry and precision from talented singers, musicians, and dancers, delivering powerful and moving performances across opera, ballet, and orchestral productions.
Criticised
- Expensive Tickets Securing good seats can be costly, with premium tickets demanding a significant investment, making it less accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
- Limited Cocktail Selection at Bar The rooftop bar may have a limited and basic cocktail menu, potentially disappointing those seeking more inventive drink options.
- Potential for Crowds The Royal Opera House can get very crowded, especially during popular performances, potentially impacting the overall experience and comfort.
- Seat Discomfort Some seats, particularly in the higher levels, may feel claustrophobic or offer obstructed views, impacting the enjoyment of the performance.
- Snooty Staff Interactions with some staff members may come across as unfriendly or pretentious.
The longer read
The Royal Opera House (ROH) is highly esteemed as a cultural treasure and architectural landmark in London. Many reviewers highlight the building's beauty, blending historic and modern elements to create a special atmosphere. Its location in Covent Garden adds to the experience, with many reviewers appreciating the views and the vibrant surroundings. Reviewers consistently praise the world-class performances, whether opera, ballet, or orchestral, noting the artistry and precision on display. The acoustics and stage design contribute to an unforgettable experience, enhancing the impact of each performance. Many mention the attentive and professional staff, ensuring smooth and enjoyable visits. Some appreciate the option to enjoy a drink or the view from the terraces. Several reviewers recommend taking the Behind the Scenes Tour, which provides insights into the history, stage machinery, and costume workshops. This tour allows visitors to explore areas usually off-limits, like rehearsal rooms and prop storage. The Paul Hamlyn Hall is specifically mentioned for its grandeur. The red velvet seats and golden chandeliers add to the magical ambiance. The ROH offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and a shop. Some reviewers recommend the rooftop bar for its views of Covent Garden. The on-site dining options provide convenient choices for snacks or drinks before or during intermissions. The spaciousness of the venue is noted, and the blend of modern and classic interior design is appreciated. The ROH is praised for its ability to create memorable experiences, with reviewers often highlighting specific performances they attended. Some reviewers suggest that even those who are not typically opera or ballet fans may find the ROH tour interesting and enriching. A few reviewers note that while tickets can be expensive, there are often affordable options available. Some have noted that certain seating locations such as the 'gods' can get hot and claustrophobic. A few reviews mention that the staff can be snooty, and crowds can be large, suggesting the venue could benefit from accommodating fewer audience members at a time. However, the overall consensus is that the ROH is a must-visit destination for anyone in London who loves the arts and architecture.
A synthesis of third-party reviews supplied by Mindtrip travel index. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 20 7304 4000
- Website
- rbo.org.uk
| Mon | 12:00 - 22:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Wed | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Thu | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Fri | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 - 18:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.2 against a median of 4.5 across the 2,371 venues we hold for London, where the most-reviewed is Trafalgar Square.
Still deciding?
- What types of performances and events are held at the Royal Opera House?
- What is the process for buying tickets and are there any tips for getting the best seats at the Royal Opera House?
- Is there a recommended dress code for attending a performance at the Royal Opera House?
- Are guided tours of the Royal Opera House available, and what do they include?
- What is the historical or cultural significance of the Royal Opera House in London?
Where this comes from
Venue records are drawn from the Mindtrip travel index, which aggregates place data and review signals from Google Places, Tripadvisor and booking providers. Ratings are reproduced per source rather than merged into a single number. Distances to nearby venues are computed here as great-circle distances between the published coordinates, not walking or driving routes. Comparison figures are medians computed across the venues we hold for the same neighbourhood or city.
Source: Mindtrip travel index, captured 2026-08-21.
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.