West End's Incredible Theatreland

This family friendly outdoor tour was originally created and delivered for City of Westminster Inside Out Festival 2025, the borough’s summer programme introducing visitors from around the world to the cultural and historical highlights of Westminster.

Prepare to be guided through the 1800’s days of vibrant Victorian entertainment, the surviving venues from that era and the influence on popular musicals. From the theatres that became home to songs and broadcasts in times of war, to the elaborate concert halls and the eccentric clothing fashions for actors and audiences!

Learn also about the fascinating special effects from the last 200 years with tales of vaudeville comedy, innovative lighting designs and the Disney show creations that have brought some of the biggest West End box office successes.

Additionally, this tour will travel back in time to the origins of theatre and comedy in the West End, passing the iconic Covent Garden Actors Church. Find out where the first West End puppetry and mask shows took place, as well as hearing about some of the most enjoyable productions from recent decades including the adaptations of Roald Dahl’s Matilda and Charles Dickens Oliver Twist