What is the West End and How Does It Compare to Broadway?

Broadway might the the ultimate destination for all things theatre in the United States, but across the pond, theatre fans flock to a different mecca. What is the British version of Broadway? Considered by some as the theatre capital of the world, London is home to the West End. What exactly is West End theatre all about? We have all the details!

Plus, learn even more about how the West End compares to Broadway.

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What is the West End/ what makes a show West End?

The West End of London, or simply the West End, is an area of London known for being the commercial and entertainment center of the city. The region is known for its tourist attractions, hotels, shopping, nightlife, and theatres.

Where is the West End?

The West End is a loosely defined area of central London. There is no official geographical or municipal definition of the area and there are many interpretations of where the West End starts and ends. Some consider the bounderies to be the Thames (south), Marylebone Road (north), Hyde Park (west) and the City of London (east), while others have a much smaller interpretation of the area, with boundaries being the Strand (south), Oxford Street (north), Regent Street (west) and Chancery Lane (east).

Why is it called the West End?

The region got its name for being the area lying to the west of the historic City of London. The neighborhood was a favorite of the rich because it was positioned upwind of smoke and smells from the more crowded City. The West End has long been considered an affluent and fashionable area of London.

What is Theatreland?

Theatreland is the vibrant core of the West End, home to over 30 theatres. Iconic streets such as Shaftesbury Avenue and Drury Lane are synonymous with world-class productions. This district is not only a cultural landmark but also a dynamic part of London's entertainment scene, hosting a mix of classic and contemporary shows. Major streets include The Strand, Drury Lane, and Shaftesbury Avenue.

Is the West End like Broadway?

Yes. The West End is to London as Broadway is to New York City. West End theatre is considered (along with Broadway) the highest level of commercial theatre in the English-speaking world.

How many West End theatres are there?

There are 39 West End theatres. The oldest is the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which opened in 1663. The newest is @sohoplace, which opened in 2022 and holds the distinction of being the first new West End theatre in over 50 years. Like Broadway, the theatres are mostly owned by several prominant theatre groups, including: Ambassador Theatre Group, Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, Nimax Theatres, LW Theatres, and The Nederlander Organization. Several West End theatres are independently owned.

How do these numbers compare to Broadway? They are very close! Broadway is made up of 41 theatres.

Are all theatres in London considered "West End"?

No. Like New York City, London is home to far more theatres than just those in the West End and many smaller venues are considered off-West End. There are also many significant venues that are not technically West End Theatres, such as The National Theatre, the Old Vic, Shakespeare's Globe, the Barbican Centre, and the Royal Albert Hall.

Are there awards for theatre in the West End?

Yes. The Olivier Awards are to the West End as the Tony Awards are to Broadway. Established in 1976 by by the Society of London Theatre, the Olivier Awards are Britain's most prestigious stage honors and are held every Spring.

Plus, check out which London shows were winners of the 2023 BroadwayWorld UK/West End Awards!

How do I use "West End" in a sentence?

To use "West End" in a sentence you should include different prepositions than you would for "Broadway". Examples:

I bought tickets to a show on the West End.
I bought tickets to a show in the West End.
I bought tickets to a West End show.

The musical is opening at the West End.
The musical is opening in the West End.
The musical is opening in London's West End.

What is more prestigious, West End or Broadway?

It depends who you ask! Both cities are very proud of their history and standing in the global theatre hierarchy.

Which is older, the West's End or Broadway?

The oldest West End Theatre, the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, opened in 1663, making the West End technically centuries older than Broadway.

Is Broadway or West End more expensive?

Generally (but not always), Broadway tickets are more expensive than West End tickets.

What's playing in the West End?

Get the scoop on all the latest West End shows and check out what's coming soon! Learn more about how to get cheap West End tickets.

A Brief History of the West End

The West End’s rich theatrical tradition dates back to the 17th century, when London’s elite began frequenting performances in the area as part of the city’s growing cultural scene. The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, established in 1663, was one of the first major playhouses, setting the stage for what would become one of the world’s most renowned theatre districts. Over the following centuries, more theatres were built, including the Lyceum Theatre (1765), Her Majesty’s Theatre (1705), and the Adelphi Theatre (1806), solidifying the West End as London’s entertainment epicenter.

By the 19th century, the West End had expanded significantly, drawing inspiration from the thriving theatrical movements in Paris and beyond. The rise of gas lighting and, later, electricity transformed productions, making performances more visually captivating. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the emergence of musical theatre, with productions like The Boy Friend (1954) and Oliver! (1960) gaining international acclaim.

Today, the West End is synonymous with world-class theatre, from long-running classics like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera to innovative new works. It remains a global force in live entertainment, attracting millions of theatregoers each year and continuing to influence theatre worldwide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theatre enthusiast, the West End offers a dynamic blend of history, culture, and unforgettable performances.