How to get cheap theatre tickets: save in London’s West End, Manchester and across the UK

By George Storr

Published: Friday, 22 July 2022 at 12:00 am

Savings on top shows can be hard to come by, but if you’re keen to find theatre tickets for less, don’t fret. We’ve got you covered. In this guide we’ve compiled all the best sites to save on top-rated theatre performances, immersive experiences and more attractions from around the country — from London’s West End to Manchester, Glasgow and beyond.

First, we’ll start with some advice. While this guide offers the best sites and methods for saving on theatre, plus some great deals, there’s also an element of luck and timing involved. Every show has a limited run in its given theatre and if you’ve got a particular show or genre in mind then your chances of getting cheap tickets will be impacted by how in-demand those tickets are and how much of the show’s run remains.

Another top tip is to do your ticket shopping last minute. Sometimes if a show hasn’t sold enough tickets and there are lots of seats remaining, prices will plummet for last-minute buyers.

Also, if you’re willing to take a gamble on lesser-known shows, you can pick up tickets for next to nothing by joining seat-filling ticket schemes. Organisations like Play by Play and Central Tickets charge membership fees or a small handling charge, but will occasionally offer cut-price entry to an eclectic selection of shows. Unfortunately, these only cover London and you won’t get to choose which shows you are offered.

If you are looking for London shows and can trot along in person, it’s worth checking out the TKTS booth in Leicester Square, which often offers cut-price tickets.

Finally — and perhaps unhelpfully for some — it’s often cheaper to find theatre tickets outside of the capital. While some of the UK’s most renowned shows are put on in the West End and around London, the UK has a thriving theatre scene and there are fantastic shows to be found wherever you’re based. Now, let’s help you find them.