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Wondering if London’s Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour is worth doing?
The Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour is one of London’s most unique cultural experiences. After doing it myself in July 2025, I can honestly say it’s worth it. I booked the tour as a birthday gift for my auntie and joined her on a sunny-ish Saturday, not quite knowing what to expect. But from the moment we stepped backstage, I was hooked.
Whether you’re a fan of opera and ballet or just curious about what happens backstage at one of the city’s most iconic venues, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a world-class institution. From rehearsal spaces to costume & prop workshops and plenty of historic anecdotes from the knowledgeable guides.
In this post, I’ll cover exactly what the Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour includes, how to book it, who it’s best for, how long it takes, and whether it’s actually worth doing as part of your London itinerary.
Is the Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour Worth Doing?
Tucked away in the heart of Covent Garden, the Royal Opera House is one of London’s most beautiful and historic institutions. Whether you’re an opera and ballet lover or not, the stunning building alone is well worth exploring.
The Behind the Scenes Tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about its history. You’ll visit rehearsal studios and see where costumes are made and sets are built. For anyone curious about the inner workings of live performance or seeking a fascinating and lesser-known London experience, this tour delivers.
Why It Is Worth Doing: Quick Highlights
🎭 Unique access to backstage areas normally off-limits to the public.
🗣️ Fascinating stories shared by knowledgeable, passionate guides.
📚 A fun and educational experience, whether or not you’re into opera/ballet.
💷 Great value for money at just £25.
🌆 Ideal for London locals, culture lovers, and visitors looking to do something different.
What to Expect on the Day
The Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour is well-organised and easy to follow from the moment you arrive. You’ll meet your guide in the Royal Opera House foyer, which is accessible from both the Covent Garden Piazza and Bow Street entrances, around 10–15 minutes before your tour starts.
A friendly staff member with a clipboard will check off your name and direct you to the meeting point. You’ll also be given a headset to hear the guide more clearly throughout the tour. I actually didn’t end up using mine, as our guide spoke really clearly and confidently.
Tour Duration & Pace
The tour lasts around 75 minutes and involves mostly walking and some standing, but nothing too physically demanding. Lifts are available between floors for those who need them. Parts of the building are narrow or stair-heavy, so it’s worth checking accessibility options when booking.
The Main Highlights!
What you see on the day will vary slightly depending on rehearsals and building access, but here’s a general run-through of the key highlights. Top Tip: If you want to see the Costume Department, book a midweek tour, as it’s closed on weekends. I was pretty disappointed to miss it!
- 🎭 Backstage areas — including the side of the main stage and insights into how large-scale scene changes are managed.
- 🩰 Rehearsal studios — where the Royal Ballet warms up and practices. We walked past one in full use which was amazing!
- 🧵 Costume department — a behind-the-scenes look at how outfits are made, altered, and preserved (closed at weekends).
- 🎼 Technical spaces — including lighting rigs, fly towers, and set-storage zones. Surprisingly fascinating!
- 🎨 Prop department — my personal favourite part of the tour. You’ll see how props are designed, built, and repurposed inside a beautiful art studio.
- 👑 The auditorium — a rare view of the grand auditorium and stage completely empty. Its scale and decoration are even more spectacular without a crowd.
Insider Stories, History & Surprises
Our guide was full of brilliant stories — from the time the theatre burned down after a wild Victorian party (yes, really!), to how the Paul Hamlyn Hall was once twice as long, with the other half’s pillars now part of Borough Market. Everything she had to say was informative and super interesting.
Photography Rules
Photography is not allowed in most backstage areas, to protect privacy, especially during rehearsals or set changes. However, you can take photos in public areas during the tour. This includes the foyer, gift shop, auditorium and the rooftop bar, which is a lovely spot to end your visit.
FAQs
If you’re thinking about booking the Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour, here are a few common questions answered to help you plan your visit.
How much does the tour cost and where do I book?
As of July 2025, tickets cost £25 per adult, with concessions available. You can book directly through the official Royal Opera House website. It’s the best place to check the most up-to-date schedule and availability.
Do you have to book the Behind the Scenes Tour in advance?
Yes — I highly recommend booking in advance, especially for weekends or during school holidays. Group sizes are small and tours often sell out, so it’s worth securing your spot ahead of time.
Can I wear jeans to the Royal Opera House? Is there a dress code?
Absolutely! The tour is casual and you can wear whatever you’re comfortable in — including jeans and trainers. Just keep in mind that you’ll be walking and standing for most of the time, so practical footwear is a good idea.
Conclusion: Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour Review
If you’re looking for an experience in London that’s a little different, the Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour is a brilliant choice. It offers rare access to one of the city’s most iconic buildings and gives you a real appreciation for the creativity, craftsmanship, and sheer scale of what goes on behind the scenes.
Whether you’re an opera enthusiast, a lover of theatre, or just someone who enjoys discovering hidden parts of London, this tour is well worth your time — and at £25, it’s surprisingly affordable for such a unique experience.
It was a brilliant birthday gift and I ended up loving it just as much as my auntie did. If you get the chance, go — and don’t forget to book midweek if you want to see the costume department!
