Royal Albert Hall is one of the most iconic and famous concert venues in the world. With a capacity of over 5000 seats, it hosts a wide range of events from classical concerts to rock gigs. Choosing where to sit in this magnificent circular auditorium can be a difficult decision. This article will guide you through the best seats for different types of events at Royal Albert Hall.
Overview of the Seating Plan
The seating plan at Royal Albert Hall is arranged in a horseshoe shape rising up from the stage in tiers. The Stalls section is the lowest tier directly in front of the stage. Above the Stalls are the Circles – Lower, Middle and Upper. Higher up are the Balconies – First and Second Balcony. At the very top is the Gallery. Boxes line the sides of the Auditorium at different levels.
The stage itself is fairly low, so visibility is good from most seats. Acoustics are also excellent throughout the hall. When choosing seats, factors like your budget, proximity to the action and atmosphere preferences should be considered.
Stalls
The Stalls are the premium seats located closest to the stage on the ground floor. Stalls tickets are the most expensive in the hall. Sitting here allows you to be fully immersed in the performance and see every expression on the performer’s faces. The first 4-6 rows are very close to the stage – almost too close for some. The back half of the Stalls still provides great views and proximity without as much neck craning.
Circle Seats
The Circle seats are on three tiers above the Stalls. The Lower Circle puts you at roughly the same height as the performers with excellent sightlines. The Middle and Upper Circles are progressive steps upwards but still provide wonderfully intimate views of the stage. The Columns separating seating can obstruct views in places depending on the row.
Boxes
The Boxes on the sides provide a unique viewing angle and more private, exclusive feel. You’ll get a great sideways view of the stage and see the audience reaction too. Boxes come in various sizes for between 2 and 8 people. Boxes can be great for couples or groups wanting a special experience.
Balconies
In the upper Balconies of the theatre, you’ll feel further back from the show but these seats have their own charm. The steep rake of the Balconies provides unobstructed sightlines. Here you can take in the grandeur of the whole venue and really appreciate the scale of a production. The atmosphere here is usually lively too.
Gallery
The Gallery is the highest tier of seating tucked right under the domed ceiling. Don’t let the height put you off though – the views are still excellent. Low prices make these some of the best value seats in the Hall, ideal if you’re on a budget.
Best Seats for Concerts
Royal Albert Hall has been a key venue for major concert tours and live music events since it opened in 1871. The epic capacity means it can host truly monumental concerts and famous acts often play multiple dates here on a tour. When choosing seats for a concert, sound quality and atmosphere are key factors.
Sound Quality
Fortunately, acoustics are superb throughout Royal Albert Hall. However, the Stalls and Lower Circle are generally regarded as having the best sound quality as you are closest to the speakers and avoid distortions. The Gallery does sit furthest from the speakers so sound here is not quite as crisp but still impressively good for a venue this size.
Atmosphere
For the most electric atmosphere at a concert, the standing area on the floor right by the stage is hard to beat. Known as the Arena, it’s often General Admission with first come, first served access. The Stalls are vibrant too, especially the middle blocks. For a livelier, buzzing vibe try the side Balconies and Gallery which draw more hardcore fans. Box seats give a mellower experience.
Recommended Seats
| Section | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Stalls | Great sound, atmosphere and views without neck strain |
| Circle | Almost as close as Stalls with a raised perspective |
| First Balcony sides | Lively atmosphere and angled view of the stage |
Concert goers are encouraged to book early for the best choice of seats. If restricted views are a concern, check out seat views on the website before buying.
Best Seats for Classical Concerts
With its incredible acoustics, Royal Albert Hall is one of the finest venues in the world for classical music. Many famous orchestras and soloists make this a regular fixture on their performance calendar. Seating preferences for classical concerts have some different priorities to consider.
Proximity
To fully appreciate the skill and nuances of the musicians, it’s ideal to get as close to the stage as possible. The front and middle section of the Stalls provides the best vantage point. Box seats along the side also allow you to get close to the performers.
Sightlines
An unobstructed view is important so you don’t miss any elements of the performance. The raked Circle seats avoid any barriers and are excellent for viewing the whole orchestra on stage. Balcony seats get you high enough to see over the performers below.
Acoustics
Every part of the auditorium benefits from great acoustics. But it’s worth avoiding the far sides by the walls where sound can be less direct. The Stalls, Circle and Boxes place you centrally where acoustics are optimal.
Recommended Seats
| Section | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Stalls | Close to the orchestra with central acoustics |
| Circle | Elevated sightlines and excellent acoustics |
| Boxes | Side view and proximity in an exclusive setting |
Booking well ahead is advisable for popular classical concerts. Preference will be given to Patrons booking the entire season.
Best Seats for Plays & Musicals
Royal Albert Hall also hosts West End theatre shows and musicals on occasion. The circular shape provides creative staging opportunities. For theatrical performances, audio and visual clarity are priorities along with the atmosphere.
Staging View
Even though they are further back, the raked Circle seats provide the most complete views of the unusual theatrical stagings in the round. The Lower and Middle Circle tiers are centrally placed without extreme side angles.
Proximity to Stage
The low Stalls seats get you as close to the drama as possible. Sitting here places you right inside the action so you won’t miss any of the expressions and emotions.
Elevated Perspective
Higher seats like the Balconies and Gallery provide the benefit of looking down on the stage and taking in the whole scene. This can enhance the experience for shows using creative elements like complex sets.
Recommended Seats
| Section | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Circle | Complete view of the unique staging from all sides |
| Stalls | Get close to the drama and emotions |
| Balconies & Gallery | Elevated perspective and affordable prices |
Book early for popular shows, especially if wanting to secure seats together for a group.
Best Seats for Speakers & Comedians
Famous speakers from intellectuals to politicians often hold talks in the Hall’s intimacy. Top comedians frequently include it on their tour schedule due to the amazing atmosphere. For public speaking events, audio clarity and view are most vital.
Clear Audio
It’s important every word is heard clearly so the Stalls and Lower Circle seats are recommended. Sitting centrally avoids any distorting echoes. Box seats also provide good audio being so close to the stage.
Facial Expressions
Seeing a comedian’s facial expressions is key to getting the full impact. Stalls seats in the first half get you close enough to catch the subtle nuances in their delivery.
Upper Tier Perspective
An elevated view from the Galleries allows you to get the whole scene and see how speakers engage with the full hall. The steep raking means seeing over those in front.
Recommended Seats
| Section | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Stalls | Hear every word clearly and see facial expressions |
| Lower Circle | Centrally placed with perfect audio |
| Gallery | Cheap seats with a great elevated view |
These shows often sell out fast so book early. Register interest ahead of tickets going on sale to get alerts.
Booking Tips
Here are some useful tips to get the best seats for your budget:
Book Early
Booking as far in advance as you can gives you the best chance of securing good seats for popular shows before they sell out.
Check the Seating Plan
Carefully check out the interactive seating plan online when buying, so you know exactly what view you’ll get. This avoids surprises on the night.
Read the Reviews
Reviews of the venue on reputable sites like TripAdvisor can give useful insights on the pros and cons of different seating areas.
Alternative Tickets
If initial tickets released sell out fast, don’t despair. Additional tickets are often released in subsequent batches.
Obstructed View Discounts
Look for obstructed view ticket deals which can massively reduce prices for seats with compromised but still decent views behind pillars.
Multiple Nights
For very popular concerts or shows consider booking multiple nights to have a choice of good seats across dates.
Group Bookings
Booking as a group ensures you sit together. Larger group bookings often get priority access before general ticket sales open.
Guided Tours
Going on a guided tour of Royal Albert Hall is highly recommended. Tours provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at areas you can’t access on show nights. Learn intriguing facts about the Hall’s architecture, royal history and backstage secrets.
Choose from:
Front of House Guided Tour
Explore the ornate public areas of the Hall from the Grand Entrance, Main Hall, Gallery and Royal Retiring Room. Get insight into the work preserving this iconic building.
Backstage Guided Tour
For a peek behind the scenes, this tour takes you through the Royal Albert Hall’s warren of corridors, VIP hospitality suites, dressing rooms and more.
Hall Tour with Tea
Combine a Front of House Tour with traditional English afternoon tea in one of the luxurious spaces within the Hall.
VIP Private Tours
Private group tours with a dedicated expert guide provide the most exclusive experience and flexible timing if schedules are limited.
Public tours run most days throughout the year but spaces are limited so advance booking online is essential.
How to Get There
Here is some key information to help you get to Royal Albert Hall:
Location
The Hall is located in South Kensington, within walking distance of several Tube stations.
Tube
The closest Tube stations are South Kensington (3 minute walk), High Street Kensington (8 minutes) and Gloucester Road (11 minutes). All are served by the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines.
Buses
Plenty of buses including routes 9, 10, 52, 360 and 452 stop on Kensington Road outside or near the Hall.
Parking
There is no parking at the Hall itself except for disabled badge holders. Nearby street parking is extremely limited. Better options are local car parks like Queen’s Gate or Hyde Park.
Accessibility
The Hall has accessible facilities and seating. Please contact the venue when booking for specific requirements.
Dining at Royal Albert Hall
Royal Albert Hall offers some fabulous dining options to complement your show experience:
Verdi – Italian Kitchen
Verdi serves quality rustic Italian cuisine like pastas, pizzas, antipasti and desserts. It’s open from 90 minutes before concert start times.
Café Consort
For casual bistro dining, Café Consort is open all day and into the evening for light bites, sharing platters, wine and cocktails.
Champagne Bar
As the name suggests, the Champagne Bar offers a superlative list of Champagnes and sparkling wines, along with artisan cheeses, charcuterie and patés.
Intermission Drinks
Bars are located around the Hall for refreshments during the intermission at shows. Queues move fast.
Book dining in advance online when getting your show tickets to secure a table.
Conclusion
Royal Albert Hall is a true icon of arts and culture. Visiting this architectural marvel provides not just a world-class performance but a whole experience. The venue is a stunning setting to enjoy a diverse range of events, whether you’re a classical afficionado or a hardcore rocker. Every seat provides a great view and unique perspective.
Taking into account the detailed guide above, you’re sure to find the ideal seats for your budget and preferences. Savour the enchanting atmosphere of this celebrated concert hall that has hosted so many historic events over the past 150 years.
