Summer at the Royal Opera House

Discover an unforgettable summer in London at the Royal Opera House. Whether you're looking to watch a world-class opera or ballet performance, explore the cultural heritage of one of London's oldest theatres, or relax with a drink on our rooftop terrace overlooking Covent Garden, there's no shortage of things to do at the Royal Opera House this summer.

From acclaimed productions, behind-the-scenes tours and lunchtime recitals to evening experiences and live music, there's something for every visitor. Families can discover dedicated activities, performances and tours on our For Families page, making the Royal Opera House one of the most inspiring destinations to visit in London this summer.

Eat, Drink and Celebrate

From relaxed lunches to sunset drinks, there's no better place to eat, drink and celebrate in London this summer.

Make the most of summer at the Royal Opera House with exceptional dining, rooftop drinks and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Covent Garden. Savour seasonal Italian-inspired dishes at Cicoria by Angela Hartnett, enjoy cocktails and small plates on our rooftop terrace with sweeping views across central London, or elevate your theatre visit with pre-performance dining and Champagne experiences.

Royal Opera House

Opera on the Terrace

26 July 2026

Enjoy a summer evening of Italian-inspired dining and live opera on the terrace of the Royal Opera House.

More info

Three bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne are lined up on a table with glasses in front of them.

Royal Opera House

Champagne Tasting Menu

Open to all - interval pre-order recommended

Find out more Menu

Royal Opera House

Cicoria

Open to all - Bookings and walk-ins welcome

Angela Hartnett’s Italian-inspired restaurant offers hearty dishes, seasonal cocktails, wines and stunning views over the Covent Garden piazza.

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A group of people enjoys drinks on a terrace bar in Central London. A man with a beard and a wine glass smiles warmly, chatting with a woman who is facing away from the camera.

Royal Opera House

Bar Cicoria

Open to all - Walk-ins only

An all-day rooftop bar on the Royal Opera House’s fifth floor, offering seasonal drinks, Italian small plates and views of the Covent Garden piazza.

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Tours and Exhibitions

Go behind the scenes at the Royal Opera House this summer with guided tours and exhibitions that reveal the stories, artistry and history behind one of London's most iconic cultural landmarks.

Discover the Royal Opera House

The Paul Hamlyn hall is filled with people. It is illuminated by purple lighting. In the centre a performer addresses the standing crowd.

Royal Opera House
Tours

After Hours

21 - 22 August 2026

A new late-night experience at the Royal Opera House.

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Royal Opera House
Tours

Summer exclusive: Extended behind the scenes Tour

12 – 28 August 2026

Explore rarely-seen areas in this two and a half hour summer tour of the Royal Opera House.

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Royal Opera House
Tours

Exhibition Tours

19 – 22 June 2026

Enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of Royal Ballet and Opera exhibitions from expert guides.

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A man in a patterned coat stands with arms outstretched, addressing a seated group of adults and children in an open indoor space. The group appears engaged, sitting on a wooden floor with tables and chairs in the background.

Royal Opera House
Tours

Children's Alice in Wonderland Adventure Tour

25 May – 29 August 2026

Tumble down the rabbit hole and explore the world of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. For children aged 5-11 years.

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A white flag with a vibrant rainbow border reads "Royal Ballet & Opera" in bold orange, waving against a backdrop of historic brick buildings and an archway.

Royal Opera House
Tours

Pride of the ROH

17 May – 28 June 2026

Explore the rich contributions made by the LGBTQ+ icons who have helped shape The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.

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Royal Opera House
Tours

Tea and Tour

28 June – 30 October 2026

Journey behind the scenes and dive into the history of Swan Lake on this ballet-themed tour, complete with an afternoon tea.

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Exhibitions on Display

Celebrate 100 years of The Royal Ballet School this summer at the Royal Opera House with a series of special exhibitions showcasing the artistry, history and heritage of ballet.

On the Ground Floor, explore The Royal Ballet School 100 Years: Costumes from the RBS Collection, Darcey Bussell: From Student to Star of The Royal Ballet, and Tales of Beatrix Potter – Country Mouse.

In the Linbury Space, discover The Royal Ballet School 100 Years: Student Photo Challenge (from 1 July), while the Fifth Floor features Made for the Stage: Cinderella (2023) – Mouse Costume. In the Ashton Studio, experience Benesh Movement / A Day in the Life of a Ballet Dancer.

Events and Experiences

Discover unique events and experiences that bring the Royal Opera House to life beyond the stage. From Tea Dance and Live at Lunch enjoy unforgettable moments

Royal Opera House

Tea Dance

14 September - 21 December 2026

Come dancing and cha-cha-cha along to the Royal Opera House Dance Band, in beautiful surroundings that combine grandeur and elegance.

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Paul Hamlyn Hall
Opera and music
Ballet and dance

Live at Lunch

Free performances featuring Royal Ballet and Opera and guest artists. Admittance subject to capacity.

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A group of 13 people pose in colourful formal clothing against a textured backdrop with fabric drapes. They are seated on various platforms.

Multiple venues
Opera and music

Recitals at Lunch

21 September - 21 December 2026

Experience an exciting programme of music in the opulent setting of the historic Royal Opera House Crush Room.

More info

Performances

Experience world-class opera and ballet at the Royal Opera House this summer. From beloved classics to virtuosic showcases by internationally-acclaimed artists, experience unforgettable moments on our iconic stages in the heart of Covent Garden.

Carlos Acosta leaps midair in front of a dark brown backdrop. He wears a suit with a purple shirt. His right arm is outstretched behind him.

Main Stage
Ballet and dance

Carlos Acosta: Myths and Modern Masters

5 - 9 August 2026

Carlos Acosta returns to the Royal Opera House stage with a diverse programme of classic and modern works.

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A ballerina kneels on the floor of a stage. She is wearing a red dress and her hair is long, dark and hanging by her face. Behind her the stage curtains are open slightly, revealing the lights and seats of the auditorium.

Main Stage
Ballet and dance

Marianela – Timeless

29 July - 2 August 2026

A celebration of the enduring artistry of acclaimed Royal Ballet ballerina Marianela Nuñez and the Company and audiences she loves.

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Two performers romantically embrace. One has long brown hair and is wearing a red dress with black fur lining and she holds onto the head of the other performer who is wearing a paint-specked artist smock jacket. They are Aida Garifullina performing as Musetta and Andrzej Filończyk as Marcello in The Royal Opera’s La bohème.

Main Stage
Opera and music

La bohème

23 - 25 July 2026

Young Love in the City of Light.

See dates

A white woman in an off-the-shoulder, ivory satin gown stands against a dark, smoky background. Her long, wavy hair falls loosely over her shoulders, and she gazes softly forward with a pensive and exhausted expression, illuminated by gentle, diffused light. The air is thick with what looks like battle smoke. The woman represents Elvira in Richard Jones’ production of I Puritani.

Main Stage
Opera and music

I puritani

A couple's faith is tested.

More info

For more information about our opening times, building access and everything you need to know before your visit, please check out our Visitor Information page. You'll find all the essential details to help you plan your visit with confidence.