The Royal Opera House in London has survived fires, wars, and countless renovations, yet it still feels like stepping into a living piece of history when you walk through those doors on Bow Street. I've been here several times, and each visit reminds me why Covent Garden remains one of London's most magnetic cultural destinations.

What strikes you first isn't the grandeur – though the red velvet and gold leaf certainly make an impression – but the sense that this place has stories embedded in its walls. The current building dates from 1858, making it the third theatre on this site. The previous two burned down in 1808 and 1856, which explains why Londoners have always had a pragmatic relationship with their cultural landmarks.

The building houses both The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, and watching either feels different here than in newer venues. The 2,256-seat auditorium creates an intimacy that's rare for a space this size. From the stalls to the gallery, there's barely a bad seat, though I'd recommend booking early since popular productions sell out quickly.

George Frideric Handel premiered many of his operas here in the 1730s, and you can almost sense that musical heritage during performances. The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House plays for both opera and ballet, creating a seamless artistic experience that few venues manage.

The extensive renovations between 1996 and 2000 transformed the backstage areas completely while preserving the original auditorium. They added the Linbury Theatre for smaller productions and expanded the public spaces considerably. The Paul Hamlyn Hall, that striking iron and glass structure you see entering from the piazza, connects beautifully with the historic building.

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What I appreciate most about visiting the Royal Opera House is how it balances tradition with accessibility. Yes, it's still formal – people dress up, champagne flows during intermissions – but it doesn't feel stuffy or exclusionary. The programming includes contemporary works alongside classics, and the smaller Linbury Theatre often showcases experimental pieces.

If you're planning to visit Royal Opera House, check their schedule well in advance. The combination of world-class performances in a historically significant venue makes this one of London's essential cultural experiences.