Luvvies' London Weekend

Hotels

My kingdom for a bed

Sheridan, Coward, Grenfell. No, it's not a luvvie rollcall, it's the names of some of the rooms at the charmingly theatrical Draycott Hotel. Located in the swish enclave of Chelsea, this hotel is hopelessly devoted to all things thespian.

If you're the type to hang around stage doors, you may want to stay as centrally as possible. Try St Martin's Lane, Brown's or the Radisson Edwardian Hampshire; they're all located in the lap of London's theatre district, close to bookshops, watering holes and restaurants, as well as those star-studded stage doors.

Friday Night

Curtain Up

To begin the weekend in style, see a West End show. Check out what's on offer at the tkts booth in Leicester Square – there's many a discounted ticket available from this, London's official reduced theatre ticket operation.

Then a pre-curtain-up drink at the luvvie-friendly French House, Toucan or Dog & Duck pub is essential.

After the show, pop into Joe Allen for dinner, but make sure you book ahead. This is prime thesp territory at the busiest time for luvvies. It'll be buzzing, not only with luvvie patrons, but with real-life thesps, producers and all their fabulous friends – it'll be just swell!

Saturday Morning

Darling, you were marvellous!

Wake up with a smile on your face because, darling, you were marvellous last night! And it's up with the lark and off to Camden Passage in Islington, a treasure trove of vintage clothing, antiques and curios.

Afterwards, drop into The Kings Head Theatre pub on Upper Street for lunch and hopefully a performance.

Saturday Afternoon

Behind the scenes

Time to get a real feel for London's theatrical side with a backstage tour. A number of big West End venues are happy to reveal some of their most dramatic behind-the-scenes secrets to groups.

Try the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which is steeped in theatrical history, the prestigious Royal Opera House, the Prince Edward (home to Jersey Boys), the National, with its 3 separate auditoria, the Theatre Royal Haymarket, (watch out for the Buckstone ghost), or the art deco masterpiece, the Prince of Wales.

Thus uplifted, inspired and informed, 'tis time to find some garb for tonight. London's home to a number of theatrical costumiers, but we recommend Angels Fancy Dress back in that favourite road for luvvies, Shaftesbury Avenue.

Saturday Night

Showtime

You've got more choices to make tonight. But with London's incredible mix of dramas, musicals, opera, and dance productions, on both a grand and intimate scale, there's little doubt you'll see something spectacular. Check out what's on in theatres across London at www.visitlondon.com/events/theatre

Follow the evening's entertainment with dinner at a Sarastro in Covent Garden. Billed as 'the show after the show', Sarastro is a fantastically flamboyant and theatrical restaurant, serving Mediterranean food. Book one of the themed boxes, and be prepared to be entertained - you might even catch a bit of live opera, if you're lucky!

Sunday Morning

Sunday mornings are for relaxing and seeking out that special souvenir. So spend the morning strolling along on the South Bank, checking out the book market for a bargain.

If you can't find that illusive copy of Peer Gynt or Blithe Spirit, you might want to head south to the Calder Bookshop on The Cut.

Sunday Afternoon

All the world's a stage

The afternoon should be spent paying homage to arguably the world's greatest playwright, Shakespeare.

If you're a true luvvie, your passion for the bard will doubtless know no bounds. So a trip to the capital wouldn't be complete without a tour of the gorgeous Globe Theatre, and its excellent exhibition.