The recommended age for the Mousetrap is 7 years and above. Children under school age will not be permitted entry, and those under the age of 16 will not be permitted entry into the auditorium without an adult present.
Performance Dates
6 July 2021 - 2 January 2027
Run time: 2hrs 5min
Includes interval
COVID-19 Policy
This venue adheres to a stringent COVID-19 policy
Free E-Tickets
This show offers free, no-hassle self-print or e-tickets
Top Rated Show
Reviewers highly rate this show
Buy as a Gift
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2,654 reviews
The world’s longest-running play of any kind, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at the St Martin’s Theatre!
The Mousetrap is not just a must-see for mystery lovers but also a cornerstone of West End plays, captivating audiences for decades with its gripping whodunit tale. While you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant world of London musicals which turn theatre into a spectacular experience, blending captivating stories with unforgettable music and dance.
The Mousetrap is now in its 75th year, with over 28,500 performances played. It is quite simply a great piece of theatrical history written by the greatest crime writer of all time.
In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner…. This world record-breaking production of The Mousetrap continues to enthral, to entertain and to thrill audiences who still flock to the St Martin’s Theatre in London from every corner of the globe. Book your official Mousetrap tickets today!
During this phenomenal run, there have been no fewer than 297 actors and actresses appearing in the play, 86 miles of shirts have been ironed and over 320 tons of ice cream sold. Some cast members are in the Guinness Book of Records, David Raven as the ‘Most Durable Actor’ for 4,575 performances as Major Metcalf, and the late Nancy Seabrooke for a record-breaking 15 years as an understudy. The Mousetrap first entered the record books on 12th April 1958 when it became the longest-running show of any kind in the history of British Theatre.
Contrary to popular belief, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap only has one official ending. That’s right, unlike some other mysteries or thrillers that may have alternate endings, The Mousetrap has maintained its original conclusion since its debut in 1952. Theatregoers really have been able to keep the secret safe for 75 years!
The amount of money it costs to book Mousetrap tickets depends on where you sit and which day you see the show. Midweek performances, especially Tuesday-Thursday, are usually the most affordable dates.
Yes, The Mousetrap is London’s longest-running play. It also holds the title of the longest-running play in the world. It premiered in London on 6 October 1952, at the Ambassadors Theatre, and later moved to the larger St. Martin’s Theatre in 1974, where it continues to run.
As of now, the play has been performed continuously for over 70 years, with tens of thousands of performances, making it a landmark in theatrical history. This remarkable longevity is a testament to its enduring appeal and the intrigue of its cleverly constructed murder mystery.
The Mousetrap is a murder mystery written by Agatha Christie, and holds the record as the world’s longest-running play. Set in a remote guesthouse during a snowstorm, it follows a group of strangers who discover that a murderer is among them, culminating in an unforgettable (and unmentionable - it is the best kept secret after all) ending. Audiences are asked to keep the ending secret, adding to the play’s intrigue.
The play’s fame stems from its longevity, Christie’s legacy as the “Queen of Crime,” and its classic whodunit format, which traps both characters and viewers in suspense. The Mousetrap has become a cultural institution, drawing generations of audiences with its clever storytelling and status as a quintessential London theatre experience. The biggest question surrounding the famous whodunnit is, why haven’t you booked your Mousetrap tickets yet?
The Mousetrap is set in Monkswell Manor, a remote guesthouse cut off by a snowstorm. The guests, each travelling alone, enter the manor one by one. Despite their clashing personalities, they each try to make the most of their holiday. The peace is shattered when news breaks of a local murder, and the police warn that the killer may be headed their way. Tensions rise when a police officer arrives on skis to investigate, and the guests realise the murderer might already be among them.
As suspicions grow and secrets unravel, another murder occurs within the house, plunging everyone into chaos. The play builds to a dramatic climax, revealing the killer’s identity in a shocking twist. The mystery is a masterclass in suspense, full of red herrings, misdirection, and psychological intrigue, keeping audiences guessing until the final moment.
The Mousetrap is at St. Martins Theatre, where it has been running since 1974. Previous to this, the play had been running at the Ambassadors Theatre, the building directly opposite to its current home.
If you loved the twists and tension of The Mousetrap, London Theatre Direct has plenty more in store. Explore our wide range of Plays to suit every occasion. Mystery fans should try Witness for the Prosecution for another gripping Christie puzzle, while The Play That Goes Wrong offers a hilarious spin on the classic whodunnit. For a layered, suspenseful story packed with surprises, don't miss Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
Whether you're planning your first visit to St Martin's Theatre or returning to crack the case once again, we've answered some of the most common questions about Agatha Christie's iconic West End thriller.
Yes, The Mousetrap will tour the UK from September 2026 until June 2027 alongside its record-breaking West End run at St Martin's Theatre. Check out the official listings on the show's website if you'd prefer to catch the production outside London. If you're visiting the capital, however, nothing beats seeing the world's longest-running play in its historic West End home.
Ticket prices for The Mousetrap vary depending on the performance date and where you choose to sit. Standard tickets generally start from around £25–£30, with midweek performances often offering the best value. There are plenty of affordable ways to experience this legendary whodunnit.
No, The Mousetrap is not currently closing in London. The production continues to delight audiences at St Martin's Theatre and remains the longest-running play in the world. Booking is currently open well into 2027, giving theatre fans plenty of opportunities to experience Agatha Christie's celebrated mystery for themselves.
Many theatregoers consider the centre Stalls to offer the best overall experience, providing excellent views of both the stage and the cast's expressions. Mid-Stalls rows, particularly those a few rows back from the front, strike a great balance between proximity and perspective. The Dress Circle also offers a fantastic panoramic view, making it a strong choice if you prefer a slightly elevated vantage point.
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