Paul Simon Live at London Palladium: May 18, 2026

Introduction

Prepare yourselves, London! The incomparable Paul Simon is gracing the historic London Palladium with his presence on the 18th May 2026. This is not merely a concert; it's an occasion, a rare opportunity to witness a songwriter whose lyrical prowess and musical innovation have defined generations. From the introspective folk of Simon & Garfunkel to the global sonic explorations of his solo career, Paul Simon's music is a tapestry woven with profound storytelling and captivating melodies. The London Palladium, a venue steeped in theatrical grandeur, promises to be the perfect setting for an evening that will undoubtedly resonate long after the final note fades. Join us as we delve into what makes this upcoming performance a must-see event for music lovers across the UK and beyond.

About the Artist

Paul Simon's journey in music is a narrative of unparalleled artistic evolution. Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1941, his early musical stirrings led him to form a legendary duo with Art Garfunkel. As Simon & Garfunkel, they became synonymous with the soundtrack of the 1960s, their harmonies and poignant lyrics on tracks like 'The Sound of Silence', 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', and 'Homeward Bound' capturing the zeitgeist. The duo's success was monumental, earning them critical acclaim and a devoted global following.

However, Simon's creative spirit refused to be confined. His solo career, launched in the early 1970s, saw him push boundaries with remarkable audacity. His 1972 self-titled album was a sophisticated debut, but it was the 1986 masterpiece, 'Graceland', that truly catapulted his solo work into a new stratosphere. This groundbreaking album, a vibrant fusion of American folk-rock and the rich musical traditions of South Africa, became a cultural phenomenon, earning multiple Grammy Awards and introducing a global audience to artists like Ladysmith Black Mambazo. 'Graceland' wasn't just an album; it was a statement on cultural exchange and musical collaboration.

Simon continued his sonic explorations with albums like 'The Rhythm of the Saints' (1990), which drew inspiration from Brazilian music, and subsequent works that consistently blended genres and embraced international influences. His discography is a testament to his restless curiosity, his ability to absorb diverse musical styles, and his unwavering commitment to lyrical integrity. Over his illustrious career, Paul Simon has collected 16 Grammy Awards, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received numerous other accolades, including the first-ever Gershwin Prize for Popular Song from the Library of Congress. His live performances are celebrated for their intimacy, the clarity of his songwriting, and the sheer joy he brings to the stage. This concert at the London Palladium is set to be another cherished chapter in his extraordinary musical legacy.

Complete Venue Guide

The London Palladium: A West End Gem

The London Palladium, located at 8 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TF, is more than just a theatre; it's an institution. Opened in 1910, this magnificent venue has hosted royalty, legendary performers, and spectacular shows for over a century. Its history is intertwined with the golden age of variety entertainment, and it continues to be a premier destination for world-class performances.

Architecture and Ambiance: The Palladium boasts a stunning Edwardian Baroque design, exuding opulence and grandeur. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in an atmosphere of sophisticated charm. The main auditorium is a sight to behold, with its ornate plasterwork, gilded detailing, and plush red seating. It offers a sense of occasion that few other venues can match.

Seating Capacity and Layout: With a capacity of approximately 2,286 seats, the Palladium offers a range of viewing experiences. The seating is divided across three main levels:

Stalls: Located on the ground floor, these seats offer a close-up view of the stage. The front stalls provide an immersive experience, while the rear stalls still offer excellent sightlines.
Dress Circle: Situated above the stalls, the dress circle provides a slightly elevated perspective, often considered by many to offer the best overall balance of proximity and panoramic stage view. The tiered seating ensures good visibility from most points.
Upper Circle: The highest seating level, the upper circle provides a more distant, but often more affordable, view of the performance. While further back, the steep rake of the seating helps to maintain reasonable sightlines.

Acoustics: The Palladium is renowned for its excellent acoustics, a crucial factor for a performance by a singer-songwriter of Paul Simon's calibre. The sound engineers work diligently to ensure that both the intricate instrumentation and the nuanced lyrics are delivered with pristine clarity to every corner of the auditorium.

Accessibility: The venue is committed to making performances accessible to all patrons. Accessible seating is available, and assistance can be provided for those with mobility issues. It is essential to contact the venue directly or StubHub when booking to arrange specific requirements, such as wheelchair spaces or hearing loop systems. Information regarding guide dogs and other assistance animals should also be confirmed in advance.

Facilities: Within the Palladium, you'll find several bars serving a range of alcoholic and soft drinks, as well as confectionery. These are typically located in the foyer areas on various levels. Restroom facilities are also available throughout the venue. For this specific event, it is advisable to check the London Palladium's official website for the most current information on available amenities, including cloakroom services.

Getting There & Transport

Location: The London Palladium is situated in the heart of the West End's theatre district, at 8 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TF. Its central location makes it easily reachable by various means.

Public Transport: London's public transport network is extensive and the most convenient way to reach the Palladium.

Underground (Tube): The nearest stations are:
- Oxford Circus: Served by the Central, Victoria, and Bakerloo lines. A short 5-minute walk.
- Piccadilly Circus: Served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines. Also around a 5-minute walk.
- Tottenham Court Road: Served by the Central, Northern, Elizabeth, and various bus lines. Approximately a 10-minute walk.
Buses: Numerous bus routes operate along Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Shaftesbury Avenue, all within easy walking distance of the theatre. Check Transport for London (TfL) for the most up-to-date route information.
Taxis: Black cabs and ride-sharing services can drop off passengers near the venue. However, due to the busy nature of the West End, especially around performance times, be prepared for potential traffic delays.

Driving and Parking: Driving in central London is generally discouraged due to congestion charges, Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees, and limited, expensive parking. If you must drive, the nearest car parks include:

Q-Park Oxford Street: A secure, multi-storey car park located a short walk away.
City of Westminster Car Parks: Various car parks are managed by the City of Westminster in the vicinity.

It is highly recommended to use public transport to avoid the stresses of driving and parking in central London.

Walking: If you are staying in or near the West End, walking to the London Palladium is a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the theatre district.

Where to Eat & Drink

The area surrounding the London Palladium is a culinary hotspot, offering a vast array of dining and drinking options to suit every taste and budget, perfect for a pre-theatre meal or a post-show drink.

Fine Dining & Gastropubs:

The Wolseley: Just a short stroll away on Piccadilly, offering classic European grandeur and sophisticated dining.
Rules: London's oldest restaurant, located in Covent Garden, serving traditional British cuisine in an historic setting.
The Palomar: In Soho, renowned for its vibrant Levantine cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Barrafina: A highly acclaimed Spanish tapas bar with several locations nearby, offering authentic dishes and a buzzing counter experience.

Casual Dining & International Cuisine:

Dishoom Carnaby: Extremely popular for its Bombay-inspired dishes, expect queues but it's worth the wait.
Franco Manca: For delicious sourdough pizza at reasonable prices.
Honest Burgers: Consistently excellent burgers with locally sourced ingredients.
Chinatown: A short walk away, offering a huge variety of authentic Chinese and East Asian restaurants.

Pubs & Bars: The West End is brimming with traditional pubs offering classic ales and a welcoming atmosphere. Some popular choices near the Palladium include:

The French House: A historic Soho institution, famous for its champagne and French beer.
The Dog and Duck: A charming, traditional pub known for its real ales.
The Argyll Arms: A stunning Victorian pub located just around the corner from the theatre.

Pre-Theatre Menus: Many restaurants in the area offer special pre-theatre menus, providing excellent value for a two or three-course meal. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular spots or if dining close to the performance time.

Where to Stay

Given the Palladium's central London location, there are numerous accommodation options within easy reach, catering to various budgets and preferences.

Luxury Hotels:

The Ham Yard Hotel: A stylish and vibrant hotel in Soho, known for its unique design and excellent service.
The Langham London: An iconic luxury hotel offering timeless elegance and impeccable service, located a short walk away.
The Savoy: A legendary hotel on the Strand, offering classic luxury and a historic ambiance.

Mid-Range Hotels:

The Z Hotel Soho/Piccadilly: Compact yet chic hotels offering prime locations and good value.
The Resident Victoria/Soho: Well-located hotels providing comfortable rooms and essential amenities.
The Nadler Soho: Known for its modern rooms and central location.

Budget-Friendly Options:

Premier Inn London: Several branches are located in and around the West End, offering reliable and affordable accommodation.
Travelodge London: Similar to Premier Inn, providing basic, clean, and cost-effective rooms.
Hostels: For the most budget-conscious travellers, consider hostels in areas like King's Cross or Earl's Court, easily accessible via the Tube.

When booking, consider proximity to the Palladium and the ease of access to public transport for exploring other parts of London.

Ticket Information

Event: Paul Simon Live in Concert

Date: Monday, 18th May 2026

Venue: London Palladium, 8 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF

Ticket Availability: Tickets for this highly anticipated event are exclusively available through StubHub. Due to the immense popularity of Paul Simon, a legendary figure in the music industry, demand is expected to be exceptionally high. It is strongly advised to secure your tickets well in advance of the performance date to avoid disappointment.

Purchasing Tickets:

Visit the official StubHub website or download their mobile application.
Search for 'Paul Simon London Palladium' or navigate using the event date.
Browse the available seating options. Tickets will be listed with prices and seat locations (e.g., Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle).
Select your desired tickets and proceed to checkout.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase securely.

Important Notes:

Be wary of unofficial sources. Only purchase tickets from StubHub to ensure authenticity and security.
Ticket prices may vary based on seat location and demand. Resale tickets on StubHub reflect the price set by the original purchaser.
Review the terms and conditions of sale on StubHub regarding ticket delivery, exchanges, and refunds.
Act swiftly once tickets are released, as they are anticipated to sell out rapidly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When is Paul Simon performing at the London Palladium? A: Paul Simon is scheduled to perform on Monday, 18th May 2026.

Q2: Where can I buy tickets? A: Tickets are exclusively available through StubHub. Please do not attempt to purchase from other vendors.

Q3: What time does the show start? A: The exact start time is usually confirmed closer to the date, but typically West End theatre shows commence between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Doors usually open an hour prior.

Q4: How do I get to the London Palladium? A: The venue is easily accessible via the London Underground (Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Circus stations) and numerous bus routes. Driving is not recommended.

Q5: Is the London Palladium accessible for wheelchair users? A: Yes, the venue offers accessible seating and facilities. It is crucial to contact StubHub or the venue directly when booking to arrange specific requirements.

Q6: What is the seating capacity of the London Palladium? A: The venue has a capacity of approximately 2,286 seats, spread across the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle.

Q7: Will Paul Simon perform songs from his Simon & Garfunkel era? A: It is highly likely, as his concerts typically feature a mix of his solo material and beloved hits from his time with Simon & Garfunkel.

Q8: Can I bring food or drink into the venue? A: Generally, only food and drink purchased inside the venue are permitted. Please check the London Palladium's specific policy for this event.

Q9: Are there cloakroom facilities available? A: Cloakroom services may be available, but this can vary. It's best to check the London Palladium's website for confirmation closer to the date.

Q10: What is the refund policy for tickets purchased via StubHub? A: Refund policies are determined by StubHub and the specific terms of the resale. Please review their terms and conditions carefully at the time of purchase.

Q11: Is photography or videography allowed during the performance? A: Typically, professional photography and videography are prohibited. Mobile phone usage for photos/videos may be restricted or discouraged to ensure the best experience for all attendees and the artist.

Q12: What should I do if I lose my tickets? A: Contact StubHub customer support immediately. They will be able to advise on the process for lost tickets, which may involve reissuance or replacement depending on the ticket type and delivery method.

Top Tips for Attendees

Book Early: Given the stature of Paul Simon and the venue, tickets will be in high demand. Secure yours via StubHub as soon as possible.
Plan Your Travel: Utilise public transport to avoid congestion and parking charges. Research your route beforehand using TfL's journey planner.
Arrive Early: Allow ample time to get through security, find your seats, and soak in the atmosphere of the historic Palladium.
Check Venue Rules: Familiarise yourself with the London Palladium's policies on bag size, prohibited items, and photography before you arrive.
Dress Comfortably: While it's a grand venue, prioritise comfort, especially if you'll be seated in the Upper Circle.
Stay Hydrated: Make use of the venue's bars, but also consider bringing a sealed, empty water bottle to fill inside if permitted.
Consider Dining Nearby: Explore the diverse culinary scene in Soho and the West End for a pre-show meal, but remember to book ahead.
Enable Notifications: If using digital tickets via StubHub, ensure your phone is fully charged and notifications are enabled.
Respect the Performance: Be mindful of your fellow audience members. Avoid talking during songs and refrain from using flash photography.
Enjoy the Moment: This is a rare opportunity to see a musical legend. Immerse yourself in the music and the magic of live performance.

Conclusion

The 18th May 2026 promises to be a landmark evening in London's cultural calendar as Paul Simon takes to the stage at the iconic London Palladium. This is more than just a concert; it's a chance to connect with the profound artistry of a songwriter whose work has become deeply embedded in the fabric of our lives. From the poignant narratives to the infectious rhythms, a Paul Simon performance is an experience that celebrates the enduring power of music. Ensure you secure your passage to this unforgettable night by obtaining your tickets exclusively through StubHub. Prepare for an evening of musical brilliance that will undoubtedly be etched in your memory.