The Mousetrap

Why watch The Mousetrap

• Step inside the most famous murder mystery with The Mousetrap in London, the world’s longest-running play, which first opened in 1952.

• Agatha Christie’s genre-defining whodunnit has been playing continuously in the West End, welcoming over 10 million guests through the doors of St. Martin’s Theatre.

• Crafted with delicious suspense and sealed with one of theatre’s most iconic twist endings, it’s no wonder audiences return again and again (and famously never spoil the ending).

• A three-time Guinness World Record holder and whodunit as fresh as it was in 1952, it is a true West End rite of passage. Book your tickets to The Mousetrap in London now!

• Fun fact: David Raven, one of the prominent members of the original cast, made his mark in the Guinness Book of World Records as the ‘Most Durable Actor' with a jaw-dropping 4575 performances as Major Metcalf.

The story

A blizzard traps seven strangers inside Monkswell Manor, a countryside guesthouse cut off from the world. When a police sergeant arrives, they learn a murderer is in their midst. As secrets unravel and tensions mount, the killer strikes again. But who is the next target, and who is hiding the biggest secret of all? With red herrings, chilling backstories, and Agatha Christie’s signature suspense, The Mousetrap, London is the original "locked-room mystery" that redefined the genre.

Critics reviews

“At the end of this week, the world’s longest-running show will complete its 65th year in the West End. It is salutary to reflect that when it opened, Winston Churchill was prime minister and there was still rationing.”

- Evening Standard UK

“It has passed into the realm of great British institutions, as much a highlight of the tourist trail as the Tower of London or Madame Tussauds.”

- Sunday Express

Know before you go

Show details

Categories: Play, Classic, Drama

Audience: Suitable for 7+

Theater name: St. Martin's Theatre

Find the best seats in the house with the St. Martin's Theatre seating plan

Theater facilities: In-house bar, coat check, washrooms

Theater accessibility: Wheelchair accessibility, assistive listening system, guide dogs welcome

Dress Code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

• Leading roles: Georgina Duncan as Mollie Ralston, Sam Hollis as Giles Ralston, Adam Woolley as Christopher Wren, Lucy Tregear as Mrs. Boyle, Neil Reidman as Major Metcalf, Chloe Fenwick-Brown as Miss Casewell, John Wark as Mr. Paravicini, Jack Condon as Detective Sergeant Trotter

• Writer: Agatha Christie

• Director: Philip Franks

• Producers: Sir Peter Saunders (1952–1994), Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen (1994–2018), Adam Spiegel (2018–2024), Brian Fenty (2024–Present)

• Artistic director: Denise Silvey

• Company stage manager: Paula Salmon

• Deputy stage manager: Helen Cobb

• Assistant stage managers: Liv Koplick & Richard Parnwell

• Movement director: Sophia Vi

• Costume supervisor: Caroline Hannam

• Head of wardrobe: Janet Hudson-Holt

Additional info

• This show is suitable for ages 7 years and above. Children under 5 years will not be admitted to this show.

• Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years of age.

• Content warning: The play includes murder, suspense and discussions about violence, which might be disturbing for some viewers.

• Keep in mind, most theaters are air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

Frequently asked questions about The Mousetrap

Q: How much do The Mousetrap London tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

Q: Where is The Mousetrap playing in London?

A: The show is playing at the St. Martin’s Theatre.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 20 minutes, including one intermission.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: A group of strangers trapped in a snowed-in guesthouse soon discover that one among them is a murderer in this iconic Agatha Christie mystery.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: There’s no strict age limit, but it’s generally recommended for ages 7 years and above due to suspenseful and violent themes.

Q: Is The Mousetrap appropriate for first-time theatergoers?

A: Yes! Its gripping mystery, classic staging, and engaging plot make it perfect for both newcomers and seasoned theater fans.

Q: How long has The Mousetrap been running in London?

A: It has been playing continuously since 1952, making it the longest-running play in the world.