If you’re looking for a free, memorable activity during your visit to London, then why not be in the studio audience watching a TV show being filmed live?
In this guide, I will show you how to get TV show audience tickets, what to expect on the day and tips to make your experience fun and enjoyable!
Why watch a TV show being filmed in London?
If you are on a tight schedule, then this is not for you as it takes an entire afternoon and/or evening. However, if you are interested in British culture and immersing yourself in the city, then you can’t go wrong by being in the audience of a show being filmed. You get the in-jokes, English banter and get a rare behind-the scene look at how television is made. You’ll see the crew in action and sometimes enjoy warm-up acts.
How to get tickets to live TV show recordings in London
I recently got tickets to watch QI being filmed so took my eldest son who is a big fan of the show. I had to register on the ticket website and give my top three preferences for dates I was available. Within 48 hours I was emailed my tickets with instructions on where to go and at what time.
There are several different companies that organise free audience tickets to apply for online. If you have a particular show you’re interested in, then just search online how you get tickets to watch. I have registered with the following websites and get regular updates on what shows are available:
What to expect on the day
Arrival Time
QI is filmed at the BBC studios in White City, West London starting at 3pm but doors opening at 2.45pm. From previous experience of being in a TV studio audience in New York, they always hand out more tickets than they have seats so they don’t have any empty seats. This means to guarantee you get in and have a seat, you need to turn up early. I thought being there for 2pm (45 minutes early) was sufficient but no! It was a nail-biting 45 minutes in a very long queue to see if we would get in.
We did – just! The queue cut off point was 10 people behind us so we were lucky. Different coloured wristbands were being handed out with the people behind us receiving grey bands which meant they were a possibility not a definite.
Top Tip – be very early!
Security
Expect security to be like at the airport. X-ray machines for yourself and bag searches. We were not allowed any food or drink other than water. They were throwing away whatever food people happened to have in their bags. Large bags will not be allowed so only bring a small rucksack/handbag.
Dress Code
Anything goes really. It is very casual. Wear what you feel comfortable in as it can take quite a long time to record a show.
Filming Duration
Recordings can take 2-3 hours per episode. For one 30 minute QI show, they were filming almost non stop for 2.5 hours. There was a quick 5 minute break for the host and participants to have makeup and hair checked.
Audience Etiquette
You will be expected to be quiet when necessary but you can laugh if you find something funny! The host of QI, Sandi Toksvig, particular likes to involve audience members if they heckle at an appropriate moment or know an answer if a panellist does not! Be prepared for cameras to pan across the audience and sometimes have to laugh on cue etc.
Top Tips to be in a TV studio Audience
- Arrive early! The earlier you arrive, the better your chance of securing a seat
- Bring ID. Some recordings require proof of age. Check the ticket site before applying.
- Dress smart-casual – you might appear on screen! But really, anything goes.
- Follow the rules. No phones or photography when they are recording but some are lenient outside of the cameras on – hence my photographs!
- If you can, apply for an afternoon recording. These are not as popular as evening ones so you are more likely to get a ticket.
FAQs about watching TV filming in London
- How far in advance should I apply for tickets?
It is up to each particular show. With QI, I booked over a month ahead so start checking as soon as you know which dates you will be in London.
- Are there any age restrictions?
It depends on the show. Most won’t allow young children to attend. A lot of shows ask for 16+. Always check the ticket website before applying so you’re not disappointed.
