The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry Tickets

Harold’s journey to the West End has been a pilgrimage in itself, starting life as a bestselling novel (written by Rachel Joyce) before venturing onto the big screen (with Jim Broadbent), it then moved south for a critically acclaimed stint at the Chichester Festival Theatre, eventually pitching up at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. It may have taken a while to reach its latest destination, but it's been more than worth the wait for those who can get to SW1Y 4HT (we’d recommend taking the Bakerloo Line or the 453 bus for those wishing to save their legs for a standing ovation at the end - which, spoiler: you’ll want to do). The heartwarming show is a joyous, uplifting celebration of love and friendship - just remember to pack your tissues, and your travel sweets, for this emotional journey. 

It may only be Harold’s name in the shows’ title, but this charming production is an ensemble piece through and through. On stage throughout, the talented troupe go the extra mile to create magic in front of your eyes; conjuring characters mid-air, clothes on a washing line are transformed into a much-missed man, gilets are thrown on for a field of sheep, arms extended to create doors and signposts. The everyday becomes magical and whimsical - though Harold (Mark Addy) silent and sullen for the majority of the first act, is oblivious to it all. 

The story starts with a single step, an abandoned journey to a car. Noting that it is, indeed, ‘nice weather for it’, Harold decides to walk to the nearest postbox to drop off his letter. When he gets there, however, he walks past, continuing with the missive until he reaches a petrol station. Emboldened by the Garage Girl’s (Nicole Nyarambi ) advice (and gospel inspired carwash routine) he decides to personally deliver his correspondence to his friend Queenie (Maggie Service), who lies in a hospice bed in Berwick-upon-Tweed, 500 miles away. Full of regret for how he treated his friend, and reflecting on his life since he last saw her, he sees the journey as penance. Little does he know that for every callus and blister gained, his hard eges soften, and old wounds are healed. 

Following a sold-out, critically acclaimed run at Chichester Festival Theatre, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry transfers to the West End in 2026. Based on Rachel Joyce’s bestselling novel and featuring original music and lyrics by Passenger, this uplifting new musical opens at the Theatre Royal Haymarket on 29 January 2026, running until 18 April 2026.

If you’re wondering who is in the cast of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, here’s everything you need to know about the full London company.

Who plays Harold Fry?

Mark Addy reprises the title role of Harold Fry, an ordinary man who embarks on an extraordinary journey on foot from Devon to Berwick-upon-Tweed. Addy is known for his acclaimed stage and screen career, including The Full Monty and Game of Thrones.

Who plays Maureen Fry?

Jenna Russell stars as Maureen Fry, Harold’s wife, whose own emotional journey unfolds back home. Russell is one of the UK’s most celebrated musical theatre performers, with credits including Sunday in the Park with George and Hello, Dolly!

What is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry about?

Harold Fry is an ordinary man on an extraordinary journey. Grey, tired, and stuck in his routine, Harold sets off to post a letter to a dying friend—and just keeps walking. From South Devon to Berwick-upon-Tweed, he walks the length of England in a spontaneous act of hope and redemption, leaving his bewildered wife Maureen behind. Along the way, he meets a cast of strangers who join his journey, and slowly, both Harold and Maureen’s worlds begin to open.