EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the 2008 New Employee Equity Incentive Plan of Theravance, Inc. of our reports dated February 24, 2009, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Theravance, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2008, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Theravance, Inc. filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Palo Alto, California

August 5, 2009