London’s theatre scene is set to dazzle families this spring with a variety of shows catering to all ages. Here’s a curated list of best family-friendly productions you won’t want to miss. To keep up to date with more family-friendly fun follow us on Instagram. For more London theatre and performing arts shows visit our Theatre & Dance page.
Transport Explorers is a brilliant hands-on live show at the London Transport Museum Cubic Theatre for kids aged 4–11. Young adventurers are invited on a storytelling journey through London’s transport history. Packed with games, challenges and STEM-based fun, it is an ideal summer day out. Running throughout the summer holiday. Tickets from £12.
101 Dalmatians The Musical
This classic canine story is brought to life on stage with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, hilarious songs and irresistible puppies at Eventim Apollo this summer! Come and see Pongo, Perdi, their litter of adorable tail-wagging young pups and friends messing up Cruella de Vil’s grand fashionista dreams. 101 Dalmatians The Musical runs from Friday 18 July to Saturday 30 August 2025. Tickets from £24.50. Age guidance 5+
My Neighbour Totoro
Experience the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli’s beloved film brought to life on stage. This adaptation has garnered critical acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and captivating visuals. It is on for 2 hours 30 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. Recommended for children over the age of 6. The show is at Gillian Lynne Theatre. Tickets start from £15. Info and bookings here.
The Daughter of Time is a brand-new stage adaptation of Josephine Tey’s classic crime novel having its world premiere at the Charing Cross Theatre this summer. Adapted by playwright M. Kilburg Reedy and directed by Jenny Eastop, the production begins performances on Friday 18 July 2025 for a strictly limited run until Saturday 13 September. Suitable for ages 10+. Tickets from £20.
Our Cosmic Dust
Meet Shotaro, a curious school boy who sets out on an adventure to find his late father among the stars. Behind him follows his mother, sick with worry and determined to bring him home. Along their journeys, they encounter a kaleidoscope of characters each with their own stories of love, loss, and the absurdities of life. This beautiful play is sprinkled with moments of humour and wonder that remind us that even in grief, there’s room for laughter and joy. Our Cosmic Dust is at Park Theatre, Finsbury Park, London until 26 July 2025. Age guidance 12+. Tickets from £13.
Back to the Future: The Musical. Adapted from the much loved blockbuster film this musical is one of the best on London’s West End and our firm favourite! Read our review here.
Runs at Adelphi Theatre. Age guidance 6+. Tickets from £22.68.
The Paper Dolls
Based on the original book ‘The Paper Dolls’ – written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated Rebecca Cobb this cute story is about the adventures of a little girl and her string of paper dolls. The show runs at Little Angel Studios until 20 July and is for children aged 3 to 8. Tickets £15 for adults, £13 for children. More info and bookings here.
The Boy With Wings
This hilarious hip-hop magical adventure is a brilliant high-energy stage adaptation of Lenny Henry’s bestselling book with the same title. This magical adventure follows a 12 year old boy who discovers his true potential after growing wings! The Boy With Wings is running at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon until 16 August and is suitable for children aged 7+. Tickets from £10.
The Baddies
From the superstar team behind The Gruffalo, Zog, and Stick Man, The Baddies features a trio of hilariously inept villains who are trying (and failing) to be bad. Mischievous mayhem with catchy songs and plenty of audience laughs. The Baddies run at Cadogan Hall, Chelsea between 1 – 24 August. Ages 3+. Tickets from £19.50.
The Lion King
Disney’s award-winning musical continues to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals and memorable music. A timeless story that resonates with all ages is currently running at London’s Lyceum Theatre. Starting from £35 more info and bookings here.
Matilda the Musical
Roald Dahl’s beloved story of an extraordinary girl comes to life in this Olivier Award-winning musical, featuring music by Tim Minchin. Running at the Cambridge Theatre. Tickets from £25 more info and bookings here.
Wicked
Discover the untold story of the witches of Oz in this spellbinding musical running at the Apollo Victoria Theatre. One of the longest running musicals, this show is one of the favourites for Londoners of all ages and visitors alike. Tickets start from £22 more info and bookings here.
For the latest reviews, updates and recommendations follow @younglondonist on Instagram. For more ideas of things to do with the kids in London, visit our events and activities area which provides details of free events and special offers in London’s finest museums, galleries, parks and gardens.