One of London’s best attractions for families is the wide choice of theatre, festivals and art shows on offer. Whether your young one is a regular theatre goer or you want to introduce them to the magical world of performing arts, you should be able to find the perfect show to wow them. From musicals, puppet shows, immersive art and traditional art galleries to circus through to live music or ballet – we have compiled the best (mostly) family friendly shows London has to offer.
MimeLondon festival programme is packed with edgy and unusual performances by exceptional artists performing this year at various venues around the city between 21 – 31 January. Tickets from £28 (venues: Sadlers Wells, The Barbican, The Place)
Paddington the Musical is here, bringing to life the charm of Michael Bond’s beloved Paddington bear with his polite personality, love for marmalade and his knack for getting into well-meaning trouble. The show runs at Savoy Theatre. Tickets from £40.
Matthew Bourne’s adaptation of ‘The Red Shoes’ is a dance melodrama that tells a powerful story of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Catch the show at Sadler’s Wells until 18 January. Tickets from £35.00.
The Snowflake follows a snowflake, a little girl, and her Pappie as they search for their special place in the world. Based on Benji Davies’ Christmas story with the same name, this is a perfect introduction to theatre for younger audiences. At Polka Theatre until 25 January 2026. Tickets from £13. Ages 3 – 6 years.
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Chichester Festival Theatre’s effervescent and elegant musical production of Irving Berlin’s Top Hat takes up residence on the Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall for this Christmas season! Until 17 January 2026. Tickets from £27.
The Firework-Maker’s Daughter Lila dreams of becoming a Master Firework-Maker just like her father. But to become one, she must go on an epic journey that will push her to her limits. Can Lila’s skills save the day and light up the skies?
At Polka Theatre until 18 January 2026. Tickets from £10. Ages 6+.
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong takes the chaos of Christmas on a UK tour this winter! The Cornley Amateur Drama Society will reach London’s Apollo Theatre with their chaos and joy with performances until 26 January 2026. Suitable for 8+. Tickets from £20. Suitable for 8+.
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SIX is the show for all seasons, running at Vaudeville Theatre, telling the story of the six wives of Henry VIII. This West End hit musical, lets the Tudor Wives reclaim their crowns and retell their stories of love, loss, and the infamous ex they all share. Tickets from £34.50. Ages 10+.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is the West End play that follows on the acclaimed Netflix series taking us back to the beginning, revealing Hawkins’ story before the world turned upside down. Come to experience theatrical storytelling and out of this world stagecraft that has the power to transport the audience to a whole new dimension brought to life by a multi-award-winning creative team to your. Stranger Things: The First Shadow is at Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End. Tickets from £25.
Oliver! , is based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist and is one of London’s West End classic with shows running since 1960. The show follows a young orphan, Oliver Twist, as he navigates a world of pickpockets, danger, and unexpected friendships. At the Gielgud Theatre, tickets from £24.
We call it Ballet in London: Sleeping Beauty Dance and Light Show! This unique dance and light show brings together the beauty of ballet moves and modern technology to create a stunning visual experience. This timeless story is brought to light (literally) through glittering routines and glow-in-the-dark costumes in this beautiful and memorable production. Tickets £34
Evita is the story of ambition and passion beautifully reimagined by the visionary award-winning director Jamie Lloyd and starring Rachel Zegler as Eva Perón. Runs until 6 September at the London Palladium. Tickets from £29.50.
From ancient myths to centre stage, Hercules bursts into life at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Disney’s legendary hero hits the West End with epic songs by Alan Menken, dazzling choreography, and plenty of laughs. Directed by Broadway heavyweight Casey Nicholaw, this is one heroic musical full of sass, soul, and sandals. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Tickets from £29.50
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! Runs at Adelphi Theatre. Tickets on special offer from £19.55.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express is at the specially designed Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. This is a classic show for all ages bursting with music, energetic choreography, stylish costumes and an incredible cast of 40. As a child’s train set magically comes to life and the engines race to become the fastest in the world, Rusty the steam train has little hope of winning until he is inspired by the legend of the ‘Starlight Express’. Tickets from £29.50 more info and booking here.
Disney’s award-winning musical The Lion King 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.
My Neighbour Totoro is the stage adaptation of the beloved Studio Ghibli animated film, directed by Phelim McDermott brings the magical world of Totoro and the Kusakabe family to life with stunning visuals, innovative puppetry, and a heart warming narrative. Set in 1950s rural Japan, the story follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they move to the countryside and discover the forest spirit Totoro, who leads them on a series of whimsical adventures. The show captures the essence of childhood wonder, family bonds, and the beauty of nature, making it a must-see for audiences of all ages. The show is at Gillian Lynne Theatre. Tickets from £55. More information and booking here.
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Wicked has been running for nearly two decades, making it one of the longest-running musicals in West End history. Tickets from £29.50. Discounts available for school groups.