Best London shows for Kids
Going to West End shows can be expensive on your own, let alone trying to afford tickets for a full family. If you’re not sure where to start, we have some advice and guidance on how to keep costs low below. We've split out the best London shows for kids in different age brackets and popped together our top tips for getting cheap family theatre tickets at the most popular big hitters!
Favourite Family Shows: What to Book...
There's nothing quite like the excitement of a theatre trip with the kids, and these top London family productions will captivate the imaginations and grab hearts, no matter the age.
Whether you're taking your family to the West End for the first time, or returning to try something new, our ultimate cheap tickets guides are here to help you find the best deals and discounts available on the biggest shows. We may even share a few of our top tips for booking the West End for less with you, so you can spoil the ones you love to with an extravagant treat for less...
Save money and experience the magic of the West End with our current top 4 picks, or search for a show above!
Wicked; The Apollo Theatre
As the story soars to new heights in cinemas across the UK, make sure to secure your place in Oz before ticket prices fly away faster than Glinda’s bubble.
This enchanting show unveils the untold stories of the witches of Oz, blending spellbinding visuals, stunning costumes, and unforgettable songs like “Defying Gravity.” Families searching for an affordable way to experience the show can read our cheap Wicked tickets guide so you can share in the magic of Oz without breaking the bank. Don’t miss your chance to create lasting memories with this dazzling tale of friendship and courage! Read More...
The Lion King; The Lyceum Theatre
Leave with Hakuna Matata (it means no worries) as you enter a world of mesmerising puppetry, sound and movement that will transport you to the Pride Lands in a way the film never could. Try your hardest not to join in with the songs you know and love, and shed a tear at some new gems written for this musical adaptation of the iconic 90s Disney film.
As one of the pricier West End family shows, there are a few discounts and ways to save available... if you know where to look. From Magic Monday's to seating and matinees, our cheap tickets guide for The Lion King will help you plan and book a more affordable adventure for the whole family. Read More...
Mrs Doubtfire; Shaftesbury Theatre
Gather your poppets and head to the West End as the classic Robin Williams film is brought to life in a hilarious, heart-warming musical comedy. Featuring all the moments you love from the movie, plus brand-new songs created for this feel-good adaptation, Mrs. Doubtfire delivers laughter and love in equal measure. With great deals on Mrs. Doubtfire tickets, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy this family favourite without breaking the bank.
Known for its sensitive and humorous approach to dealing with split-families, this show is perfect for bringing loved ones together for a night of laughter, nostalgia, and heart-warming performances that celebrate the importance of family in all its forms... whatever that looks like. Read More...
Hercules; Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Polish off that gospel tone and go from Zero to Hero with this new musical by Disney.
Whilst offers for new musicals aren't as common and our guide is a bit thin on the ground, Zeus has been pulling strings recently and shooting down some lightening deals with as much as 22% off! If you're desperate to don a toga and bask in the opulent sets, you can sign up for alerts on deals and we'll let you know if those lightening offers shoot back. You'll feel like a god to the kids if you manage to snag these! Read More...
Theatre Shows by Age and Our Top Tips for Cheap Tickets
Where To See Children’s Theatre in London
When you’re looking for a show to see with your kids, don’t restrict yourself to the West End. Several London venues produce solely children’s theatre, including Polka Theatre in Wimbledon, Little Angel Theatre in Islington and Unicorn Theatre in Southwark. In August 2024, Kid’s Week offered free children’s theatre tickets for a range of West End shows so don't feel you need to stick to the usual big-name venues to see something amazing. It's always worth checking around theatre schools too who often have student-led performances for a far lower cost.
Family Group Theatre Tickets
Some of the biggest family-friendly London shows don’t offer concessions for children at all, but if you’re booking for a group of six or more you can still get money off certain seats. Lots of venues, especially in the West End, have discounts available for group bookings on certain days of the week. This usually applies to off-peak performances only, so weekends and school holidays may be unavailable, but it’s worth checking before you pay for your tickets.
Theatre Shows for Little Ones (up to age 5)
London theatre for kids that is ideal for the littlest ones, these shows offer plenty of entertainment that will captivate young minds!
The Snowman is a festive favourite in its 27th year, ideal for all of the family and packed full of dance, music and incredible storytelling. Children aged 2 and above will need their own ticket. If you’re looking for something more colourful, why not join Peppa Pig and her brother, George, as they head to the zoo in Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out, suitable for ages 3 and up. Or, catch a Julia Donaldson classic with Room On The Broom, great for kids ages 3 and above.
Before you book, check the production page or venue information for details about babes-in-arms policies. At some shows, children under 12 or 18 months old can sit on your lap for free.
Theatre Shows for Young Ones (ages 6+)
Perfect for young children who are ready for longer stories and fun-filled adventures. Experience children’s theatre London is renowned for.
The Lion King has been running for over 20 years in the West End and it’s easy to see why it’s a family staple. Its use of puppetry and bright scenes are perfect for ages 6 and up. If you're planning to watch this fantastic show with your kids, check out our Family Guide to The Lion King in the West End, which has plenty of helpful information including where to eat to keeps things cheap, transport details, and plot and theme suitability for children.
Alternatively, join the revolting children in Matilda the Musical with the musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s hilarious, heart-warming book - ideal for young ones aged 6 and up; or experience a brand new Disney musical with Hercules. Little ones aged 6 and up can enjoy the wonders of Ancient Greece in London!
Theatre Shows for Older Ones (10+)
For older children who enjoy immersive storytelling and a little bit of drama. Discover the magical world of theatre for kids London is famous for.
Wicked the Musical has been a key staple for many theatregoers for over 20 years; it’s won plenty of awards and it’s easy to see why! The best-selling musical is best suited for ages 7 and up. The Play That Goes Wrong is packed full of slapstick comedy, ideal for children aged 8 and above. Or, experience the musical that has had theatregoers losing their heads with Six - the ultimate fist-pumping histo-remix, ideal for ages 10+.
Cheap Family Theatre Shows in London
We know that it’s important to make your family trips to the theatre as affordable as possible, so here are some tips and tricks to help keep the cost down without missing out on the exciting kids shows London has to offer.
1. Book in advance or go last-minute
Booking early helps you secure cheaper price-point seats, especially for popular productions. Alternatively, Rush schemes and ticket lotteries are a great way to be in with a chance of scoring premium seats for as little as £10 on the day.
2. Use discount websites and apps
Check ticketing websites and compare prices such as TodayTix and SeatPlan. Deals and offers frequently change depending on seasonality so if you see a deal you like we recommend booking as soon as possible.
3. Keep your eyes out for seasonal promotions
Theatre promotions such as Kids Week and London Theatre Week happen every year and offer huge savings for some of the most popular productions. These promotions typically happen in summer, so keep your eyes peeled!
4. Rush Tickets
If you and your family are flexible you can book some last-minute tickets to some of the big Disney Musicals by visiting Disney Magical Mondays (formerly Disney Day Seats). Magical Mondays sells £29.50 Rush tickets for that week’s performances, on sale at midday.
There is currently a limit of two Magical Mondays tickets per performance for all shows, so if you want to book a larger group this may not be suitable.
Theatre for children is a magical space, where young audiences can explore stories, characters and adventures that show no limit! You can find more family theatre guides in the quick links below.
