Theatre Shows for Kids in London
Whether you live in London or just visiting, London is a great place to take children to the theatre.
It's the busiest theatre city in the world, and West End attendance reached 17.64 million in 2025, more than Broadway and more than the Premier League. (1)
For families, that means a lot of choice. You'll find 45-minute shows for babies, puppet theatre for toddlers, and full musicals for older children, all running on the same weekend.
Have a browse at the latest theatre shows below. Every listing shows the age range, the area and the price, so you can see at a glance what works for you.
Wicked The Musical
Get tickets to the award winning WICKED at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, now in its landmark 18th year. Discover the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West. WICKED, the West End and Broadway musical sensation, is the winner of more than 100 global awards, including three Tony Awards on Broadway, two Olivier Awards, eleven WhatsOnStage Awards, and a Grammy. Currently starring Emma Kingston as Elphaba with Zizi Strallen as her counterpart Glinda, WICKED the musical is the 10th longest running production in West End history. This spellbinding show has been seen by over 12 million people, and it remains ‘one of the most successful musicals of all time’ (BBC News). Transporting audiences to a reimagined world of Oz, this outstanding musical features stunning costumes, spectacular sets and show-stopping songs in a night of spellbinding theatrical magic. Book your theatre tickets to this truly WICKED musical with LOVEtheatre today! What is Wicked the Musical about? When Dorothy Gale famously triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West, we only ever heard one side of the story. See the Land of Oz through new eyes and explore a parallel journey to the familiar The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Based on the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, revealing the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming ‘Glinda The Good’ and the ‘Wicked Witch of the West’.
Thu 27 Aug - Sat 19 Dec
18:30 - 22:15
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £26.50
SW1V, Apollo Victoria Theatre
Bach to Baby Family Concert, Pimlico
Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times. Extra Information Remember: Up to 2 children come free on every Adult Ticket! Doors open 15 minutes before, and concerts last for about 45 minutes.
Sat 10 Oct - Sat 10 Oct
10:00 - 10:45
Music • 0m-4 years • £16.00
SW1V, St Gabriel's Church
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
THE PURRFECT SUMMER TREAT!!! Based on Britain’s best-loved picture book by Judith Kerr, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns to the West End for Summer 2026. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised!
Fri 28 Aug - Fri 4 Sept
10:00 - 10:55
Theatre Show • 3-8 years • £14.75
SW1Y, Theatre Royal Haymarket
Brainiac Live
Strap on your safety goggles BRAINIAC LIVE IS BACK FOR 2026!!! Due to popular demand and following its 2025 Olivier Award for BEST FAMILY SHOW, Science's greatest and most volatile live show is back with a vengeance and returning to the West End this Summer! More mischievous than ever before Brainiac Live, the UK’s original and favourite family science show, explodes on stage and will take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Watch from the safety of your seat as the Brainiacs delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science and do all those things on stage that you’re too scared to do at home! With a great range of explosive experiments join the Brainiacs in this all-action live show that’s set to blow your minds!
Fri 28 Aug - Fri 28 Aug
10:30 - 11:30
Theatre Show • 5-14 years • £25.37
WC2H, Garrick Theatre
The Gruffalo
Tall Stories presents… THE GRUFFALO at the Lyric Theatre this winter! A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood… Tall Stories’ much-loved magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler returns by popular demand, celebrating the show’s 25th anniversary. Songs, laughs and mischievous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, from Tall Stories, creators of imaginative storytelling theatre, where everything is possible. What is The Gruffalo’s Child about? On a daring adventure in search of hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high spirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?
Fri 28 Aug - Fri 28 Aug
10:00 - 11:00
Kids Activities • 3-8 years • £12.00
W1D, Lyric Theatre
Horrible Histories Live: Barmy Britain
We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for HORRIBLE HISTORIES live on stage with the return of Barmy Britain – The Best Bits! Can you beat battling Boudicca? Will King John be a martyr for the Magna Carta? What if you caught the putrid plague? Can Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria! It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in – to entertain the whole family this Summer!
Thu 27 Aug - Mon 31 Aug
13:00 - 14:10
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £25.37
W1D, Apollo Theatre
Cirque Alice
AN EXTRAORDINARY NEW SHOW FROM THE CREATORS OF THE GLOBAL SMASH HITS THE ILLUSIONISTS, CIRCUS 1903 AND LE NOIR! Step into magical ‘Wonderland’ as CIRQUE ALICE reimagines Lewis Carroll’s classic adventures with breathtaking twists and astonishing, gravity-defying feats. Starring the greatest acrobatic performers from around the globe, this magnificent spectacle features stunning performances by mesmerising aerialists, mind-bending contortionists, exquisite puppetry, dancers and special guest musical and comedic artists – set against an enthralling soundtrack of newly arranged contemporary renditions of some of the world’s favourite classical hits. A joyous acrobatic adventure filled with heart-stopping moments and unforgettable performances, CIRQUE ALICE is a fantastical extravaganza for all ages! What is Cirque Alice? Starring the greatest acrobatic performers from around the globe, this magnificent spectacle features stunning performances by mesmerising aerialists, mind-bending contortionists, exquisite puppetry, dancers and special guest musical and comedic artists – set against an enthralling soundtrack of newly arranged contemporary renditions of some of the world’s favourite classical hits.
Sat 12 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
19:30 - 21:30
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £37.50
SE1, Southbank Centre
Oliver! The Musical
Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Lionel Bart’s iconic musical, OLIVER!, which he has fully reconceived with director and choreographer Matthew Bourne, is now playing at London’s Gielgud Theatre. The cast includes Simon Lipkin (Guys and Dolls, Avenue Q) as Fagin, Shanay Holmes (Miss Saigon, The Bodyguard) as Nancy, Aaron Sidwell (Henry VI, Wicked) as Bill Sikes, Billy Jenkins (Les Misérables, BBC’s Dodger) as the Artful Dodger, Philip Franks (The Rocky Horror Show, Witness for the Prosecution) as Mr Brownlow, Oscar Conlon-Morrey (Mother Goose, Only Fools and Horses The Musical) as Mr. Bumble, Katy Secombe (The Music Man, Les Misérables) as Widow Corney, Stephen Matthews (Strictly Ballroom, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) as Mr. Sowerberry/Dr. Grimwig, and Jamie Birkett (Peter Pan Goes Wrong, Mamma Mia The Party) as Mrs. Sowerberry/Mrs. Bedwin. With a sensational score, including Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do Anything, Oom Pah Pah, As Long As He Needs Me and many more, the Olivier, Tony and Oscar-winning masterpiece vividly brings to life Dickens’ ever-popular story of the boy who asked for more. What is Oliver! about? Oliver! follows young orphan Oliver Twist as he runs away from the workhouse he grew up in and finds himself taken in by a group of pickpockets and their elderly mentor. When offered the chance of a better life, Oliver is torn between the family he found and a future he could only dream of.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 27 Aug
13:30 - 16:10
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £24.00
W1D, Gielgud Theatre
SIX The Musical
Sponsored Event Nominated for the WhatsOnStage Awards 2024 for Best West End Show Crowning glory of the West End, Broadway and beyond SIX, ‘the most uplifting piece of new British musical theatre,’ (Evening Standard) is holding court at London’s Vaudeville Theatre. Prepare to Lose Ur Head. Think you know the six wives of Henry VIII? Think again… Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, prepare to lose your head and experience the Tudor Wives’ lives as they turn back the clock and take to the stage to reclaim their crowns and retell their stories of love, loss and the infamous ex they all have in common. Join Aragon, Boleyn, Seymour, Cleves, Howard and Parr, backed by their fiercely all-female band, the Ladies in Waiting, and Get Down to a royal retelling of the sassiest story in British Her-story. Book your SIX theatre tickets and Get Down with LOVEtheatre today! What is Six the Musical about? Divorced. Beheaded. Live! You’ve heard the historical rhyme, but you’ve never heard it like this. For the first time ever, the six wives of the infamous Henry VIII take to the stage to tell their stories in a pop concert that takes inspiration from some of the biggest modern day artists. === This is a Loopla-managed event listing. Bookings are made directly on the LOVEtheatre website. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on any booking links.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 17 Dec
15:00 - 17:20
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • Free
WC2R, Vaudeville Theatre
Kaspar: Prince of Cats
Step into the heart of the Savoy Hotel with Kaspar: Prince of Cats, a magical family adventure brought to life through enchanting puppetry, original music and vivid storytelling. Based on the book by Michael Morpurgo, follow Johnny Trott, a young bellboy, and Lizziebeth, a spirited American girl, as they form an unlikely bond with the extraordinary cat Kaspar. Their journey takes them across oceans, in a story of friendship, courage and survival that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Fri 28 Aug - Sat 29 Aug
10:00 - 11:00
Theatre Show • 3 years+ • £15.99
WC2E, St. Paul's Church (Outside)
Around the World in 80 Days
Pack your bags and hold onto your hats - the race is on! 🌍⏱️ Join a fearless troupe of actor-musicians as they hurtle across continents in this riotously entertaining, globe-trotting show inspired by Jules Verne’s much-loved classic. With the clock ticking, Phileas Fogg and his quick-thinking companions attempt the impossible: travelling around the world in just 80 days. Expect dazzling live music, outrageous characters and inventive storytelling as London, Bombay and beyond burst into life. Featuring trains, boats and plenty of theatrical mayhem, this joyful open-air adventure is packed with fun, flair and surprise at every turn. Based on the novel by Jules Verne, Adapted by Chris Fung, Directed by Tara Noonan.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 27 Aug
18:30 - 20:30
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • £19.00
WC2E, St. Paul's Church (Outside)
Jeeves and Wooster in Stiff Upper Lip, Jeeves
We cordially invite you to an uproarious adventure with P.G. Wodehouse’s beloved characters, Jeeves and Wooster! Enter the whimsical world of Bertie Wooster, an affable young gentleman with a penchant for getting himself in the most outlandish predicaments. Thankfully, he has his razor-sharp valet, Jeeves, to rescue him from all sorts of mishaps. Facing misadventures, from ill-fated romances to comical escapades, all set against the backdrop of a world filled with eccentric aunts, quirky friends, and a host of unforgettable characters. Featuring live jazz music, from our ensemble of actor-musicians - a jolly good time awaits you!
Thu 27 Aug - Mon 31 Aug
13:30 - 15:30
Theatre Show • 7 years+ • £19.00
WC2E, St. Paul's Church (Outside)
Paddington The Musical
A rather wonderful musical adventure is about to begin in London’s West End. The world premiere of PADDINGTON THE MUSICAL lands in the Savoy Theatre from November! Bringing one of Britain’s best-loved characters to life on stage, this unmissable major new family production at the Savoy Theatre is jam-packed with irresistible songs, dazzling choreography – and of course, marmalade sandwiches. It’s Paddington as you’ve never seen him before. Based on the iconic characters from Michael Bond’s books and the award-winning films, PADDINGTON THE MUSICAL is directed by Luke Sheppard, with original music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher and book by Olivier Award-winner Jessica Swale. What is Paddington The Musical about? When a small, lost bear from Peru arrives in London in search of a new home, a chance encounter with the Brown family leads him to the wonderful world of Windsor Gardens. But London isn’t all cream teas and friendly faces – and even the happiest families have their cracks beneath the surface. So when Paddington’s life is suddenly in peril, the Browns must decide just how far they’re willing to go — and what they’re willing to risk — to give this special bear a home.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 17 Dec
18:00 - 20:30
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £76.50
WC2R, Savoy Theatre
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Part 1
Experience the enchantment of the wizarding world like never before! For devoted Harry Potter fans, the final chapter of the beloved series left them yearning for more magical adventures. But fear not, dear muggles! Get your Potter fix with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child! What is Harry Potter And The Cursed Child About? Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up precisely where the last book's epilogue left off—19 years after the climactic Battle of Hogwarts in the Second Wizarding War. Harry is no longer the young wizard we once knew, but an overworked employee at the Ministry of Magic and a devoted husband and father to three children. But the past is a persistent force, haunting Harry's every step. Meanwhile, his youngest son Albus grapples with the daunting weight of a family legacy he never asked for nor desired. Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance… No Muggles! - About Harry Potter The Harry Potter series follows a young wizard named Harry who lives with his non-magical relatives until his eleventh birthday, when he is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. J.K. Rowling completed the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in June 1995 and was rejected by 12 publishers before Bloomsbury bought it. Rowling went on to write six sequels, which follow Harry's adventures at Hogwarts with friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley and his attempts to defeat Lord Voldemort, a dark wizard who killed Harry’s parents when he was a child. The books were transformed into a blockbuster series of eight films released over 10 years, which grossed more than $7 billion worldwide. The series has since prompted a massive amount of related merchandise including, but not limited to, clothing, video games, spin-off prequels, and a US theme park! Harry Potter and The Cursed Child opened at the Palace Theatre in 2016 to rave reviews and has been going strong ever since! The show also opened at the Lyric Theatre on Broadway in 2018 and is also still running.
Fri 28 Aug - Fri 18 Sept
13:00 - 15:40
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • £35.00
W1D, Palace Theatre
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Part 2
Experience the enchantment of the wizarding world like never before! For devoted Harry Potter fans, the final chapter of the beloved series left them yearning for more magical adventures. But fear not, dear muggles! Get your Potter fix with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child! What is Harry Potter And The Cursed Child About? Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up precisely where the last book's epilogue left off—19 years after the climactic Battle of Hogwarts in the Second Wizarding War. Harry is no longer the young wizard we once knew, but an overworked employee at the Ministry of Magic and a devoted husband and father to three children. But the past is a persistent force, haunting Harry's every step. Meanwhile, his youngest son Albus grapples with the daunting weight of a family legacy he never asked for nor desired. Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance… No Muggles! - About Harry Potter The Harry Potter series follows a young wizard named Harry who lives with his non-magical relatives until his eleventh birthday, when he is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. J.K. Rowling completed the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in June 1995 and was rejected by 12 publishers before Bloomsbury bought it. Rowling went on to write six sequels, which follow Harry's adventures at Hogwarts with friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley and his attempts to defeat Lord Voldemort, a dark wizard who killed Harry’s parents when he was a child. The books were transformed into a blockbuster series of eight films released over 10 years, which grossed more than $7 billion worldwide. The series has since prompted a massive amount of related merchandise including, but not limited to, clothing, video games, spin-off prequels, and a US theme park! Harry Potter and The Cursed Child opened at the Palace Theatre in 2016 to rave reviews and has been going strong ever since! The show also opened at the Lyric Theatre on Broadway in 2018 and is also still running.
Fri 28 Aug - Fri 18 Sept
18:00 - 20:35
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • £35.00
W1D, Palace Theatre
The Smartest Giant in Town
George wishes he wasn't the scruffiest giant in town. But after a trip to a fancy clothes shop, he has a spectacular new look: smart trousers, a smart shirt, a stripy tie, and shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town... until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help - and his clothes! From the award-winning Little Angel Theatre (A Sguash and a Squeeze, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book), and West End producers Fierylight (Peppa Pig, Bing, Octonauts and The BFG), comes this Olivier Award nominated heart-warming musical adventure. Packed with delightful puppets, catchy songs, and Julia Donaldson's beloved characters, it’s a beautiful tale about friendship and the joy of helping others.
Fri 11 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
11:00 - 11:55
Theatre Show • 2-10 years • Free
WC2H, St. Martins Theatre
Disney's The Lion King
Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney’s multi award-winning musical DISNEY’S THE LION KING will redefine your expectations of the stage at the Lyceum Theatre. Brilliantly re-imagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney’s beloved film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. With music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, a musical score created by Hans Zimmer and choral arrangements by Lebo M, DISNEY’S THE LION KING songs include I Just Can’t Wait to Be King, The Circle of Life, Endless Night and Shadow Land. Book your DISNEY’S THE LION KING theatre tickets with LOVEtheatre today! What is The Lion King about? DISNEY’S THE LION KING is based on the much-loved 1994 Disney film of the same name. The musical features a large cast of actors in beautiful animal costumes and using large puppets. The Lion King is set in the beautiful African pride lands and follows the journey of Simba, from being a wide-eyed and fearless lion cub to being King. The Lion King has enjoyed 21 years in London and lights up the West End with glorious colours and powerful music. About The Lyceum Theatre The Lyceum Theatre in London is a long and complex tale of success, downfall and rebirth. It all started in 1772 when the Society of Arts founded a room for exhibitions and concerts near the site of the current building. Since this beginning the Lyceum has displayed a chameleon tendency, adapting to changing fashions and needs admirably. Now home to Disney’s ‘The Lion King,’ an average 760,000 patrons enjoy the Lyceum’s hospitality every year.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 24 Sept
18:30 - 21:00
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £39.00
WC2E, Lyceum Theatre
Disney Hercules The Musical
The musical, inspired by the animated film, based on the ancient myth. It's what classical civilisation would have wanted. Ancient Greece. A time of gods, mortals… and Hercules, who isn’t quite either. But if he's not a god, how can he possibly save the world from Hades? It's one thing flexing those pecs, but going from zero to hero requires a different kind of strength. Get ready for a wise-cracking, column-shaking, underworld-rocking ride of adventure, self-discovery and love. In tunics. Directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by David Zippel, a brand-new book by Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, and co-choreography by Tanisha Scott, Disney’s Hercules delivers a thrilling night out at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane that leaves you ready to conquer anything.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 3 Sept
13:30 - 16:00
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £29.50
WC2B, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
A World Elsewhere
This Summer in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, we invite you to escape with us in A WORLD ELSEWHERE on an epic journey into the greatest world of all: the imagination. The Olivier-nominated team behind Rough Magic and Midsummer Mechanicals return with a celebration of the magical world of storytelling, bursting with music, laughter, friendship, and imagination. Funny, moving, and gloriously inventive, we invite audiences from 5 to 105 to join the adventure and revel in the worlds that are waiting to be told. What is A World Elsewhere about? Meet Cass, a boy with a heart bursting with stories. The world of his imagination has always been boundless. Inspired by his Grandma’s love of Shakespeare, Cass and his faithful band of imaginary friends have met heroes, faced villains, outwitted monsters, survived shipwrecks, and dived into adventures of every kind. But lately, things aren’t right. The stories are uninspiring, the adventures aren’t adventurous and there is a strange darkness creeping in. Something is changing in his elsewhere-world. What has to happen next… is a whole other story.
Thu 27 Aug - Thu 27 Aug
10:00 - 11:30
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £18.00
SE1, Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
As You Like It
Run wild and free in the muddy magic of the woods this summer with this euphoric new production of Shakespeare’s AS YOU LIKE IT in the Globe Theatre. Co‑directed by Sean Holmes (Romeo and Juliet, Pinocchio, Globe) and Charlie Josephine (Pinocchio, Globe, Cowbois, RSC/Royal Court), this bold new AS YOU LIKE IT pulses with lust, revelry, and live music. Join the party as the Globe stage becomes a forest festival of self‑discovery, where closed hearts open and love is limitless. What is As You Like It about? When the Duke’s court proves cold and cruel, Rosalind, Celia, and their friends escape into the Forest of Arden – a place alive with joy, music, and unexpected possibilities.
Wed 9 Sept - Wed 21 Oct
13:00 - 14:30
Theatre Show • 8 years+ • £6.00
SE1, Globe Theatre
Stick Man
Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back in town! What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production, from the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.
Thu 3 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
10:30 - 11:30
Theatre Show • 3-8 years • £14.35
WC1H, Bloomsbury Theatre
Kids Live Show
Kids Show Live at The Magic Circle is a fun-filled, family-friendly magic show designed especially for children aged 4 and up. Hosted at the headquarters of the world’s most famous magic society, the one-hour show features one of our talented family entertainers and a show full of surprises, laughter and audience participation.
Sun 30 Aug - Sun 18 Oct
13:00 - 14:20
Theatre Show • 4 years+ • £16.50
NW1, The Magic Circle
London Witches & History Walking Tour
LWTL10 = EXCLUSIVE 10% discount off our usual booking price when using the code: LWTL10 Experience London’s wicked history and see famous sights on this spellbindingly unique walking tour, led by a bewitching guide! Join your characterful witch guide and hear the true historical tales of suspected London witches across the ages. Witness fascinating pieces of London history along the way too; secrets of Southwark Cathedral, The Golden Hinde, The Globe Theatre, Millennium Bridge and so very much more await on this character led walking tour. Starting by the infamous London Bridge your friendly costumed witch guide will lead you across Southwark's Southbank’s cobbles, seamlessly weaving history with vibrant storytelling. Widen your eyes to the tales of London’s accused witches as you uncover the truth about the likes of Nicholas Culpepper – people’s herbalist or bad boy herb doctor? Was Elizabeth Barton really that gifted? How about Jinny Bingham - did she deserve the nickname “Mother Damnable"? And did Old Joan Butts get off Scot-Free? You make your own mind up on this enlightening educational journey to the past. You will wind your way down Winchester Walk, bob around the edges of Borough Market, clatter your way down Clink Street and buzz down Bankside. An intriguing Tudor ship and ruined Winchester Palace cannot be missed along the way. Your faithful guide will happily point out a certain Elizabethan dramatic playhouse as well as the breathtakingly iconic landmarks across the river including the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral. In an experience that brings together true stories, history, and a wisdom that we can learn from our terrible ways of the past, you are sure to fall in love with this small historic part of the city, and be enthralled by London’s witches’ chronicles. You may even see some famous filming locations from Harry Potter along the way! Don’t miss the chance to join London’s wonderful Witches & History Magical Walking Tour and see things as you never have before… *Please note this is an outdoor walking tour so dress for the weather, my dears.
Thu 27 Aug - Fri 31 Dec
15:00 - 17:15
Kids Activities • 8 years+ • £17.00
SE1, Southwark Viewpoint
Half Term Concert, Bach to Baby Kensington
Come and join Bach to Baby this Half Term for a specially designed programme of classical music for the whole family to enjoy together. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times. Extra Information Remember: Up to 2 children come free on every Adult Ticket! Doors open 15 minutes before, and concerts last for about 45 minutes.
Fri 30 Oct - Fri 30 Oct
10:30 - 11:15
Music • 0m-4 years • £16.00
SW7, St Stephen's Church
Types of children's theatre in London
There are four kinds of theatre for children in London, and they are all quite different.
West End musicals are the big shows, with large casts and long running times. Most West End theatres set a minimum age, usually around four, and individual shows often ask for older. They suit children of about six and up who can sit through two hours plus an interval.
Children's theatres make work specifically for young audiences. Shows are shorter, the seating is often closer to the stage, and staff expect a bit of noise.
Local and touring shows come to arts centres, libraries and community venues across the boroughs. They tend to be cheaper and closer to home.
Puppet, sensory and baby theatre is made for the under-fives. Sessions are short, gentle and usually let children move around during the performance.
What age can children start going to the theatre?
Children can start going to the theatre as babies, but where you go matters more than how old they are.
Baby and sensory theatre is made for children from a few months old. It runs at children's theatres, arts centres and museums, with soft sound, low lighting and no expectation of sitting still.
The West End works differently. Most theatres there don't admit children under four at all, and plenty of individual shows set the age limit higher, so check the show's own policy before you book.
From around three, most children can manage a 45 to 60 minute show made for their age group at a children's venue.
From seven or so, longer West End productions become realistic.
Age guidance at children's venues is a recommendation rather than a rule, and reflects running time, volume and how much of the story a child will follow. A West End minimum age is a rule, and staff do enforce it.
How long are children's theatre shows?
Most children's theatre shows in London run between 45 and 60 minutes with no interval. Baby and toddler shows are often shorter, at around 30 to 40 minutes.
West End musicals are different. Expect two hours or more, plus a 20 minute interval, which is a long stretch for a younger child.
Running time is usually listed alongside the age guidance. It's worth checking both.
Relaxed and sensory-adapted performances
Relaxed performances are shows adapted for children who find a normal theatre setting difficult. House lights stay partly on, sound levels are lowered, and audiences are free to move around or leave and come back.
Many London venues now run at least one relaxed performance in a show's run. Some also offer chill-out spaces, visual story guides to look at beforehand, and BSL-interpreted or captioned dates.
If your child needs one of these, it's worth contacting the venue directly. Availability changes from production to production.
How much do children's theatre tickets cost?
Theatre in London is more affordable than its reputation suggests. Across the West End, more than a quarter of tickets sold for under £35, and 74% sold for under £85. Average prices are 8.9% lower in real terms than in 2019. (2)
Outside the West End, children's theatre is cheaper again. Local venues and children's theatres often price family tickets well below West End rates, and some run free or pay-what-you-can performances.
When to book
Book early for school holidays and weekends, which are when family shows sell out first. Christmas productions in particular go on sale months ahead.
Term-time weekday performances are usually easier to get and often cheaper.
If a show has a relaxed or sensory-adapted date, that single performance tends to sell out before the rest of the run.
What to expect on the day
Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early. Doors usually open half an hour before the show, and getting seated calmly makes a real difference with younger children.
Most family venues allow booster seats, and many keep a stack by the door. Check the venue page if your child is small.
Babes in arms policies are stricter than most parents expect. Children's theatres often admit under-ones free and are happy for a baby to sit on your lap. West End theatres generally don't admit babies at all, and where children are old enough to attend, each one needs their own seat and their own ticket.
FAQs about children's theatre in London
What theatre shows are on in London for kids?
Theatre shows for kids in London run every week of the year, across West End houses, dedicated children's theatres and local arts centres. The listings above show what's currently on sale, with age guidance and prices for each one.
What age is a child ready for the theatre?
A child is ready for the theatre from babyhood, provided the show is made for their age. Sensory and baby theatre starts from a few months old, shorter story-led shows suit three to six year olds, and full-length musicals generally work from about seven.
Can babies go to the theatre in London?
Babies can go to the theatre in London, but only to shows made for them. Baby and sensory theatre at children's venues welcomes children from a few months old, and under-ones often go free. West End theatres are much stricter, usually refusing entry to children under four, so a West End musical is often not an option with a baby.
Are there relaxed performances for children in London?
Yes. Most major London venues now schedule relaxed performances, with lower sound, partial house lighting and freedom to move around or leave. These dates are usually marked in the listing, and they sell out faster than standard performances.
How much are children's theatre tickets in London?
Less than most people expect. More than a quarter of West End tickets sold for under £35, and shows at local venues and children's theatres are usually cheaper still. (2)
How long do children's shows last?
Most last 45 to 60 minutes with no interval. Baby and toddler shows are often 30 to 40 minutes, while West End musicals run around two hours plus an interval.
