Best kids theatre shows in London 2026

Frequently asked questions about kids theatre shows in London

What theatre shows are on in London for kids?

London has an exciting kids theatre scene, jam-packed with bestselling musicals and family-friendly favourites for children and parents alike to enjoy.

Help your little ones to boost their imagination and creativity by booking to see popular kids theatre shows including Oliver! and Wicked (to name just a few!).

What are the best West End shows for kids?

With heartwarming music, fantastic costumes and stunning visuals to captivate children of all ages, The Lion King is regarded as one of the best West End shows in London for kids. Captivate their imagination with the theatrical adaptation of a Disney classic, where kids can expect to see their favourite characters on stage, from Simba and Nala to the hilarious Timon and Pumba.

There are so many family shows to see in London, but another not to be missed is the award-winning Matilda The Musical. Based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl, the theatre adaptation is a popular musical for kids. Featuring a selection of entertaining songs that many children know from the recent film starring Emma Thompson as Mrs Trunchbull, including "When I Grow Up" and "Naughty". With an extraordinary cast of characters, amazing sets and lots of laughs, Matilda is a guaranteed feel-good children's theatre show that's been praised by critics and audiences alike.

There are so many West End shows for kids in 2026 – the difficult part is choosing which one to see first!

How to prepare your child for a theatre visit

Prepare your little ones for an unforgettable experience as they embark on their first theatre adventure in the heart of London. Here are some tips to help prepare your little one for their visit:

• Choose the right show – Book a family-friendly performance that is suitable for young children. Browse the best kids shows in London with engaging features and shorter durations.
• Practise theatre etiquette – Teach your child about theatre manners, such as staying seated, being quiet during the show and clapping at appropriate times. It can also be helpful to explain that there may be loud noises or dimmed lights.
• Choose the right seats – Look to book aisle seats for easy access in case you need to step out of the theatre during the performance.

With carefully selected shows designed to captivate young children, our London theatre guide offers children a magical blend of colourful visuals, vibrant music and engaging storytelling.

Are booster seats available in West End theatres?

Some theatres in the West End have booster seats available for their younger audiences, so that you can make sure your little ones don't miss a thing on stage. Please note that not all theatres have booster seats and those that do are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to check with the theatre prior to making your booking.

Booster seats are not required if you are seated in the Dress or Upper Circle, as these seats are in an elevated area. For example, at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, booster seats are only available for children sitting in the Stalls and Royal Circle.

Some kids theatres in London also have space in the cloakroom for the storage of pushchairs or buggies. It is, however, preferable to check with the theatre to see if they offer this service. If there is no space for prams or other bulky items, it is recommended that you use the baggage facilities, which are available at various train stations, such as Charing Cross, near London's West End.

Can I take a two-year-old to a theatre show in London?

Most theatres in London have age restrictions, and generally children aged three years old and below are not allowed to attend a theatre show. However, there are some family-friendly shows specifically designed for young children that may be suitable. We recommend checking a specific show's age policy before booking tickets.