Nutcracker: The English National Ballet at the London Coliseum

Lose yourself in the English National Ballet’s enchanting festive performance of the Nutcracker ballet at the London Coliseum. The Nutcracker – one of the world's most beloved ballets – returns to London for the festive season, once again enchanting audiences with its magical story and stunning choreography.

Choreographed by English National Ballet’s Artistic Director, Aaron S. Watkin, and Olivier Award-winning choreographer Arielle Smith, this festive classic is more flamboyant than ever, featuring over 100 dancers on stage set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.

What is the Nutcracker about?

Discover the story of Clara, a young girl, who receives a magical doll one Christmas Eve – the Nutcracker. Step back in time to Edwardian London, where Clara and her mother are shopping at Drosselmeyer’s Sweets and Delights Emporium when they encounter the enchanting Nutcracker. What follows is a magical adventure filled with sugary delights, breathtaking choreography, and spectacular set designs. Clara bravely takes on the terrifying Rat King, soaring across London in a hot air balloon to the frosty Land of Sweets, where she joins forces with the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Featuring more than 100 mesmerising dancers and world-class musicians from the English National Ballet, as well as stunning sets and Tchaikovsky’s famous score, this dazzling ballet has delighted audiences at Christmas since 1950. The magnificent stage of the London Coliseum, decorated with festive Christmas trees and glittering snowflakes, takes you to the heart of Clara's magical dream world, while the orchestra's enchanting melodies brings the story to life.

From the lively battle between the toy soldiers and the mice to the enchanting dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, each moment is a feast for the eyes and is surely one of the best way to get into the Christmas spirit.

How to book tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet in London

Tickets for the 2025/26 season of the Nutcracker Ballet are now available - be sure to book early, as this beloved Christmas tradition tends to sell out quickly.

Book your seats now with Visit London by clicking the booking button on this page. You’ll be able to choose your preferred seating and view ticket prices for this exclusive London performance.

The English National Ballet’s 2025 production of The Nutcracker runs from 11 December 2025 to 11 January 2026.

How long is the Nutcracker at the London Coliseum?

This ballet show runs for approximately two hours, including a 20-minutes interval. 

When are the matinees taking place?

Matinee performances of The Nutcracker typically take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to Saturdays at 2.30pm, and on Wednesdays at 1pm. Be sure to check the schedule carefully, as performance times may vary throughout the festive season.

When are the evening performances scheduled for?

The evening performances of The Nutcracker usually take place Mondays to Saturdays at 7.30pm. Be sure to check the schedule carefully, as performance times may vary throughout the festive season.

Where is the ballet Nutcracker showing on the West End?

The Nutcracker takes place at the London Coliseum, located on St Martin's Lane. 

How to get there: 

• Tube – Charing Cross is the closest tube station (on the Bakerloo and Northern lines)
• Bus – A few bus lines stop by St Martin's Place (24, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279), located a two minutes' walk away from the theatre.
• Cycling – Rent a Santander bike and head to WIlliam IV Street on the Strand, where you can find Santander bike docks.

Is there any age recommendation?

The show is recommended for children aged five and above. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

What other shows can I see in London? 

Explore other Christmas shows sure to delight theatre lovers, including Mischief Theatre’s festive special A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong. Or enjoy West End classics that bring your favourites to life on stage, such as  Wicked and The Lion King. You can also catch one of the city's top plays, like the world’s longest-running show The Mousetrap, or the laugh-out-loud slapstick comedy The Play That Goes Wrong.