In December, London turns into a winter wonderland, offering a dazzling array of Christmas shows throughout the holiday season. From enchanting London pantomimes that spread festive cheer to elegant ballets filled with magical beauty, there’s something for everyone. Delight in classic tales with a seasonal twist on the West End, marvel at graceful dance performances, or lose yourself in captivating theatre plays. London’s Christmas shows are the perfect way to celebrate the holidays and create lasting memories.
Book the best Christmas shows in London
From pantomimes and festive ballets to spectacular Christmas theatre productions and the latest West End shows, there is no shortage of magical Christmas shows to enjoy in December and over the festive period.
Last December, visitors could enjoy these Christmas shows in London. Check back closer to the time for the top shows to see in London for Christmas 2025.
London theatre shows
Wanting to catch a top London theatre show before December? Check out this list of not-to-be-missed performances that have stood the test of time in London's West End!
- Discover the destiny of two witches like no other who test the boundaries of friendship and trust like no other in the sensational musical Wicked.
- Follow the adventures of Simba as he embarks on a quest of its own before coming back to its tribe in The Lion King.
- Immerse yourself in the magical wizarding world of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, where the special effects alone are sure to leave you spellbound many years after The Boy Who Lived went to Hogwarts for the first time.
Christmas theatre shows in London
A Christmas Carol (ish) at Soho Place
Ted Lasso star Nick Mohammed and his cast brought delightful mayhem to the stage in a hilarious and offbeat retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol (ish) – with a twist! A dishevelled, slightly grumpy Santa is on the verge of abandoning his centuries-old holiday duties, needing a last-minute push to save Christmas. With only one reindeer left and the clock ticking toward midnight, will Santa manage to revive the spirit of the season in time?
A Sherlock Carol at the Marylebone Theatre
Last Christmas, the London West End featured A Sherlock Carol, a thrilling mystery where ghosts of the past intertwine with the present. Many years after Ebenezer Scrooge discovers the true meaning of Christmas, the grumpy Dickens character mysteriously disappears. Enter the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes, who is called upon to solve the case on a dark Christmas Eve. This captivating blend of classic literature and detective intrigue delighted audiences throughout the holiday season.
Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist at the Rose Theatre, Kingston
Last Christmas brought a fresh take on a beloved tale with Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist. Rumour has it that the Sheriff of Sherwood is planning to cancel Christmas! As the first snowflakes fall, the citizens have little to celebrate, with the Sheriff squeezing every penny from them. But little do they know, the legendary Robin Hood is plotting a daring heist to restore joy and cheer to the season.
Christmas ballets in London
The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum
More than 100 ballet dancers and musicians brought Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to life on the London Coliseum stage. Marking its annual return, this classic show follows Clara and her nutcracker doll on a magical adventure where they meet all sorts of characters. Last year, the Coliseum presented a fresh, dazzling production set in Edwardian London, featuring an exciting chase after the menacing Mouse King.
Circa's Duck Pond at the Royal Festival Hall
Last Christmas, Circa's Duck Pond brought a ballet like no other to London's South Bank. This innovative production offered a modern take on the classic Swan Lake, combining breathtaking circus stunts with mesmerising dance to create a unique performance that transcends traditional genres. Breathtaking acrobatics and awe-inspiring aerials merged with the elegance of ballet to reimagine the timeless tale.
Christmas shows for kids in London
Room on the Broom at the Lyric Theatre
Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom! in 2024, children got some Christmas cheer with the stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s beloved bestseller, Room on the Broom. The adventurous witch and her cat embarked on a magical quest to fight a fearsome dragon, all while picking up hitchhikers along the way.
Stick Man at the Leicester Square Theatre
The Leicester Square Theatre brought Julia Donaldson’s lovable Stick Man back to life last Christmas. Audiences followed his adventures as he left the family tree, a trip that was not without chaos and mischief, made all the more spectacular with music, puppetry and dance.
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket
Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig enjoyed an exciting day out visiting the zoo and also the beach for a special party in Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket. Full of fun songs, dance and muddy puddles, this family show also featured more characters from the hit series, including Miss Rabbit, Suzy Sheep and Danny Dog.
Best Christmas pantomimes in London
Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall
Last Christmas, Wilton's Music Hall invited audiences on a madcap ride with beloved characters from the world of pantomimes, including Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. Potted Panto returned to the stage, showcasing seven of the best-loved pantomimes in a laugh-out-loud production. This Olivier Award-nominated show was the perfect festive treat, delighting children and parents alike
Robin Hood at the London Palladium
Last year, Robin Hood brought the enchanting Sherwood Forest to life at the London Palladium. The ultimate pantomime adventure featured Jane McDonald as Maid Marian and Julian Clary as Robin Hood. Audiences joined Robin and his band of Merry Men on their thrilling escapes through the forest, where adventure and laughter awaited. With dazzling performances, stunning costumes, and incredible special effects, this production was an unforgettable holiday treat
Find more shows and musicals in London while you wait for the festive season to return.