London is packed with world-class productions of theatrical dramas. From classic masterpieces to groundbreaking contemporary productions, London's West End caters to all tastes and preferences.
Written by
Visit London Editors
27 August 2024
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In addition to musicals and timeless classics, London's theatre scene is also home to innovative and thought-provoking plays. The historic venues, such as the iconic Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, provide a glimpse into the past, allowing you to experience plays in an authentic and atmospheric setting.
Alternatively, contemporary theatres boast state-of-the-art facilities, offering immersive experiences with cutting-edge technology and innovative staging techniques.
Browse and book tickets to some of the best plays in London with these top picks.
Head to St Martin's Theatre to see The Mousetrap, the longest-running play in the world, with its first performance in London dating back to 1952. Written by Agatha Christie, the queen of murder mysteries and creator of some of the greatest detectives in fiction, this is one of the West End's most popular shows. Try to solve the mystery as the plot unfolds, but beware of the usual twists and turns that the author is known for. This masterpiece is currently showing until March 2025.
Where:West Street, Soho, London, WC2H 9NZ
Described as Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off, laugh along to Mischief Theatre’s hilarious production of The Play That Goes Wrong in London's West End. See actors from an amateur theatre company trying to put together a murder mystery play set in the 1920s. Right from that start, it becomes clear that nothing is going as planned, with props flying off the stage and actors missing their cues. Belly laughs are guaranteed! This laugh-out-loud play is booking up to May 2025.
Where:3-5 Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5LA
Experience a gripping courtroom drama as you witness the trial of a man accused of murder in the classic Agatha Christie thriller, Witness for the Prosecution. Step inside the magnificent London County Hall and its courtroom set, and experience the intensity of a gripping story of justice and betrayal as Leonard Vole tries to convince the jury of his innocence. The famous court case and play will be prosecuting up until March 2025.
Where:BELEVEDERE ROAD, London, SE1 7PB
Travel beyond the pages of the books as the first theatre production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child takes the West End by storm. Nineteen years after the last book, join Harry Potter and his trusty pals, Hermione and Ron Weasley, as a new generation boards the Hogwarts Express. Harry’s youngest son Albus Severus befriends Scorpius Malfoy and the pair find themselves entangled in a complex web of time travel and dark magic, as they attempt to right the wrongs of the past. The award-winning show is running until March 2025.
Where:Shaftesbury Avenue, St James, London, W1D 7ES
The Netflix sensation
Stranger Things lands in London's West End with a highly anticipated brand new story. Travel back to 1959 in Hawkins, a seemingly normal town with normal people. This prequel takes you on a thrilling ride as you witness the first manifestation of the shadowy forces that lurk in the parallel dimension known as the Upside Down, a plot crackling with tension as friendships are tested and unbreakable alliances forged in the face of an imminent and malevolent threat. See the origins of Hawkins' supernatural terror through to February 2025.
Where:Charing Cross Road, St James, London, WC2H 0JP
See the return of the magical adaptation of the beloved Studio Ghibli anime, My Neighbour Totoro, for a second season at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. With whimsical sets, captivating music, and a talented cast, immerse yourself in the heartwarming story of two sisters and their extraordinary encounters with the lovable forest spirit, Totoro. Embark on an extraordinary adventure and follow Totoro and friends in this extraordinary masterpiece until November 2025.
Where:166 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5SU
Where is the best place to see a play in London?
London is a city renowned for its vibrant and bustling theatre scene, offering a variety of iconic theatre venues where you can enjoy the best plays in London.
Each venue is unique and enhances the performance you are watching. The West End, for example, is a famous place to see a play in London, famed for its high-quality productions, impressive cast and historical theatres including the Lyceum Theatre, His Majesty's Theatre, Theatre Royal Drury Lane and many more.
