The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
It’s 2025 and here’s our pick of London’ Best Theatre Shows for Kids under 10.
There’s nothing quite like taking the family to the theatre. And, there are plenty of shows on now that younger kids will love, laugh at and sing-a-long to. So, whether you live here or just visiting, taking in a performance is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family
In this guide to London’s Best Theatre Shows for Kids, we’ve chosen productions that are suitable for under 10s. If you’re looking for something a little more mature then check out our guide to London’s Best Theatre Shows for Teens and Older Kids.
https://www.kidrated.com/things-to-do/londons-best-theatre-shows-for-teens-and-older-kids/
And don’t forget – if you book through us here via our exclusive partnership with TodayTix ,you’ll get some amazing deals on ticket prices. So what are you waiting for?
Comedy Club 4 Kids is a proper comedy club… just earlier in the day, with much, much younger audience. Featuring top stand-up comedians, sketch acts and cabaret stars it’s all suitable for ages six and up.
Running nationwide since 2005, this laugh-out-loud show is fast, funny, and brilliantly bonkers—with jokes that grown-ups will enjoy too. There’s even a podcast (Radio Nonsense) and a book if your kids fancy giving stand-up a go themselves!
Expect giggles, gags and genuine belly laughs. Kids must be accompanied by adults—mainly so they can help explain any jokes that go over little heads.
Perfect for families who love a good laugh together!
“Starlight Express” is a high-octane, roller-skating musical extravaganza where toy trains come to life in a child’s dream. The story follows a steam engine named Rusty who races against modern engines to win the heart of the beautiful Pearl.
Get ready to be blown away by “Starlight Express,” a show that’s part musical, part roller derby, and all fun! The dazzling lights, speedy stunts, and catchy songs will keep kids and teens on the edge of their seats. The unique roller-skating spectacle brings a thrilling twist to the classic underdog story. Perfect for kids who love action and teens who crave high-energy performances, this one’s a must-see!
We sent Tiggy to KidRate it and she appeared on The Gaby Roslin Show to give her verdict – “10/10 with great songs and amazing effects. I would definitely go again.”
The enchanting world of Studio Ghibli’s “My Neighbour Totoro” is making a magical return to London’s West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from March 8 to November 2, 2025. This multi-award-winning adaptation brings the beloved characters of Satsuki, Mei, and the whimsical forest spirit Totoro to life with astonishing puppetry, beautiful music, and imaginative staging.
Based on the beloved 1988 animated film by Hayao Miyazaki, this enchanting show is a feast for the senses. The production’s use of live music, and inventive puppetry will mesmerise young audiences.
Be aware though that with a runtime of just under three hours, including an interval, it’s may be quite an epic undertaking for some kids. others though will be engaged from start to finish and is a brilliant introduction to the magic of theatre and the timeless appeal of Studio Ghibli’s storytelling
Great googly gods! Disney’s Hercules is flexing its musical muscles as it bursts onto the West End stage at Theatre Royal Drury Lane this June—and it’s set to be a mythical, magical, laugh-out-loud adventure for the whole family.
Based on the much-loved 1997 animated film, this brand-new musical reimagines the story of Hercules, the clumsy demi-god on a mission to become a true hero. Expect big laughs, high-energy choreography, eye-popping sets, and an all-powerful soundtrack packed with fan favourites like “Go the Distance” and “Zero to Hero,” plus brand new songs by Disney legends Alan Menken and David Zippel.
Directed by Casey Nicholaw (Aladdin, The Book of Mormon), the show features a gospel-singing Greek chorus, an unforgettable Hades, and monsters galore. Ideal for ages 6+, this is one summer blockbuster your family won’t want to miss.
Nearly every kid who has been exposed to any of the Greek myths gets hooked on the storytelling and sense of adventure. So fans or not there’s a very good chance your kids will feel the same about Hadestown.
After huge success in the US this visually stunning and emotionally rich musical lands in the West End in an enchanting production that weaves together the stories of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone into a single, mesmerizing tale. With its vibrant set designs and hauntingly beautiful music, “Hadestown” will take the family on a journey to the underworld and back, making every moment an adventure.
“Hadestown” isn’t just a show; it’s an experience that combines music, storytelling, and visual artistry in a way that will leave you and your children spellbound. The innovative set and lighting designs create an immersive environment, transforming the stage into a world where myths come to life. The musical’s themes of resilience, love, and the power of music resonate deeply, making it a meaningful and memorable outing for families.
Whether you’re familiar with the original myths or discovering them for the first time, “Hadestown” promises to be a theatrical journey that you and your kids wi’ll cherish long after the final curtain call
OK – we get this might be a problematic one as Mr J’s wholesome image took a bit of a bashing in his later years. So if you don’t feel this show is for you we understand if you scroll down…..
For the rest of you, MJ: The Musical brings the King of Pop’s legendary music to life. Featuring Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, this production chronicles his life and career, exploring his rise to fame, iconic performances, and lasting impact on the music industry. Kids will be mesmerised by the spectacular choreography, dazzling costumes, and the infectious energy of the performances.
This musical not only pays tribute to a musical icon but also serves as a history lesson on pop culture. For kids who enjoy music, dance, and the magic of Michael Jackson’s timeless tunes, “MJ: The Musical” promises an unforgettable and entertaining experience.
Who could resist the classic tale of Matilda, the dark and delightful adaptation of Roald Dahl’s tale of a child genius and her monstrous headmistress? The show was written by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by the quirky, super-clever Australian comedian Tim Minchin.
The narrative focuses on Matilda, precocious at just five years old and a keen reader. It follows her as she overcomes the numerous obstacles put in her way by her family and school, where she ultimately helps the only teacher she likes, to reclaim her life.
Created by the team behind Midsummer Mechanicals, this new family adventure at Shakespeare’s Globe is a spellbinding mix of jokes, puns, potions—and just a little bit of Bard!
Young audiences become magical apprentices, helping fix a prophecy disaster while meeting fairies, ghosts, mischievous Puck and the villainous Henry IX (who’s boo-tastically brilliant). Expect trapdoor surprises, cheeky beasties, a sprinkle of nonsense, and loads of chances for audience participation.
Kids are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite magical creature—and yes, fart jokes and panto-style antics are included. Ideal for 5–12s, Rough Magic introduces Shakespeare with a fun, fast-paced story and a lovely message about learning from your mistakes.
Wicked tells the story of the true friendship between two very different witches, the Wicked Witch of the East and the Good Witch of Oz
This is a story full of magic and spectacular costumes and dresses that will make the kids’ imagination fly. It really is a fabulous musical to take the little ones to.
The Lion King Musical is undoubtedly a family favourite. Both adults and children know the fabulous story of how Simba, a lion cub, comes to the throne to become the Lion King.
It’s a musical with no shortage of famous songs that’s sure to excite the real Disney fans out there. The animals pass through the aisles in the stalls when the show starts, so you might want to choose seats next to the aisles if you want to see the animals up close.
This stage adaptation of the iconic 80’s film, Back to the Future, is sure to evoke some feelings of nostalgia for many of you parents.
The kids are sure to get excited when Marty McFly, your typical rock ‘n’ roll teenager, is accidentally transported back to 1955. In order to guarantee that he makes it back to the future, he needs to ensure that his parents meet and fall in love.
You and the kids will marvel at the gravity-defying, time-travelling DeLorean that supposedly reaches speeds of up to 88 miles per hour!
Described as Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off; The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre is a must-see smash-hit and absolute riot.
The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are trying to put on ‘The Murder at Haversham Manor,’ a 1920’s murder mystery play where absolutely nothing goes as planned! The accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences.
From falling props and wobbly floors to mishaps with lights and sounds, this show is a laugh-out-loud journey full of slapstick comedy, pranks and mishaps that’ll keep you chuckling the whole way through.
Get ready for an uproarious adventure that both you and the kids will love!
The Smeds and The Smoos tells the story of a pair of feuding tribes of quirky aliens who must put their differences aside when two of their youngsters elope together. It’s adapted by Tall Stories, whose theatrical take on ‘The Gruffalo’ has been a touring staple for aeons. The music and interplanetary adventures are sure to get the kids excited.
In Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas, CBeebies favourite Maddie is doing work experience in Santa’s chaotic workshop and needs help from the audience to save the day
Expect fart facts, exploding crackers, festive experiments and songs that make STEM feel magical. With help from two bonkers elves and surprise visits from Mrs Claus, this is , giggle-packed treat for curious youngsters.
Kings Head Theatre are back, after last year’s five-star Cinderella pants and this time they’re giving their signature treatment to the popular Beanstalk story.
So, follow young milkman Jack as he takes on a greedy giant with nothing but squirty cream and cracking puns! Packed with slapstick, show tunes, and a scene-stealing cow called Cowpatti Lupone, audiences can expect laughs, chaos, and moo-sical mayhem for the whole family.
Based on Judith Kerr’s beloved picture book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea tells the story of what Sophie and her mother end up doing when a hungry tiger turns up at their door? Packed with sing-alongs, slapstick and a little bit of magic, this has heavy pants vibes so should go down well with very young ones.
We’ve been sending KidRaters to see the West End summer shows for nearly 12 years and they always come back with the same K-Rating – 10 out of 10!
And who can blame them the HH team always pack their shows with giggles, gasps, and gross-out facts galore. In this celebration of HH’s 30 years two actors bring the nastiest bits of British history to life with quick-fire costume changes, catchy tunes, and a hole host of historical facts. From battling Boudicca to Guy Fawkes’ explosive antics, it’s a time-travelling rollercoaster through Britain’s wildest moments.
Alice in Wonderland lands at the Marylebone Theatre this summer in an internationally acclaimed 60-minute adventure perfect for kids aged 5+.
Expect dazzling puppets, madcap characters, and a gorgeous original score as Alice shrinks, grows, and tumbles through a world where nothing makes sense—but everything is enchanting.
With unforgettable visuals and a truly Wonderland-worthy cast, it’s promises to be a memorable summer theatre trip for curious kids.
Get ready to go totally dotty for 101 Dalmatians the Musical, the tail-wagging family favourite landing at the Eventim Apollo for a limited six-week run this summer! When the fabulously evil Cruella de Vil (played by pop legend Faye Tozer) hatches a plan to turn puppies into a fashion statement, it’s up to heroic hounds Pongo and Perdi—and their litter of adorable, singing pups—to save the day.
Featuring dazzling puppetry, upbeat songs, hilarious henchmen, and clever choreography, this riotous stage adaptation of Dodie Smith’s classic book is packed with laughs, action, and heartfelt moments. The show opens in a dog rescue centre, kicks off with a catchy canine ballad, and never lets up—expect floating dog heads, surprise feline solos, and pure musical mischief!
With a script that keeps adults chuckling and kids totally hooked, 101 Dalmatians is a barking brilliant treat for families. Don’t miss it—you’d have to be barmy not to book!
Follow Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they travel from wartime Britain into Narnia via a magical wardrobe. where they meet brave beavers, a wicked witch, and Aslan the lion. Audiences will be catapulted into a world of snow, sorcery, and spectacular theatre in this dazzling production that features puppets, music, snowstorms, and talking animals—brought to life by a brilliant cast of actor-musicians.
With jaw-dropping visuals, magical stagecraft, and laugh-out-loud moments (look out for the “detachable fur”!), this production promises to leave the whole family feeling inspired and uplifted.
The Enormous Crocodile returns to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre for a wickedly funny, jungle-sized musical adventure based on Roald Dahl’s classic tale.
Join a cast of courageous jungle animals as they try to stop the greedy croc from chomping on “delicious little fingers.” With memorable songs and stunning puppetry (from the team behind Spirited Away), is very funny and perfect for kids who will love the beautiful open-air setting.
Pushchairs: Most theatres offer a cloakroom or “buggy bay” for storing pushchairs during the show, but it’s best to check with the box office beforehand.
Booster Seats:
✔️ Arrive early to secure booster seats & use facilities.
✔️ Best seats? Dress/Royal Circle for clear views.
✔️ Aisle seats make bathroom trips easier.
✔️ Matinees are ideal for younger children.
✔️ Research the show to check suitability.
✔️ Theatres expect quiet, seated behaviour.
❌ No children invited on stage.
❌ No birthday shoutouts.
❌ Limited baby-changing facilities.
Click here or the image below for our unbeatable guide to the best theatre for Older Kids and Teens….
Our handy guide to Camden
Kids who need a little extra help
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
