The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
It’s 2024 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, I’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 by clicking the picture below.
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?
Mrs. Doubtfire tells the story of everyone’s favourite Scottish nanny. Out-of-work actor Daniel will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire, in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father.
Here’s Lizzie’s 5 Star Review…..
https://youtu.be/kTC2QtTOAEQ?si=6SiuxytGbfY_kTKT
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake is a bold, thrilling reinvention of Tchaikovsky’s classic that has captivated audiences for nearly 30 years. Famous for its audacious twist—replacing the traditional female swans with an all-male ensemble—it shattered conventions and redefined dance theatre. This new revival promises to inspire a fresh generation of young dancers and wow audiences seeing it for the first time.
Known for its witty, emotive storytelling and breathtaking choreography, Swan Lake has become the longest-running dance production in the West End and Broadway, scooping up over 30 international awards, including Olivier and Tony Awards. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newbie, it’s a must-see for families looking for a truly unforgettable theatre experience!
As always there is loads on at the Unicorn including:
Toto Kerblammo – Tim Crouch’s immersive new play follows Effy, who secretly hides her dog in a no-pet building, only for things to unravel. With 3D binaural audio, audiences experience her world through sound, making this tender story about friendship, hope, and listening truly come to life.
Anna Hibiscus’ Song – Join Anna Hibiscus as her happiness overflows in this joyful stage adaptation of Atinuke’s beloved children’s book. Set in Ibadan, Nigeria, the show, brought to life by Utopia Theatre and Sheffield Theatres, features music, dance, puppetry, and traditional African storytelling—perfect for families looking for an uplifting experience!
Odd and the Frost Giants – This Christmas, join Odd on an epic adventure as he teams up with Norse Gods Odin, Loki, and Thor to defeat Frost Giants and save the world from eternal winter. Full of magic, humour, and heart, this world premiere adaptation is a festive tale about unlikely friendships and hidden courage.
Huddle – a heartwarming tale about a penguin family set against the icy backdrop of the Antarctic.
Follow the adventures of a baby penguin and its father as they navigate the challenges of their environment and learn about the strength of family bonds. This visually stunning and tender performance is ideal for children aged 2-5, making it a perfect introduction to theatre for little ones. Running from July 3 to September 1, 2024, “Huddle” is sure to leave audiences both young and old feeling warm inside.
Performances take place at two venues – Little Angel Theatre and Little Angel Studios. So make sure you check which venue your production is being shown. Currently on and showing up to and over Christmas are:
Dogs Don’t Do Ballet – Biff is not like ordinary dogs. He likes moonlight. And music. And walking on his tiptoes. You see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog, Biff thinks he’s a ballerina…
The sublime and the ridiculous combine in this hilarious story of a small dog with a big personality and even bigger dreams, brought to life using beautiful puppets, well-loved ballet music and dazzling theatrical comedy.
The Mystery of Little Angel Theatre – From the award-winning creators of ‘I Believe in Unicorns’ comes this new brain-teasing interactive adventure. Combining live board game elements with a thrilling evidence hunt, you’ll become a detective faced with intriguing suspects, curious objects and a detailed theatre map. Can we crack this case together?
Navigate through secrets and surprises, watch camera footage and uncover hidden clues, every riddle bringing us closer to the truth.
Rosie Robin and the Christmas Post -Welcome to the post office! It’s the busiest time of the year! The letters and parcels are piling up high and Rosie Robin is working hard delivering the Christmas Post. But when a snowstorm sweeps through Clover Leaf Wood, the animals must come together to make sure all the mail arrives on time.
Blending puppetry, physical performance and song, this gentle, magical, heart-warming show tells the story of one tiny Robin determined that no one is forgotten this Christmas.
The Singing Mermaid – One day, the singing mermaid is tempted away from all of her sea creature friends and her peaceful home at Silversands to join a travelling circus. The audiences love to hear her sing, but the poor mermaid was tricked!
Will she ever escape? And who will help her along the way?
The intimate setting of the Puppet Theatre Barge provides a unique and captivating theatre experience that young audiences will love and remember for a long time after they leave. Currently showing up to January:
The Town Mouse and The Country Mouse – this delightful retelling of the classic Aesop’s fable contrasts the lifestyles of two mouse cousins and explores themes of adventure, safety, and the comforts of home. The blend of storytelling, music and puppetry, is perfect for small kids.
Suitcase Circus – Meet Wobulous Discombobulous, an anarchic sock as he introduces a lineup which includes; Madame Teapot, the ‘stainless steel diva’, Timrek the Fantastical (Who will swallow pretty much anything!) and the infamously and the hilariously geriatric Frau Brothers.
Anansi & The Lost Sun – Swallow’s Wings Puppetry is a London-based grassroots puppet company that aims to empower children with a love and reverence for African-Caribbean culture and history.
Captain Sandy and The Sea Monster – Join Captain Sandy on her adventure to try and find out what happened to all the fish that have mysteriously disappeared Expect stormy seas, sea monsters, grumpy fishermen and seaweed cake, this is a fun-filled musical adventure on the high seas for all the family!
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Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this new musical tells the story of a kind giant who gives away his clothes to help those in need.
Packed with catchy songs, lovable characters, creative puppetry and colourful setsuniversal message about kindness should leave you and your kids feeling both entertained and uplifted. A nice little alternative to a Christmas pantomime…
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
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.
“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!
It’s a 10/10 from Tiggy and Wren
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!
Click here or the image below for our unbeatable guide to the best theatre for Older Kids and Teens….
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
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