The Best West End Shows For Children

We’ve complied a list of The Best West End Shows For Children over this summer period. We have organised this list in age order so you can see which is best for your children this summer. There are even a few West End Shows this year which are specifically for young children and families so is a great introduction for your little ones to experience the magic of live theatre, especially if they’re too young for some of the bigger shows.

Things to consider when taking your children to their first West End show

All major West End Theatres have age restrictions and recommendations. Even if your little one meets the lowest age restriction they must be able to sit in their own seat without assistance. Its always good to check the age limits before booking a show. Every person attending a West End Show must have their own ticket. Some of the West End shows which are specifically for young families may be an exception to this rule though so this is where booking one of the lesser known shows can be a game changer when considering the best West End Shows for children.

It is also advisable to check the running time before booking. Most West End shows run for 2 and a half hours including an interval. Therefore, even if your child meets the minimum age limit, if you think they might struggle to sit in one spot and focus for that amount of time, maybe hold off or look for a show specifically made for children and young families.

The Best West End Shows For Children 0-5

Cocomelon Sing-along
St Martin’s Theatre

Key Information:
All ages welcome.
Children under 12 months do not require a ticket.
Running Time : 1 hour and 15 minutes without an interval.

Cocomelon Sing-Along is performing at the St Martin’s Theatre which is also the home of London’s Longest running play, The Mousetrap. Cocomelon started Youtube Children’s Show before landing a Netflix deal. The channel is the 2nd most watched channel on Youtube with more than 4 billion monthly views online. You can now take your family to see their favourite characters on stage. CoComelon Sing-A-Long Live will feature some of your little one’s favourite hits such as Animal Dance, If You’re Happy and You Know It and Wheels on the Bus.

Not only is this West End show purpose made for Children and young audiences but if your child if under 12 months old, they can go for free! The venue may request proof of age on the door.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Theatre Royal Haymarket

Key Information:
Age Recommendation 3+
Babes in arms allowed.
Children under 18 months do not need a ticket*.
Running Time : 55 minutes without an interval.

This short and sweet play is based on Britain’s best-loved picture book by Judith Kerr. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem.

Another great thing about this production is that children under 18 months go free as long as they sit on an adults lap. It is another short and sweet show with morning and afternoon performances.

The Smeds and The Smoos
The Lyric Theatre

Key Information:
Age Recommendation 3+
Running Time : 60 minutes without an interval.

Take your children soaring into space with this West End Show. The exciting Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler – also seen in the BBC TV animation on Christmas Day.

It is a joyful tale of star-crossed aliens. On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?

Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged 3 and up. This purpose made childrens show is sure to bring magic to your family this summer.

The Best West End Shows For Children Aged 6+

Disney’s Hercules
Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Key Information:
Age Recommendation 6+
No admittance for children under 4.
Every patron needs their own ticket.
Running Time : 2 hours and 10 minutes including an interval.

Bless my soul, Herc is on a role this year at The Theatre Royal Drury Lane! The highly anticipated musical opened just in time for summer. Although this West End show isn’t specifically written for children, it has a lower age restriction than most West End shows. It is based on the classic Disney animation about Greek demi-god Hercules on his journey from Zero to Hero.

Disney musicals are a great way for your child to experience theatre for the first time, especially as they’re likely already familiar with the story. Although it has a longer running time, it is the shortest of the full length West End musicals so a good option if you want to take them to a full length musical.

The Lion King
The Lyceum Theatre

Key Information:
Age Recommendation 6+
No admittance for children under 3.
Every patron needs their own ticket.
Running Time : 2 hours and 30 minutes including an interval.

This classic musical has been many families first West End show for 26 years. It is another Disney musical adaptation of the classic animation of the same name. It follows Lion cub Simba on his journey to recover his rightful place on the throne from his evil uncle Scar.

The beautiful puppetry which brings the animals to life are sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Matilda
The Cambridge Theatre

Key Information:
Age Recommendation 6+
No admittance for children under 4.
Every patron needs their own ticket.
Running Time : 2 hours and 40 minutes including an interval.

Lastly, Matilda is our final recommendation for a family. This West End show resonates with children and adults alike! It is based on Roald Dhals beloved book about Matilda. She is a girl with and extraoridinary mind and even telekenetic powers! We follow her journey into a new school as she overcomes adversity and sticks up for herself and her fellow classmates.

This musical adaptation was so popular that it was even turned into a film. Comedian Tim Minch wrote the popular and catchy music for this show. The cast is made up of talented children and adults so is inspiring for young audiences.

How to book the best prices for these shows:

Many of these shows will be extremely popular over the summer period so we advise you to book ahead of time where possible!

You can check out our discount page for the best theatre deals we currently have or alternatively come see us in Leicester Square and we’ll help you secure great seats.