Best London Theatre Shows For Kids

• Location: Savoy Theatre, Strand, Covent Garden, WC2R 0ET
• Price: from £55 per person
• Age restrictions: six and up, but will welcome four and five-year-olds
• Why we recommend: the charm of the cleverly executed bear is enough to warm anyone's heart, and there's a sense of uplifting nostalgia to this fabulous tale 

When it comes to kids' theatre shows, London is home to a healthy handful, and none come cuter and fuzzier than Paddington The Musical. Get lost in the delightful world of one of Britain's most beloved characters at the Savoy Theatre, where the classic bear's adventures come to life.

Packed with toe-tapping songs, dazzling dance numbers and, of course, a generous helping of marmalade sandwiches, this new production takes Michael Bond's treasured stories - and the award-winning films - and turns them into a bright, family-friendly musical. Directed by multi-award-winning Luke Sheppard, with original music and lyrics by McFly's Tom Fletcher and a book by Olivier Award-winner Jessica Swale, it's a creative dream team that delivers a show with real sparkle.

• Location: Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly Circus, W1D 7ES
• Price: from £10 per person
• Age restrictions: three and up
• Why we recommend: perfect for children aged three and up and their grown-ups, this much-loved show has toured Britain and the world, proving time and again that a little imagination (and a lot of courage) can go a very long way

At the Lyric Theatre, you'll travel into the deep, dark wood and join Mouse on a daring adventure in Tall Stories' magical musical adaptation of The Gruffalo, the beloved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler that's been delighting families for 25 years.

As Mouse searches for hazelnuts, he encounters a cunning Fox, an eccentric Owl and a high-spirited Snake, each one hungrier than the last, and he must use all his wit to stay one step ahead. But Mouse has a secret weapon: the terrifying Gruffalo… or so he says. 

• Location: Novello Theatre, Aldwych, Covent Garden, WC2B 4LD
• Price: from £28 per person
• Age restrictions: five and up
• Why we recommend: it's hard not to fall in love with this musical as it takes the whole family from the streets of London to a glorious Greek island where mischief and ABBA hits await 

MAMMA MIA! is the ultimate feel-good musical for all. Set on a dreamy Greek island, this joyful show tells a heartwarming story of love, friendship and family, all powered by the timeless hits of ABBA. With its bright energy, big laughs and endlessly catchy songs, it's a perfect introduction to musical theatre for older kids and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parents too.

On the eve of her wedding, Sophie sets out to uncover the identity of the father she's never met, inviting three men from her mum Donna's romantic past to the island, with hilarious and heartfelt consequences. Will she find out who he is in time before she says I do? 

• Location: Gielgud Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly Circus, W1V 8AR
• Price: from £30 per person
• Age restrictions: seven and up
• Why we recommend: we think that this timeless Dickens story is a brilliant show for younger theatre fans, and the catchy songs will become commonplace in the household

You'll find Oliver! in the West End, bringing Lionel Bart's iconic musical, and Charles Dickens' much-loved story, to life in a production from Cameron Mackintosh. This classic tale of courage, kindness and survival follows young Oliver Twist as he navigates the streets of Victorian London, from the workhouse to the criminal underworld.

Featuring some of the most beloved songs in theatre history, including 'Food, Glorious Food', 'Consider Yourself', 'You've Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two', 'Oom Pah Pah' and the heart-wrenching 'As Long As He Needs Me', Oliver! remains as entertaining as ever. 

• Location: Lyceum Theatre, 22 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7RQ
• Price: from £39 per person
• Age restrictions: six and up 
• Why we recommend: with unforgettable songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, plus an Oscar-winning score from Hans Zimmer, The Lion King London is a must-see for families and theatre lovers alike

Children's theatre? London is fortunate enough to be home to Disney's The Lion King, which has been a West End landmark since 1997. This multi-award-winning musical has redefined family shows with its breathtaking puppetry, jaw-dropping special effects and a soundtrack that has become part of the cultural fabric.

Directed by Julie Taymor, the stage adaptation transforms the beloved film into a spectacular live experience, filled with glorious colour, powerful choreography and over 232 puppets that bring the savannah to life in a way you have to see to believe.

• Location: Empress Museum, Earls Court, SW6 1TT
• Price: from £59 per person
• Age restrictions: five and up 
• Why we recommend: we think that this show is perfect for families with kids who love music, movement and big visual moments

Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular is a dazzling, family experience that brings the magic of The Greatest Showman to life under the Big Top at London's Earls Court. This theatrical adventure begins an hour before curtain-up, with an immersive pre-show experience where families can explore a colourful circus world, enjoy close-up performances, meet curious characters and grab food and drinks before taking their seats. From the moment you arrive, you're part of the spectacle.

Once inside the Big Top, expect jaw-dropping circus acts from world-class performers, including stars from Cirque du Soleil and Cirque de Demain, combined with West End musical theatre talent and all the hit songs by Pasek and Paul.