Discover the best theatre London has to offer with
our hand-picked guide. Whether you're looking for a feel-good
musical for the family, a tongue-in-cheek
production or a pulse-raising, tear-jerker of a play, you
just know that there's something for you in
London. With an excellence for live theatre that is envied across
the world, we've narrowed down a selection of our favourite West
End shows for you to book now.
Where: The Bloomsbury Ballroom, Bloomsbury Square, London WC1B 4DA
Fancy hitting up some of the best theatre in London? Known for its luxurious atmosphere and world-class talent, this spot offers an immersive journey through global cultures with stunning choreography, intricate costumes, and awe-inspiring performances.
Currently playing at The London Cabaret Club, and for those craving a vibrant, festive atmosphere, the Copacabana experience will transport you to the heart of Rio with sensational samba dancers, tropical cocktails, and an unforgettable carnival celebration.
Where: a secret Central London spot (revealed the week before the show)
Ever got an urge to stand up and join in when watching your favourite musical? Well now you can with the West End Musical Brunch. This one-of-a-kind event invites you to step into the spotlight alongside the stars of London's iconic West End, and features live performances from the biggest names, including past stars of Wicked, Les Miserables, Hamilton, and more.
But here's the twist - the audience is part of the show. After an hour of bottomless cocktails and soft drinks, you'll be belting out Defying Gravity, singing Fame at the top of your lungs, and dancing to Grease Lightning, all while enjoying a delicious two-course meal. It's your chance to become part of the magic and immerse yourself in the world of musical theatre.
Nestled next to Regent's Canal in Islington is the characterful Rosemary Branch Theatre, an award-winning pub that's just waiting for your visit. From comedies to plays and improv, this artsy spot has a little something for everyone to be dazzled by.
Bring your friends along, nurse a cold pint and catch some of the best up-and-coming comics as they try out their new material, or watch independent shows that creatively tackle interesting themes and get your mind spinning hours after it's over. What's more, for some of the best theatre plays in London, tickets are super affordable, typically starting from around £8 per person.
Where: Old Vic Theatre, The Cut, Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8NB
London's ultimate Christmas tradition is back. Matthew Warchus' heartwarming production of A Christmas Carol, adapted by Jack Thorne, fills The Old Vic with music, mince pies, and merry chaos.
Paul Hilton stars as Scrooge, taking you on a rollercoaster of ghostly visits, laughter, and festive magic. Grab your tickets early - this iconic show always sells out.
He's Behind You! are back with their award-winning adult pantomime, turning the 18th greatest love story into pure chaos and comedy, AKA Beauty And The Beast - A Horny Love Story.
Step into the frostbitten Scottish village of Lickmanochers, where mummy's boy Bertie finds himself trapped in a castle ruled by a lustrous, body-haired aristocrat. Snow may fall, but the tension - and hilarity - heats up fast.
Where: His Majesty's Theatre, Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4QL
Often considered to be one of the most amazing productions in history, Phantom of the Opera is Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterpiece. You can see it at His Majesty's Theatre for as little as £37 per person, starring Dean Chisnall as The Phantom, Lily Kerhoas as Christine Daaé and Joe Griffiths-Brown as Raoul.
This performance has been seen by over 160 million people all over the world, in 21 different languages. Expect a stunning show, featuring songs like Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and more.
Where: St Martin's Theatre, West Street, London, WC2H 9NZ
See Christmas in with a show from the Oliver Award-winning Little Bulb theatre company. Expect a fun-filled magical quest in their retelling of The Nutcracker - without a tutu in sight.
You'll laugh out loud and tap your toe to festive tunes as the many-headed Mouse King tries in vain to spoil Christmas. Get your tickets to this spectacular show at St. Martin's Theatre from just £16.
Get ready to rev up your time machine and journey to the past with Back to the Future: The Musical at the Adelphi Theatre. This time-travelling stage sensation brings the iconic 1985 film to life, with Marty McFly, the ultimate rock 'n' roll teen, accidentally zipping back to 1955 in Doc Brown's legendary DeLorean. Now, Marty's got a heavy task ahead of him - making sure his young parents fall in love to avoid erasing his existence from the future.
Packed with all the nostalgic characters and epic moments you know and love, including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode, this musical is a timeless adventure. With a mix of magic, laughs, and heart-pounding excitement, it's a show that'll have you wishing you could hop in the DeLorean and experience it all over again. Afterwards, you can even enjoy a themed afternoon tea at the Cumberland Hotel.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF
Jo: The Little Women Musical in Concert brings Louisa May Alcott's stone-cold classic to life for one night only at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Starring Tobias Turley, winner of ITV's MAMMA MIA! I Have a Dream, it's a spellbinding celebration of courage, ambition and sisterhood.
With a star-studded cast, timeless score and immersive set, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to the American Civil War. Get your tickets to this spectacular one-off event from just £33.
SIX: The Singalong is louder than ever, giving fans the chance to sing their hearts out with the queens themselves at the Vaudeville Theatre. With tickets starting at £42, it's a rare chance to be part of the show, not just watch it.
Expect glitter, girl power, and a crowd that knows every word - this is history rewritten as a pop concert.
Where: Bridge Theatre, 3 Potters Fields Park, London, SE1 2SG
From £43, step into the immersive world of Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre, where beloved fairy tale characters collide in a story of wishes, magic, and consequences. Follow the Baker and his Wife on a desperate quest to break a wicked curse, meeting Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and Rapunzel along the way.
With Stephen Sondheim's iconic score and James Lapine's Tony Award-winning book, this production blurs the line between audience and performer, creating a thrilling, unforgettable evening in the round.
Titanique: The Musical is a unique take on the classic story, putting a hilariously camp twist on it. This tells the story of Celine Dion hijacking a Titanic museum tour to tell her own version of events, promising plenty of jokes, powerful vocals and 90s throwbacks. Catch this fantastic performance at Criterion Theatre, packed full of huge laughs and even bigger hits.
Take a chance on a night full of sunshine and ABBA hits with Mamma Mia! - the world's most fabulous musical. Set on a dreamy Greek island, this feel-good extravaganza brings together love, laughter, and a whole lot of Dancing Queen energy, all set to ABBA's timeless tunes.
Join Sophie as she embarks on a quest to find her father, throwing her mom Donna's past into the mix, just days before Sophie's wedding. The result? A delightful Mama Mia moment of love, confusion, and reunion that'll have you super trooping your way through a show packed with hilarious twists, heartfelt moments, and of course, dancing in the aisles.
Where: Emerald Theatre, 8, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2R 2AB
Snow White has made her way to the West End - and you've never seen her quite like this. The creators of The Diana Mixtape, Cool Rider and Gals Aloud are serving up an adults only panto that's rude, crude, star-studded and side-splittingly funny.
Expect comedic chaos and plenty of glitter as the fairest lass in the land outwits the Wicked Queen with a little help from her ragtag bunch of mates. Grab your tickets to London's only all-drag pantomime at the Emerald Theatre from just £19.
Head to Kiln Theatre in Kilburn to catch the fantastic Coven, a captivating play that's all about witchcraft. The story is set in Lancashire in 1612, following the tale of Jennet Device, who accused her family of being witches at just nine years old.
Jennet is then locked up herself twenty years later, and must confront her own past. Created by Olivier Award-winning director Miranda Cromwell and Grammy Award-winning composer Daisy Chute, this is bound to be something truly special.
The sine-tingling Agatha Christie drama, Witness for the Prosecution is a courtroom drama that follows the tale of Leonard Vole - accused of murdering a wealthy widow. This is being performed at London County Hall in Waterloo, with tickets starting from as little as £16 per person. Get ready for some jaw-dropping scenes, in this nail-biting story of justice and secrets.
Based on Roald Dahl's classic tale, Matilda: The Musical is guaranteed to put a smile on your face as one of the best theatre shows in London for families. Created by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this brilliant show follows the story of a young girl who is misunderstood by her parents but is finally recognised as a genius when she starts school.
Since its debut in 2010, this musical has won over 100 international awards. With terrifying teachers, revolting children, and a touch of magic, Matilda: The Musical is a riotous celebration of imagination and resilience and you'll find this performance at Cambridge Theatre, with tickets beginning at £25 per person.
Utterly enthralling, compelling, brilliant, enchanting, a masterpiece - the critics are running out of wonderful words to say about Matthew Bourne's The Red Shoes. Once you've seen this multi-award-winning ballet based on the classic Hans Christian Anderson tale, you'll soon see why.
A story of obsession and possession, it follows the highly ambitious Victoria as she navigates life, life and loss on her quest to become the world's greatest dancer. Will she succeed? Get your tickets from just £44 to find out.
Step into the world of The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre and be transported to the heart of Africa with a dazzling stage production inspired by the beloved Disney film.
Running in London for 22 years, this award-winning musical features evocative African rhythms and stunning choreography, alongside spectacular special effects and masterful puppetry. Follow Simba's transformation and destiny in a show that combines heart, humour, and breathtaking artistry, making it a must-see for families and theatre lovers alike.
Where: Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Kingsway, WC2A 2HT
Back for its 28th year, The Snowman is the ultimate festive tradition for families in London. This magical stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs' beloved picture book and the iconic animated film brings the heartwarming tale of a boy and his snowman to life, set to Howard Blake's enchanting score - including the unforgettable 'Walking in the Air'. With live music, dazzling choreography, and whimsical costumes, this wintery adventure is pure theatrical magic.
Audiences young and old will be swept away as the snowman and the boy soar through the night sky, encounter a flurry of snowmen from around the world, and even meet a dancing pineapple. Running at the Peacock Theatre, this snowy spectacle is filled with laughter, wonder, and just the right amount of Christmas sparkle.
Where: Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, Fulton Road, London, HA9 8TS
Get ready for a thrill ride at the Starlight Express, held at the Starlight Auditorium in the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. This electrifying musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber spins a high-speed tale of Rusty, a once-reliable steam engine determined to leave his outdated ways behind and race his way to victory, both on the track and in winning the heart of the sleek Pearl.
Set entirely on roller skates, the show is a dazzling spectacle of rapid choreography, bold set designs, and a heart-pounding race to claim the title of Fastest Engine in the World. As Rusty faces off against rivals like Greaseball, the arrogant diesel, and Electra, the flashy new electric engine, he must overcome every obstacle and prove that being a true champion is about more than just speed.
Hadestown is a Broadway sensation that has won hearts worldwide. Created by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and directed by Rachel Chavkin, this award-winning musical is a must-see at the Lyric Theatre.
With 8 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, and a Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theatre Album, Hadestown invites you on a spellbinding journey to the underworld and beyond. Through two intertwined love stories - one of Orpheus and Eurydice, full of passion and tragedy, and another between the powerful King Hades and his wife Persephone - the production explores themes of love, sacrifice, and fate in a mesmerising performance you won't forget.
Possibly the most famous ballet of all time, Nutcracker is combing back to the London Coliseum this December. This magical production is set in Edwardian London on Christmas Eve, telling the story of Clara and the magical doll that she discovers.
Lose yourself in a world of wonder, complete with enchanting music and dance. Plus you can secure tickets from as little as £22 per person.
Where: Prince Edward Theatre, Old Compton Street, London, W1D 4HS
Beetlejuice is trading the underworld for the West End stage at the Prince Edward Theatre this May. Packed with jaw-dropping effects, a killer score and bags full of fun, it puts all the magic of the Tim Burton classic right before your eyes.
Expect comedy, chaos and a loudmouthed demon who just won't stay buried. Tickets to the gloriously gothic show start from just £25.
Looking for a feel-good show that's bound to blow you away? Then check out Dirty Dancing, being shown at Capital Theatre in Shepherd's Bush. This follows the story of the hit film, featuring fantastic dance numbers and songs like “Hungry Eyes” and “(I've Had) The Time of My Life”.
For the first time ever, a John le Carré novel is making the leap from page to stage - and it's his most iconic: The Spy Who Came In From The Cold. Following a sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre, this gripping Cold War thriller makes its West End premiere this autumn.
Set in shadowy, divided Berlin, the story follows British intelligence officer Alec Leamas on a final, perilous mission that tests the boundaries of loyalty, truth, and emotional vulnerability. With razor-sharp dialogue and a suspenseful, morally complex narrative, this theatrical debut brings one of the world's most celebrated spy novels to life. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Jeremy Herrin and adapted by David Eldridge, this is a must-see for lovers of espionage, theatre, and timeless storytelling.
Son of a nutcracker – Elf The Musical is back in London. After a record-breaking Broadway run, the smash-hit festive show returns to the West End's Aldwych Theatre for ten weeks only, from the 28th of October to the 4th of January 2026.
Packed with laughs, heart and toe-tapping tunes, this stage adaptation of the much-loved Christmas film tells the story of Buddy, the human raised by elves who sets off to New York to find his real dad, and ends up saving Christmas along the way. With unforgettable songs, dazzling sets and plenty of feel-good moments, Elf The Musical is the ultimate seasonal treat for the whole family.
After a critically acclaimed, five-star run in Stratford-upon-Avon, this magnificently moving retelling of Twelfth Night arrives at the Barbican for six weeks only.
From award-winning director, Prasanna Puwanarajah, the legendary tale of love, grief and entanglement gets an update with original songs and music. Grab a ticket from just £31, whether you're a Shakespeare buff or don't know your Hamlet from your Much Ado.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF
Head to Theatre Royal Drury Lane to catch Hercules, the fantastic musical adaptation of Disney's classic film. Written by Tony winners Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah and featuring new songs from Alan Menken and David Zippel, this is a truly brilliant performance.
Join Hercules as he battles monsters, defies the gods, and discovers what it truly means to be a hero. Following acclaimed runs in the U.S. and Germany, this larger-than-life show is ready to go the distance in London, with tickets starting from just £31 each.
Where: Rose Theatre Kingston, 24-26 High Street, Kingston, KT1 1HL
At the Rose Theatre Kingston, Cinderella gets a fresh, funny, and deeply touching makeover. You'll follow Ella as she navigates an unforgettable Christmas, from coping with the world's most chaotic stepsisters to being whisked away to a ball fit for a fairytale.
But is every prince as charming as he seems? Written by Chris Bush and Roni Neale, with music by Matt Winkworth, this production is brimming with joy, humour, and festive sparkle - and from £19, it's your ticket to a truly magical evening.
Downton Abbey and Paddington star, Hugh Bonneville, is back to bring his critically acclaimed performance in Shadowlands to the West End. The historic stage of the Aldwych Theatre is transported to 1950s Oxford for a journey through the life and loves of legendary author C. S. Lewis.
Wall-to-wall rave reviews and a limited run mean tickets may soon be hard to come by. Snap yours up from just £37.
One of the best-known plays of all time, Othello is being performed at Theatre Royal Haymarket near Charing Cross. The Shakespeare classic tells the story of war, love and betrayal, promising to be an unforgettable show.
This production stars David Harewood (Homeland, Best of Enemies), Toby Jones (Mr Bates vs the Post Office, Detectorists) and Caitlin FitzGerald (Succession, Masters of Sex) - and it costs as little as £31 per person.
Brought to you by the team behind Jailhouse Rock, the Elvis Years is a popular show that tells the story of an iconic musician. This production has toured all over the world, and for one night only you can see it at the Dominion Theatre this December. Expect to hear all of Elvis' biggest hits, with plenty of costume changes thrown in along the way.
A vibrant performance that is set to dazzle the audience, Kinky Boots is coming to the London Coliseum in 2026. This story features a struggling shoe factory in Northampton, and a bold idea on how to save business.
Expect lots of dazzling routines and plenty of laughs, with a score by Cyndi Lauper. Starring Johannes Radebe as Lola, this is set to be spectacular.
A fantastic panto that promises lots of laughs and fantasy, Jack and the Beanstalk is being performed at King's Head Theatre in Angel. This reimagining of the tale promises silly scenarios and battling giants, with a talented cast bringing this classic story to life. Plus, tickets start from just £13 per person.
You are cordially invited… to the most disastrous wedding London has ever seen. Forget polite champagne toasts and delicate finger food, Till Death Us Do Party is an unholy mash-up of immersive theatre, jaw-dropping circus acts, and full-throttle wedding drama that puts EastEnders' Christmas specials to shame.
From fire-eaters and knife throwers to drunken speeches, family feuds and the kind of bridesmaid confession you'll never scrub from memory, this riotous night out promises belly laughs and utter chaos in equal measure.
Where: Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Kingsway, WC2A 2HT
I'm Every Woman tells the untold story of Chaka Khan, the fierce, fearless force behind some of the most iconic tracks in music history. From funk and soul to pop and activism, Chaka's voice has echoed across generations - and now her story does too.
Expect high-energy choreography by Jade Hackett, emotional depth, and a soundtrack that will have you dancing in your seat. This is a tribute not just to the music, but to the resilience, heart, and power of a woman who changed the game.
Pinocchio is one of the most classic tales of all times, and it has been reimagined by acclaimed writer Charlie Josephine (I, Joan) and composer Jim Fortune (Mr Gum and the Dancing Bear). This winter, catch the magical performances at Shakespeare's Globe.
In this heartfelt and hilarious show, you'll follow Gepetto and Pinocchio on their adventures - meeting lots of quirky characters along the way. Plus, tickets start from just £7 each.
Where: Shakespeare's Globe, New Globe Walk, London, SE1 9DT
Step into a world of childhood magic this festive season with Pinocchio at the iconic Globe Theatre. This brand new musical adventure brings the journey of Gepetto and his wonderful wooden creation to life like never before.
From the award-winning mind of Charlie Josephine, it's got love, life lessons and mind-blowing puppetry to grab your attention from begining to end. Grab a ticket to join Pinocchio and friends from just £7.
Relive the iconic 80s event at Just For One Day - The Live Aid Musical, taking place at Shaftesbury Theatre throughout 2025 and early 2026. Watch the story of how music united the world unfold, directed by Luke Sheppard.
It promises hit songs by the likes of David Bowie, Madonna, Paul McCartney and many more - with tickets starting from only £25 per person.
Where: Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, London, N4 3JP
Dracapella takes the legendary story of Count Dracula and turns it into a laugh-out-loud, music-filled spectacle. With jaw-dropping acapella harmonies, clever remixes of classic hits, and a cast of eight vocal powerhouses, you'll be on the edge of your seat one minute and crying with laughter the next.
Tickets from £19 put you right in the middle of the action at The Park Theatre for a strictly limited run - so don't miss your bite at this.
Where: Ambassadors Theatre, West Street, London, WC2H 9ND
The super smash hit from the silver screen, Paranormal Activity, is spooking the stage at Ambassadors Theatre for a limited run. Get ready to leap out of your seat as all manner of ghosts and ghouls drive James and Lou to the edge of madness.
Expect jump scares, creeping dread and popcorn flying high in the air from the moment the curtain goes up. Grab your ticket from just £94 - if you dare.
A murder mystery that has captivated audiences for more than 70 years, Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap is bound to have you on the edge of your seat. This is being shown at St Martin's Theatre, with tickets starting from only £28.
The characters are snowed in at a remote country house, where seven strangers realise they may not survive the night. Everyone is a suspect, and there are plenty of secrets to be uncovered.
This winter, head to Alexandra Palace Theatre for a powerful retelling of A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens's iconic tale. Mark Gatiss' theatrical performance had a critically acclaimed run in 2023, and it's back for another season.
Follow the story of the miserable Ebeneezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve in this eerie but festive performance.
Dinner with mates? Date night drinks? Cosy roasts? Find tables in real-time, earn reward points to spend on experiences, and cut the nonsense by filtering by vibe, time and size. It's going out made easy.
