Whether your child dreams of treading the boards themselves or simply loves getting lost in theatrical storytelling, London offers something for all theatre-loving children and adults alike. In this guide, we explore things to do in London with kids who love theatre. These experiences will deepen your child’s appreciation for the magic that makes London the world’s theatre capital.
See a show in London
London’s theatre scene offers families an extraordinary range of live performances, from world-famous West End musicals to intimate puppet shows designed specifically for young audiences. The city’s theatrical heritage spans centuries, and today’s venues continue this tradition with productions that captivate children and adults alike.
West End shows
The West End remains the heart of London’s theatre world, with grand venues hosting spectacular musicals perfect for family outings. These productions combine professional storytelling with stunning visuals. The best seats do come at premium prices though, so they can be an expensive outing for families.
Shows on the West End do change on a semi-regular basis, but many of them run for a long time, in many cases, years. Some of the most popular West End shows that are suitable for children include The Lion King, Matilda the Musical and Wicked.
These West End shows typically run for around 2.5 hours including interval and so they are most suitable for children who are old enough to focus on the performance throughout the duration. Evening performances usually begin at 7:30pm, with matinee shows at 2:30pm on weekends (and sometimes on certain weekdays).
Other shows
London’s theatre scene is far broader than just the West End. If you have older children or teenagers, there is a whole range of world class theatres and shows available in London for you to explore. Consider long-running productions like The Mousetrap or The Play That Goes Wrong.
If you are looking for a show that is particularly geared towards younger children, London has a thriving theatre scene that produces work specifically designed for young audiences, with shorter running times and interactive elements that keep little ones engaged throughout the performance. Children’s theatre typically runs for 60-90 minutes without interval. Many venues offer pre-show activities where families can meet characters or participate in craft workshops related to the production.
See our post The best theatres in London for children’s shows for more information on theatres that put on excellent shows aimed at younger children.
Shows at unique venues
London’s theatre scene extends far beyond traditional playhouses, with alternative venues offering unique experiences that challenge conventional ideas about performance.
Consider attending a Shakespeare play at the Globe if you have older children. The reconstructed Globe Theatre on Bankside offers families an authentic Elizabethan theatre experience. This open-air venue recreates the conditions where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed, complete with standing groundlings and wooden galleries. Winter performances move to the indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, lit entirely by candles. This creates a magical atmosphere that transports families back to Jacobean England.
If you are visiting in summer, consider a play at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre which presents musicals and plays in a beautiful garden setting. The natural amphitheatre surrounds audiences with trees and flowerbeds, creating an enchanting backdrop for performances. Alternatively, check out performances at The Scoop in Southwark or seasonal arts programmes across London, including in places like Canary Wharf.
Go behind the scenes
The magic of theatre extends far beyond what audiences see from their seats. London’s theatres open their doors to families who want to discover how the spectacular performances come together. These behind-the-scenes experiences reveal the creativity, craftsmanship, and teamwork that create theatrical magic.
For children that love theatre, a look behind the scenes can be an exciting glimpse into the work that goes into the on-stage magic. Luckily, there are lots of options for tours that take families into spaces usually reserved for performers and crew.
The National Theatre offers backstage tours that showcase one of the world’s most advanced theatre complexes. As a working theatre, each Guided Tour is a unique experience and varies according to what is available on the day. Tours are generally recommended for ages 12+ (7-11 for Family Tours).
While tours are ticketed and paid, you can get a free glimpse behind the scenes via the Sherling Backstage Walkway. Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, 12-6pm only, this offers visitors views into the busy production workshops for set construction and assembly, scenic painting and prop-making.
The Royal Opera House also offers tours and these are open to children over the age of five. These tours offer the chance to see areas that are normally off-limits to the public, including rehearsal studios, costumes and production workshops.
The Globe Theatre offers several engaging behind-the-scenes experiences perfect for families with children. Their guided tours provide fascinating insights into Shakespearean theatre and the reconstruction of this iconic venue, taking visitors through the exhibition space and onto the famous stage itself.
Do a musical theatre walking tour
If your child is a musical theatre fan, then why not try a unique way to explore the West End with a Silent Disco walking tour?
Armed with wireless headphones, participants can groove to tunes from famous musicals as you walk through iconic Theatreland streets including Shaftesbury Avenue, Leicester Square, and Drury Lane. The silent disco format means only tour participants can hear the music, allowing you to enjoy yourself without disturbing other pedestrians.
Your enthusiastic guide provides commentary and behind-the-scenes stories about the venues you pass, creating an immersive experience that brings the West End’s rich history to life.
Suitable for 6 years plus, but probably best enjoyed by older musical theatre enthusiasts, this is an experience you won’t forget.
Explore the collections at the V&A
The V&A’s Theatre and Performance galleries offer a look at British stage history showcasing everything from Punch and Judy puppets to modern musical theatre, helping children understand how performance has evolved over time. You’ll find costumes from beloved productions like The Lion King and Wicked alongside historical pieces from the Globe Theatre.
At the V&A East Storehouse in Stratford, you could take part in their Order an Object experience. You can book in advance to see any object on-site up close, and experienced handling staff will be on hand to help you. Delve into their archives and if there is something you want to have a look at!
Dine at The Room Where It Happens
The Room Where It Happens offers a unique musical theatre experience that works brilliantly for families with older teenagers who love show tunes. This lively piano bar in Soho combines dining with live entertainment, where professional singing waiters perform classic and modern musical theatre numbers throughout the evening. Located in Soho, the venue sits within easy walking distance of Leicester Square and the West End theatres.
Between 17.00 and 21.00, families with children aged 15 or above can enjoy dinner whilst singing waiters perform beloved show tunes in a more intimate setting. After 21.00, it’s adults only. Pre-booking is required.
Take part in a workshop
For a hands-on experience, look out for workshops that all you the chance to get involved. For example, the Globe runs interactive workshops throughout the year where children can try their hand at Elizabethan performance techniques, stage combat, and even acting. These workshops are designed to bring Shakespeare’s world to life in an accessible way. They run special sessions aimed at those studying plays at GCSE level.
For musical theatre fans, Pineapple Dance Studios runs kids workshops at half-term, Easter, summer, and Christmas holidays, many of which are musical theatre-themed.
Look out for temporary exhibitions and pop-ups
Keep your eyes peeled for temporary exhibitions, pop-ups and displays that celebrate London’s theatrical heritage. Past examples have included Lion King costume displays at the Outernet, a Six-themed tour at the V&A, and backstage tours of historic venues during heritage weekends. Many of these temporary offerings provide behind-the-scenes access that regular theatre visits cannot match.
Are you the parent of a budding thespian? Do you have a recommendation of theatre-related things to do in London that we haven’t mentioned here? Share your experiences in the comments!
