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.
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?
And…….it’s Panto season. Check out our guide here for details of where to catch the best festive performances over Christmas.
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…
Christmas Comes to Moominvalley brings Tove Jansson’s The Fir Tree to life in a heartwarming, whimsical production at Jacksons Lane. When the Moomins—freshly woken from their winter sleep—hear that “Christmas” is coming, they’re utterly baffled. Is it a person? A monster? And what’s with all the strange traditions like decorating trees and giving gifts?
This enchanting show combines breathtaking circus, stunning puppetry, and magical storytelling to explore the true meaning of Christmas through the puzzled, lovable Moomintroll and his family. With plenty of fun and thoughtful moments, it’s the perfect festive treat for ages 3 to 103.
We sent K-Raters Wren and Tiggy who loved it and gave it 10/10. Their Mum said – It was a really relaxed theatre experience versus going into town, with a really nice bar (with plenty of snacks!).
Tiggy and Wren both gave it a 10/10. Tiggy said it made her feel really Christmassy. And as you can see, Wren took her own copy of the book with her…
Wren and Tiggy loved the show
“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.
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.
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!
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.
There’s a real buzz around this production. There are some big granny boots to fill because Robin Williams was such a legend in the film but word of mouth says this will be a hit.
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!
KidRated sent Mary (12) and Maggie (8) to review it for us with Mum Jacqui…
Mary: When we first got there, I thought, hmmm, this is a bit babyish because I was the oldest kid in the room. But it was fun! I liked the 3 actors doing their quick changes and how they imitated teenagers with their phones and screens. They were really funny. Cinderella was actually quite cool because she wasn’t addicted and liked being more active. I’d have enjoyed it more if I was younger, but I still liked it. 7/10.
Maggie: I really enjoyed this. The costumes were lovely and colourful. It wasn’t too long to keep sitting still, like some shows which go on forever. The actors were funny and it was cool that it wasn’t the old fashioned story. And we could sit really close to them. 10/ 10.
Jacqui’s Parent Point of View: This is a very sweet contemporary twist on the classic story in a lovely relaxed atmosphere. Just 3 actors doing LOTS of switching characters is incredibly impressive and clever. Their energy and humour was fabulous. A great option of a range of ages because the humour and tone suits older kids too! Quite a feat to pull that off, so well done.
Mary & Maggie KidRated The Glass Slippers
TOUR DATES
1 Dec Chedworth Village Hall
chedworthvillagehall.co.uk | 0128 534 3017
7 – 24 Dec Lighthouse, Poole
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk | 0844 406 8666
Click here or the image below for our unbeatable guide to the best theatre for Older Kids and Teens….
Our handy guide to Camden
Kids who need a little extra help
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
