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Best Christmas theatre in London with kids
It’s not Christmas without a pantomime (oh no, it’s not!), plus you can also find some wonderful Christmas theatre in London for kids this year, whether you’re looking for traditional shows, classic ballet or new family-friendly performances. UPDATED FOR 2025
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As well as the usual West End hits, there’s always an added helping of theatrical magic to get you in the festive mood, including options for toddlers and preschoolers having their first theatre trips, as well as for older kids and teens.
It’s always worth doublechecking what ages are allowed before you book: some London theatres won’t accept children under five, even for some family-friendly shows – do be prepared to take a passport or some form of ID if your kids are five plus but look younger than their age.
2025 pantomimes in London
Sleeping Beauty – London Palladium
As ever, there are a string of celebs appearing in the 2025 London Palladium pantomime – this year, it’s Sleeping Beauty.
As well as Julian Clary and Nigel Havers, the show has a string of West End stars in the key roles. Tickets are on sale now – only for children aged 4+ (parental discretion advised). Runs from December 6-January 11, 2026.
Jack and the Beanstalk – Lyric Hammersmith
Your wish has been granted! As long as it’s to see a pantomime, at least, with an updated version of the story of Jack and the Beanstalk at the Lyric Hammersmith.
As ever, there’s been a bit of a Christmas makeover, so you can expect comedy and plenty of live music as Jack and Jill start their first day at Fleshcreep Academy in Hammersmith, and three strikes means you’re off to the giant. For ages 6+, from November 15-January 4, 2026.
For more great things to do for Christmas in London with kids, check out my top picks
Cinderella – Hackney Empire
The Hackney Empire always has one of London’s best pantomimes – and this year’s choice of Cinderella means you can all go to the ball this Christmas.
With plenty of classic panto fun as Cinderella takes on her Wicked Stepmother and Ugly Sisters to get an invitation to the party of the year, this rags-to-riches story never gets old.
With live music, song and dance numbers and lashings of audience participation. From November 22-December 31. Suitable for all ages.
Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall
What’s better than seeing one panto at Christmas? Seeing seven (oh yes it is!) But you don’t need to book seven separate shows to do so, with the return of Potted Panto, on at Wilton’s Music Hall once again this year.
Now in the East End, the West End’s longest-running panto features some of the best-loved stories and characters from the world of pantomime – expect to see Aladdin’s lamp being rubbed, roam the streets of Dick Whittington’s London and discover if Cinderella does go to the ball.
Add in a large helping of slapstick, almost non-stop jokes and by the time the 80 minute show is up, you’ll be aching with laughter. For age 6+, runs from December 3 – January 3, 2026.
Jack and the Beanstalk – King’s Head Theatre
If you’re looking for a panto that’s perfect for younger kids, the King’s Head Theatre in Islington is another family-friendly pantomime this year after the popular launch last year.
Jack and the Beanstalk sees young milkman Jack thrust into the limelight, when his mum’s dairy farm is threatened by a greedy old giant – armed only with a can of squirty cream and a talent for puns, can he head up the beanstalk, take on the giant and save his bovine bestie Pat?
Runs from November 23-January 4, 2026. Once a week, there will also be a naughtier, adults-only show, so make sure you book the right performance!
There is no pantomime running at the Duke of York’s Theatre this year,
Christmas musicals & ballet in London
Frozen has finished its long run, but Elf the Musical is back for 2025 along with plenty of other fun festive musicals and ballet to enjoy at Christmas in London with kids
Elf the Musical – Aldwych Theatre
Based on the much-loved film, Elf the Musical is back in the West End after a year away on Broadway, with the story of Buddy who was raised as an elf only to discover his real father lives in New York rather than the North Pole.
After causing merry mayhem in Manhattan, it’s Buddy who finds a way to save Christmas forever. For age 4+, from October 28-January 3, 2026.
The Nutcracker – London Coliseum
It’s simply not Christmas without the English National Ballet’s performance of the Nutcracker at the London Coliseum.
With over 100 dancers and musicians bringing the magical world of Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet to life, it’s the ultimate festive day out if you’re looking for Christmas theatre in London with kids. Strictly for age 5+, from December 11- January 11, 2026
The Nutcracker – Royal Albert Hall
There’s a much shorter run for this performance of The Nutcracker, so be prepared to snap up tickets quickly for this specially created version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet.
Expect gorgeous period costumes and dazzling projections as Clara’s toys come to life at the stroke of midnight. Runs December 29-31 only.
The Snowman – Peacock Theatre
Another Christmas classic, the Snowman is brought to life once more at the Peacock Theatre for its 28th London season in 2025.
The stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved book, there’s a live orchestra performing the music accompanying the heart-warming story.
As well as a special relaxed performance on December 3, the show is suitable for all ages – kids aged 2+ require tickets. Runs from November 22-January 4, 2026, tickets also available on TodayTix.
For ways to save money in London with kids, including cut-price theatre tickets and other offers, check out my top tips
Christmas theatre in London with kids
A Christmas Carol – the Old Vic
Find the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future at this new retelling of Dickens’ Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol.
The new version at the Old Vic from Jack Thorne, one of the magical writers behind Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, is designed to immerse the audience, rather than merely watching Scrooge from afar. Aimed at Age 8+. Runs from November 12-January 10, 2026.
A Christmas Carol – Alexandra Palace Theatre
Another retelling of the classic Christmas ghost story, A Christmas Carol is also returning to teh Alexandra Palace Theatre.
Expect added shivers with the Victorian setting of Ally Pally’s theatre for this version by Mark Gatiss and all the usual spooky sights and heartwarming ending. From November 22-January 4, 2026, aimed at age 12+.
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong – Apollo Theatre
Prefer something to make you laugh at Christmas? Combine a festive classic with some sidesplitting situations as the team behind The Play That Goes Wrong take on Dickens.
In Christmas Carol Goes Wrong, expect bumbling ghosts, creaky sets and actors who couldn’t find Tiny Tim with both hands! God help us, every one… From December 6-January 25, 2026, aimed at 8+.
Pinocchio – the Globe Theatre
Meanwhile there’s another classic tale with Pinoccio at Shakespeare’s Globe, bringing the story of the wooden boy to life – a lovely Christmas treat, even if it’s not quite a Christmas story.
With music, magic and songs, as Pinocchio sets off on a series of adventures with his creator Gepetto, it’s a timeless story of self-discovery. Aimed ages 5+. Runs from November 29 to January 4, 2026 – available to book on Todaytix as well.
Father Christmas Needs a Wee – Arts Theatre
Another lovely Christmas show in London for younger kids. With all those treats and drinks left out for Santa as he makes his rounds on Christmas Eve, it’s not long before he realises he really really needs a wee.
With plenty of music and jokes, Father Christmas Needs a Wee at the Arts Theatre (between Leicester Square and Covent Garden) has some audience interaction too, to get everyone feeling festive. Aimed at ages 3+, runs from December 6-24.
Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas – Cadogan Hall
A deliciously funny alternative to all things merry and bright, Horrible Histories takes on the festive season with Horrible Christmas at the Cadogan Hall.
With Puritan parties, Tudor treats, Victorian villains and more, it’s the only show bringing together Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, Henry VIII and St Nicholas to save Christmas. Aimed at age 5+, performance on December 22 only.
The Snowflake – Polka Theatre, Wimbledon
One of just a few children’s theatre venues in the UK, the Polka Theatre has a lovely Christmas production for little ones this year, with The Snowflake.
Telling the story of a snowflake, a little girl and her Pappie, who are all longing for their own special place in the world, this magical story shows how everyone can shine like a star.
Taking place in Polka’s Adventure theatre, it’s aimed at ages 3-6, and runs from November 29-January 25, 2026.
The Gruffalo’s Child – Lyric Theatre
Step into a snowy world in this Julia Donaldson adaptation as the Gruffalo’s Child tiptoes out into the deep dark wood one night, ignoring her father’s warnings about the big, bad mouse.
With some magical puppets, plenty of chances to singalong with the songs, lots of giggle about and some gently scar fun, it’s another lovely option for younger kids.
Aimed at age 3+, The Gruffalo’s Child runs from November 28-January 11, 2026.
More 2025 Christmas shows in London
Sleeping Beauty on Ice – Alexandra Palace
The annual winter show at Alexandra Palace sees Sleeping Beauty brought to life on the ice, taking you on a magical journey into the fairytale world.
As ever, the cast includes home-grown talent of all ages, right from the youngest new skaters to national championship competitors and winners. Suitable for ages 3+. Runs from December 4-8.
A Merry Misrule – Battersea Arts Centre
For one of the most interactive theatrical experiences this Christmas, head to Battersea Arts Centre where Wild Rumpus are back again with a new festive experience.
After the success of The Holly King and the Oak King last year, it’s time for a new family adventure with A Merry Misrule, as Yuletide traditions run riot, and you have to save winter from chaos. For ages 3+, from November 29 to December 24.
Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas – Garrick Theatre
Children’s TV presenter Maddie Moate is back in the West End with her live show at the Garrick Theatre this year, packed with festive facts and magical experiements from her hit book, A Very Curious Christmas.
This seasonal STEM adventure looks at the science of winter, uncovers the mysteries behind our Christmas traditions, and answers some of your most curious Christmas questions – everything from how crackers go bang to why Brussels sprouts make you fart!
Runs from December 12-January 4, 2026. Aimed at age 4+.
For more tips on the best things to do for Christmas in London with kids, check out my top picks
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