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West End Half Term: The Best Family Theatre Shows in London This May

West End Half Term: The Best Family Theatre Shows in London This May

Half term is almost here — and if you're a London family, that means one thing: it's the perfect excuse to treat the kids to a proper West End experience. Whether you're looking for something dazzling and Disney, brilliantly British, or a little bit different, there's genuinely never been a better time to take young theatre fans to see live performance in the capital.

Here's our round-up of some the best shows for families in London this half term, along with some tips for keeping costs down — and a very exciting heads-up about what's coming this summer.


When Is May Half Term 2026?


Most London schools break up on Friday 23 May, with half term running 26–30 May 2026 (exact dates vary by school, so check yours). That gives you a few days to plan something unforgettable — and the

West End will be buzzing.


The Best West End Shows for Families This Half Term

🐻 Paddington The Musical — Savoy Theatre

If you only see one show this half term, make it this one. Paddington The Musical at the gorgeous Savoy Theatre has been wowing families since it opened, and critics have called it an outright "triumph" — a warm, funny, utterly London show that manages to be "off-the-scale cute" without losing the sly wit that keeps parents entertained too.

Based on Michael Bond's beloved books and the hit films, the show is full of visual magic, joyful songs, and — fair warning — audience participation that involves things being squirted and dropped in your direction. Kids absolutely love it.


Recommended age: 6+

Running time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including interval)

Running: Through to May 2027

Tip: Matinee performances during half term week are your best bet for a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.


🦁 The Lion King — Lyceum Theatre

A perennial half-term classic for a very good reason. The Lion King at the Lyceum has been running for over two decades and it still takes your breath away. The puppetry, the costumes, the music — it hits differently live. If your child hasn't seen it yet, this is the one.


Recommended age: 6+

Tip: The Lyceum is one of London's most atmospheric theatre buildings — arrive early and have a proper look around before the show.


🧙 Wicked — Apollo Victoria Theatre


Wicked remains one of the most beloved family musicals in the West End — and post-film release, there's a whole new generation of young fans who are absolutely desperate to see it live. If your kids have been singing Defying Gravity around the house, this is the show to see.


Recommended age: 7+

Tip: There's huge demand this half term — booking ahead is strongly advised, but last-minute

discounted tickets do come up. Check out My Dayz Out's Summer Sale now live here


🔍 Sherlock Holmes — Regent's Park Open Air Theatre


For older children and teens, this is the hidden gem of half term. Regent's Park Open Air Theatre has opened its 2026 season with a world-premiere Sherlock Holmes mystery by playwright Joel Horwood, starring Joshua James as the great detective — and it runs until 6 June, which means you can catch it over half term week.

There's something magical about watching live theatre outdoors in the middle of London's most beautiful park. Take a picnic, grab your seats, and let the mystery unfold.


Recommended age: 12+

Running: Until 6 June 2026

Tip: Wrap up — even in late May the evenings get cool. Blankets are available to hire at the venue.


🎩 Back to the Future The Musical — Adelphi Theatre


Back to the Future The Musical is one of those shows that genuinely works for the whole family — the adults who grew up with the films are as excited as the kids seeing it for the first time. The special effects are spectacular, the energy is enormous, and the songs are catchier than they have any right to be.


Recommended age: 7+

Tip: Good availability tends to appear for weekday matinee slots — a great option for half-term afternoons.


👑 Six & Hamilton — For Older Kids and Teens

If you've got a music-loving teen at home, Six (the pop-concert retelling of Henry VIII's six wives — yes, really) and Hamilton are both brilliant options. Both are genuinely educational in a sneaky, enthusiastic way, and Six in particular is fantastic for younger teens who think they don't like musical theatre — yet.


Recommended age: 10+ for Six; 10+ for Hamilton

Tip: Six tends to have better ticket availability at shorter notice than Hamilton.


Something a Little Different: Polka Theatre, Wimbledon


If you're after something more intimate and age-appropriate for littler ones, Polka Theatre in Wimbledon is dedicated entirely to children's theatre and is doing brilliant things this half term. Their current production, The Rapping Princess, is a joyful, music-filled story about Princess Shiloh who loves music but can't sing — perfect for ages 3–7.


How to Save Money on Half-Term Theatre


West End ticket prices can feel eye-watering — but they don't have to be. Here's how to do it smartly:


Book weekday matinees: Evening and weekend performances at peak times like half term attract premium pricing. Tuesday and Wednesday matinees are consistently cheaper.


Check the TKTS booth on Leicester Square: Officially run discounted tickets for same-day and next-day shows, with 30–40% off face value. The same prices are now available online too, updated daily at midnight.


Book one adult, discounts can follow: At many shows, a single full-price adult ticket unlocks discount or companion pricing for children. It's worth checking the theatre's own box office before booking anywhere else.


🌟 Coming This Summer: Kids Go Free on the West End


Here's the big news to put in your diary now. Kids Week 2026 is officially confirmed — running for six full weeks from Monday 20 July to Sunday 31 August 2026. That means children aged 17 and under go completely free at participating West End shows when accompanied by a full-paying adult. You can also buy up to two additional children's tickets at half price.


Tickets go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 9 June 2026, exclusively through OfficialLondonTheatre.com. Participating shows will be announced closer to the date, but expect a strong lineup — last year's edition featured many of the biggest names in the West End.


If you're planning a summer holiday in London — or just want to make the most of the school holidays — this is the deal to plan around. Set a reminder for 9 June and be ready.


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