Family-Friendly Shows on the West End in 2023

With so many fantastic shows running on London’s dazzling West End, it can be hard to know which one to choose for your next family getaway. Luckily we’ve put together a shortlist that covers everything from classic shows, award-winning productions and brand-new musicals.  

Disney’s The Lion King

Top of the list is the bucket-list worthy The Lion King. Brought to the stage by Disney it’s safe to say that no expense is spared; there are over 230 puppets used in the production, along with 50 cast members and 100 people backstage that help bring each and every performance to life. Complete with dazzling costumes, a goosebump-inducing score and brilliant special effects, it’s no wonder that the show has now been seen by a whopping 110 million people worldwide. Fancy joining the tribe of fans too? Find out more about our affordable two-day break. 

The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz needs little introduction. First arriving on the stage in Broadway in 1902 - just two years after the novel was released - watching the Judy Garland movie is almost a rite of passage for children everywhere, which means this musical is perfect for every generation in the family. Providing nostalgia for the grandparents and exciting adventure for the kids, prepare to join Dorothy and Toto on their incredible adventure. Follow the yellow brick road all the way from your local coach pickup point to see the show at the London Palladium. 

Wicked

Fancy a spellbinding musical like no other? Then Wicked is for you! In keeping with the Oz theme, Wicked reimagines the classic story and places the spotlight firmly on Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, telling her side of the story in a dramatic prequel. The whole family will be awed by this dazzling production and the stuck-in-your-head-long-after-the-curtain-comes-down soundtrack. 

Matilda The Musical

You don’t have to be a genius to know that the stage adaptation of a Roald Dahl classic is going to be a hit with the kids! It has won over 100 international awards including over 20 for Best Musical. Brought to the bright lights of the West End by the incomparable Royal Shakespeare Company, Matilda The Musical celebrates the pandemonium of childhood and the chaos that ensues when child genius Matilda and her tyrannical Headmistress Miss Trunchbull come head to head.  

Mrs Doubtfire the Musical

Looking for a ticket to one of the most-anticipated shows of the year? Help is on the way, dears! This hip old granny who can hip-hop, bebop, dance til ya drop is finally getting her chance to tread the West End boards in a hilarious new musical and we’re running a two-day break with an included theatre ticket to Mrs Doubtfire The Musical, return coach travel, hotel accommodation and free time to explore London. Be sure to book soon, poppets. This is likely to sell out. 

Enjoy a West End Show for the Whole Family with National Holidays

Along with our top five family-friendly musicals above, we have a wonderful selection of London theatre breaks to see classic musicals like The Phantom of the Opera and acclaimed jukebox shows like Jersey Boys. Discover our entire selection of two-day theatre breaks today.