West End Musicals
West End musicals are one of the main reasons visitors travel to London for theatre breaks, weekends away, family trips and special occasions.
London’s West End is home to many of the UK’s best-known musicals, including long-running favourites, family shows, modern productions and major international hits. Most of the best-known London musicals play in or around Theatreland, including the West End, Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, Drury Lane and nearby streets.
Shows can change, close or move theatres, so always check current availability before booking tickets or arranging travel.
Long-Running West End Musicals
Les Misérables
Sondheim Theatre, London
Les Misérables is one of the West End’s most famous musicals and has been running in London for many years. It is known for powerful songs, dramatic staging and a large emotional story based on Victor Hugo’s novel.
It is a strong choice for visitors who want a classic West End musical with serious themes, memorable music and a large-scale theatre experience.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
The Phantom of the Opera
His Majesty’s Theatre, London
The Phantom of the Opera is another long-running West End favourite. It is known for its romantic Gothic story, dramatic music, grand staging and atmospheric theatre setting.
It is well suited to visitors looking for a traditional West End musical with spectacle, strong music and a memorable setting.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
The Lion King
Lyceum Theatre, London
Disney’s The Lion King is one of the West End’s best-known family musicals. It is known for colourful staging, puppetry, costumes, music and visual spectacle.
It is a popular choice for families, first-time theatre visitors and people looking for a show with strong visual appeal.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Mamma Mia!
Novello Theatre, London
Mamma Mia! is a feel-good musical built around ABBA songs. It has been a major West End favourite for many years and is popular with visitors looking for an upbeat, familiar and entertaining theatre experience.
It can work well for groups, celebrations, birthdays, theatre breaks and visitors who enjoy ABBA’s music. Reuters reported that the London production celebrated 25 years in the West End in 2024.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Wicked
Apollo Victoria Theatre, London
Wicked is a major West End musical that tells an alternative story connected with the world of Oz. It is known for its large-scale staging, strong songs and fantasy setting.
It is popular with families, teenagers, musical fans and visitors looking for a big modern West End production.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Matilda The Musical
Cambridge Theatre, London
Matilda The Musical is based on Roald Dahl’s story and is one of the best-known family musicals in the West End. It combines humour, music, schoolroom chaos and a story about a clever child standing up for herself.
It is a strong family choice, although visitors should still check age guidance before booking.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
The Book of Mormon
Prince of Wales Theatre, London
The Book of Mormon is a comedy musical known for adult humour, sharp writing and high-energy songs. It is popular with visitors looking for a funny, less traditional West End show.
It is not suitable for all ages, so visitors should check age guidance before booking.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Hamilton
Victoria Palace Theatre, London
Hamilton is a modern musical combining history, hip-hop, R&B and traditional musical theatre. It is one of the most high-profile newer West End musicals and attracts visitors looking for a contemporary theatre experience.
It is a strong choice for people who enjoy fast-paced lyrics, historical storytelling and modern staging.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Six
Vaudeville Theatre, London
Six reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as a modern pop-concert-style musical. It is shorter and more contemporary than many traditional musicals, which can make it appealing to visitors looking for a lively and accessible show.
It is especially popular with younger audiences, groups and musical fans looking for something energetic.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Special Musical Experiences
ABBA Voyage
ABBA Arena, London
ABBA Voyage is not a traditional West End musical, but it is a major London music and theatre-style experience. It uses digital concert technology to present ABBA’s music in a purpose-built arena.
Ticket link: Add affiliate ticket link when available.
Planning a West End Musical Trip
When planning a theatre trip, it is worth checking:
Current ticket availability
Show running time
Age guidance
Seat location
Matinee or evening performance
Theatre address
Nearby transport
Accessible seating and access information
Nearby accommodation
For theatre breaks, you may also want:
Where to Stay
Museums & Galleries
Historic Sites
Things to do in London
More Theatre & Show Ideas
You may also be interested in:
West End Plays
Family Shows
Comedy Shows
Music Venues
Theatre Breaks
Regional Theatres