London’s West End is home to some of the world’s best-known musicals, from long-running favourites such as Les Misérables and The Lion King to newer productions, family shows and modern hits.
Use this guide to compare West End musicals for families, teenagers, couples and first-time theatre visitors, with practical advice on tickets, show length, accessibility and planning your evening.
Productions, performance schedules and ticket availability can change, so always check the current theatre information before booking.
Which West End Musical Is Right for You?
For families: Look for shows with clear age guidance, familiar stories and running times that suit younger children.
For teenagers: Contemporary musicals, strong visual productions and shows with modern music often work particularly well for older children and teenagers.
For a first West End visit: Long-running productions can be a good starting point because they are established, easy to research and usually offer a wide choice of performance dates.
For a special occasion: Combine an evening performance with dinner or a nearby hotel to turn the show into a short London break.
For accessibility: Step-free access, wheelchair spaces, hearing systems and accessible performances vary by theatre, so check the venue before booking.
The Big Long-Running Favourites
These are the shows that have stood the test of time — and for good reason. If you’ve never seen a West End musical before, any one of these is a brilliant place to start.
Les Misérables
Sondheim Theatre, London
One of the greatest musicals ever made. Set in revolutionary France, it’s a powerful story of hope, love and redemption with songs that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. Absolutely unmissable.
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The Phantom of the Opera
His Majesty’s Theatre, London
Sweeping music, stunning sets and one of the most dramatic love stories ever told on stage. The chandelier moment alone is worth the ticket price. A true West End icon that never gets old.
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The Lion King
Lyceum Theatre, London
From the very first notes of Circle of Life you’ll have a huge smile on your face. The costumes and puppetry are jaw-dropping and the whole show is just pure joy from start to finish. Perfect for families and adults alike.
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Wicked
Apollo Victoria Theatre
Ever wondered what really happened before Dorothy landed in Oz? Wicked tells the untold story of the two witches and it’s funny, moving and absolutely spectacular. Defying Gravity will give you chills every time.
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Mamma Mia!
Novello Theatre
If you love ABBA, you’ll absolutely love this. A warm, funny and feel-good show about love, family and finding yourself — packed with classic hits. By the end everyone in the theatre is on their feet. Pure fun.
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Hamilton
Victoria Palace Theatre
The show that took the world by storm. Hamilton tells the story of America’s founding fathers through hip-hop, soul and Broadway — and it somehow works brilliantly. One of the most talked-about musicals of a generation.
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The Book of Mormon
Prince of Wales Theatre
Not one for the kids, but if you like your comedy sharp, bold and completely outrageous, this is one of the funniest nights out you’ll ever have. From the team behind South Park — you have been warned!
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Matilda the Musical
Cambridge Theatre
Based on the wonderful Roald Dahl story, this is a brilliant show for the whole family. Clever, funny and surprisingly moving — and the kids in the cast are absolutely incredible. A show that will delight children and adults in equal measure.
Check TicketsExciting Modern Hits
Newer shows that have had audiences going wild — these are the ones everyone’s talking about right now.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Piccadilly Theatre
Dazzling, glamorous and utterly over the top in the very best way. Set in Paris, this show is packed with iconic pop songs, stunning costumes and a love story that will break your heart. Spectacular from start to finish.
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Six
Vaudeville Theatre
Henry VIII’s six wives have finally had enough — and they’re taking over the stage. This high-energy pop concert musical is funny, fierce and brilliantly catchy. You’ll be humming the songs all the way home. Brilliant for a girls’ night out.
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The Devil Wears Prada
Dominion Theatre
The iconic film gets the West End treatment — with music by Elton John. Fashion, ambition, drama and some absolutely killer outfits. If you loved the film you’ll love this even more. A fabulous night out.
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Cabaret
Playhouse Theatre — The Kit Kat Club
This isn’t just a show — it’s an experience. The entire theatre is transformed into a 1930s Berlin cabaret club. Bold, daring and utterly unforgettable. One of the most talked-about productions in the West End right now.
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Hadestown
Lyric Theatre
A Grammy-winning musical that retells the ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice as a bluesy, jazz-infused folk opera. Hauntingly beautiful and unlike anything else in the West End. If you want something a bit different, this is it.
Check TicketsNew & Recent West End Musicals
Fresh productions and exciting new arrivals — great options if you’ve already seen the classics and want to try something new.
Oliver!
Gielgud Theatre
The beloved Dickens classic is back on the West End stage. Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself and You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two — these songs are pure joy. A heartwarming show for all the family.
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Kinky Boots
London Coliseum
An uplifting, big-hearted show about friendship, acceptance and some very fabulous footwear. Based on a true story, this feel-good musical has an incredible soundtrack and a message that will stay with you. You’ll leave with a massive smile.
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The Producers
Garrick Theatre
One of the funniest musicals ever written. Two scheming Broadway producers cook up an outrageous plan to get rich — and everything goes hilariously wrong. Mel Brooks at his brilliant, absurd best. A laugh-out-loud night out.
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Paddington the Musical
Savoy Theatre
Everyone’s favourite bear from darkest Peru makes his West End debut — and it’s every bit as charming as you’d hope. Perfect for young children and anyone who grew up loving Paddington. Sweet, funny and genuinely magical.
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Avenue Q
Shaftesbury Theatre
Think Sesame Street — but for grown-ups. A brilliantly funny puppet musical about life, love and the awkwardness of being an adult. Rude, sweet and surprisingly touching all at once. Not for young children but a brilliant night out for adults.
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Sinatra the Musical
Aldwych Theatre
A stylish and compelling show telling the life story of one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived. Packed with classic Sinatra songs performed live on stage, this is a classy, nostalgic night out that Ol’ Blue Eyes himself would have approved of.
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Beetlejuice the Musical
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Weird, wild and absolutely wonderful. Based on the cult Tim Burton film, this show is dark, funny and completely bonkers in the best possible way. The staging is incredible and the audience absolutely loves every minute of it.
Check TicketsSomething a Bit Different
ABBA Voyage
ABBA Arena, London
This one is genuinely unlike anything you’ve ever seen. ABBA perform live — as digital avatars — in their own purpose-built arena. It sounds mad but it’s absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re an ABBA superfan or just curious, this is an experience you’ll never forget.
Check TicketsPlanning Your West End Trip
A few things worth thinking about before you book:
Book your tickets early — the most popular shows sell out weeks or even months in advance, especially for weekend performances and school holidays. Don’t leave it to the last minute if you have your heart set on a particular show.
Choose your seats carefully — stalls seats put you closest to the action, while the dress circle gives you a great view of the whole stage. Avoid the very back of the upper circle unless you don’t mind being quite high up.
Check the running time — most musicals run for around two and a half to three hours including an interval. Worth knowing if you’re travelling with young children or have trains to catch.
Make a night of it — London’s West End is surrounded by brilliant restaurants, bars and things to do. Why not make it a proper London break? We can help with where to stay too.
Matinee performances — usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays, matinees are often slightly cheaper than evening shows and can be a great option if you’d rather not travel home late at night.
Make it a proper London break: Theatre Breaks • Hotels in London • Things to do in London • Historic Sites
More shows to explore: West End Plays • Family Shows • Comedy Shows • Regional Theatres