How to enjoy West End theatre in the half term

See West End theatre in the October 2024 half term. Discover new family-friendly shows in London and enjoy live entertainment.

Are you looking for something fun to do in the half term in London? Why not go to the theatre! Here are some tips and tricks on how to get hold of some great value seats for the best West End shows during the half term. Or, if you're wanting to see family theatre in the West End throughout the year, you can book theatre tickets year round. Find out more about the top family theatre shows to see in London.

What should I see in London in the half term?

There's lots of London musicals in the West End during the half term that are guaranteed to entertain younger children. Wow little ones with their first theatre trip by seeing Disney musical The Lion King. If you're entertaining teenagers with a West End trip, we recommend spellbinding and entertaining musicals such as Wicked.

As well as London musicals during the half term, the array of comedy plays will get families laughing together. Mischief Theatre's plays include The Play That Goes Wrong. Or, see a classic story unfold like The Mousetrap.

Check out even more London theatre in the half term. Shows in London in the half term include: ABBA Voyage, Back to the Future, Cabaret, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia!, Matilda the Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire, Six, The Book of Mormon, The Choir of Man, The Lion King, The Mousetrap, The Phantom of the Opera, The Play That Goes Wrong, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Wicked,* and Witness for the Prosecution.

Should I see a show in the half term?

Seeing a theatre show in the half term is a great way to spend time outside of the classroom. If you're planning a theatre trip in the half term, theatre tickets may cost less. Theatre tickets can cost more during peak times of the year (such as Christmas, Easter and summer holidays), and it's less likely that you'll be able to find special offers when buying theatre tickets. Make the most of the half term and get booking your theatre tickets now!

What time of day should I see a show in the half term?

If you're planning a theatre trip in the half term, weekday matinees are a great way of beating the evening rush and finding a cheap ticket. It's easier for most people to attend the theatre after school or work in the evening, so tickets are often cheaper for these weekday matinees. Check out all the weekday matinees taking place in the half term here.

West End shows in the half term take place every day of the week. More shows are now open on both Saturday and Sunday, maximising the weekend performances. Search through our list to see all the Sunday shows in the West End in the half term.

Should I book half term theatre tickets on the same day?

Day tickets are often available for many shows in the West End, and are a great way of finding a cheap seat. However, these are often very limited in number, so they sell out quickly. They could be good for the more spontaneous theatregoer, but it's recommended to buy your ticket in advance if you want to guarantee a half term theatre trip.

Find out our top picks for shows to see this half term

Still struggling with what to choose? Then read our round-up of the best shows for children — and adults — this half term.

The Lion King

This magical musical has just celebrated 25 years in the West End. After closing for a short period to give the stage a refresh, the show about lion cub Simba, who goes on a journey through the Pridelands to take his rightful place as king has now reopened. With music and lyrics by Elton John, Tim Rice, Lebo M, and more, the much-loved musical features incredible songs such as "Circle of Life", "Hakuna Matata", and "Shadowland".

Book The Lion King tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Wicked

Witness "Defying Gravity" in person with tickets to Wicked, the tells the untold story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good Witch. This is the perfect half term treat for children, with the musical's exploration of universal themes such as empowerment and friendship, and two powerful, female leads at the heart of this tale about good and evil.

Book Wicked tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Matilda the Musical

Get ready to meet the plucky heroine of Roald Dahl's classic tale. Matilda Wormwood is no ordinary child. With a sharp mind and fierce intellect, she's prepared to take a stand against her family and Crunchem Hall headmistress Miss Trunchbull, all for the greater good. School's out this half term, but take a trip to the West End for a school adventure like no other.

Book Matilda the Musical tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

The Mousetrap

Think you can solve the West End's legendary whodunnit? Test your detective skills and step into the shoes of Agatha Christie in The Mousetrap, which has been puzzling audiences for more than 70 years, making it the longest-running show in the West End.

Book The Mousetrap tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Accio tickets! Find out what happens to Harry, Ron, Hermione, and their families 19 years after the final book concludes. When Harry's son Albus befriends the son of Harry's mortal enemy, the pair are sent on a dangerous journey to change the past, with the hopes of changing the future. Expect the same magic from the books and films, from dementors and moving staircases, to epic fights.

Book Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: Matilda the Musical. (Photo courtesy of production)