The best theatre shows for kids to see in the West End

London is packed with theatrical experiences, with some shows designed with younger audiences in mind. Shows typically fall into two brackets; either they're either created for kids, or are family-friendly shows in London suitable for both children and adults.

Over the years, many musicals have even featured kids in their cast, including School of Rock, Annie and The Sound of Music. They've all inspired upcoming generations of West End stars, so why not encourage your kids to create a love of theatre from an early age. It's also proved that theatre can significantly improve a child's academic performance.

Introduce children to the theatre from a young age with our picks of the best theatre for kids in London. Inspire children by taking them to a West End musical. There are even musicals based on Disney films and Roald Dahl books. There's a list of musicals for kids, including comedy plays and children's theatre for the best London theatre.

Book family-friendly shows for kids on London Theatre.

Matilda the Musical

Matilda follows the same story as told in the Roald Dahl novel. Matilda is a gifted child, who possesses powerful psychokinetic powers. Her parents don't care for her. Her evil headmistress Miss Trunchbull wants to get rid of her. So who can Matilda turn to? Thankfully, her teacher Miss Honey and her classmates save the day.

A David-and-Goliath story complete with plenty of cheek, Matilda is a perfect musical for young kids. Once they've seen Matilda in London at the Cambridge Theatre, we'll bet they want to be one of the "Revolting Children" at Crunchem Hall. Read our London theatre reviews of Matilda here. Find out everything you need to know about Matilda the Musical in London.

Book Matilda the Musical tickets on London Theatre.

The Lion King

Roaring at the Lyceum Theatre since 1999, The Lion King in London continues to entertain audiences from around the world. At the start of the musical, audiences see Simba as a tiny lion cub. Then, as he journeys across the Seregenti, he survives stampedes, stand-offs, and Scar to become King of the Pride Lands.

The Lion King is full of Disney songs that children will have definitely heard before too, including "Circle of Life" and "Hakuna Matata." There's also hundreds of puppets on display showcasing the animal kingdom, and they'll soar over the heads of young children transfixed by the musical spectacle. Find out everything you need to know about The Lion King in London.

Book The Lion King tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Frozen (Photo courtesy of production)