Taking in a West End show in London is one of the most popular things to do among locals and tourists alike.
And we absolutely love them.
The West End is one of the best theatre districts in the world, with everything from long running classics to brand new productions that everyone is talking about.
But how do you choose which one is actually worth your time?
Let’s face it, tickets aren’t cheap, and if you’re only in London for a few days, you don’t want to pick the wrong show and wish you’d done a different one.
We’ve seen multiple West End shows over the years. We’ve watched some big-name productions, to TV classics that have been converted into musicals.
And we’ll be honest, not every show will suit every traveller.
Some are big spectacle productions that are perfect for a first visitors. Others are better if you already love musical theatre.
So rather than just listing the most popular shows and assuming they’re the best, we’re breaking down, the best West End show, from a variety of different genres to tips on how to pick up affordable prices.
Whether you’re after a bit of comedy, a classic, or family fun entertainment, you’ll find something that will suit you.
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Devil wears Prada
If you’ve watched the movie or read the book, then you’ll already know what to expect. But for those who haven’t.
It’s about Andy, a young journalist who lands a job as assistant to Miranda Priestly. The powerful and intimidating editor and chief of a top fashion magazine.
The story follows Andy as she navigates ambition, identity, relationships, and the pressure to succeed.
It is so easy to follow, and familiar, which makes this an excellent one to settle into.
Since it is a well-known film, it feels current and culturally relevant, even for first-time visitors to London.
Visually the costumes are exactly what you’d hope for. Bold, fashion forward and constantly changing.
There is strong choreography, slick set transitions, and plenty of visual energy.
In our opinion, Devil Wears Prada isn’t the most emotional, or epic musical in the West End, like some shows. It is, however, stylish, entertaining, and confidently modern.
This is ideal for someone who is travelling solo, a girlies trip, mother and daughter day out, is your first time seeing a musical, or love fashion, and don’t want anything too complex to understand.
If you’re after something deeply dramatic or visually monumental, another show may suit you better.
But if you want a polished, fashion-forward evening that’s easy to enjoy, this could be the one.
Practical details:
Venue: Dominion Theatre, London
Age restrictions: Ages 12+ (recommended); any guests under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes, including an interval
Ticket prices: Prices at as low as £25.00 per adult.
You can check rates and availability here.
Only Fools and Horses
Ok, so I grew up watching Only Fools and Horses, so this was a no brainer for us.
But if you didn’t, you might wonder if you’ll get the British humour and if you’ll actually enjoy it.
Unlike some of the big West End musicals, this has been adapted from a British comedy series that ran for over 15 years in the early 80s and late 90s.
It’s nostalgic, and completely different from any kind of West End show.
But it is surprisingly fun to watch.
The story follows two brothers, Del Boy and Rodney, two market traders from Peckham, South London. They are always chasing their next big money-making scheme, that never goes to plan.
Much of the story is based on the classic series, featuring many of the famous story lines from the show. But you don’t need to have seen every episode to understand and follow it.
It is a good idea to have an understanding of British culture and humour to really enjoy the show.
For British audiences, this is nostalgia, but for international visitors, it offers a glimpse into classic British comedy and working-class Londoners in its time.
The sets are well done and cleverly made, but don’t have the wow factor, compared to some other shows. But that isn’t the point; they were built around the humour of the classic show.
Although it is straightforward to follow, if you’re unfamiliar with British humour, some of the jokes may go over your head.
That said, we really enjoyed the show.
So, if you love British comedy, grew up watching the show, want something more lighthearted and comical, then this is definitely one you should make a point of watching.
If you’re visiting London for the first time and want that “wow” West End moment, you might prefer something like The Lion King or Hamilton instead.
But if you’re looking for something local, light-hearted, and genuinely funny, this could be a great fit.
Practical details:
Venue: Theatre Royal Haymarket
Age restriction: 8+ although it may feature some adult humour and innuendoes, but nothing extreme.
Time: 2 hours 40 minutes including interval.
Ticket prices: prices start as little as £25.00 per adult.
Unfortunately, at this time, the show is no longer available. The production ran from October 2021 to April 2023. You can register to receive notifications when this becomes available again.
Phantom of the Opera
The Phantom of the Opera is one of the longest running shows in the West End, with its first performance back in 1986.
The story has been adapted from Gaston Leroux’s novel and is based in the Paris Opera House.
A mysterious, masked figure known as the Phantom lives beneath the theatre. He later becomes obsessed with a young soprano named Christine. A love triangle is soon developed between the Phantom and Raoul.
It’s one of Andrew Lloyd Webbers’ most famous productions.
It’s more dramatic, romantic, and dark in places. The music and the entire performance are powerful.
You don’t need to know the story or read the book beforehand; it is quite clear, but if this is your first West End performance or you’re tired from exploring London, then you may find it a little difficult or intense to follow.
Visually, however, this is where the Phantom really stands out. The staging is dramatic; the costumes are elaborate, and when that chandelier falls just before the end of the first half, it feels so immersive and theatrical.
In our opinion, The Phantom of the Opera is a classic. It’s dramatic, romantic, and powerful music.
This is ideal if you want a traditional West End experience, love strong vocals and orchestral music, and enjoy timeless stories.
Practical details:
Venue: His Majesty’s Theatre
Age restriction: age 8+
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes including 20-minute interval
Price: Ticket prices start at £40 per adult
Check rates and availability here.
MJ the Musical
If you are looking for high energy and an upbeat theatre performance, then MJ The Musical is the one for you.
You’ll hear some of the most recognisable songs in pop history, but this isn’t a concert in costume, there is a story behind the musical.
It focuses on Michael Jackson during his rehearsals for the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. An MTV camera crew arrives to interview Michael for the documentary.
The show moves between rehearsal scenes and flashbacks to moments in his life from a young Jacksons five member to key points in his career as Michael Jackson.
You’ll see his creative process, professionalism, his ambitions, and the pressures that came with global fame.
It is more structured around music, with classic songs such as Billie Jean, Beat It, Thriller and Smooth Criminal woven into the story, rather than a concert style performance sung back-to-back.
The performance feels exactly like MJ is on stage performing, with choreography that’s precise; the lighting is bold, and the staging recreates a concert-style, while keeping in the theatre feeling.
If you enjoy movement, rhythm, and strong stage presence, this show feels powerful.
From our experience, this is energetic, polished and performance-led without the complicated story to follow.
We’d recommend MJ The Musical, if you’re an MJ fan, want something a bit more upbeat, perfect choreography over heavy storytelling, and want to experience your first West End show.
Practical details:
Venue: Prince Edward Theatre
Age restriction: age 8+
Time: 2 hours 35 minutes including interval
Price: Ticket prices start at £100 per adult
If you want to watch this show before it ends. Then you can book tickets and check availability here.
The Lion King
You may assume this is more suitable for young children, and yes this is a great option if you are visiting London with kids, or plan to take your family to a West End show, but in fact, adults also love The Lion King.
This isn’t just a stage version of the Disney movie; in fact, it’s a full-on theatrical experience.
The story follows a young lion prince, named Simba, who is the heir of Pride Rock. As Simba goes through a journey through the Pride Lands, on this journey he must defeat Mufasa’s brother Scar. Scar tries everything to ascend to the throne.
Although the story follows the same journey as the film, the stage version brings it all to life, with music, stages, and designs.
There are over 200 puppets that bring the show to life, with classic songs such as Can You Feel the Love Tonight, and I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.
The set is colourful, the movement is beautiful, and it feels completely immersive.
Because this is an easy story to follow and simple, it makes it the ideal musical for all ages.
In our opinion, this is one of the best musical theatre shows to watch, whether you’re visiting London for the first time, or if you’re an experienced traveller.
Practical details:
Venue: Lyceum Theatre
Age restriction: age 6+
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes including one interval
Price: Ticket prices start at £30 per adult
You can check rates and availability here.
Hamilton
Hamilton is clever but fast-paced and very different from the West End musicals we’ve mentioned.
This isn’t a sit-back and relax kind of show; it really does require your full attention.
Hamilton follows the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States.
It follows his rise from an immigrant with very little, to becoming a key figure in American politics.
It shares Alexander’s ambitions, rivalry, love, legacy, and the cost of success, but not done in a traditional musical style.
This is where Hamilton differs from other shows, with most of the performances and songs sung through rap, hip-hop, and fast-paced lyrical dialogue.
You don’t need a deep knowledge of American history to follow it, but you do need to concentrate.
The sets and costumes are more minimal compared to other shows in the West End. The focus is on movement, choreography, lighting, and music.
To be honest, while the story is clear, the delivery is fast, especially towards the end. If your tired, distracted, or struggle with rap style lyrics, then you’ll find it harder to follow and stay with the story.
That said, it doesn’t mean it isn’t inaccessible; it just requires more focus.
Honestly, it’s bold, intelligent, and unique.
If you’re looking for something unique, modern, that needs your full attention, then Hamilton is the best West End show to watch in London.
Practical details:
Venue: Victoria Palace Theatre
Age restriction: age 10+
Time: 2 hours 45 minutes including a 15-minute interval
Price: Ticket prices start at £30 per adult
You can check rates and availability here.
Aladdin
Although Aladdin is one of the best West End Shows in London for kids, it is suitable for adults too. We loved the magic of it.
It’s colourful, familiar, but still carries the Disney element.
As with the Disney movie, you follow Aladdin, a street-smart young man who falls in love with a princess.
On his journey, he discovers a magical lamp containing a genie, and that is when his life changes overnight.
Well, if you’ve seen the movie, you know what comes next, and it stays as true to the story as it does on stage.
The costumes are bright and sparkly, the sets are colourful, and don’t forget the magical carpet that actually flies around the stage.
The show genuinely impressed us, and it was very easy to follow the story and sing along to some of the famous songs.
Aladdin is definitely fun and family-friendly, and perfect if you’re travelling with children, want something that’s light and upbeat, enjoy a good Disney-style production and something that is easy, low-risk choice.
Practical details:
Venue: Prince Edward Theatre
Age restriction: age 6+
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes including an interval
Sadly, this production has come to an end, but you can subscribe to receive the latest notification when tickets go back on sale.
Hamlet
Ok, so when you’re looking into some of the best West End shows to watch in London, Hamlet is probably not one that comes to mind.
And while it doesn’t typically form as a musical, in that it lacks the musical theatre style, and it’s definitely doesn’t rely on choreography like some, but this is a must watch Shakespearean play on your trip to London.
At its core, Hamlet is about grief, revenge, and moral conflict.
Hamlet is a prince, who wrestles with his grief over the loss of his father. In a dream, he learns that his father was murdered by his uncle Claudius.
What follows is a slow unravelling of truth, doubt, and consequence.
The show is dramatic, with layers of emotion.
Hamlet is unlike any large-scale musical production; instead, it is usually minimal in staging.
Shakespearean language isn’t easy, even coming from a native English speaker, but watching it on stage is a different experience, as it all comes to life.
But we will say that you do need to concentrate on being able to follow the story.
It is definitely thoughtful, intense, and culturally significant.
This is ideal for literary fans, someone who appreciates classical literature, or is curious about Shakespeare and his work.
Practical details:
Venue: Lyttelton Theatre
Age restriction: age 12+
Time: 2 hours 50 minutes including an interval
Sadly, this production has come to an end, but you can subscribe to receive the latest notification when tickets go back on sale.
How to choose the best West End Show in London
There are quite a few West End shows to choose from, which can make it harder to decide which one to do on your trip to London.
Let’s face it, we have mentioned a variety of shows, from long-standing productions to comedies that have been converted into musicals, to Disney classics, all offering something different and unique.
But rather than choosing the most popular show, as there are some great ones out there, you should be looking at one that is right for you and your trip.
Budget
The biggest hurdle is budget, because West End ticket prices vary. Big popular productions often come at a premium price, especially on weekends.
While others are more affordable, particularly on weekdays, or with restricted view seats.
The further you are away from the stage, the cheaper the tickets become, and some productions sell discounted tickets, especially during the London Theatre week at as little as £25 per adult.
You need to ask yourself whether you’re happy to pay more for a classic such as The Lion King or Phantom of the Opera? Or would you rather choose something slightly less mainstream and save money? Can you be flexible with your dates, to get better prices?
To find the best deal, you should look for midweek performances, consider seats slightly further back, and avoid peak school holidays.
Who are you travelling with?
Another thing to consider is who is your travelling companion or are you travelling solo?
Not everyone will like the same as you, so talk about what types of shows you’d be interested in and narrow it down to the one.
If you’re travelling as a family, we would recommend The Lion King. It’s easy to follow and a Disney classic that will keep the kids entertained.
What type of story do you enjoy?
Although you can’t go too wrong with a musical, you still need to choose the right one based on your preferences.
Think about what interests you, would it be a comedy, dramatical, family-friendly, etc.
Don’t just pick one that is the most popular, as you might find it wasn’t quite what you expected.
Being realistic about the run time
So, most musicals run for between 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, including an interval.
Most shows start at 7:30pm, unless you book the earlier slot at 2:30pm. So that’s a full evening.
If you’ve been out sightseeing all day, will you still have energy to watch a show in the evening that may not finish until 9:30pm-10pm?
You may enjoy something that is lighter and visually engaging, over a show that needs your full concentration.
Sitting down and planning the right West End show will only highlight your trip.
Where to buy West End tickets
There are dozens of places you can buy West End tickets from; some are legitimate, and some are not. You should only purchase tickets from legitimate websites or designated places.
Official London Theatre
On almost all of the shows we have visited, we have always purchased our tickets through the official London Theatre website.
The website is legitimate, transparent and a great place to pick up deals, especially during London Theatre week.
You’ll find the most accurate information, seating plan, location, run time, and availability to book tickets.
You can check for current shows and book tickets here.
Official London Theatre ticket booths, Leicester Square
This isn’t something that we are familiar with, but it is a trusted way to book last minute theatre tickets.
The Official London Theatre ticket booth, sell discounted tickets for the same-day performances. There isn’t a show that the staff at the booth will not know, with their wealth of knowledge on all West End Shows in London.
If you’re unsure of what show you’d like to see, the staff will be more than happy to help you pick and book tickets.
And if you would prefer to do it online than stand in a queue at Leicester Square, then you can check out what is available online via their website.
This option is perfect if you plan to see a West End show at the last minute.
Tips for visiting a London Theatre show
Whether this is your first West End show, or you have been to several, we want you to experience the highs of a theatre performance, and some of that comes down to preparing before the show.
So, here is what we have learnt over the years:
Booking tickets in advance or last-minute
A lot of this will depend on your travel style.
If you’re like us and would like to have everything organised and booked up early, then you are better off booking online and in advance.
It’s also a good idea to book popular shows in advance that could sell out quickly. Especially during peak season or school holidays.
Plus, booking in advance gives you more options for seating and gives you peace of mind.
If you’re more flexible and comfortable in booking things last-minute, then consider booking at the theatre booth in Leicester Square, or online for the same day show or something for the following day.
While you might pick up a last-minute deal, you do risk limited seating availability, especially for popular shows.
Matinee vs evening show
Most shows offer both a matinee and an evening show on certain days.
Matinee’s usually starts between 2-3pm, while evening shows start between 7-7:30pm.
Choosing between a matinee and evening show depends on a couple of factors.
If you don’t want the late finish and if you are travelling with children, a matinee show could be the ideal option. While an evening show finishes late, it still allows you to go sightseeing during the day, which maximises your time, especially if you only have a few days in London.
However, finishing late is tiring, but the evening performances can sometimes feel more atmospheric.
There is no right or wrong answer. It depends if you don’t mind the late night, and maximising your time, over an earlier start, allowing you to relax in an evening.
Best restaurants nearby
Most of the theatres are clustered around Covent Garden and Leicester Square, so there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and high-end dining experience available.
But it can get extremely busy, especially on a Friday and Saturday.
We’ve tried the markets in Covent Garden. There is a mix of cafes, fast food outlets, pubs and restaurants, catering for different tastes and cuisines.
We’ve also tried Adoh, which is a small Sri Lankan restaurant, sharing spicey flavours from rice and curry to Sri Lankan Street food.
We’d also recommend Benihaha, a Japanese restaurant, that offers a unique eating experience. You order food with your personal chef, who will make the dish in front of you.
If you’re after a bit of food theatre, before your show, then book a table early to avoid dissapointment.
Arriving early
Most shows start on time, so arriving early is essential to avoid missing parts of the performance.
We’d recommend arriving around 20-30 minutes prior to the show. This allows you time to get your bags searched, check out any merchandise, toilet breaks, and settle in before the curtain rises.
Dress code
There is no dress code in the West End, only the performers need to wear a costume, so don’t stress about dressing up, unless you want too of course.
I’m not one for dressing up, unless I have too. So, jeans and trainers are enough to get me into watching a show.
At the end of the day, it is about what you feel comfortable in, because you’ll be sat there for a few hours.
Conclusion
The London theatre scene is one of the best in the world, with some fabulous shows out there.
Such as The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera to MJ the Musical and Devil Wears Prada. But they are all completely different.
And you don’t need to see everything; you just need to see one that makes sense for you and your trip.
If you’re still planning your London itinerary, then think about how your theatre night might fit into it.
Things to consider are where you’re staying, how much energy you’ll have left, and importantly what you are doing on that day.
Because a little planning now will make the whole experience smoother later.
Have you seen any of these West End shows? What did you think of them? Let us know, as we would love to hear about your experiences.
Continue your travel planning, with these useful posts:
- How to get around the UK
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- How to navigate London like a pro
- How to get around London
- Where to stay in London
- Essential travel tips for visiting the United Kingdom
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