Family-Friendly Theatre Shows
December is a great time to introduce children to London theatre.
What: Elf the Musical
Where: Aldwych Theatre, Westminster
Based on the much loved film, Elf is the tale of Buddy the Elf who accidentally crawled into Santa’s sack and was raised as an elf! Funny and touching in equal measure, this is sure to be a hit with all members of the family.
>> Price from £39.50
What: Paddington the Musical
Where: Savoy Theatre, Westminster
With original music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher, Paddington the musical is full to the brim with show stopping songs, amazing choreography, crazy antics and of course marmalade sandwiches!
>> Price from £25
What: Me
Where: Little Angel Theatre, Islington
The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding his feet. By the much loved author Emma Dodds, this is a beautiful story about a parent and their love for their child.
>> Price Child £15, Adult £17
What: Fireside Tales
Where: Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores, Wembley Park
An interactive show where audiences are invited to gather round, get cosy and share in the tales that we pass down from generation to generation. Children are encouraged to draw, write and share their own stories sparked by the magical and enchanting world.
>> Price from £15
Festive Train Rides
For a cosy winter adventure, hop on a magical train ride. Many feature storytelling, treats and Santa visits.
What: Epping Ongar Lights Express
Where: Epping, London-Essex border
A train ride and light trail in one! This is sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience as the train takes you on a journey through twinkling woodlands. The carriages themselves are illuminated and each passenger is given an LED wristband so that you can light up and be part of the illuminated journey too!
>> Price Child £20, adult £25
What: The Polar Express Train Ride
Where: Departs London Euston
It doesn’t get more magical than this! Based on the 2004 motion picture The Polar Express™, is a fully immersive, theatrical event that lets you experience the heartwarming story like never before. This is where memories are made.
>> Price Infant (under 2 on lap) £5, child and adult £67.95
What: The Santa Steam Express
Where: Departs London Victoria
We can’t think of a better way to get the kids super excited for Christmas than The Santa Steam Express. You and your family will be carried away on vintage, seasonally adorned carriages whilst Santa and his elves spread joy and mischief throughout the train! A truly unforgettable experience.
>> Price Infants (0-2) £5 on lap, child and adult £55
Luxury Afternoon Teas
Make the day extra special with a seasonal afternoon team - perfect for an inter generational get together.
What: The Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Where: Various pick up points
Hop on this exclusively designed afternoon tea bus to celebrate the return of the Snowman to the Peacock Theatre. Indulge in a delectable afternoon tea spread whilst enjoying great views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly Circus.
>> Price £34 child, £39 adult
What: The Magic Faraway Tree Afternoon Tea
Where: The Park Room at Grosvenor House Hotel
The classic tale of the Faraway Tree reimagined into a tasty and captivating afternoon tea. Each of the five creations captures the essence of the Magic Faraway Tree and its ever changing lands perfectly.
>> Price £38 per child £75 per adult.
What: Christmas Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour
Where: Departs from Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square
Hop on to a quintessentially British Routemaster, take in the world renowned Regents Street Christmas lights and eat a mouthwatering array of Christmas treats from the B-Bakery – what’s not to like?
>> Price Child £40, adult £45
What: Festive MiniTEA
Where: The Orchard Room at Conrad St James Hotel
This limited family-friendly Christmas afternoon tea invites children under 12 to dive into an afternoon of festive delights and hands-on creativity.
>> Price Child £29, adults £60
Immersive Experiences
Capture their attention and imaginations, by entering one of these unique, creative and sensory filled adventures
What: Wicked for Good - The Experience
Where: Westfield, White City
An immersive, multi sensory journey into the World of Oz awaits you! The movie is brought to life through exclusive behind the scenes photography, iconic props and smells and sounds. A must for any WICKED fan!
>> Price Free (but booking is essential)
What: The Paddington Bear Experience
Where: Riverside Studios, County Hall
Start your adventure in Paddington station in this new, totally immersive experience. You’ll be helping the Brown family get ready for the Marmalade Day festival so don’t be late!
>> Price Child From £24, adults from £34
What: The Twelfth Night of Chiswick House
Where: Chiswick House, Chiswick
For the very first time, Chiswick House will be opening it’s doors and giving visitors a totally unique experience. Stepping back in time to 1780, you will be taken on a festive journey through the Twelve Days of Christmas experiencing the grandeur and opulence of this Georgian era. Younger visitors will be greeted by Father Christmas in his 18th century grotto where he will share a festive story and gift.
>> Price Child £14, adult £25
Light Trails
Illuminated structures, installations and glittering lights offer the perfect evening out for all the family
What: Christmas at Kew
Where: Kew Gardens, Richmond
Christmas at Kew never disappoints and this year will be no exception. Dazzling light spectacles, music and magic await you at every turn in this beautiful botanical setting.
>> Price Under 4’s free, Child £18, Adult £27.50
What: Neverland Light Festival
Where: Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath
Experience the Lost Boys secret hideout, Skull Rock and Captain Hooks pirate ship in this magical, immersive storytelling festival at Kenwood House.
>> Price Infant (0-2) £1, Child £18, Adult £28
