Must-see theatre shows and musicals in West End

Looking for an evening activity with a difference in London after spending the day sightseeing? We recommend heading to the theatre. Watching a West End show is hardly off the beaten path in the British capital – or is it?

There’s more than just musicals and heartfelt performances to see in London. In no particular order of preference, here’s our guide to the best offbeat theatre shows critics are raving about.

What are some fantastic and must-see theatre shows and musicals in the West End of London? Our top picks:

• The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
• Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
• The Lion King
• Les Misérables
• The Phantom of the Opera
• Wicked
• Mamma Mia!
• The Comedy About Spies

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

A visually inventive staging of the Narnia classic, making magic out of everyday objects—suitcases as sleighs, bed sheets as snowstorms. Back at Sadler’s Wells from Aug 20th to Sep 7th, 2025, this imaginative production is perfect for families and fantasy lovers.

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical

No two performances are ever the same in this Olivier Award-winning show, where audience suggestions drive a brand-new musical every night. Now running select Mondays at the Cambridge Theatre through December 2025.

The Lion King

A timeless classic still roaring strong at the Lyceum Theatre. Expect stunning puppetry, unforgettable music, and rich visual storytelling. Now in its 25th year and beyond, booking through March 2026.

Les Misérables

Running continuously at the Sondheim Theatre, this legendary musical continues to stir the hearts of its audience with its themes of justice, sacrifice, and redemption. Over 15,000 performances and still going strong.

The Phantom of the Opera

Still dazzling audiences at His Majesty’s Theatre with its soaring score, tragic love story, and dramatic staging. A cornerstone of West End history, perfect for musical purists and romantics.

Wicked

This long-running fan favourite at the Apollo Victoria Theatre reimagines the world of The Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. With gravity-defying performances, dazzling sets, and powerhouse vocals, Wicked explores friendship, prejudice, and power with a magical twist. A great choice for teens, fantasy lovers, and first-time musical-goers.

Mamma Mia!

If you’re looking for a pure shot of happiness, Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre delivers. Set on a sun-drenched Greek island, this jukebox musical built around ABBA hits is a joyful celebration of love, family, and identity. With sing-along-ready tunes and infectious energy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

The Comedy About Spies

Mischief Theatre brings their signature slapstick and chaos to the West End again in 2025 with The Comedy About Spies. Expect outrageous antics, “goes-wrong” moments, and plenty of laughs at the Noël Coward Theatre.

Whether you’re craving the grandeur of Phantom, the playful chaos of Showstopper!, or the immersive magic of Narnia, London’s theatre scene delivers unforgettable nights out. Stick to the classics or dive into the inventive—you can’t go wrong.

For more immersive shows, take a look at our London Theatre Tickets. You’ll see the most interesting sides of the city in a friendly, intimate setting.