A guide to the 5 best theatres for kids in London, handpicked by a London Mum and her theatre loving family.
Wherever you live in London you are never too far from a theatre and young thespians living in the capital will often find themselves spoilt for choice when it comes to seeking out live performance. However taking toddlers and small ones to a show (like most outings) can be hit or miss. Not to mention costly if you are banking on a trip to a theatre in London’s West End.
Luckily there are a handful of theatres for Kids in London that have anticipated the needs of the whole family. These Children’s theatres lovingly curate seasons of shows targeted at specific age groups, adhering shorter attention spans, uncontrollable bladders and picky eaters. Here booster seats, buggy parking and baby changing are the norm. If you are after a stress free trip to the theatre these venues are your best bet.
The Polka Theatre
240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 Tube: Wimbledon More info Here
If there was a gold standard for Children’s theatres it would have to go to The Polka. A community gem in the heart of Wimbledon the Polka is a heart led hub for parents and children of all ages. The large facility includes two theatre spaces – the more informal adventure theatre for younger audiences and the main theatre for older children.
The Polka also boasts an impressive play room with dressing up and book corner which leads out to a multi sensory garden. colourful and intuitive design also spreads to the family friendly cafe (Baked Potatoes, pasta and pizza)and outdoor play space. The Polka also holds workshops and classes throughout the week in its Nest studio.
The Polka strives to champion progressive and exciting children’s theatre often commissioning collaborative work and original productions. In recent years we have spent many a day hanging out at The Polka as a family, reading books, catching a show and sharing a pizza all under one roof.
Don’t miss in 2024: ‘Tidy’ 10th Feb – 24th March – a charming story with a cautionary message about caring for the world (Ages 3-7yrs)
The Unicorn Theatre
147 Tooley St London SE1 Tube: London Bridge More Info Here
Nestled between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, the Unicorn Theatre offers innovative large-scale productions at accessible prices. This Child friendly playhouse has two main performance spaces set over a few floors. The Building is fully accessible via lift.
On the ground floor you will find a small cafe selling hot drinks, ice cream and snacks.
The ethos of the Unicorn theatre is firmly rooted in making theatre accessible to all, championing diversity and inclusivity. We have seen a few shows at The Unicorn and every one has been exceptional.Catering for children aged 3-16 Children are encouraged to shout out, laugh and engage to their hearts content.
Be Sure to catch in 2024: ‘The Three Billy Goats Gruff’ (20th Jan – 18th Feb) – A magical first musical about three hungry goats and one crafty troll. Ages 3-7. Also ‘The Lion Inside’ (23rd July – 4th Aug) Ages 3+
Little Angel Theatre
14 Dagmar Passage, N1 (studio theatre on Sebbon St N1) More Info Here
Based in Islington the Little Angel Theatre is a much loved puppet theatre for children. The charming 100 seat theatre is housed in a former Temperance hall and offers a cosy and informal setting for young theatre goers. Little Angel also have a second performance space in its studio theatre on Sebbon st.
Little Angel are world renowned for being master puppeteers and innovating fresh and unique work. The Theatre is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of puppetry, igniting children’s imaginations and ensuring an unforgettable experience for first time theatre goers.
Look out for in 2024: ‘Wow! It’s Night-time‘: Tim Hopgood’s much loved story of a curious little owl 19th -27th Jan (Ages 2-5) and also the Julia Donaldson Classic ‘The Everywhere Bear ‘ 3rd Feb – 14th April (Ages 3-8)
The Little Lyric
Lyric Square, King St, Hammersmith W6 More Info Here
The lyric has become known as West London’s go to cultural hub. Alongside the adult playhouse run the Little Lyric, offering shows for children on Saturday mornings and during half terms and school breaks.
The theatre has a cafe and hosts clubs and classes for kids of all ages. During its 126 years the Lyric has become known for championing diversity and nurturing emerging local talent in their fantastic youth theatre group ‘Young Lyric’.
Don’t Miss in 2024: ‘Can Bears Ski?’ A sweet story about understanding, compassion and finding your place in the world 13th-17th Feb (Ages 3+)
Arts Depot
5 Nether St, North Finchley N12 More Info Here
Whilst not strictly a Children’s Theatre, Arts Depot deserves a mention for their outstanding commitment to showcasing some of the best Children’s Theatre. Family-friendly shows can be seen most Sundays and their is extensive programming for kids in half terms and summer holidays. Literary stage adaptations such as Julia Donaldson and Rod Campbell amongst other family favourites can be found here.
The Arts Depot is a vibrant and lively cultural hub with an impressive 395 seater main theatre, a smaller intimate studio theatre and various creative spaces. You will have trouble tearing your kids away from the Playdepot – a free kids playspace. There is also a well equipped cafe and bar.
Don’t Miss in 2024: ‘Zog and the Flying Doctors’ A spectacular Julia Donaldson Adventure you won’t want to miss 13th -14th March (Ages 3+) Also Rod Campbell’s ‘Dear Zoo’ comes alive onstage 14th-18th Feb (Ages 2+)
Thinking of splashing out on a trip to the Lion King Musical, Harry Potter and the cursed child or maybe Mrs Doubtfire? Read here for our guide to Family Friendly London Musicals.
Remember to also check out Kids week which takes place every August and qualifies children under 17 a free ticket with a full-paying adult and half price tickets for subsequent children.
Check out our latest recommendations for great family theatre here.
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