London’s West End is home to some of the world’s most spectacular musical theatre productions. From long-running classics to exciting new shows, London offers an incredible variety of musicals.
A great musical combines costumes, dramatic plots, beautiful songs, and unforgettable performances. Fans enjoy the magical moments when the orchestra strikes up, the curtain rises, and performers transport them to different worlds.
This guide will help you discover the top 10 musicals that are unmissable in London’s theatre scene.
About Musicals in London
London’s theatre district features some of the world’s most celebrated musicals, including Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Lion King.
These big shows attract millions of visitors each year, alongside newer hits like Hamilton and Moulin Rouge. Many musicals run for decades, while others bring fresh energy to the West End.
The oldest musical in London’s West End is Les Misérables, which has been running since October 1985. It holds the record for the longest-running musical in the West End and is currently playing at the Sondheim Theatre.
Top 10 Musicals To Visit In London (2025)
Les Misérables tells the story of revolution and redemption, while The Phantom of the Opera explores a haunting love story. The Lion King brings the magic of the African savannah to life, Mamma Mia! celebrates ABBA’s music, and Hamilton reimagines American history.
Here’s a list of the 10 musicals that you can visit in London;
| Musical | Genre | Theatre | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Les Misérables | Historical Drama | Sondheim Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| The Phantom of the Opera | Gothic Romance | His Majesty’s Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| The Lion King | Family Musical | Lyceum Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Mamma Mia! | Jukebox Musical | Novello Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Hamilton | Historical Hip-Hop | Victoria Palace Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Wicked | Fantasy Musical | Apollo Victoria Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| The Book of Mormon | Satirical Comedy | Prince of Wales Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Back to the Future | Sci-Fi Musical | Adelphi Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Matilda The Musical | Family Musical | Cambridge Theatre | BOOK NOW |
| Cabaret | Period Drama | Kit Kat Club at Playhouse | BOOK NOW |
Let’s explore each musical, including ticket prices, show highlights, and what makes each production special for theatre lovers.
1. Les Misérables
Running since October 1985 at the Sondheim Theatre, Les Misérables is the West End’s longest-running musical.
The show tells Victor Hugo’s epic tale of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict seeking redemption while being pursued by Inspector Javert. With powerful songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?”, the musical has been seen by over 130 million people in 54 countries and translated into 22 languages.
The production runs for 2 hours and 50 minutes, including an interval, with performances Monday to Saturday, featuring actors Ian McIntosh as Valjean and Stewart Clarke as Javert. The musical has been performed over 13,500 times in London alone.
Ticket Price: £49 to £212
2. The Phantom of the Opera
Opening in 1986 at His Majesty’s Theatre, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece follows the mysterious Phantom who haunts the Paris Opera House and becomes obsessed with young soprano Christine.
The musical features unforgettable songs including “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” and the title number. The production has been seen by over 160 million people in 46 territories and 195 cities across 21 languages.
The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Current stars include Dean Chisnall as the Phantom and Lily Kerhoas as Christine. Famous for its spectacular chandelier and underground boat ride, this Gothic romance continues to enchant audiences nightly, except on Sundays.
Ticket Price: £25 to £203
3. The Lion King
Since 1999, Disney’s The Lion King has roared at the Lyceum Theatre. Directed by Julie Taymor, who made history as the first woman to win a Tony for direction, the show brings Simba’s journey to life with innovative puppetry and masks.
Over 110 million people worldwide have experienced this production, which features 232 puppets operated by 50 cast members. Running for 2 hours and 30 minutes, it includes Elton John and Tim Rice’s award-winning songs, such as “Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”
The musical requires 37,000 hours to build the original puppets and uses over 40 traditional African instruments. The current cast includes Owen Chaponda as Simba and Merryl Ansah as Nala.
Ticket Price: £45.60 to £165
4. Mamma Mia!
This ABBA-inspired musical has been at the Novello Theatre since 1999, creating the West End’s biggest party atmosphere. Set on a Greek island, the story follows Sophie’s quest to find her father before her wedding.
With over 70 million viewers worldwide, the show features beloved hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” and “Mamma Mia.” The production runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with matinee performances on Wednesday and Saturday at 3:00 PM and evening shows at 7:30 PM (Monday-Saturday).
Directed by Phyllida Lloyd, this family-friendly musical continues to draw audiences with its infectious energy and feel-good story about love and friendship.
Ticket Price: £24 to £197.75
5. Hamilton
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical arrived at Victoria Palace Theatre in 2017, telling Alexander Hamilton’s story through hip-hop, R&B, and jazz.
The show runs 2 hours and 45 minutes with a 15-minute interval, featuring Alex Sawyer as Hamilton and Jay Perry as Aaron Burr. This Tony and Grammy Award-winning production attracted millions of Disney+ viewers during the pandemic.
Hamilton performs Tuesday through Saturday, with matinees on Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30 PM. The musical holds the record for 16 Tony nominations and won 7 Olivier Awards. Its innovative blend of historical storytelling and contemporary music has created a cultural phenomenon that continues to sell out nightly.
Ticket Price: £72 to £188
6. Wicked
Now in its 19th year at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wicked reveals the untold story of Oz’s witches. This musical has attracted over 12 million visitors in London with more than 6,500 performances.
Stephen Schwartz’s score includes “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.” The 2-hour 45-minutes show with a 20-minute interval stars Emma Kingston as Elphaba and Zizi Strallen as Glinda.
This 10th-longest-running West End show has earned over 100 international awards, including three Tony Awards and two Olivier Awards. Performances run Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 PM with matinees on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM. Group tickets are available for 10+ bookings.
Ticket Price: £45 to £227
7. The Book of Mormon
Created by South Park’s Trey Parker and Matt Stone with Avenue Q’s Robert Lopez, this satirical comedy has been at the Prince of Wales Theatre since November 2021.
The show follows Mormon missionaries Elder Price and Elder Cunningham, played by Blair Gibson and Connor Peirson, on their mission to Uganda. Winner of nine Tony Awards, the 2-hour 30-minute production became iTunes’ fastest-selling Broadway cast album.
Known for its irreverent humor and songs like “I Believe” and “All American Prophet,” performances run Monday to Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM with matinees on Saturdays at 3:00 PM. Contains strong language and adult themes.
Ticket Price: £31 to £212
8. Back to the Future
This Olivier Award-winning musical brings the 1980s film classic to the Adelphi Theatre. Marty McFly travels back to 1955 in Doc Brown’s DeLorean, featuring state-of-the-art special effects including the flying time machine.
The show features new songs alongside movie favorites like “The Power of Love” and “Johnny B. Goode.” Running approximately 2 hours 30 minutes with an interval, performances are Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 PM with matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 2:30 PM and Sunday at 3:00 PM.
Based on Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale’s beloved film, the musical adaptation includes a book by Bob Gale with new music and lyrics by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard.
Ticket Price: £19.55 to £40
9. Matilda The Musical
First premiering at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in 2010, this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved book is now at the Cambridge Theatre until May 2026.
With music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and a book by Dennis Kelly, the show has won over 100 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical. The story follows telekinetic Matilda as she stands up to her abusive parents and the evil headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
Songs include “When I Grow Up” and “Revolting Children.” The family-friendly production runs 2 hours and 40 minutes with an interval, with multiple teams of child actors rotating roles. Performances Tuesday to Saturday evenings and Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday matinees.
Ticket Price: £20 to £45.0
10. Cabaret
Rebecca Frecknall’s immersive revival has transformed the Playhouse Theatre into the Kit Kat Club. This seven-time Olivier Award winner recreates 1930s Berlin where American writer Cliff meets cabaret singer Sally Bowles as the Nazi party rises to power.
Kander and Ebb’s timeless score features “Willkommen,” “Don’t Tell Mama,” and “Maybe This Time.” Based on John Van Druten’s play and Christopher Isherwood’s stories.
This production creates an electrifying atmosphere with guests encouraged to arrive early and enjoy pre-show entertainment. Running approximately 2 hours 45 minutes with a break, performances are Monday to Saturday evenings with Wednesday and Saturday matinees.
Ticket Price: £55 to £85.0
For more information, you can book your favorite musicals through The London Theater Direct or Official London Theatre. The prices can vary depending on the website, so it’s best to check beforehand.
Is It Worth Seeing a Musical In London?
London’s West End offers an unmatched theatrical experience with world-class productions that set the standard for musical theatre globally.
From legendary shows like Les Misérables to modern hits like Hamilton, each production features top-tier talent, stunning sets, and orchestra performances you won’t find elsewhere.
The atmosphere inside these historic theatres adds magic to every performance, creating memories that last a lifetime. Many shows run exclusively in London or debut here first, giving you the chance to experience something truly special.
Conclusion: Enjoy The 10 Best Musicals In London
From the revolutionary Paris of Les Misérables to Hamilton’s hip-hop revolution, each show offers its own unique magic.
Gothic romance beneath chandelier lights, witches defying gravity, and time-traveling DeLoreans create unforgettable moments that showcase the West End’s theatrical mastery.
These ten productions represent the heart of London’s culture, bringing together legendary scores, groundbreaking staging, and performances that consistently earn standing ovations.
Secure your tickets today and become part of musical theatre history in the making.
FAQs
Book directly through official theatre websites, authorized ticket vendors, or box office counters. Many theatres offer online booking with seat selection and secure payment options.
West End theatres maintain a smart casual atmosphere. While formal attire is not required, smart jeans, dresses, or business casual clothing are suitable for most performances.
The Phantom of the Opera leads in revenue generation while Les Misérables and The Lion King dominate ticket sales across decades of West End history.
Les Misérables runs for 2 hours and 50 minutes, including a 15-minute interval. Evening shows typically finish around 10:20 p.m., while matinee performances end approximately 5:20 p.m.
Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Moulin Rouge!, The Lion King and Wicked consistently rank as the West End’s most popular productions.
Most London theatres prohibit children under 3 years old. West End shows typically recommend a minimum age of 6, although specific performances may suggest an older audience.
