Now that the school holidays are in full swing, there’s no better time to plan a family trip to the theatre. The Summer of LOVEtheatre (20 July–2 August 2026) has included some family friendly shows that bring beloved stories to life. With discounts available across a wide selection of productions, the summer holidays just got a whole lot easier to plan. These are our top picks for a great deal.
From Bluey and Peppa Pig to The Enormous Crocodile and more, this selection of shows will entertain the whole family, no matter their age. With so many shows taking part in the Summer of LOVEtheatre, your little ones will be spoiled for choice. Keep reading to find out our top picks for what’s on offer:
8 family-friendly shows to book during the Summer of LOVEtheatre
Arthur
Polka Theatre
Recommended for ages 6+
Playing at the Polka Theatre this summer is new children’s show Arthur aimed at children ages 6-12 years. A fun retelling of the classic Arthurian legend and the hunt for Excalibur, this brand-new play features plenty of adventure and original songs to complement the story. This magical production is created by Bucket Club, who specialise in creating theatre for all ages.
When young Grace is accidentally transported back to the 6th century, she finds herself embarking on the greatest quest she’ll ever face, with Arthur by her side.
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 61%
Polka Theatre, London
Bluey's Big Play
New Wimbledon Theatre
Recommended for all ages
Based on the hit TV series, Bluey’s Big Play arrives in London for a limited run from 30 July 2026 through 2 August 2026.
A new story from Bluey creator Joe Brumm sees Dad trying to settle in for some quiet time, but Bluey and Bingo have other ideas. Brought to life with brilliantly crafted puppets, this family-friendly show features plenty of laugh-out-loud moments the whole family will enjoy.
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 61%
New Wimbledon Theatre, London
Brainiac Live!
Garrick Theatre
Recommended for ages 5+
Perfect for any curious little ones interested in science, Brainiac Live! is coming to the West End for the summer holidays. Inspired by the iconic TV series, this is a high-energy show the whole family will enjoy as it mixes science, comedy and entertainment.
The hit Olivier Award-winning Best Family Show features a great range of explosive and jaw-dropping experiments designed to ignite curiosity in everyone.
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 51%
Garrick Theatre, London
Peppa Pig's Big Family Show!
Theatre Royal Haymarket
Recommended for all ages
It might be the summer holidays but it’s never too soon to think about Christmas. Peppa Pig is back in London this festive season with a brand-new live show, Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show! Playing at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London this from 4 December 2026 – 3 January 2027, the show is bursting with catchy songs, adventures and laughter, perfect for pre-schoolers and Peppa fans of all ages.
The Pig family is getting ready to welcome baby Evie and there’s plenty to do. But can Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig finish it all before the big moment?
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 47%
Theatre Royal Haymarket, London
The Enormous Crocodile
Lyric Hammersmith
Recommended for ages 3+
Based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book, this delightful family friendly musical brings The Enormous Crocodile to life at the Lyric Hammersmith this summer. Developed and directed by Emily Lim, the show features a menagerie of puppets by Toby Olié and toe-tapping tunes by Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab.
The Enormous Crocodile is hunting for little fingers to snap up and only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans. Do they have the courage it will take to stop the hungry creature?
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 49%
Lyric Hammersmith, London
The Gruffalo
Lyric Theatre
Recommended for ages 3+
Returning to London just in time for the summer holidays is The Gruffalo, based on the classic children’s book by Julia Donaldson. This award-winning production brings the furry monster to life with perfect blend of music, laughter, and “just-scary-enough” fun.
When Mouse takes a stroll through the deep dark woods, they meet the cunning Fox, the eccentric Owl, and the high-spirited Snake along the way, and tells a tale that is more true than perhaps even Mouse realised.
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 38%
Lyric Theatre, London
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain - The Best Bits
Apollo Theatre
Recommended for ages 5+
History becomes delightfully fun this summer with Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain. Playing at the Apollo Theatre, this delightful production brings some history greats to life with all the nasty, gory details. From battling Boudicca and Guy Fawkes to Burke and Hare, history has never been funnier.
Based on the children’s books and the BAFTA-winning TV show, this show will entertain the entire family this summer.
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 39%
Apollo Theatre, London
Be Like Blippi
The Arts at Marble Arch
Recommended for ages 2+
Global TV and internet sensation Blippi arrives in London this summer with Clayton Grimm at the helm. Be Like Blippi brings the playful and relatable antics of the beloved character to the stage.
This new show sees Blippi in the ultimate curiosity adventure, packed with high-energy music and surprises, and includes fan-favourite songs such as “The Excavator Song,” “Monster Truck,” “Dino Dance,” and “Curious Like Me.”
Summer of LOVEtheatre offer: Save up to 61%
The Arts at Marble Arch, London
Related What's On guides
Top 9 plays to book during the Summer of LOVEtheatre
Top 10 shows to book during the Summer of LOVEtheatre 2026
Latest News
A jaunt through the history of panto: how a flexible theatre form transformed Britain’s Christmas theatre scene
Everything you need to know about West Side Story at the National Theatre
10 reasons we can’t wait for West Side Story
