Few things say Christmas quite like a panto, and London has plenty on offer this year. Whether you’re hoping to see a giant stomping across a stage, a beloved fairy tale told with song and slapstick, or a rowdy night out with friends, these are the best pantos to book this festive season.
As Christmas inches ever closer, there’s never been a better time to explore the festive theatre outings on offer in London. For generations, audiences have gathered in theatres to watch panto, where they can boo the villain, cheer the hero and join in with the songs. As far as time honoured traditions go, it’s a great night out.
From traditional family favourites to all-drag and adults-only productions, there’s panto for every taste happening in London this year. These are the festive shows we think you’ll love, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or something a little more raucous.
Top pantos in London to book this Christmas
Cinderella at the London Palladium
London Palladium
5 December 2026 to 10 January 2027
The London Palladium’s festive pantomime returns for its eleventh year with a new star-studded production of Cinderella.
Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders reunite as the Ugly Sisters, joined by Julian Clary as the Fairy Godfather, along with Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Rob Madge.
Known for its spectacle, dazzling costumes, big set pieces and catchy musical numbers, this is one panto that you won’t want to miss. It’s a popular one though, so booking early is recommended.
London Palladium, London
Jack and the Beanstalk
Hackney Empire
21 November to 31 December 2026
Hackney Empire returns with its annual Christmas pantomime, this time taking on the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. This production is directed by and starring beloved panto and West End star Clive Rowe, who takes on the role of Dame Trot.
The story follows Jack, whose family cow is swapped for a handful of magic beans, and a giant beanstalk that carries him into the clouds and a kingdom ruled by a giant.
With big costumes, memorable dance numbers and plenty of audience participation, this panto promises a memorable evening at a cherished venue.
Hackney Empire, London
Potted Panto
Apollo Theatre
6 December 2026 to 3 January 2027
Festive favourite Potted Panto returns to the London stage this year following previous sold-out seasons.
Packing seven classic pantomimes into one fast-paced show, this is one inventive way to get your panto fix. The show promises plenty of wigs, accents and quick changes that never lets up.
This is one panto that’s perfect for the whole family, or for anyone who wants to sample several traditional pantos in a single evening.
Apollo Theatre, London
A Homo Alone 2: Yikes, We Did It Again!
The Other Palace
13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
For something a bit more adult, but just as much fun, A Homo Alone 2 promises to be a festive parody with plenty of laughs.
Returning to the Other Palace after the success of last year’s Homo Alone, this high energy show takes inspiration from the Home Alone film series while building an entirely new story around it.
Packed with cheeky humour and plenty of festive mischief, this show is a hilarious outing strictly for adults.
The Other Palace, London
Cinderella
Lyric Hammersmith
14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
Classic fairy tale Cinderella takes a new spin, courtesy of Joel Horwood, the writer behind last year’s smash hit Aladdin.
This new version follows Cinderella as she dreams of escaping her stepfamily. When a magical invitation to the royal ball arrives, she sets off on an adventure full of comedy, music and romance, all building towards the stroke of midnight.
The Lyric has a reputation for ambitious, imaginative pantos, and this production will be a great choice for families.
Lyric Hammersmith, London
Dick Whittington and His Cat
King’s Head Theatre
22 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
The King’s Head’s family pantomime is back for another year, this time with a Christmas story full of heart and humour. Dick Whittington and his Cat follows our hero Dick as he sets out for London with his cat, facing the Rat King and restore the city to its former glory.
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK stars Victoria Scone and River Medway lead the cast in what promises to be an energetic and entertaining night.
Past pantos have proved so popular at this small, intimate venue that this year, they’re also instating an Adults Only version of the show as well.
King's Head Theatre, London
TuckShop's Jack and the Beanstalk
Emerald Theatre
2 December 2026 to 10 January 2027
Not to be confused with the Hackney Empire production, TuckShop’s version of Jack and the Beanstalk is an outrageously hilarious all-drag affair. TuckShop pantos have become a West End festive fixture in recent years.
Twelve drag performers will share the role of the Giant over the course of the run, meaning no two performances will be the same. Chaotic and full of adult humour, this twist on the classic fairy tale is perfect for a festive trip to the theatre.
TuckShop pantos have become a West End festive fixture in recent years, perfect for anyone who enjoys the spirit of pantomime with a grown-up attitude.
Emerald Theatre, London
Cinderella: Buttons Undone!
Charing Cross Theatre
21 November 2026 to 9 January 2027
From adults-only panto company He’s Behind You! comes a new take on a classic fairytale. Cinderella: Buttons Undone! is a raucous reimagining that takes panto the the bolder next level.
This fun grown-up alternative features plenty of panto familiars, like the dame and the villain and a royal ball, with plenty of knowing winks and a healthy dose of innuendo.
This rowdy show follows hotel maid Cindy, whose gangster stepmother Ida Bigschitt makes her life miserable. When a bachelor playboy comes to town looking for a wife, things go awry when Cindy’s gay and only friend Buttons slips into her shoes.
Charing Cross Theatre, London
Sleeping Beauty
Churchill Theatre, Bromley
5 December 2026 to 3 January 2027
BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay returns to panto this Christmas, starring in a festive new take on Sleeping Beauty at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley.
This family-friendly panto promises side-splitting comedy and show-stopping songs as it follows Princess Aurora as she battles the curse cast by the wicked fairy Carabosse. Can anyone rescue her from the magical slumber before it is too late?
The large venue is a good alternative if Central London isn’t an easy option, and offers a relaxed family day out, with just as much magic and hilarity.
Churchill Theatre Bromley, London
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