Top 10 Best Musicals in London

Published on 9 July 2026

Summary

  • Discover London's top 10 musicals, from long-running classics like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera to modern favourites including Hamilton, Wicked, and Titanique.

  • There's a show for every audience, whether you're after family-friendly adventures, laugh-out-loud comedies, nostalgic favourites, or spectacular musical theatre.

  • The "best" musical depends on your taste, but London's ever-changing West End offers something for everyone, with new productions, timeless hits, and great ticket deals year-round.

Need an escape from reality? Same. Lucky for you, you can enter another world by seeing one of the best musicals in London. From new, exciting shows to the absolute classics, we've carefully listened to the most infectious melodies, gotten lost in timeless stories, and witnessed marvellous spectacles on stage to curate a list of must-see West End musicals for you.

So here are the top 10 best musicals in London right now, many of which you’ll find are West End best sellers! The West End is iconic for delivering larger-than-life, unforgettable performances, and we’ve included London musical theatre shows for all ages. So, without further ado, let's explore the top 10 best musicals in London.

1. Les Misérables

Les Misérables has made the masses cry for almost 40 years. The incredible, epic, rousing show about one man’s redemption set against the backdrop of the French Revolution has mesmerised millions around the world, with many returning time and time again to experience its magic. No wonder it’s been on of the top musicals in London since it first opened in 1985.

Book your Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre in the West End, get your tickets today and be a part of the revolution.

2. Hamilton

From one revolution to another, Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre has been one of the top London musical theatre shows since it opened in 2017. Thanks to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s catchy, witty, complex and high-energy lyrics, the rapped-through musical about the Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and his role in the American Revolution has had Brits throw away their nationalism to celebrate the incredible and innovative show.

Don’t throw away your shot at seeing one of the top musicals in London and book your Hamilton tickets now!

3. Matilda The Musical

A little bit witty, a little bit magical, a little bit naughty - Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical at the Cambridge Theatre is one of the most famous children's stories of all time. Join Matilda Wormwood as she takes a stand against her telly-loving parents and her evil head teacher, the wicked old Trunchull.

Matilda The Musical is a lesson to kids everywhere that even if you’re little, you can do a lot! So inspire your little ones and take them on a trip to one of the most family-friendly West End shows.

4. The Book of Mormon

From naughty children to practically saints, join Elder Price and Elder Cunningham on their mission to convert villagers in Uganda to the Mormon church. This very adult show is full of razor-sharp wit, catchy tunes, and shocking observations. If you’re looking for a laugh, along with a reality check, Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre

5. The Lion King

A roaring adventure to the African savannah awaits for you at the Lyceum Theatre with The Lion King! This mind-blowing musical takes Disney’s treasured animated film and transforms it into a real-life spectacle with jaw-dropping costumes, masterful puppetry, and a soaring score by Elton John and Tim Rice. Book now to experience of the best musicals in London right now.

6. Wicked

So you’ve seen Ariana and Cynthia hit those high notes, but nothing beats seeing it live. Join Elphaba and Galinda on their journey of discovery as they go from enemies to besties in this Wizard Of Oz prequel.

And really, don’t you want to make your friends green with envy by seeing one of the best West End musicals? Your kids will love it, too! See Wicked in its 20th year at the Apollo Victoria Theatre

7. Phantom of the Opera

In Andrew Lloyd Webber’s tragic love story, a troubled musical genius lurks beneath the Parisian Opera House and haunts those who attend the show. Phantom of the Opera tells the passionate tale of a masked man known simply as The Phantom. When The Phantom meets a beautiful young soprano, Christine, he begins to nurture her talents, but soon, lessons lead to obsession.

And you too will be obsessed once you see this top London show at His Majesty's Theatre.

8. Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Enter a dizzying world of glitz, grandeur, and glory. This is so much more than a jukebox show, taking classic songs from the likes of David Bowie, Elton John, The Police, and Christina Aguilera, and more to create an unforgettable, irresistible score. Pop the champagne and prepare for the spectacular spectacular. It’s time to experience Moulin Rouge! the Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre.

9. Avenue Q

What can you do with a… free night in London? You can see one of the must-see West End musicals, that’s what! Avenue Q is part puppet show, part sitcom, part outrageous and completely unmissable. Set in a rundown neighbourhood in New York, join some regular folks - though some may seem more unrealistic than others - as we get a glimpse into the lives of these very normal, regular New Yorkers. See this fuzzin' hilarious show at the Shaftesbury Theatre

10. Titanique

For true escapism, enjoy the chaos that is Titanique. Who knew one of history’s most famous disasters could lead to one of the funniest and most bizarre shows you’ll ever see? It’s truly a unique experience and unlike any of the other London musical theatre shows available right now. See it for ships and giggles at the Criterion Theatre

Which is the best musical in London right now?

Realistically, the best musical in London can’t be ranked or researched. When it comes down to it, the best London musical is down to personal preference. If you’re looking for something that has lasted the test of time, Les Mis is the perfect way to go. If you’re looking for a trip down memory lane, MAMMA MIA! The Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, or The Lion King, will all give you that nostalgia you crave. The West End in London is known for its incredibly diverse selection of musicals, each with its own special little something, just waiting to be explored.

The most popular West End show can change every season, and as we all know, some favourites disappear for a little while, but they always return. You can count on crowd pleasers like Matilda The Musical and Phantom of the Opera to pack the house year after year. These timeless classics are always a hit with theatre lovers in London.

Nevertheless, it's a good idea to stay updated on the latest news (which you can sign up to at the bottom of this page) to find out which show is currently blowing everyone's minds, both the audience and the critics.

What musicals are in London right now?

London's vibrant theatre scene is constantly evolving, so it's essential to check the latest listings to see which musicals are currently running and find out about all the upcoming West End theatre musicals.

You can visit our musicals page for up-to-date information on all the musicals in London, including showtimes, venues, and ticket availability. Don’t forget you can also catch a last-minute musical and get fantastic tickets for fabulous discounts!

Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of live theatre in one of the world's most bustling entertainment hubs.