Best London West End Shows this Christmas
Experience London’s West End This Christmas - Just a Short Journey from Kent
This Christmas, step into the sparkle of London’s West End - where festive lights, world-class shows, and timeless music create an unforgettable day out.
And the best part? The magic of Theatreland is closer than you think. Fast trains from Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Ashford and Canterbury reach central London in as little as 20 to 50 minutes, making it the perfect Christmas day trip from Kent.
Whether you’re planning a family theatre outing, a romantic festive weekend, or a special Christmas gift experience, London’s West End offers something for everyone this season.
1. The Nutcracker - London Coliseum
A beloved festive classic from English National Ballet, The Nutcracker returns with glittering costumes, snow-dusted sets, and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score.
Venue: London Coliseum, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4ES
Why see it? London’s most iconic Christmas ballet, performed by one of the world’s leading companies - a timeless family tradition.
The Nutcracker at London Coliseum
2. Elf The Musical - Aldwych Theatre
Join Buddy the Elf for a laugh-out-loud Christmas adventure packed with festive cheer and family fun, based on the movie version made famous by Will Ferrell.
Venue: Dominion Theatre, Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7AQ
Why see it? A feel-good, family-friendly show filled with comedy, heart, and sparkling seasonal spirit - perfect for all ages.
Elf The Musical at the Aldywch Theatre
3. A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story - Alexandra Palace Theatre
Mark Gatiss’ spine-tingling yet heart-warming retelling of Dickens’ classic returns to wow audiences this winter.
Venue: Alexandra Palace Theatre, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
Why see it? A masterful mix of Victorian atmosphere, supernatural suspense and emotional depth — a must-see adaptation of Dickens’ tale.
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre
4. The Snowman - Peacock Theatre
A must-see for families, this stage adaptation of the Raymond Briggs classic is pure Christmas magic for young audiences.
Venue: Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London WC2A 2HT
Why see it? A heart-warming introduction to theatre for children, combining live orchestra, dance and stunning visuals.
5. The Red Shoes - Sadler’s Wells
Matthew Bourne’s award-winning production combines drama, dance and dazzling design for a striking festive spectacle.
Venue: Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4TN
Why see it? A visually stunning, emotionally charged production from one of Britain’s most celebrated choreographers.
Getting to London’s West End from Kent
You don’t need to stay overnight to enjoy a London theatre trip. Trains from Kent make it easy to reach the heart of the West End in under an hour.
| Departure Station | Destination | Fastest Journey Time | Direct Route | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sevenoaks | London Charing Cross | 24 minutes | ✅ | Book Trains ➔ |
| Tonbridge | London Charing Cross | 38 minutes | ✅ | Book Trains ➔ |
| Ashford International | London St Pancras | 38 minutes | ✅ | Book Trains ➔ |
| Canterbury West | London St Pancras | 55 minutes | ✅ | Book Trains ➔ |
| Maidstone East | London Victoria | 59 minutes | ✅ | Book Trains ➔ |
Once you arrive, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Soho - home to the biggest West End theatres - are just a short Tube ride away.
Plan Your Festive Theatre Trip from Kent
Make your Christmas in Kent extra special this year with a theatre day trip to London. Book early for the best seats at popular shows like The Nutcracker and Elf The Musical, and enjoy a festive meal before or after your performance.
Recommended:
Afternoon train to London
Matinee or evening show
Dinner in Covent Garden or Soho
Return to Kent the same evening
Book Your Trip
Plan your festive theatre day from Kent with trusted partners:
Our guide to best West End shows this Christmas if you’re travelling from Kent.