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There's nothing like seeing a pantomime at Christmas. From music to dancing, jokes and general silliness, they’re a lighthearted affair that’s sure to get you in the festive spirit.
Whether you’re looking for Christmas activities for kids to keep them entertained during the holidays or hoping to start a new family tradition, pantomimes promise a fun day out for everyone. Read on to discover the best pantos in London and the South West, from fairytale favourites to much-loved Christmas stories.
Pantos in London
We’ve hand-picked the best pantos in London for 2024, so you can find a show you’ll love. Discover the top shows to see this festive season at the city’s most iconic theatres.
Aladdin at Lyric Hammersmith
This modern adaptation of Aladdin features dance battles, live music and captivating magic, promising a fun-filled performance the whole family can enjoy! Join Aladdin, Jasmine, and Genie as they fly high on a magical, mischievous adventure, defying the princess’ evil stepfather.
When: 16 November 2024 to 5 January 2025.
How to get there: Take the Victoria line from Vauxhall to Victoria, then change for the District line to Hammersmith. The theatre is a 3-minute walk away.
Price: Tickets start from £10, but our customers can enjoy 10% off with SWR Rewards.
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
London’s longest-running adaptation of this classic Christmas tale returns to The Old Vic, promising a festive celebration. Since its first run in 2017, A Christmas Carol has become one of the must-see theatre shows in London, so you won’t want to miss it.
When: 9 November 2024 to 4 January 2025.
How to get there: The Old Vic is an 8-minute walk from London Waterloo.
Price: Tickets start from £13 for off-peak shows and £15 at peak times.
Dick Whittington and His Cat at Greenwich Theatre
Photo credit: Nancy Poole
Embark on a journey across London with Dick Whittington and his feline companion in the pantomime adaptation of this folk tale. The pair face many obstacles as they strive to find fame and fortune in the city, including run-ins with the evil King Rat, but can he fulfil his dreams of becoming Lord Mayor of London? Head to Greenwich Theatre this winter to find out!
When: 22 November 2024 to 5 January 2025.
How to get there: Hop on the Jubilee line from London Waterloo to Canary Wharf, then walk 6 minutes to Heron Quays and catch the DLR to Cutty Sark. From there, it’s a 6-minute walk to the theatre.
Price: Tickets start from £16.50.
Robin Hood at The London Palladium
This Christmas, venture into Sherwood Forest and watch the tale of Robin Hood unfold on the West End stage. With spectacular sets and costumes, hilarious comedy and incredible special effects, this is an unmissable pantomime in London!
When: 7 December 2024 to 12 January 2025.
How to get there: Hop on the Bakerloo line from London Waterloo to Oxford Circus, then walk 2 minutes to the theatre.
Price: Tickets start from £35.
Pantos in the South West
Looking for things to do with kids at Christmas? Explore the top pantomimes in the South West to plan a festive family day out.
Cinderella at Northcott Theatre
Looking for a modern take on a classic fairytale? Cinderella at Northcott Theatre is the pantomime for you! Featuring live music, stunning costumes and laugh-out-loud comedy, watch as Cinders goes from rags to riches and finds her Prince Charming.
When: 28 November 2024 to 5 January 2025.
How to get there: Take the train to Exeter St David’s, then hop on the number 11 bus to the theatre – an 11-minute journey.
Price: Tickets start at £21.50 for adults and £19.50 for under 16s.
Peter Pan at Weymouth Pavilion
Let yourself be transported to Neverland, a magical place where fairies, pirates and mermaids reside, in this dazzling pantomime production of Peter Pan. The adventurous tale of the boy who never grows up will delight the inner child in everyone – young or old!
When: 20 December 2024 to 5 January 2025.
How to get there: Take the train to Weymouth, then walk 6 minutes to the theatre.
Price: Tickets start at £20.50 for adults and £19.50 for concessions.
Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse
Sleeping Beauty is reimagined as a modern-day princess, Stella, in this pantomime adaptation. Expect dance numbers, live music, hilarious jokes and spellbinding costumes – this pantomime is guaranteed to bring festive joy to all ages.
When: 30 November 2024 to 12 January 2025.
How to get there: Take the train to Salisbury, then walk 8 minutes to the theatre. Price: Tickets start at £18.
Jack and the Beanstalk at Bournemouth Pavilion
From fearsome giants to princesses, fairies and magical beans, Jack and the Beanstalk will take you on a thrilling ride. With sparkling sets and costumes, impressive song and dance numbers and plenty of audience participation, it’s a true family pantomime experience.
When: 7 December 2024 to 5 January 2025.
How to get there: Catch the train to Bournemouth, then hop on the number 5, 5a, 6a or 12 bus to Royal Bath Hotel. The theatre is a 3-minute walk from here.
Price: Tickets start at £18.
How to get cheap theatre tickets
A trip to the theatre can be expensive, especially when you’re bringing the whole family along! But with SWR Rewards, you can get discounted theatre tickets across London and the South West. Our London theatre offers gives you 10% off various shows, including West End favourites and Christmas theatre productions. We also offer show and hotel packages – the perfect weekend break for couples or friends.
Travel to Christmas pantos with SWR
Want to ensure your festive theatre trip is hassle-free? Explore cheap train tickets to find the best prices for your journey. Our advance tickets offer excellent value for money if you’re able to plan ahead, while our GroupSave discounts are ideal when travelling with family and friends. Heading to a pantomime on a Sunday? Choose our Sunday Out tickets for extra flexibility on return journeys. On other days, our Semi-Flex return tickets are the best option, so you can hop on a later train home if the show runs late!
