The Lion King is a musical I have now seen three times: once in the Netherlands and twice in London, including a 2020 performance. My most recent visit was originally planned as a birthday gift, but after our plans changed, another friend was able to join me at the Lyceum Theatre.
For this visit, I booked seats in the stalls so we could experience the production from closer to the stage. Even after seeing the musical before, I still found the staging, costumes and performances stunning.
If you are considering The Lion King for a London theatre trip, especially with children, here is why I continue to enjoy it.
My Experience Watching The Lion King in London
Seeing The Lion King from the stalls made the performance feel especially immersive. The costumes, puppetry, music and movement transformed the familiar Disney story into something that felt completely alive on stage.
There were many children in the audience during my visit, and I loved seeing people experience the production for the first time. Their reactions were a reminder that even though I already knew the story and had seen the musical before, its most spectacular moments still create a real sense of wonder.
Timon and Pumbaa brought plenty of humour, while the larger ensemble scenes remained visually impressive. On my third visit, the production was just as entertaining and mesmerising as I remembered.
Is The Lion King a Good Musical for Families?
Yes. If you want to introduce children to a West End musical, The Lion King is one of my strongest recommendations. The familiar story, colourful characters, puppetry and humour give younger visitors plenty to enjoy, while the music and creative staging make it equally entertaining for adults.
The official recommendation is for ages six and over. Some scenes and themes may feel emotional or intense for younger children, so parents should consider the individual child as well as the age guidance.
The Lion King Musical London: Practical Information
- Theatre: Lyceum Theatre
- Address: 21 Wellington Street, London WC2E 7RQ
- Running time: Approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including an interval
- Age guidance: Recommended for ages six and over
- Children under three: Not admitted
- Evening performances: Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 pm
- Matinees: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 pm
- Currently booking until: 25 July 2027
Performance times, availability and booking dates can change, so check the latest information before visiting.
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The Lion King Musical London Tickets
If you are planning to see The Lion King in London, you can check current performance dates, ticket availability and prices through GetYourGuide below.
Check The Lion King musical tickets
Why I Have Seen The Lion King Three Times
I have returned to The Lion King because it offers much more than a familiar Disney story. The puppetry, costumes, music and movement create a theatrical experience that cannot be recreated on screen.
Each visit has felt slightly different depending on where I sat and who joined me, but the sense of spectacle has remained. It is a production I would happily recommend to families, first-time West End visitors and adults who appreciate imaginative stagecraft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Lion King musical playing in London?
The Lion King is playing at the Lyceum Theatre on Wellington Street in London’s West End.
How long is The Lion King musical?
The performance lasts approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including an interval.
What age is The Lion King musical suitable for?
The official recommendation is ages six and over. Children under three are not admitted, and visitors aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult.
Is The Lion King enjoyable for adults without children?
Yes. The detailed puppetry, costumes, music and choreography make it an impressive theatrical experience for adults as well as families.
More Family-Friendly London Theatre
Looking for another imaginative show? Read my Paddington The Musical review or my My Neighbour Totoro review.
You can also explore my complete London theatre reviews and musicals guide to find your next show.
