London Ballet Tickets
Discover the breathtaking variety of ballet in London, performed by some of the most prestigious companies in the world. The West End is the place to be if you want to watch incredible musicals in London, but you can also enjoy gorgeous dance performances in the capital. Why not try the London Coliseum's acclaimed productions, with music by Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky? Or head to the Peacock Theatre and Sadler's Wells where dynamic new work that combines ballet and contemporary dance explodes off the stage.
Boasting stunning sets, beautiful dancing, and soaring music, ballet shows enchant and delight thousands of theatregoers every year, and for many become a tradition to enjoy again and again. Book ballet tickets in London and inspire a joy of dance that will stay with you forever.
1. The Car Man: Bourne’s sizzling take on Bizet’s masterpiece
Buckle up! Matthew Bourne’s fiery interpretation of Bizet’s masterwork returns to London for a strictly limited run. Bourne’s adaptation draws from Bizet’s original as well as James M. Cain’s novel The Postman Always Rings Twice, transplanting the action to small-town America in the 1960s. Performed by the company of New Adventures, this production first premiered in 2000 and was critically acclaimed, earning an Evening Standard Award and an Olivier nomination. This is Carmen as you’ve never seen it before - book today for this limited revival!
2. Manon: Macmillan’s tragic masterwork
Kenneth MacMillan’s masterwork ballet returns to the Royal Opera House this winter season. Based on the novel by Abbé Prévost, the ballet is set in 18th-century France and follows the titular character, a young woman who is torn between her love for a poor student and her desire for a life of wealth and luxury. Will Manon follow her heart or descend into hedonism? Set to a stunning score by Jules Massenet, with choreography by dance icon MacMillan, Manon is an unmissable dance show. Secure your tickets today.
3. Visionaries: Robbins and MacMillan: A remarkable double bill
Two choreographic icons are paired together in this stunning double bill. Visionaries features Songs of the Earth by Kenneth MacMillan, with a score by Mahler, and Jerome Robbins’ Dances at a Gathering, set to Chopin’s beloved piano compositions. Uplifting and moving, these two pieces come together to form a breathtaking meditation on the human condition. Secure your tickets today.
4. The Snowman: festive favourite for all the family
The frosty family favourite returns to the Peacock Theatre this Christmas for its 28th year! Based on the beloved children's book by Raymond Briggs - as well as the acclaimed animated version by Dianne Jackson - this children’s ballet features Aled Jones' iconic song “Walking in the Air”. When a young boy flies off on a grand adventure with the snowman from his garden, they meet a quirky cast of characters including Father Christmas, Jack Frost and even dancing pineapples! But will they make it back for Christmas morning?
5. The Nutcracker: a festive tradition for the whole family
The Nutcracker is a major part of the West End’s festive season, and a show that many theatregoers have enjoyed more than once. Featuring stunning costumes and set design, beautiful dances and Tchaikovsky's heart-stopping music, this enchanting story about a young girl’s adventures in the Land of Snow delivers a sprinkle of wintry magic that the whole family can enjoy!
6. English National Ballet: Romeo and Juliet: a timeless romance
Rudolph Nureyev's stunning adaptation of Shakespeare's ultimate tragic romance, which transplants the action to Renaissance Italy, returns to London for a limited run this winter. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this landmark revival returns the production to the stage where it first premiered in 1977. Set to a stirring score by Sergei Prokofiev, including the iconic “Dance of the Knights”, “emotion pours from every corner of the [...] stage” (Bachtrack) in this acclaimed production by one of ballet’s most influential choreographers. Dont miss it - secure your tickets early.
Where can I watch ballet in London?
The English National Ballet is one of the best dance companies in the world, with performances often taking place at the London Coliseum. Theatregoers can watch the company’s productions at the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Opera House, and Sadler’s Wells as well. The latter, along with the Peacock Theatre, are also creative hubs for brand-new work by new and upcoming dance companies and choreographers.
What is the most popular ballet show?
The Nutcracker is one of the most famous ballets ever produced, and has played a festive season at the London Coliseum for more than 50 years. It is so popular that is often sells out in advance, and theatregoers book ahead to make sure the whole family can enjoy this iconic show together.
Choreographer Matthew Bourne’s productions are always very popular. His distinctive style often blends dance with other influences such as musical theatre. Some of his most well-known works are Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker!, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake which famously had an all-male company of swans, and The Red Shoes.
What should I wear to the ballet in London?
There is no strict dress code for attending ballet shows in London, and you are welcome to wear whatever is most comfortable, including jeans.
Some people like to attend in formal wear, especially if they are seeing an evening performance, gala, or visiting for a special occasion. You are likely to see a wide variety of outfits from casual to dresses and heels, especially for Christmas performances when children may enjoy dressing up.
What children’s ballet shows are in London in 2026?
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre is one of the best dance shows for children and families, and a fantastic introduction to the genre for young theatregoers. Its familiar story and music, festive connotations and playful costumes make it an engaging choice and special experience.
Other dance shows for kids in London often play limited seasons at the Peacock Theatre. These are fun, short versions of classics including Swan Lake and Cinderella.
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