The Best Theatre Seats for Kids – According to Real Audience Reviews

Planning a family theatre trip? Start with the best seats in the house.

As one of the UK’s most trusted theatre ticket platforms, SeatPlan is built on data from thousands of audience members who leave reviews for individual seats — right down to the row and number. And with so many families sharing their experiences, we realised we had something no other site did: a complete, real-world guide to the best seats for kids at each theatre.

With Kids Week just around the corner — where children go free with a paying adult — we’ve pulled together our community’s best advice to help families find the perfect view, the easiest access, and the most memorable moments.

What Every Parent Should Know:

The 4 Universal Patterns for Kids’ Theatre Seating

Across all London’s top theatres, our data reveals these golden rules for families:

1. Middle Stalls Are the Sweet Spot
   The best views for kids are almost always in the front and middle of the Stalls (usually rows C–J). Here, children are close enough to see faces and special effects, but far enough to take in the full stage, without craning their necks.
   
2. Aisle Seats Make Life Easier
   Aisle seats are lifesavers for parents: they make toilet breaks, snack runs, and quick exits far less stressful. They’re also often used for actor entrances and special effects that thrill kids.
   
3. Booster Seats = Happy Kids
   Booster seats can make a huge difference for kids at the theatre. Even if you’ve booked great seats, a booster helps little ones see over taller adults—so they won’t miss a moment of the magic. Booster seats are usually free or available for a small fee.
   
   How to Get a Booster Seat at the Theatre
   
   First come, first served: Booster seats usually can’t be reserved in advance. They’re handed out on a first come, first served basis when you arrive at the theatre.
   
   Ask staff for help: When you get to the venue, just ask any member of staff (or at the cloakroom/auditorium entrance) and they’ll tell you where to collect a booster seat.
   
   Restrictions may apply: Some venues have height limits or only allow booster seats in certain parts of the auditorium for safety reasons. Staff will let you know if there are any restrictions.
   
   Tip: Arrive a bit early to make sure you can get one before the show starts.
4. Boxes = Freedom for Fidgety Kids
   Private boxes (when available) are a great option for families with young children. They give you extra space to move around, privacy if anyone needs a break, and easy access to exits—making things less stressful if your child gets restless or overwhelmed. Boxes aren’t just for VIPs—check your theatre for availability.
   

At-a-Glance: The Best Seat Patterns for Kids

Methodology: How We Found the Best Seats for Kids

We analysed thousands of individual seat reviews left by real theatregoers on SeatPlan, focusing specifically on feedback from families with children.

To build our recommendations, we grouped and filtered reviews by:

• Mentions of child-friendly experiences (e.g. “my 6-year-old loved it” or “perfect for a family”)
  
• Seats noted for visibility for smaller children or where booster seats were used
  
• Comments on special effects or interactive elements (e.g. swings flying overhead, actors using aisles)
  
• Ease of access to toilets, exits, and refreshments — common concerns for parents
  
• Feedback on value — where families felt the experience was worth the cost
  

We then clustered these insights by row, section, and theatre to highlight patterns, such as which rows consistently offered great views for children, or which areas let kids feel closer to the action.

🎪 Cambridge Theatre – Matilda the Musical

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

This family favourite is packed with magical moments—but where you sit can make all the difference. Based on thousands of reviews, these are the best seats for kids at the Cambridge Theatre.

“Swings went right over our heads—an experience you wouldn’t get from anywhere else.” – Row A15

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (Rows C–J):
  The “sweet spot” for families: far enough back for small kids to see the whole stage without craning their necks, but close enough to catch the excitement of the swings and aisle action.
  
  
  “My 6-year-old granddaughter and I were seated in F11 and F12… she was within touching distance of the cast.”

• Row A & B:
  Not ideal for the overall view, but unforgettable during “When I Grow Up” as cast members swing overhead.
  
  
  “Swings went right over our heads—magical!” – Row A15

• Dress Circle (Rows B–C):
  Great for a raised, panoramic view with no safety rail. Plus, kids can play spot-the-hidden-words in the proscenium.
  
• Upper Circle (Rows B–C):
  Best for value. Smaller children may need boosters, but the tiering helps.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls (Rows Q–S):
  Reviews mention easy toilet/ice cream runs and quick exits.
  
  
  “Such a good seat to have with children… slip out and in without disturbing anyone.” – S31
  
  
• Dress Circle (H–J):
  Close to exits and bar—ideal for snack runs or bathroom breaks.
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster seats are widely available throughout, and staff are praised for being helpful.

“Complimentary booster seats are a great addition.” – Stalls F5
“Plenty of boosters available.” – Dress Circle A11

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For the best overall experience, choose Stalls C–J if your child can see over a booster.
  
• For magical swings moments, pick Rows A–B.
  
• Need a quick getaway? Go for Stalls Q–S or Dress Circle H–J.
  

🧙 Apollo Victoria Theatre – Wicked

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Wicked is a visual spectacle, and with one of London’s largest auditoriums, seat choice really matters for kids. User reviews reveal where the magic feels truly up-close.

“Seeing Elphaba defy gravity was something special from this seat.” – K23

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–K):
  Wide, immersive view—great for first-time theatregoers. Far enough from the speakers, but close enough for “Defying Gravity” to wow.
  
  
  “Seeing Elphaba defy gravity was something special from this seat.” – K23

• Row Q:
  A gem—an aisle in front means no one to block your view.
  
  
  “No one in front of us, so great for children to see.” – Q16

• Dress Circle (B–D):
  Prime vantage point for set pieces, with fewer distractions.
  
• Back Stalls (ZF, ZB):
  Budget-friendly and perfect for kids who need to move around a bit.
  

• Stalls Rows A–D, R–T:
  Near exits for quick bathroom breaks.
  
  
  “Easy to enter/exit… not far from toilets.” – T46
  
  
• Dress Circle Row O:
  In front of a horizontal aisle, so it’s easy to slip out quickly.
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster seats are usually available (sometimes a small fee, often free via cloakroom).

“They had a ton of kid booster seats.” – Stalls U34

“Booster seat… collected from cloakroom for free.” – Dress Circle G30

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For flying witch moments, aim for Stalls C–K or Dress Circle C–D.
  
• Need quick toilet access? Try back Stalls or Row O in Dress Circle.
  
• Don’t be afraid to sit further back—sometimes families prefer the freedom and lower ticket prices.
  

🎩 Theatre Royal Drury Lane

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

A legendary venue for big productions, this theatre’s grand design rewards smart seat choices—especially for little ones. Our data pinpoints the best seats for families.

“Perfect for kids, no one in front of you. Perfect lateral view, you see it all.” – Row M38

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–M):
  Praised for immersive effects and perfect distance for children. Row M’s aisle in front means clear view and easy exits.
  
  
  “Fantastic for families with small kids, as they could see everything.” – M15
  
  
• Royal Circle (A–G):
  Elevated, broad view—great for big set pieces and choreography.
  
  
  “My 10-year-old could see fine as there was no rail to overlook.” – A23
  
  
• Boxes:
  Best for families who want extra privacy or flexibility.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls Rows M/N:
  Near exits and accessible toilets.
  
  
  “Close to accessible toilet and near the exit.” – M12
  
  
• Boxes:
  Super easy exit access, sometimes even secret toilets!
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster seats readily available throughout.

“Booster seats were available and easy to grab just nearby the end of seats.” – N39

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• Row M is a standout for families—easy access, no one in front.
  
• For panoramic views, choose Royal Circle A–G.
  
• Ask for a booster on arrival—there’s rarely a shortage here.
  

🦁 Lyceum Theatre – The Lion King

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

For the Lion King, seat choice shapes the experience—from animal parades in the aisles to epic, colourful set pieces.

“We had some animals run along the aisle in front and to the side. Amazing experience and great view of the stage during the performance.” – Stalls R36

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–R):
  Most interactive—see animals and cast up close, but still get the whole stage.
  
  
  “My 5-year-old could easily see what was happening on stage.” – Royal Circle H17
  
  
• Royal Circle (B–K):
  Unobstructed views of everything, including drummers in the boxes.
  
  
  “The action takes place on varying levels—Royal Circle is perfect for Lion King.” – B30
  
  
• Boxes:
  Great for families needing space or a quieter experience.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls Rows J, K, L, R, Z:
  Close to toilets and exits.
  
  
  “You are close to the restrooms, the cast walks right past you and you have an aisle in front.” – R12
  
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster cushions are readily available and highly recommended.

“Kids booster seats available as you enter the theatre.” – Royal Circle G10

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For animal action, try Stalls C–R on the aisle.
  
• For the “big picture,” Royal Circle B–K is unbeatable.
  
• Always ask for a booster—staff are quick to help.
  

🎵 Peacock Theatre

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

A top choice for family shows like “The Snowman,” the Peacock offers a lower stage and excellent sightlines—if you pick the right row.

“My 4-year-old daughter sat in the aisle seat and had a perfect view.” – Stalls G8

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Front Stalls (A–G):
  Young kids can see everything, low stage means fewer heads in the way.
  
  
  “Great view from our seats even for our four-year-old.” – G27
  
  
• Dress Circle (G):
  Elevated view for older kids.
  
  
  “My 9-year-old son had a great view from this seat.” – G14
  
  
• Boxes:
  Spacious, private, and flexible seating for families.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Rear Stalls, Dress Circle aisles:
  Quick bathroom breaks and exits.
  
  
  “Right next to the exit door and ladies toilets.” – Stalls V25
  
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Mixed reports on booster quality—some recommend bringing your own.

“Bring your own blow-up booster cushions. The ones they sell are very thin.” – Stalls M14

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For “The Snowman,” front Stalls A–G give the best snow-and-action experience.
  
• Check booster quality in advance—or pack your own, just in case.
  
• Boxes are ideal for families who need a bit more space or a quick escape.
  

🧙‍♂️ Palace Theatre – Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Magic, illusions, and dramatic effects—Harry Potter at the Palace Theatre is packed with wow moments. Our data shows where to catch the magic up close.

“We got splashed with water, we felt the heat from the fire effects onstage, we were covered in smoke and scattered with ‘snow’—we loved it!” – Stalls AA14

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–H, AA–BB):
  Real immersion in magical effects. AA/BB are close but stage can be high for small kids.
  
  
  “My 11-year-old son… sat on a booster and reports he could see everything.” – BB15

• Dress Circle (B–D):
  Raked, unobstructed, best for seeing the illusions.
  
  
  “Fab seats to fully immerse yourselves in this show… the ranking is amazing.” – B4

• Grand Circle:
  Budget-friendly, immersive from above, but steep for little ones.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls C, K, N, T:
  Rows close to exits for quick escapes.
  
  
  “Easy access from rear entrance. Multiple exit doors to street.” – K18
  
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Free boosters available from ushers or cloakroom.

“Great view, took my little one (age 6) to see the show. He was able to see it clearly whilst sitting on a booster cushion.” – I20

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For maximum magic, go for Stalls C–H or Dress Circle B–D.
  
• Need a fast exit? Sit near row K or N in the Stalls.
  
• Don’t forget to ask for a free booster for younger wizards!
  

🎭 Theatre Royal Haymarket

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Classic shows and a family-friendly layout make the Haymarket a parent favourite—especially if you pick seats with easy exits and good booster availability.

“The view from these seats were amazing, especially for my little boy who is just over 3 feet tall.” – G12

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–G):
  The parent “go-to” for clear views and happy kids.
  
  
  “My three-year-old granddaughter was able to see everything brilliantly.” – D9

• Royal Circle (A–B):
  Roomy, clear views—perfect for kids with boosters.
  
  
  “Our 3-year-old twins had the best view! They could see every detail.” – A17

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls Rows M–R:
  Noted for proximity to exits and cloakroom.
  
  
  “Row M is close to the exit doors, so good for a quick getaway after.” – M17
  
  
• Royal Circle F & G:
  Near the exits for easy intermission breaks.
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster seats widely available, free of charge.

“Booster seats were available that give them great visibility.” – F17

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For tiny theatregoers, choose Stalls C–G or Royal Circle A–B with a booster.
  
• Stalls M–R make dashing to the loo or cloakroom easy.
  
• Don’t worry about boosters—there are plenty!
  

🎟️ Lyric Theatre

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Home to beloved family shows, the Lyric’s layout means picking the right row makes all the difference—especially for younger children.

“Even though you’re very close to the stage, the stage is low enough to see everything (my six-year-old had no issues and didn’t need a booster seat).” – Stalls B15

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (A–F):
  Consistently rated highest by parents—close, clear, and engaging.
  
  
  “Great view for a children’s production… perfect.” – C19

• Dress Circle (A–B):
  Raised, but beware the safety barrier in Row A for smaller kids.
  
  
  “My 4-year-old granddaughter needed a booster seat, of which there were plenty.” – A1
  
  
• Boxes:
  Great for privacy, though some side-on views.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls H–K, Q–T:
  Easy to nip out for toilets or snacks.
  
  
  “Located near an exit, so it was easy to access the bar and bathroom.” – K7
  
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Booster seats available for Stalls and Dress Circle, not in Grand Circle or Balcony.

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For front-row action, Stalls A–F are a solid pick.
  
• Dress Circle A–B is good value, just check for view restrictions.
  
• Booster seats are allowed in Stalls and Dress Circle—ask if needed!
  

🎭 St Martin’s Theatre

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Famous for The Mousetrap but also a home for family shows, St Martin’s is a smaller theatre where the right seats make a big difference.

“With the aisle in front of the seat, even the tallest person doesn’t obscure the view.” – Stalls G19

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (C–H):
  Best for central, clear views.
  
  
  “Very close and central to the stage.” – H14
  
  
• Dress Circle (B–C):
  Good for boosters and great overall view.
  
  
  “My four-year-old used a couple of booster cushions which were available.” – C10

• Boxes:
  Great for privacy, especially with infants or fidgety kids.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls E–G, Dress Circle E:
  Quick to bathrooms and exits.
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Free boosters available—ask on arrival.

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For close-up viewing, pick Stalls G (with the aisle in front).
  
• Dress Circle B–C offers a high view, perfect for children on boosters.
  
• Boxes are a smart choice for families with multiple kids or babies.
  

🎄 London Coliseum

👨‍👩‍👧 Overview

Home of The Nutcracker and other classics, this grand venue can wow little ones—if you pick the right seat.

“The view is amazing, no safety rail and no need to lean forward.” – Dress Circle A35

📍 Quick Summary

🎟️ Family Seating Highlights

• Stalls (E–F):
  Best for full stage view, including dancers’ feet—key for ballet!
  
  
  “Could see all the dancers and especially see feet clearly which is very important in ballet.” – E7

• Dress Circle (A–K):
  Stunning panoramic views, even from further back.
  
  
  “Children could see well over people’s heads in this row.” – K27

• Boxes:
  Great for the special occasion, but check sightlines.
  

🚪 Toilet & Exit Access

• Stalls B–D, M–N, Dress Circle B–C, K–L:
  Good for quick bathroom breaks and exits.
  
  
  “Close to exit and not far from ladies loos.” – B2
  
  

🧼 Booster Seats & Comfort

Note: Booster seats are not available at the Coliseum, so bring your own if you have a smaller child.

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• For the ballet, Stalls E–F or Dress Circle A–K are best.
  
• Bring your own booster—none are provided here.
  
• For fast exits, choose seats on the aisles or near exit doors.