London Theatre Shows in July 2026
There are heaps of children’s shows in London in July for the summer holidays, and plenty of brand new shows opening soon to be announced. July is also great for soaking up the sun at London’s best outdoor theatres. Keep checking back for new shows announced at Regent’s Park, or get Shakespearean with standing tickets to one of the Bard’s best at the Globe.
32 Shows in London
Top Shows Opening and Closing in July
The biggest show opening this July is Ivanov, starring Hollywood superstar Chris Pine, making his London Theatre debut. This brand new adaptation of the Chekhov classic from the mind behind recent critically acclaimed productions, Yerma and The Lady From the Sea, transplants the action to modern day in a production that is darkly comic and deeply moving.
Be sure to catch another pitch-black comedy before it closes - Archduke takes it’s final bow at the Royal Court this July. This historical(ish) comedy-drama reimagines the events in the lead-up to the assassination of Franz Ferdinand.
Best Family Friendly Shows in July
With the school holidays starting and summer in full swing, July is one of the most popular times for families to head to the theatre. A wide range of kid-friendly productions are on offer, making it easy to plan a day out at the West End that works for all ages.
Family favourites like The Lion King and My Neighbour Totoro continue to delight audiences, while the summer holidays often bring in new productions, as well as short-run family shows designed to entertain kids during the break.
As demand picks up, it’s worth booking early to secure the best seats. However, there are still opportunities to find weekday discounts for matinees if you’re flexible with your plans.
Top comedy shows in July
Nothing beats a night of theatre in the middle of summer, and if you're after something fun, comedy shows are an easy win. July’s West End lineup offers a brilliant mix of polished chaos, clever scripts and feel-good energy.
If perfectly timed disasters and over-the-top performances sound like your kind of humour, The Play That Goes Wrong delivers from start to finish. It’s a masterclass in things falling apart, with the cast getting everything hilariously wrong in all the right ways. For comedy with a bit more spectacle, The
Producers blends ribald humour, boundary-pushing jokes and even tap-dancing pigeons in a high-energy production full of sharp one-liners and big laughs.
Tickets tend to sell quickly during summer, but last-minute options are still available, especially if you’re open to booking closer to the day of the show.
What’s on in London in July
London hits its summer stride in July, with the city at its busiest and boldest. Parks, theatres, galleries and streets come alive with festivals, performances and seasonal events that stretch well into the evening.
Theatre continues to draw crowds, with long-running musicals, plays and operas playing to packed houses across the West End. Outdoor venues, including Shakespeare’s Globe and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, are in full swing, offering unforgettable performances against the backdrop of warm summer nights. Street theatre, fringe shows and live music events also pop up across the city, from pop-up stages to local green spaces.
July’s cultural calendar includes major events like BBC Proms, kicking off a two-month celebration of classical music at the Royal Albert Hall, and Somerset House Summer Series, which brings an eclectic lineup of live music to one of London’s most atmospheric courtyards. Pride in London is another key highlight, with a huge parade and citywide celebrations that spotlight inclusivity, community and creativity.
Rooftop cinemas, weekend food festivals and late-night gallery openings add even more to the mix, offering endless ways to enjoy the city from day to night. With something happening in nearly every corner, July is peak season for culture, colour and warm-weather energy.
Tips for visiting London in July
Dress for warm weather: With average temperatures between 15–24°C, July is usually sunny and warm. Lightweight clothing, sunglasses and a water bottle are all smart choices, especially if you're walking or queuing.
Peak tourist season: July is one of the busiest months in London, so attractions and theatres fill up fast. Book tickets and restaurant reservations in advance, especially for weekends.
Public transport: Services run as normal, but expect busier trains and stations throughout the day. Consider walking between close-together venues or using buses to avoid packed Tube lines.
Where to eat: Rooftop bars and garden terraces are hugely popular, areas like Covent Garden, King’s Cross and the South Bank are packed with open-air dining options. Make sure to reserve ahead for pre-show dining.
Theatre timing: Evening shows are a great way to end a summer day, especially with the sun setting around 9pm. Matinees work well if you want to spend the evening outdoors or at a festival.
