London Theatre Shows in October 2026

Top Halloween shows in October

There are plenty of spooky shows available to book this October. For haunted houses and toe-tapping tunes about the “whole being dead thing”, book for the hilarious Beetlejuice the Musical, based on the cult classic Tim Burton film. For a chilling play with jaw-dropping special effects, snag tickets for Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a prequel to the hit Netflix series. Take a journey to the underworld with Hadestown, the atmospheric and romantic Greek-mythology inspired musical, or for a different type of thrill check out long-running Agatha Christie whodunnit The Mousetrap. 

Best Family Friendly Shows in October

October is a great time to enjoy a theatre trip with the whole family. With schools on half-term break at the end of the month, and evenings getting darker, there’s no better way to spend quality time together than seeing a West End show. From magical musicals to laugh-out-loud comedies, there are plenty of family-friendly options in London this month.

Popular family-friendly productions this October include long-running favourites like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Matilda The Musical, offering stunning visuals, catchy songs and heartwarming stories that delight children and adults alike. These shows are perfect for introducing younger audiences to live theatre while keeping grown-ups thoroughly entertained, plus dressing up is welcome so little ones can feel completely immersed in the magic
Keep an eye on what’s on throughout the month, as family shows often add extra performances during the school holidays, which sometimes offer discounts for weekday shows or matinees.

What’s on in London in October

With the city settling into autumn and the cultural calendar kicking into high gear, October is a vibrant month in London. The weather turns crisp, the parks glow with autumn colour, and there’s no shortage of things to do — indoors and out.

Theatre lovers can enjoy a packed schedule of musicals, plays and operas, as major productions continue their runs and new shows open ahead of the winter season. Major West End theatres are in full swing, with a wide range of productions to choose from, especially as half-term approaches.
Elsewhere, October marks the return of the BFI London Film Festival, bringing international stars and acclaimed films to venues across the city. Art fans can head to major exhibitions at the Tate Modern, Royal Academy and National Gallery, with blockbuster shows often launching in autumn.

For something seasonal, London’s Halloween events start to take over, with ghost tours, themed pop-ups, and immersive experiences appearing across the city. Meanwhile, food festivals, autumn markets and open-air light trails begin to pop up in parks and gardens, making October a great time to experience the city at its most atmospheric.

Tips for visiting London in October

Dress smart for autumn: With temperatures ranging from 11–16°C, October can swing between cool sunshine and damp, chilly spells. Pack layers, waterproof shoes, and a compact umbrella for day-to-night comfort.

Best times to explore: Early in the month is quieter and ideal for museum visits or weekday shows. Half-term (towards the end) sees a spike in footfall around attractions.

Theatre timing: Autumn productions begin to pick up, and weekday matinees often have better seat selection. Evening shows pair well with a late afternoon museum visit.

Getting around: Tube travel is smooth this month, but always check for weekend closures. Avoid rush hour for the most relaxed journeys.
Where to eat: Warm up with seasonal dishes in areas like Soho, Borough and Marylebone which offer cosy indoor spots perfect for a pre- or post-show meal.

Autumn atmosphere: Parks like Hyde Park and St James’s are full of colour. Combine your theatre trip with a crisp afternoon walk or photography stop.