I’ve lived in London for 12 years now, and there’s one festive tradition I’ve never missed: the annual pantomime!
Each winter, as the lights sparkle and the Christmas markets pop up, heading to a panto has become my family’s favourite way to feel immersed in London’s seasonal magic. It’s joyful, it’s interactive, and it’s quite simply the best way to get into the Christmas spirit!
Today, follow DOYOUSPEAKLONDON straight into the heart of London’s pantomimes!
London Pantomimes explained: what they are and why we love them!
If you’ve never been to one, a pantomime (or “panto,” as we like to call it) is a wonderfully British kind of theatre, that is usually running over Christmas and New Year.
It mixes twisted fairy tales, catchy songs, comedy, and lots of moments for the audience to join in the fun!
It means you’ll be shouting back at the cast with lines like, ‘He’s behind you!’ or booing the villains.
All the while, you’ll enjoy slapstick laughs, unexpected surprises, and vibrant, fun-filled costumes (seriously, the costumes are insanely creative!).
The word pantomime actually comes from ancient Greek and Roman theatre, meaning “imitator of all,” but the Christmas pantos we know and love today really took shape in England.
They were inspired by 16th‑century Italian commedia dell’arte (lively street theatre with stock characters and physical comedy) before evolving in the 18th and 19th centuries into the fun, family-friendly, joke-packed shows we enjoy now.
Other countries have their own fun theatre traditions, but the specific mix of audience interaction, comedy, and festive timing is something you really only find in a proper British Christmas panto, and in England, it’s still a cherished holiday tradition.
Your go-to guide to West London Pantomimes!
Here are three fantastic London venues where I love to enjoy a Christmas panto, with what’s on this year (2025) and when it’s running:
⭐ 1. The Questors Theatre, Ealing
A real West London gem, The Questors is one of the city’s biggest community theatres, loved for its welcoming vibe, lively shows, and the famous Judi Dench Playhouse.
It’s the closest one to me, and I love popping in for a panto before grabbing a tasty dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
🎟 2025 Pantomime: Cinderella
This year, Cinderella at The Questors brings the classic fairy tale to life with catchy songs, playful humour, and plenty of moments for the audience to join in the fun.
Dates: 5 Dec – 31 Dec 2025
Why go? It’s a true community theatre experience, with inclusive performances and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel part of the show. Also, tickets are priced to be accessible.
📍 Location: The Playhouse, Questors Theatre, Mattock Lane, Ealing, London W5
🎩 2. Richmond Theatre, Richmond
Richmond Theatre is a stunning Victorian venue with gorgeous interiors and a long-standing pantomime tradition. I always enjoy catching a show here, whether it’s a festive panto or one of their plays throughout the year, as their seasonal planning is excellent.
🎟 2025 Pantomime: Cinderella
This Christmas at Richmond Theatre, Cinderella (again!) brings the classic fairy tale to life with a wicked stepmother, magical fairy godmother, laughs, and lively scenes as Cinders races to the ball. The professional cast and vivid staging add clever twists and spectacle to this historic venue.
We saw this show last week, and my family and I had an absolute blast! It’s a lively take on the classic rags-to-riches story, packed with music, choreography, comedy, and audience participation for all ages (the kids in the audience were especially enthusiastic, which was wonderful to see). We were also really impressed by the amazing voices of the main actors.
Dates: 6 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Why go? The combination of stunning Victorian interiors and a long-standing panto tradition makes for a charming, classic festive experience.
📍 Location: Richmond Theatre, The Green, Richmond, London TW9
🎶 3. Lyric Hammersmith, Hammersmith
The Lyric Hammersmith, a striking modern theatre with sleek interiors and a reputation for innovative productions, is known for putting a fresh spin on traditional pantomimes, with music, comedy, and plenty of audience interaction.
🎟 2025 Pantomime: Jack and the Beanstalk
This year, Jack and the Beanstalk brings the classic tale of Jack, a magical beanstalk, and a mischievous giant to life with music, comedy, and lively audience interaction, making it a fun family-friendly show.
Dates: 15 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026.
Why go? It’s often described as one of London’s coolest panto experiences, ideal if you like tradition with a contemporary twist.
📍 Location: Lyric Hammersmith, Lyric Square, London W6.
Feeling inspired? If you’re planning on booking some tickets to a pantomime this Christmas, please share your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
For extra festive cheer, see my other top Christmas recommendations here!
Further information and bookings:
Questors Theatre website: questors.org.uk
Richmond Theatre website: ATG Tickets
Lyric Hammersmith website: londontheatredirect.com
