Musicals

The Lion King Tickets

Name: The Lion King
Start: 2026-03-25T19:30:00
End: 2026-03-25T22:00:00
Location: Lyceum Theatre

Performer in lioness costume during The Lion King West End show.

Performers in lion costumes on stage during The Lion King show in London.

Performer in vibrant costume on stage during The Lion King musical.

Lion King stage performance with actors in traditional costumes and lion mask.

Duration

2 hr 30 min

Disney’s The Lion King in London roars on for 25+ years with Julie Taymor’s Tony-winning vision, Elton John & Tim Rice’s hits, and jaw-dropping puppetry!

Theater name: Lyceum Theatre

4.7/5

(10,742)

Senhaji

Mar 2026

Verified booking

This show was really unforgettable. It even made someone who hates musical shows love it ! There's no way to describe only one thing we loved about the Lion King as every part of the experience was amazing: the costumes, the music, the atmosphere, the lights, and of course the actors! Especially the two actors who played young Simba and Nala. Their talent is really impressive, especially as they are only children. We were scared that the show would be childish or the costumes weird with the animals but not at all! We definitely recommended the show to our friends. If you hesitate to go see it, don't and take your ticket !! Fore reference, we were seats B9

Bogdan

Mar 2026

Verified booking

Wow, what an experience! I had heard that this show was exceptional, but I didn’t imagine it would be this impressive. The emotion stayed with me throughout the entire performance, and the intermission caught me by surprise and left me slightly disoriented, even though I knew the story very well. I found myself counting the seconds during the break just to return to my seat and continue the story. I relived it like a child, even though I’m far from those days… but who doesn’t love a story told the way it should be? Honestly, I’m already thinking of coming back to hear once again the interpretation of these outstanding actors. See you soon, Bogdan

Naohiro

Mar 2026

Verified booking

My partner and I watched it to celebrate our 20th anniversary. We loved it! We have watched Lion King once back in our own country, which was played by one of the most known theater companies. We liked it a lot. But this one in London was different. I loved the powerful performance, especially the one of Rafki. My partner was in the acting club and directed the plays when he was young. He was moved by how smooth and quick Lion King team changed the scenes. He told that scene changes didn't cut our concentration. When the curtain fell, I heard the loudest cheers in my life! That was a memorable play.

Xiaoman

Feb 2026

Verified booking

We saw The Lion King in London’s West End and it was honestly such a special experience. When “Circle of Life” started and the performers came down the aisles, the whole theatre went completely quiet – it gave me goosebumps. The stage feels a bit more intimate, but that actually makes everything feel closer and more immersive. The costumes are incredible and so detailed, and the music sounds even more powerful live. Watching it with my daughter made it even better – she was completely absorbed the entire time. Definitely one of those shows you walk out of still thinking about.

Chana

Feb 2026

Verified booking

Wow!!!!! what an incredible show! From the moment the lights went down and the animals started walking through the audience, I was completely amazed. The costumes and puppetry are on a level you don’t see every day, and the live music is truly moving. The performers gave powerful, high-energy performances, and the stage keeps changing in surprising and creative ways. It’s an immersive experience for both adults and children, and you don’t even notice how fast the time flies. Definitely one of the most beautiful productions I’ve ever seen! 🦁✨

Eddie

Jan 2026

Verified booking

I came to London from Spain to see the city, and by chance I came across The Lion King musical. I saw that there were tickets available and jumped at the chance to get one. I don't speak much English, but I have to say that I felt a surprising range of emotions. I got so caught up in the show that I didn't need to understand everything they were saying. They brought my childhood back to life and made me feel like I was in the movie the whole time. I have nothing but words of gratitude and my most sincere congratulations to the entire team behind The Lion King.

From Disney’s Oscar-winning film to London’s longest-running family musical, The Lion King has been delighting audiences since the last 25 years.

Directed by Julie Taymor, the first woman to win a Tony for the musical's direction, the show earned Olivier Awards for choreography and costume design.

Over 232 puppets, spectacular staging, and Elton John's and Tim Rice's score with songs like "Circle of Life" and "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" make this a roaring classic.

Nearly 9,000 UK performances and counting, critics hails it as a "kaleidoscopic visual brilliance" (The Guardian). Book your tickets to The Lion King in London now!

The story

Set in the African Pride Lands, The Lion King in London follows young Simba as he flees after the tragic fall of his father, King Mufasa. Guided by new friends Timon and Pumbaa and haunted by Scar’s shadow, Simba must decide whether to face his destiny and reclaim Pride Rock. Will he rise as king, or let fear rule forever?

Critics reviews

“As fresh and soul-stirring as ever”

– The Telegraph

“You hope all nights in the theatre will be like this!”

– Daily Mail

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

10,742 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from France, Switzerland, Italy and over 77 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Davide
Mar 2026
Verified booking
Now in its record-breaking 27 th year at the Lyceum Theatre, this production has long since transcended novelty and earned its place as a permanent institution of London’s West End — and remarkably, it still delivers. Nothing quite prepares you for the sheer impact of the opening sequence. With “Circle of Life” reverberating through your chest, Taymor’s animal creations arrive species by species — gazelles spring, birds swoop, an elephant and her child lumber through the stalls. Over two decades on, it still silences a full house. The current cast is strong. The production is led by Hope Maine as Simba, alongside Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa and George Asprey as Scar — and Escoffery in particular brings a warmth and gravitas to Mufasa that gives the show’s emotional core real weight. Techniques from across the globe — African masks, Japanese Kabuki costumes, Malaysian shadow puppetry — are fused together in an explosion of spectacle. It never gets old. The wildebeest stampede — achieved through rolling set pieces, projections and choreography — remains one of the most exhilarating sequences in the West End , and the climactic battle between Simba and Scar still lands with genuine theatrical force. The Lyceum itself is well-suited to the show. Sightlines are good no matter where you’re seated , and the purpose-built stage design ensures the production fills the space without waste. Minor gripes persist: the second half can feel slightly slower , and some American accents from cast members occasionally puncture the immersion in what is, after all, a story rooted in African landscape and mythology. West End ticket and food prices remain eye-watering. But these are the quibbles of someone determined to find fault. Since opening in 1999, the London production has welcomed over 20 million theatregoers — and it’s easy to see why. This is one of those rare shows that earns every superlative thrown at it.
Victoria
Mar 2026
Verified booking
The energy in the theatre is palpable from the moment the house lights dim. Being that close, you don’t just hear the music; you feel the vibrations of the African drumming in your chest. The sheer scale of the production is overwhelming in the best way possible, especially during the "Circle of Life" opening when the animals emerge from the aisles right past you. At just two rows from the front, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. While you might have to look up slightly to take in the tallest giraffes, the tradeoff is an intimate look at the intricate detail of Julie Taymor’s legendary costumes. You can see the hand-painted patterns on the fabrics, the mechanical inner workings of the puppets, and—most importantly—the raw emotion on the actors' faces that people further back might miss. The cast is a powerhouse of talent where every actor and dancer catches your eye. The Dancers: Their athleticism is stunning; from the graceful leaps of the gazelles to the fluid, powerful movements of the lionesses, the choreography feels alive. The Leads: Whether it’s the commanding presence of Mufasa or the comedic timing of Timon and Pumbaa, the performances are incredibly polished. The Ensemble: Even the ensemble members playing plants or birds bring a level of focus that makes the Serengeti feel like a living, breathing entity. It is a rare experience to be so close to such a massive production, making every roar and every note feel like it was performed just for you.
Luisa
Mar 2026
Verified booking
Wonderful! My expectations were already high, because friends had recommended the musical to me and described it as beautiful. But seeing it in person was extraordinary! Even before it starts, you hear animal calls and bird songs that transport you to the savannah. Then the animals enter and it's a revelation: the actors are not hidden but can be seen perfectly and blend in with the animals they are playing: there are giraffes, a large elephant and a small one, a machine similar to a bicycle (I don't know how else to describe it) that simulates gazelles jumping... in short, a triumph of colors and movements. And the music! The percussion instruments, positioned in the side boxes in full view, make your stomach vibrate, Rafiki's voice is sublime, not to mention Simba and Nala as young people: two kids who seem like seasoned actors as well as talented singers. I laughed at the performances of Zazu, Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed, even though I didn't always fully understand the jokes given my less than perfect English. In short: wonderful. So beautiful and compelling that I only managed to take one photo before the show started. Then I was captivated!
Shaul
Mar 2026
Verified booking
Tonight I had the privilege of watching The Lion King musical in London, and it was truly one of the most breathtaking theatrical experiences I have ever had. From the very first moment, the production completely captivated me. The opening scene alone was unforgettable – the way the animals filled the theater and the music began gave me chills. The costumes, puppetry, and stage design were simply extraordinary. Every detail was crafted with such creativity and precision that it felt as if the savannah had come to life right in front of us. The performers were phenomenal; their voices, acting, and physical performance brought so much emotion and depth to the story. It was impossible not to be moved. What impressed me most was how the show combines stunning visuals with powerful music and storytelling. The orchestra, the choreography, and the lighting all worked together perfectly to create a magical atmosphere. This production is a true masterpiece of theater. Thank you to the entire cast, crew, and creative team for delivering such an unforgettable and inspiring experience. It is something I will remember for a very long time.
Sareta
Mar 2026
Verified booking
Last night London felt a little more like Africa. Watching The Lion King at the magnificent Lyceum Theatre was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we stepped into the Ambassador Lounge we were welcomed with warmth and excitement, setting the tone for a truly special evening. But when the curtain rose, the experience became something much deeper. As a South African, hearing African languages echo through a historic London theatre filled me with pride and emotion. In that moment I felt connected to home thousands of kilometres away. The music, costumes, and performers were breathtaking, bringing the spirit of Africa to life in the most powerful way. For a few magical hours the heart of Africa beat in London, and every person in that theatre could feel it. So many South Africans starring in the play...woweeee!!! A spectacular production that leaves you uplifted, inspired, and reminded that great storytelling can unite the world.

Show details

Categories: Musical, Disney, Kids, Olivier winner, Fantasy, Classic

Audience: Strictly for 3+

Theater name: Lyceum Theatre

Find the best seats in the house with the Lyceum Theatre seating plan

Theater facilities: Bars, restrooms, cloakroom, merchandise kiosks

Theater accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, step-free entry, induction loops for hearing-impaired guests, companion seating, access hosts

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

Leading roles: George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Thenjiwe Thendiva Nofemele as Rafiki, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Alan McHale as Timon, Mark Roper as Pumbaa, Owen Chaponda as Simba and Merryl Ansah as Nala

Direction: Julie Taymor

Adaptation: Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi

Music: Elton John

Lyrics: Tim Rice

Additional music & lyrics: Lebo M and Mark Mancina

Costume design, mask & puppet co-design, additional lyrics: Julie Taymor

Choreographer: Garth Fagan

Set design: Richard Hudson

Lighting design: Donald Holder

Sound design: Steve Canyon Kennedy

Additional info

This show is recommended for ages 6 years and above. Children aged under 3 years will not be admitted to this show.

All guests that are 16 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own in the auditorium.

Content warning: The production contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting.

Keep in mind, most theaters are air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

Frequently asked questions about The Lion King

Q: How much do The Lion King London tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

Q: Where is The Lion King playing in London?

A: The show is playing at the Lyceum Theatre in London’s West End.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: The Lion King follows Simba, a young lion prince, on his journey from exile to reclaiming his rightful place as king, while navigating betrayal, loss, and the circle of life.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: There’s no strict age limit, but it’s generally recommended for ages 6 years and above. Children aged under 3 years will not be admitted to this show and all guests that are 16 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own in the auditorium. The production contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting.

Q: Are there any popular songs in the musical?

A: Yes, the musical features an iconic score by Elton John and Tim Rice which includes songs like “Circle of Life,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” and “Hakuna Matata.” You can listen to the album here.

Q: Has the show won any awards?

A: Yes, The Lion King has won multiple prestigious awards, including Tony awards for Best Musical and Best Direction and Laurence Olivier awards for Best Costume Design and Best Choreography.

Q: How long has The Lion King been running in London?

A: The musical opened in the West End in 1999 and has been performing continuously since, making it a legendary classic with a record-breaking run.

Q: What makes this production unique?

A: Julie Taymor’s innovative use of puppetry, masks, and choreography brings the animals and African savannah vividly to life, creating a visually stunning spectacle unlike any other.