October Shows in London

London in October is atmospheric and buzzing—crisp autumn air, golden foliage, and an irresistible lineup of West End shows. As the city leans into London Halloween events and festivities, theater lovers can explore a mix of new premieres, long-running favourites, and seasonal experiences. If you're planning to catch London shows in October 2025, this guide will help you choose the right one.

Navigation guide

1. Top West End shows in October
2. October premieres
3. Shows closing in October
4. Family-friendly shows
5. Events in London
6. Timeless shows in London
7. Visitor tips
8. Where to eat and drink
9. FAQs

October brings crisp autumn air, early sunsets, and a season of atmospheric theatre. London shows in October 2025 range from dark thrillers to family-friendly half-term favourites, all set against the city’s golden parks and festive buzz. With Halloween around the corner, it’s the perfect month to mix culture, colour, and cosy nights at the theatre.

Top West End shows in October 2025

October’s theatre lineup is deliciously dramatic—think spooky thrillers, bold new openings, and West End favourites still going strong. Whether you’re chasing Halloween chills or autumn escapes, these are the shows lighting up London this month.

October premieres in London

• An Evening with Tottenham Legends (Opens on 6 October at the Adelphi Theatre): Football fans won’t want to miss this special night celebrating Tottenham’s sporting heroes.
• Da Vinci’s Laundry (Opens on 6 October at Riverside Studios): A razor-sharp comedy set in the glitzy, morally dubious world of high-end art and forgery.
• Carmen (Opens on 8 October at the London Coliseum): ENO’s electrifying take on Bizet’s classic opera about seduction, jealousy, and obsession.
• Fanny (Opens on 10 October at King’s Head Theatre): This witty and bold play explores identity, relationships, and social expectations with sharp humour.
• Albert Herring (Opens on 13 October at the London Coliseum): Britten’s comic opera brings small-town antics to life with music and mischief.
• The Wanderers (Opens on 17 October at Marylebone Theatre): A critically acclaimed exploration of love, faith, and human connection makes its UK debut.
• Othello (Opens on 23 October at Theatre Royal Haymarket): David Harewood and Toby Jones lead a powerhouse revival of Shakespeare’s tragic masterpiece.
• Elf! The Musical (Opens on 28 October at the Aldwych Theatre): The smash-hit festive musical returns to the West End with holiday cheer and laughs.

London shows closing in October

Some of London’s most talked-about shows are taking their final bows this month. If you’ve been meaning to catch them, this is your last chance before they leave the stage. These productions are wrapping up in October—making it the perfect time to experience their final weeks of magic.

• Dracula: A dark, atmospheric retelling of Bram Stoker’s classic. Closes October 11 at Lyric Hammersmith.
• The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: The Olivier‑winning musical’s final curtain falls this October. Closes October 11 at the Ambassadors Theatre.
• Cinderella (La Cenerentola): Rossini’s festive opera offers one last performance. Closes October 14 at the London Coliseum.
• Albert Herring: Britten’s quirky comic opera depicting small-town eccentricities. Closes October 22 at the London Coliseum.
• Plied and Prejudice: A hilarious, immersive parody of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Closes October 25 at The Vaults London.
• Twelfth Night, or What You Will: Shakespeare’s bittersweet tale of mistaken identity, gender play, and revelry. Closes October 25 at Shakespeare’s Globe.
• Da Vinci’s Laundry: A razor-sharp satire set in the morally murky world of elite art dealing. Closes October 25 at Riverside Studios.
• Troilus and Cressida: A rarely performed Shakespearean satire about war, love, and betrayal. Closes October 26 at Shakespeare’s Globe.

Halloween-themed shows in October

Get ready to embrace the spooky season—London’s theatre scene adds a thrilling twist this October with immersive horrors, ghostly classics, and festive fright nights. Here's what to catch if you're craving chills and thrills.

• Ghost Stories (September 30, Peacock Theatre): This chilling collection of eerie tales promises heart-pounding scares and spine-tingling suspense.
• Dracula (September 11, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre): Dark, brooding, and atmospheric, this stage adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic tale brings horror to the West End.
• Invasive Species (Theatre Royal Haymarket): Maia Novi’s sharp, darkly comic solo show explores the immigrant experience in Hollywood with biting humour, vulnerability, and electrifying storytelling.

Pro tips for visiting London in October

Make the most of your theatre trip with these timely tips for London October visitors:

• Pack layers: Daytime averages 14°C, but evenings dip to 8°C. Bring a coat and umbrella.
• Book early: October shows can sell out fast, especially around Halloween.
• Matinees are family-friendly: Mid-afternoon shows are less crowded and ideal for younger kids.
• Check transport updates: October often sees weekend closures on the Tube for engineering works.
• Dine early: Many restaurants near West End theatres offer pre-theatre menus between 5pm – 7pm.
• Opt for weekday performances: Tuesdays to Thursdays often have better seat availability and lower prices.
• Explore Covent Garden: Perfect for pre-show shopping, street performers, or a quick coffee.
• Mind the rain: London weather is unpredictable—carry a compact umbrella or raincoat.
• Plan for Halloween crowds: The last weekend of October brings costumed revellers and busy streets, so allow extra time.