Longest running shows
Sort by: Popularity
The Lion King
Musicals
4.7(8.7K)
from
£45.60
Phantom of the Opera
Musicals
4.7(5.4K)
from
£30
Les Misérables
Musicals
4.7(4.4K)
from
£30
Hamilton
Musicals
4.8(2.4K)
from
£24
Mamma Mia!
Musicals
4.7(5.3K)
from
£30
Wicked
Musicals
4.6(3.6K)
from
£30
The Book Of Mormon
Musicals
4.6(3.2K)
from
£30
MJ The Musical
Musicals
4.8(1.3K)
from
£31.80
Matilda The Musical
Musicals
4.6(3.5K)
from
£24
The Great Gatsby Musical
Musicals
4.6(19)
from
£24
The Mousetrap
Plays
4.6(910)
from
£30
Mrs Warren's Profession
Plays
Mrs Warren's Profession
Opening on May 10, 2025
from
£30
A Man For All Seasons
Plays
A Man For All Seasons
Opening on Aug 06, 2025
from
£24
Akram Khan's Giselle
Ballet
Akram Khan's Giselle
Opening on Jan 15, 2026
from
£20.70

What to expect from the longest running West End shows

In the world of theater, a select few productions have stood the test of time, enchanting generation after generation of theatergoers. To sustain success over such extended periods, these productions share common elements: memorable music, moving stories, and compelling characters brought to life by talented performers. But the truly special shows offer something extra—that indefinable magic that continues to excite and delight audiences thousands of performances later. As they get imbibed into the city’s culture, they become touchpoints that people from around the world make special trips to experience.

What fans say

Les Miserables

Les Misérables

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We Are from Norway . Me and my 18- year old twins. Girl and boy. We had Seats far upp to the right. We love it . We cry and cry . The sound was good . We could hear each one of you . Thank you . We love you Hilde , Noah & Sophia from Norway 💐👏👏👏💐 My daughter is a singer . This was her dream ."


Jan 2025

Hilde

The Lion King

The Lion King

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I bought the tickets for the play as a gift for my boyfriend because I knew it was a dream of his to have this experience. However, I ended up being surprised and enchanted by how beautiful and magical the play was. The interaction and the way the actors entered through the back doors made us feel like part of the setting and the story being told. I highly recommend it because every second was worth it"


Jan 2025

Neurani

Matilda

Matilda

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I am 71 years old but still I enjoyed forming words using vertical, horizontal alphabets. What can I say about the actors and their performance? Each and everyone on the stage was performing as if he was born to be that character. Matilda was really an unbelievable experience!"


Jul 2024

Ravindra

Wicked

Wicked

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This was my first time seeing Wicked and I had a great time! Loved the stage set up and the costumes and of course the lovely cast! Its such a great story and they brought it to live so well."


Sep 2024

Linda

Top 8 longest-running West End musicals
Top 3 longest-running plays in London

Discover more

Harry Potter in London
Lion King in London
Matilda in London
Opera in London

Frequently asked questions about longest running West End shows

What makes longest-running West End shows special?

The longest-running West End shows have been running for many years for a reason - they are absolute unmissable classics featuring some of the best storylines, actors, stage design, and music.

Where can I find tickets for longest-running West End shows?

You can find tickets for longest-running West End shows online. Booking tickets online provides a hassle-free experience and allows you to book comfortably from home.

Which longest-running West End shows are worth watching?

While all the longest-running West End shows are worth a watch, some of the best ones are Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, The Lion King, and The Mousetrap.

Which is the longest-running play in London?

The Mousetrap is the longest-running play in London with over 28,915 performances since 1952.

Which is the longest-running West End musical?

Les Misérables is the longest-running West End musical, playing continuously since 1985 with over 15,527 performances.

What is the longest-running stage show of all time?

The Mousetrap is the longest-running stage show of all time, having played continuously since 1952.

What is the most successful West End show?

The most successful West End show is often considered to be The Phantom of the Opera, which has been seen by over 140 million people worldwide.

How long has Les Misérables been running in the West End?

Les Misérables has been running in the West End for over 39 years (since October 8, 1985).

Which are the top longest-running West End musicals?

The top longest-running West End musicals are Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia!, The Lion King, Starlight Express, and Wicked.

Which is the best time to see long-running shows in London?

The best time to see long-running shows in London is typically during weekday matinees or mid-week evening performances when prices may be lower and availability higher.

How can I get discounted tickets to classic West End shows?

You can get discounted tickets to classic West End shows by booking online, scheduling in advance, lottery systems, discounts, or by booking during promotional periods.

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