The Gruffalo

Tall Stories’ much-loved magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler returns by popular demand, celebrating the show’s 25th anniversary. 

On a daring adventure in search of hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high-spirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?     

Songs, laughs and mischievous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, from Tall Stories, creators of imaginative storytelling theatre, where everything is possible.

At the Lyric Theatre in London’s West End, The Gruffalo is a family show based on the much-loved picture book, created for younger audiences. 

The show is a popular choice for families planning a West End theatre visit together. Book The Gruffalo direct with Nimax Theatres via the Lyric Theatre Box Office for official tickets, no booking fees, and options for groups, schools and access customers. 

Performance Dates

Friday 17 July 2026 – Sunday 6 September 2026

Tickets From

£10

Running Time

60mins no interval

Age Guidance

3+ (For all productions at Nimax Theatres, children aged 14 and below must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over and sat in seats next to each other.)

Babes in Arms

Children under the age of 18 months are classed as ‘babes-in-arms’ and will not require a ticket. Children aged 18 months and older will require a ticket.

★★★★

‘An irresistibly charming tale told with refreshing simplicity.’

The Sunday Times
★★★★★

‘An absolute delight.’

The Scotsman
★★★★

‘A master-class in timeless storytelling.’

WhatsOnStage

Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffer

Authors

Olivia Jacobs & Toby Mitchell

Directors

Isla Shaw

Set & Costume Designer

James Whiteside

Lighting Designer

JollyGoodTunes

Sound Design

Access performances at Nimax Theatres are now available to purchase online. You can purchase up to two tickets online for the below performances.

Access performances at Nimax Theatres are now available to purchase online. You can purchase up to two tickets online for the below performances. 

Access Seating:

For all performances, you can select up to two seats at our discounted access rate of 50% off per person. These include:

  • Wheelchair park and companion seats
  • End-of-aisle seating
  • Central row seating

If you’ll remain in your wheelchair choose wheelchair spaces. For all other access requirements including transferring, choose access tickets.


Upcoming Access Performances:

To make a wheelchair transfer booking, purchase more than two tickets or to discuss your seating requirements further, please contact our Access team on 0330 333 4815 or access@nimaxtheatres.com.

Family Ticket – 4 tickets bought together:

£100 on Premium tickets
Book Family Ticket Online >

£90 on Band A tickets
Book Family Ticket Online >

Valid For: Weekdays only and not available in conjunction with any other offers.

Groups Rate (10+ Tickets)

Rate: Buy 10 tickets, get the 11th free (on all price bands)
Seats: Stalls, Dress Circle & Grand Circle
Valid For: All performances
Exclusion Dates: N/A

Schools & Education Rate (10+ Tickets) 

Rate: £12 per ticket, 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 students
Seats: Stalls, Dress Circle & Grand Circle
Valid For: 
All performances
Exclusion Dates: 
N/A

Buggy park – Located in the boxes on Dress Circle level (accessed via the main entrance)

Baby changing facilities – Located in access toilet & ladies toilets Stalls & Grand Circle

Booster seats available – Pick up on each level

Kid friendly drinks and snacks – Available to purchase at each bar

Babes in Arms – Children under the age of 18 months are classed as ‘babes-in-arms’ and will not require a ticket. Children aged 18 months and older will require a ticket.

What is the recommended age guidance for The Gruffalo?
3+ (For all productions at Nimax Theatres, children aged 14 and below must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over and sat in seats next to each other.) . For all productions at Nimax Theatres, children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over and sat in seats next to each other. Audience suitability can vary depending on themes or effects in the performance. Parents and guardians are encouraged to consider the guidance carefully before booking. For further details on audience advisories and family-friendly performances, please refer to the official show information.
When is The Gruffalo at Lyric Theatre running until?
The current booking period for The Gruffalo at Lyric Theatre is scheduled to run until 6th September 2026. Additional dates may be added based on demand, so it’s worth checking the latest availability before planning your visit. You can view performance times and book tickets on the The Gruffalo schedule.
Where is The Gruffalo showing?
The Gruffalo is showing at Lyric Theatre, located at 29 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1D 7ES in London’s West End. The theatre is easily accessible by public transport, and nearby you’ll find a range of restaurants, bars, and attractions to complete your theatre visit. For directions, access information, and facilities, see the Lyric Theatre theatre page.
How much are tickets for The Gruffalo
Tickets for The Gruffalo at Lyric Theatre are priced from £10 to £29.50, depending on seating location, performance date, and current demand. Prices may vary during weekends, holidays, and peak periods. For the latest pricing and to choose your preferred seats, visit the official The Gruffalo booking page.
What is the running time for The Gruffalo?
The running time for The Gruffalo is approximately 60mins no interval , including any interval where applicable. Please note that performance times can occasionally vary slightly, so we recommend arriving in good time and checking your ticket confirmation for exact details on the day of your visit.
What time do doors open for The Gruffalo?
Doors at Lyric Theatre generally open around 30 before the start of the performance. Arriving early allows time to find your seat and enjoy any pre-show refreshments.
Does Lyric Theatre have accessibility options for The Gruffalo?
Lyric Theatre caters for a range of accessibility requirements. For full details visit the accessibility information page or contact the venue directly.
Is there a dress code for The Gruffalo
There is no formal dress code at our theatres, you are welcome to wear whatever is comfortable. We kindly ask that clothing is respectful, weather-appropriate, and does not obstruct the view of others.

Lyric Theatre

29 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1D 7ES

An ornate ceiling with a large chandelier and decorative patterns in gold and white.

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Lyric Theatre

29 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1D 7ES

Performance Dates

Friday 17 July 2026 – Sunday 6 September 2026

Tickets From

£10

Running Time

60mins no interval

Age Guidance

3+ (For all productions at Nimax Theatres, children aged 14 and below must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over and sat in seats next to each other.)

Babes in Arms

Children under the age of 18 months are classed as ‘babes-in-arms’ and will not require a ticket. Children aged 18 months and older will require a ticket.

Select Performance Date

M
T
W
T
F
S
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Book with
confidence guarantee

Buy directly from the theatre

Save money with no
booking fees

More flexibility with
your booking

Find the best seats

Priority access for new shows