Top 10 Christmas Shows for Under Fives

1. The Snowman at Peacock Theatre, Holborn, WC2
Seasonal favourite adapted from Raymond Briggs’ tale returns with spellbinding scenes including a flying Snowman. Performance times 11am, 2.30pm and 7pm (varying dates). Ages 2+, £12-32 (Dec 1-Jan 9)

2. The Gruffalo Live at Garrick Theatre, W1
Monstrously popular show based on Julia Donaldson’s classic tale comes to life with puppetry and dance. Ages 3+ (Nov 24-Jan 16)

3. Charlie & Lola’s Best Bestest Play at Pleasance Theatre Islington, N1
Puppets, magic and live action mix in this adaptation of the popular CBeebies show. Tickets £9.50-11, show times from 10.30am (Dec 1-Jan 2)

4. Bagpuss at Soho Theatre, W1
Everyone’s favourite saggy cloth cat makes his world premiere on stage in this musical adaptation of the 1974 TV show, for ages 7 and under. 11am, 1pm & 3pm show times, £13.50 adults, £11.50 kids (Dec 9-Jan 9)

5. Peppa Pig’s Party at Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly, SW1
Get porky and playful with Peppa and her friends as they celebrate with treats, games and muddy puddles in this special West End outing. Show times from 11am, £14.50-20 (Nov 30-Jan 2)

6. My Dad’s a Birdman at Young Vic, Waterloo SE1
Father and daughter take to the skies for a flying contest in this uplifting tale for under 10s by David Almond, set to music by the Pet Shop Boys. Performances 10.30am, 11am, 1.30pm, 3pm & 5.30pm, £10 adults, £8 kids (until Jan 1)

7. Mole in the Hole at Unicorn Theatre, London Bridge SE1
Meet the Mole family in their underground wonderland, an interactive musical show for ages 3-6. 11.30am, 2.30pm most days, or 10.45am, 1,45/2.15pm. Tickets £10.50, £8 concessions (Dec 4-Jan 2)

8. Snow Play at Lyric Hammersmith, W6
Have fun with the white stuff in this sweet show by Lyngo Theatre for kids ages 2-7, followed by craft activities. Show times from 10.30am, tickets £8 Adults, £6 kids (Dec 2-Jan 2)

9. The Night Before Christmas at the Ambassadors Theatre, W1
See Santa and his elves prepare for Christmas in this magical show, with a chance to meet Father Christmas and receive a gift! Show times 11am, 1pm & 4pm varying, £10-15(Dec 7-24)

10. Hold On Mr Rabbit! at Little Angel Theatre, N1
Little Elsie follows her toy rabbit through a picture on her bedroom wall into a topsy turvy world in this puppet adventure, inspired by the Alice in Wonderland production. £8 adults, £6 kids. Show times 10am, 11.30am & 1pm (Thu), 10am & 11.30am (Sun). For ages 2-5, baby friendly performances on Suns. (Dec 8-Jan 30)