“I don’t think I want to go to Paddington,” my son whispered loudly on the packed train to London Bridge, prompting a moment of discomfort. A trip to a West End show is among the most significant financial commitments a family can face, increasing the pressure for it to be memorable and enjoyable, reports BritPanorama.
I took our two children, aged six and eight, to Paddington The Musical, which opened recently at the Savoy Theatre. It is poised to become one of the West End’s next blockbuster shows, alongside productions like Matilda, Frozen, and The Lion King. However, the financial implications of attending are substantial.
Ticket costs
For the press preview, our seats in Row F of the stalls were notable, with a price tag of £250 each. Booking ahead is essential as availability is limited for the next two to three months; tickets in the same section can be found for £180 per person, amounting to £720 for a family of four, all gone in under three hours (plus a £3.95 transaction fee). Those willing to wait until summer may find seat prices reduced to between £125 and £160 each.
The performance itself was captivating, offering unique experiences such as getting splashed with water during a scene where Paddington floods a bathroom, and having “Missing Paddington” posters fall from the ceiling. The lively music which resonated throughout the theatre elicited enthusiastic reactions from the audience, especially the children, who were full of questions about the impressive puppetry.
For better value, tickets further back in the stalls or in the dress circle range from £45 to £180. If attending later in the year, options in the grand circle become more affordable, starting at £25 for seats at the very back. For budget-conscious families, the ticket lottery could be a worthwhile option, where a small number of good seats are available for £35 each in a monthly draw.
Food and drink prices
We opted for a packed lunch on the way to avoid the costs of theatre snacks. During the interval, we indulged in a mini bottle of prosecco for £13.65 and a mini bottle of champagne for £27.50. Beer starts at £8.60 and cocktails in cans cost around £8. There’s even a special Paddington-themed orange gin cocktail being served.
We also decided to try the famous marmalade sandwich, which is offered at £3.50 each, but found it disappointing; the children preferred the ice cream at £5.50 for a small pot. Prices for snacks reflecting typical West End theatre costs include £3.50 for sparkling water and £4 for a sharing pack of sweets.
For those seeking a premium experience, VIP packages are available, starting at £45 on top of the ticket cost. These packages provide access to a special lounge and include food and drinks.
Transport details
Travelling from zone 3 in London, our return train fare to the Savoy Theatre was £12 each. For those coming in from outside London, the theatre is conveniently located a short walk from Charing Cross station or a pleasant ten-minute walk from Waterloo station.
Merchandise costs
The theatre’s gift shop offers a variety of Paddington-themed items, including a small keyring for £10.99 and kids’ T-shirts at £32.99. The glossy programme, featuring insights into Paddington’s history, costs £10. A worthwhile investment for children might be a Paddington book or bear, priced at £16.99 for a small one.
Despite the expenses, our children left the show in high spirits. The performance, filled with excitement and valuable themes of kindness and diversity, resonated with them and prompted ongoing conversations. Theatre provides an experience that resonates differently compared to film; this production certainly left a lasting impression.
Total expenses
For a family of four attending a peak-time performance of Paddington, total costs can amount to around £600 for tickets, along with £10 for a programme, £30 for drinks, £18 for two sandwiches and two ice creams, and £58 for merchandise, bringing the total to approximately £716, excluding transport. While this show is indeed a must-see, the production will continue through 2026, and families may benefit from waiting for more affordable seat options in the coming months.
Booking until 25 October 2026, Savoy Theatre, London (paddingtonthemusical.com)
