8 Family Circus Shows and Experiences in the UK

You’ll discover some of the UK’s most spectacular family circus experiences right now, from traditional big tops featuring cutting-edge animatronics to intimate workshops where your children can master their own circus skills. Top shows include Big Kid Circus’s “Kingdom of Kong” with a 30-foot animatronic, Jay Miller’s Western-themed “Stetsons & Sequins,” and Gandeys’ ice spectacular “Snowstorm.” Book early for the best seats, and arrive early for prime seating arrangements—these unforgettable experiences offer something magical for every family member’s taste and interests.

Big Kid Circus – Traditional Big Top With Animatronic Spectacle

Since its debut in 2005, Big Kid Circus has revolutionized family entertainment by blending traditional big top charm with cutting-edge animatronic technology.

You’ll experience their groundbreaking 2025 production, “Kingdom of Kong,” featuring a jaw-dropping 30-foot animatronic King Kong—the first of its kind in the UK.

Your family will witness state-of-the-art dinosaurs towering overhead and Europe’s only all-female Globe of Death performance.

Plan ahead by checking their UK tour schedule, with confirmed stops in Barnsley, Castleford, Reading, and Southport throughout 2025.

Arrive early to secure ideal seating for the animatronic spectacle.

The show’s family-friendly format ensures safe entertainment for all ages, while the traditional big top atmosphere creates an authentic circus experience you won’t find elsewhere in Britain. Their performances reach audiences across multiple venues including Edinburgh, Glasgow Fort, and Stockton-on-Tees, each offering detailed showtimes and convenient online ticketing options.

Jay Miller’s Circus – “Stetsons & Sequins” Western-Themed Production

Whether you’re seeking authentic Western entertainment or traditional circus thrills, Jay Miller’s Circus delivers both with their spectacular 2025 production “Stetsons & Sequins.” You’ll witness first-class performances that blend cowboy charm with classic big top magic, featuring crowd-pleasing acts like Peppi the Clown’s family-friendly comedy and Sebastian Foray’s death-defying Wheel of Death.

This established circus has toured southern UK since 1987, bringing unforgettable experiences to families. You’ll enjoy approximately 1 hour 45 minutes of entertainment with an interval, perfect for young audiences. The performances take place at a showground field adjacent to The Swanage School in the Herston area.

Tickets start from £10 when booked in advance by calling 07976 655180. The show includes modern BMX stunts by Jan Extreme Trio alongside traditional circus elements, ensuring there’s something for all in your family.

Cirque: The Greatest Show – Musical Theatre Meets Acrobatic Performance

While traditional circus entertainment captivates audiences with classic acts, Cirque: The Greatest Show elevates the experience by fusing musical theatre with world-class acrobatics in their reimagined 2025 production.

You’ll witness Britain’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer winner Max Fox alongside contortionists, aerialists, and illusionists performing to iconic songs from The Greatest Showman, La La Land, and Moulin Rouge.

This family-friendly extravaganza runs approximately 2 hours 20 minutes with an interval, suitable for ages 5+. The production promises a vibrant, exciting theatrical experience that combines power vocalists with incredible feats of agility.

Plan accordingly as the show features flashing lights, loud noises, and haze effects.

Ticket prices range £24-£34 plus booking fees.

You can catch performances across multiple UK venues including Halifax, Manchester, and Southampton.

Free companion tickets are available for disabled visitors, though children under 2 aren’t permitted.

Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show – Character-Based Contemporary Circus

If your family adores Shaun the Sheep’s mischievous antics, you’ll be thrilled to discover that the beloved Aardman characters have leaped from screen to stage in an extraordinary circus spectacular. This collaboration between Circa Contemporary Circus and Aardman transforms Aviva Studios into Mossy Bottom Farm, delivering 100 minutes of high-flying entertainment that’s perfect for ages 2 and up.

You’ll witness breathtaking aerial silks, acrobatic pole work, and signature slapstick comedy—all performed with minimal dialogue, staying true to the series’ charm. The show’s two-act structure builds from gentle character introductions to spectacular circus finale. Following successful runs that premiered in Brisbane before touring Australia and Singapore, this acclaimed production finally makes its way to UK audiences.

At £25-£45 per ticket, families can save with the “SHEEPFAMILY6” offer (six tickets for £75), while children under 12 receive 50% off and babes-in-arms attend free.

Gandeys Circus “Snowstorm” – Ice and Fire Seasonal Spectacular

As winter’s chill settles across Greater Manchester, Gandeys Circus transforms the Trafford Centre into a breathtaking wonderland where fire meets frost in their sensational “Snowstorm” spectacular.

You’ll witness 16 world-class figure skaters performing alongside gravity-defying aerialists in a heated Big Top theatre built on real ice.

This 90-minute family show runs from December 5th to January 4th, featuring daily performances at noon, 3pm, and 6pm on weekends. The production celebrates themes of unity, courage, and joy that leave a lasting impression long after the final bow.

Book tickets early—this marks the fifth consecutive sell-out season for Greater Manchester’s beloved Christmas tradition.

You’ll find the venue at P13 Car Park (rails.mash.buck) with convenient Trafford Centre parking.

Remember tickets aren’t available online three hours before showtime, so arrive early or call their box office at 07878 228403.

Circus Fantasia – Comedy and Acrobatics Under the Big Top

Moving beyond the winter wonderland of ice skating spectaculars, Circus Fantasia delivers pure entertainment magic with their award-winning blend of comedy and death-defying acrobatics under the traditional Big Top.

You’ll witness Easy Riders performing spectacular motorbike carousel stunts, international trapeze artists defying gravity, and hilarious clowns keeping everyone entertained throughout the two-hour show.

The vibrant circus orchestra accompanies mesmerising performers from around the globe, creating an action-packed experience suitable for ages 2 to 92. The diverse lineup features The Salvador family, The Zulu Warriors, and the glamorous Fantasia Showgirls alongside talented acts like Luis Vargas and Junior Lichner.

Book early bird tickets online for the best prices and perfect seating at venues like Clacton Airfield’s Big Top. You’ll receive tickets instantly via email and SMS.

Food and drink are available on-site, making it convenient for families seeking edge-of-seat excitement and unforgettable memories.

Panic Family Circus – Interactive Workshops and Participatory Experiences

While traditional circus performances captivate audiences from their seats, Panic Family Circus transforms spectators into performers through hands-on workshops that’ll have your family juggling, balancing, and laughing together.

With over 35 years of experience, these 2-hour sessions begin with an exciting demonstration before inviting you into the circus ring. You’ll try juggling balls, walking tightropes, manipulating devil sticks, and even unicycling at your own pace in a supportive environment.

Their unique “Panic Style” training creates child-centered experiences that build confidence while ensuring safety. The workshops accommodate all ages and skill levels, making them perfect for festivals, schools, or private events. Activities include exciting skills like diabolo manipulation, adding variety to the traditional circus arts offerings.

Best of all, many sessions receive National Lottery funding, making circus magic accessible. Booking’s essential, so secure your spot for unforgettable family fun.

Circus Extreme – High-Energy Stunts With Live Rock Music

If interactive workshops aren’t quite enough excitement for your family, Circus Extreme cranks up the energy with death-defying stunts backed by thunderous live rock music. You’ll witness world-class performers attempting dangerous feats like the Double Wheel of Death and Globe of Death while a full rock band provides an adrenaline-pumping soundtrack.

The show features extreme motocross battles, aerial sword swallowing, and aquatic aerial hoop performances that have mesmerized crowds across more than 30 countries. Your family will experience two hours of multi-sensory entertainment combining theatrical lighting, amplified music, and gravity-defying performances.

Safety remains paramount despite the high-risk nature—these are world-class professionals using specialized equipment. The UK’s 2025 tour includes Plymouth and English Riviera locations, offering multiple daily shows to accommodate family schedules.

The Sum Up

You’ll create magical memories at any of these spectacular circus shows. Book tickets early since popular performances sell out quickly. Check age recommendations—some acts might be too intense for younger children. Arrive 30 minutes early for parking and seating. Don’t forget to review venue policies on outside food and photography. Most importantly, keep your little ones close during interval breaks when crowds move around. These unforgettable experiences will leave your family wanting more!