Fun Things To Do This Dry January In London

Rev up your engines and prepare for an adrenaline-fueled experience like no other at F1® Arcade, the high-octane venue in St. Paul's that brings the thrill of Formula 1 racing to the heart of London.

Whether you're a die-hard motorsport fan or just looking for a unique night out, this place has it all - state-of-the-art racing simulators, stylish interiors, and a buzzing social atmosphere that's perfect for both competitive spirits and casual racers alike. But it's not all about the track as this venue knows how to fuel your fun with a stellar selection of soft drinks and delicious bites to keep your pit crew happy. 

This online immersive experience only requires a smart phone and a pair of headphones to take part. Challenge yourself to a thrilling online adventure this Dry January, which will transform your home into a chilling arena for games and problem solving with a few horrifying surprises. 

Pottery classes in London offer a hands-on, creative escape for beginners and experienced artists alike. Whether you're shaping clay on a wheel or experimenting with hand-building techniques, these classes let you craft beautiful, functional pieces.

Many studios provide guided lessons in small, intimate groups, where you can learn everything from glazing to firing your work. With a variety of venues across the city, pottery classes are perfect for those looking to explore their artistic side and unwind in a relaxed, creative environment this January. 

January doesn't have to be boring if you're giving up the booze. Head to Montague on the Gardens Hotel for the scrumptious afternoon tea. Tuck into cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches, fruit scones plus seasonal pastries.

This January, Dishoom is giving Dry January (and beyond) a glow-up with V for Vitality, a new all-day menu of functional, non-alcoholic drinks designed to lift the mood and restore energy.

Expect rejuvenating juices and lassis like the silky Green Fire–Not Fire Juice, a punchy Raspberry Super-Lassi and a fragrant CBD Bhang Lassi, alongside curative shots you can add to your morning chai or coffee, such as clarity-boosting Lion's Mane and radiance-enhancing Tremella. There are light, healing waters too, from the apple-and-raspberry G-Spot Lift to a balancing Agua de Madre water kefir with pink grapefruit and lime, plus teetotal twists on classics like the sober negroni, Mr Xavier's mule and a booze-free espresso martini. 

Strap on the rollerskates and hit the rink for a nostalgic night of disco. You're sure to have one heck of an evening getting down on eight wheels, with booze-free bevs and a Roller Diner to kick back in and reward your efforts. 

This January, The Londoner is proving that going dry doesn't mean dialling down the flavour, with three non-alcoholic cocktails that put craft and creativity front and centre.

Launching on the menu at 8 at The Londoner, the Keen Bean, Palom-Pura and Calamansi Mojito are made with the same attention to detail as their boozy counterparts, blending bold flavours with an easy, approachable edge. Designed to challenge perceptions of what a dry cocktail can be, these refined serves make a compelling case for swapping the spirits - at least for a round.

One of our favourite Dry January activities in London, the Backyard Comedy Club is home to an epic roster of stand-up and character acts. Whether you want to catch a big name off the TV at a free gig or some of the finest up-and-coming talent, there's plenty to get stuck into here. They're even hosting a special Alcohol-Free Comedy Club Dry January special on Sunday the 26th of January.

You don't need booze to have fun when there's a full-size adult ball pit doing the work for you. Head over to Ballie Ballerson's iconic Shoreditch location for the chance to tuck into tasty slices of pizza, sweet sips and lose yourself to the madness of the ball pool.

You don't need alcohol to enjoy tufting. Get down to Gipsy Hill Brewery Taproom, The Elmherst or CRATE ST James Street to learn how to create a rug from scratch.

Your expert, Lucy of Laoxa's Creative Ground fame, will take you through the process, step-by-step, as you design, tuft and finish your personalised piece. Tickets are just £150 and include all the tools, materials and teaching you need to get creative. Laoxa's Creative Ground also hosts food events too, and much more. 

Regardless of whether you're doing it for the fitness or just wanna look fly when hitting the dancefloor, these quirky classes across London will have you ditching the usual workout for something a little more impressive. Check out the best of them and get into the groove. 

Our guide to Dry January bars in London shines the spotlight on some of the city's best alcohol-free offerings. From £4 South American-inspired mixes to bespoke blends catered to your tastes, there's plenty to explore. 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with StreetHunt: Colombia's Finest. This exciting, outdoor game invites you to explore London in a whole new way as you follow clues, crack codes, and solve puzzles related to Colombia's rich culture and heritage.

Whether you're a puzzle pro or just looking for a fun challenge, this interactive scavenger hunt will have you discovering hidden gems around the city while learning more about one of South America's most fascinating countries.

Grab a headset and get ready to uncover the powerful secrets of one of London's most iconic landmarks. On this one-of-a-kind backstage Audio Guided Tour, you'll get a close-up view of the original control desks, switchgear and synchroscopes that once distributed power around the capital day and night.

Just £13.50 gets you in and secures your welcome drink. If you're doing Dry Jan, just say the word and they'll fix you something booze-free.

Hold on to your hats because the London Bridge Rooftop has got you covered (literally) with their fully sheltered outdoor rooftop experience (they've even got a lovely apres-ski theme with vintage alpine decor and cable car booths). With DJs, chill vibes, banging views, and tasty food, you won't know where to start first. 

Always fancied yourself as a chef? The Yo! Sushi School is the perfect opportunity to show off your skills during Dry Jan.

Get on over to its London locations, from Bromley to Stratford to learn the secrets behind this legendary dish. Under the expert guidance of a sushi master, you'll slice, pack and roll your raw bites, before tucking into them after the session.

Experience the magic of the city with the West End Musical Tour Silent Disco Walking Tour. Not only will you get to see some of the capital's finest landmarks and streets, but also get to dance away to top-notch tunes. On top of that? There will be hilarious commentary too.

Gravity Wandsworth is a high-energy entertainment hub offering an exciting mix of activities for all ages. Featuring e-karting, augmented reality bowling and darts, esports, and immersive VR experiences, it's the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers.

The venue also boasts a food hall with popular brands, two bars, and a variety of interactive games. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush, a social night out, or a unique group activity, this venue delivers an unforgettable experience under one roof.

Thames Lates sees you enjoy the Rocket while jetting around the river, promising an adrenaline-fuelled way of sight-seeing in the capital. There's comedian guides accompanying your ride too, if that wasn't already enough to convince you that this alcohol-free activity is top-notch.

Mr Fogg's Topsy Turvy Tea takes you on a two hour adventure of cocktails, canapés, scones and macarons. But this is no ordinary afternoon tea. Mr Fogg has flipped the whole thing on its head. What you sip, you'll taste as a bite, and what you eat, you'll drink - nothing is quite as it seems. 

If you're taking a break from the sauce, just say the word and non-alcoholic options will appear before your very eyes.

Perfect for Dry January, teetotalers, or anyone looking for a social outing that doesn't revolve around alcohol, this playable, live version of the BAFTA and Emmy-winning TV show turns friends into suspects, sleuths, and schemers.

Take a seat at the Round Table at The Traitors: Live Experience and dive headfirst into missions, secret alliances, and the ultimate question: who can you trust? Once the final vote is in, gather in the Cloak & Dagger bar to debrief over inventive alcohol-free serves like the Lyre's Dark Cane Spirit–based Faithful Fancy, the subtly spiced Traitor's Tipple, or the sparkling, elderflower-forward 100% Faithful. There's also a selection of alcohol-free beers, wines, and the usual bar menu.

This Dry January, AIM AR is offering guests the chance to play London's most high-tech escape games. Boasting indoor and outdoor adventures using augmented reality and awesome high tech gadgets, there's plenty to get stuck into with friends.

Sandbox VR in Holborn offers an immersive virtual reality experience where you can dive into one of eight thrilling virtual worlds. Whether battling zombies, competing in Squid Game, or adventuring through fantasy landscapes, there's a game for everyone.

With cutting-edge technology and expert guidance, groups can enjoy an adrenaline-packed activity, followed by a non-alcoholic drink from the UK's first robotic bartender.

Dabbers Bingo is bringing a little excitement to January with its awesome range of events. Immerse yourself in its competitive games, which are soundtracked by entertainment from the best-loved hosts. It gets even better, as there are alcohol-free drinks at the bar.

Pioneers of the social darts experience, Flight Club are the go-to for a fun night out, with various spots across the city for the gang to explore. Take to the oche and enjoy a game of high-tech darts flaunting pizza paddles that are perfect for sharing.

If you haven't had enough over the festive period, this event is for you. MyChocolate, located in Shoreditch, offers an interactive and decadent chocolate-making experience perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Founded by Hannah Saxton, the venue hosts a range of workshops, from crafting personalized truffles to creating chocolate slabs. Guests can unleash their inner chocolatier while enjoying delicious, custom-made treats in a relaxed and vibrant setting.

STEREO has some ear-popping news: they're launching a Veganuary and a No & Low cocktail menu that will rock your world (and your taste buds). With Chef Andrew Clarke curating the vegan menu and turning up the volume with twists on classic cocktails, you know it's going to be one for the books.

This January, step into the new year at The New York Bar with a selection of thoughtfully crafted cocktails and limited-edition small plates, perfect for both veganuary and dry January.

Sip on a refreshing pineapple green tea kombucha made with pineapple, matcha, and kombucha, or enjoy the Far East Reviver, a vibrant mix of lyre's amaretto, salted coconut water, and mango sorbet. pair your drink with mouthwatering bites like panko cauliflower buffalo wings served with hot sauce, or indulge in barbecue jackfruit nachos topped with avocado, jalapeños, red onion, tomato salsa, and burrella cheese sauce.

If you're looking to take up a new skill this January or hone one you already have, then check out our list of cracking cooking classes.

Master the art of sushi and put on an enviable spread for your friends at your next dinner party, or perfect pasta and create delicious ravioli alongside your partner. There's plenty to choose from and they're all heaps of fun. 

From the minds behind Flight Club, Electric Shuffle in Canary Wharf and King's Cross combine innovative technology with the great British pastime of shuffleboard to create something totally unique. Assemble a team and get competitive with friends, all before exploring the hearty food menu.

Swingers West End combines a lively crazy golf course with a side of delicious street food in the heart of London.

Housed in the former BHS flagship on Oxford Street, it features a seaside promenade theme, with nine original holes for competitive fun. Play with your pates and gobble down burgers from the likes of Patty&Bun or Neapolitan slices from Pizza Pilgrims.

Mr Fogg doesn't think drinkers should get to have all the fun. At this cocktail masterclass, you can swap in mocktails with no trouble at all. 

Head to the enigmatic Elixir Room to unleash your inner Victorian mad scientist with an afternoon adventurous experimentation. Guided by one of Mr Fogg's daring doctors, you'll watch unique ingredients fizz, bubble and transform before sipping and savouring your creations.

If you're in the mood for alcohol-free fun things to do in January, venture to The Magic Hour. This fun experience will have you watching tricks and mind-reading from one of the UK's top magicians. Fancy dinner and a show? There are also options for that, and there's a twisted, dazzling experience waiting for you over at Magic at The Temple too. 

Puttshack has claimed the title of the 'world's first' tech mini golf course, taking the already-fun game to new heights. Swing by (get it?) its spot in Bank and you'll have plenty of laughs taking on the crazy courses, all while soundtracked by danceable hits. 

Life drawing classes, often held in relaxed and inspiring environments, provide guidance on proportions, anatomy, and capturing movement.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, life drawing sessions allow you to practice observation, improve your technique, and express creativity. Available across various studios, these classes foster artistic growth and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the human figure.

WeJam in Camden offers a unique and immersive music experience, where you and your friends can live out your rockstar dreams. Choose your instruments, name your band, and perform your favourite songs with the help of clever technology that fills in the gaps for beginners.

Guided by a professional musician, you'll be able to create memorable performances, with recordings provided to relive the experience. Discover the hidden studio by visiting a guitar shop and gaining access through a secret door. 

Whether you're learning to master watercolours, oils, or acrylics, these painting classes in London offer guidance from skilled instructors in relaxed, supportive environments.

With venues throughout the city, many classes focus on technique and personal expression, allowing students to create their own masterpieces. These sessions are perfect for anyone looking to unwind, gain new skills, or simply discover the joy of painting.

If you're a fan of nostalgic activities, then you're going to want to get your hands on tickets to Sky High Retro Gaming at PocketSquare Skyline Bar and Terrace, where you can also enjoy low-ABV beers. What's on the gaming menu? Think Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, House of the Dead 2 and more.

Hire out your own private room at Lucky Voice and prepare to belt out some classic tunes with your closest pals. Whether you have the voice of an angel or nails down a chalkboard, there's plenty of fun to be had while singing your heart out.

Taking the game of bowling to new heights, All Star Lanes in Stratford, Holborn, Shepherd's Bush and Shoreditch is sure to add a good dose of fun to your January. Enjoy knocking down the pins, hand-spun American-style shakes and a menu of mouthwatering hot dogs or burgers.

There's nothing dry about Neon Naked Life Drawing, a quirky event that promises tonnes of fun without the booze. They host sessions everywhere from Islington to Oxford Circus and Peckham, immersing you in a world of life drawing.

Their immersive evenings feature a nude model decorated with UV paint, posing in a black-lit room, combining the energy of a rave and an art class. You'll get the chance to create drawings based on the models, moving away from traditional life drawing and adding some unique twists. Expert artists will guide you, and all the materials you need will be provided.

Spice up mundane January nights by joining in on Game Of Stones' exciting and interactive treasure hunts. Grab your friends as you walk through dark alleyways and under bridges in order to find clues and solve the riddles, in Richmond or Kingston.

Get your cake on at this wholesome yet also pretty adrenaline-inducing day out. Putting your skills to the test, The Big Bakes will have you go head-to-head with other budding baking talents to create your own winning treats. 

Take your place among the historic dials of Battersea Power Station's Control Room B to Escape the Power Cut. With the clock ticking, you'll solve mind-bending puzzles, decipher cryptic clues and unveil the mysteries that lie in wait.

You'll need refreshment for such a mammoth task - and there's plenty on offer. After a welcome drink to sharpen your mind, take your pick from an electrifying selection of mocktail creations to fuel your escape.

One of the South Bank's trendiest spots, The Understudy is teaming up with Nirvana Brewery for one-night-only tasting of the best AF beers. The UK's only dedicated alcohol-free brewery is taking over every tap to prove once and for all that great beer doesn't need booze. 

To keep you entertained while your enjoy your tipple, there's live music and street food from local legends, Hash Hut, MexClub and Sireli. Whether you pop in for a pint or take on a guided tasting, you're sure to come away with a new AF brew in your arsenal.

Searching for unique things to do this Dry January in London? No Escape has outposts in Oxford Street and Aldgate, providing 60 minutes of alcohol-free fun with terrifying themes inspired by the demon barber and creepy butcher shops. 

At Lina Stores, with its iconic locations dotted across the city, Dry January is anything but dull. Their star player? The Nogroni, crafted with Lyre's non-alcoholic spirits, blends Dry London Gin with a bitter spritz and aromatics for a sophisticated sip.

For a dedicated Dry January adventure, head to Bar Lina in Shoreditch or Soho, where an exclusive alcohol-free cocktail menu awaits. Indulge in the Ace, a refreshing mix of carrot and thyme with bright notes of orange and lemon. Or savour the Euphoria, a vibrant concoction of Amaro 0%, raspberry, mint, and tonic water. Need something tropical? The Ananas & Menta is a knockout, blending Gin 0% with pineapple cordial, mint, pepper bitters, and tonic water.

This January, Pophams Pasta Restaurant in London Fields is shaking things up with an enticing lineup of non-alcoholic cocktails - perfect for anyone embracing Dry January or simply looking for lighter options. And for wine enthusiasts? There's also the chance to explore NON Wines.

Sip on the likes of the Yuzu Kick, Fresh and Fiery Spritz or the Botivo Spritz alongside head chef Rae Arends's croissant cracker tartlets with Taleggio and blood orange marmalade, cappellacci filled with mushroom, sweetcorn, green chilli, and Gorgonzola, and apple crumble croissant pudding for dessert. Oh, and if you swing by during the day, you'll find their cardamom buns are irresistable. 

Dry January doesn't have to mean dull drinks, and The Ivy Asia is proving exactly that. Their zero and low-alcohol line-up is playful, polished and very much part of the party.

On the menu, you'll find everything from floral, fruit-forward numbers like the Rose of the Orient - a fragrant mix of lychee, rose, raspberry and orange blossom soda - to more complex, cocktail-style creations such as Dreams of Cherry Blossom, blending Tanqueray 0.0% with cherry blossom, grape juice and lychee. There's a Cherry Lemonade spiked with Seedlip Spice 94, a Virgin Mojito with apple and kiwi, and even Wild Idol's alcohol-free sparkling wine for when the occasion calls for bubbles. 

Just because you're not drinking, it doesn't mean you can't enjoy some of the city's best bars. Oriole is a lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Covent Garden, promising tasty small plates and live jazz performances in the evenings.

This month, they're offering the Bulletproof Martini for just £5. This low-ABV cocktail is a unique take on the espresso martini, using a cold drip to prepare the freshly ground coffee, sweetened with Kuromitsu syrup.

Dry January at La Petite Maison doesn't do deprivation - it does déjà vu sans alcool, where the glamour, theatre and Riviera spirit remain firmly intact. This is a menu that treats alcohol-free drinking with the same reverence as a grand cocktail list. Think sun-drenched flavours, meticulous balance and a distinct South of France daydream.

La Plage, with mandarin and peach alongside Tanqueray 0.0%, feels like golden hour on the Côte d'Azur, while Solaris leans refreshingly sharp thanks to pink grapefruit, cucumber and a homemade Mediterranean tonic. There's elegance too: Pomme Pomme pairs salted pink apple with lavender soda for something quietly complex, and Grand Prix blends elderflower, pear and hops with Lyre's Classico Sparkling for a celebratory finish that still feels grown-up.

If you're on the hunt for dry days out in January 2025, shimmy down to Queens Skate Dine Bowl for an evening of whizzing around the ice rink and bowling lanes. And to keep you fuelled? There's a huge MEATliquor, serving up vegan bites and juicy burgers.