Something A Little Different In London

Talia Gilliham's profile picture
By Talia Gilliham Food, Drinks & Events Writer, DesignMyNight Talia has over 8 years of experience writing across hospitality and travel, including bylines in TimeOut. Last updated on 15th September 2026

The capital is packed to the rafters with bars - big bars, small bars, sports bars, cocktail bars, chain bars and independent bars. While this is great most of the time, finding something off the beaten track, something a little different in London, is often easier said than done.

Never fear, when it comes to the more unique venues in the city we've kept our ears to the ground and rounded up a selection of cool spots to help you on your hunt. From themed bars to quirky activities, discover your new favourites below.

Something A Little Different To Do In London: Drinks And Experiences




Bendy Candle Making Workshop

Hosted by Harri at Habit Haus, the Bendy Candle Making Workshop gives you the opportunity to make candles with a twist. Literally. Book into a session in Dalston, Pimlico or Vauxhall to dip, sculpt and squeeze your creations into any shape you can imagine, within reason. 

For the £41.80 ticket price, you get everything you need to get creative, including wax, wicks, decorations and a bag to transport your candles to their new pride of place.

Sky Garden

Feel on top of the world over at Sky Garden, one of the best rooftop bars going. This stunning, buzzing hangout is hosting all kinds of fabulous events. Kick start your day with a breakfast watching the sunrise, enjoy a cute date night enjoying live music and so much more.

Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: London on Various dates from Sunday 20th September 2026

Come to Alcotraz, the high security prison that's hiding an alcoholic secret. Get in your orange jump suit, smuggle your favourite bottle of alcohol in, and Don't. Get. Caught. Then the fun can begin as one of the inmates shakes you up tailored cocktails from Shoreditch to Covent Garden.

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

@ Hexmoor: London on Various dates from Sunday 20th September 2026

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison redefines what it means to enjoy a night out with a fully immersive, wizarding prison experience unlike anything else in London. Step inside a mystical world hidden beneath the city, where you're assigned a jumpsuit and thrown into a story alongside dark arts criminals. The film-quality sets, magical special effects, and unique storyline combine to create an extraordinary and interactive evening.

With three magical cocktails included, designed and served by master hexologists, it's the perfect choice for those seeking something truly different. It's an immersive theatre show, a cocktail bar, and a magical escape all rolled into one unforgettable experience.

Flight Club

Social gaming and drinking just got a whole lot more fun, as did your repertoire of unusual things to do in London; this is the new revolution, the new era of darts. Changing all pre-conceptions of what you think darts is about, it's not all balding men in waistcoats here. It's the darts digital age where you play games and your score is calculated for you. Now that's a bullseye. 

The London Cabaret Club

More than just an events venue, The London Cabaret Club combines fine dining with an innovative, interactive cabaret experience. Boasting a traditionally British theme that runs throughout, both the menu and the show here celebrate the rich heritage of British culture; both past and present. With exquisite dishes and a show packed full of West End stars, this promises to be quite the quirky night out in London. 

The Big Bakes

Discounts available on certain events

Perfect for any amateur bakers out there, The Big London Bake is a quirky event taking place this summer, revolving around all the yeast-based fun of baking. Guests will be split into teams of two before being set a handful of baking tasks. Pipe your way to the top with this quirky event in South London.

The Murdér Express Part Deux -Jewel Of The Empire

@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Sunday 20th September 2026

Spruce up your plans with The Murdér Express at Pedley Street Station. This awesome immersive dining experience involves a murder mystery, along with a brilliant three-course meal served in your train carriage while you try to solve the mystery. Need we say more?

Natalia Bareikis

With 17 years of experience and an international accreditation, Natalia Bareikis is one of the most trusted somatic practitioners. With a studio in east London, Natalia hosts regular sessions designed to help attendees reconnect with their body and mind through a series of movements and science-backed techniques. 

From breathwork to sound baths and teachings in the PRISM™ Method – an approach to Kundalini Activation that Natalia created – you'll be equipped with the tools to achieve heightened awareness and a sense of inner power. There's even an all-day session involving an immune-boosting food spread and journaling activity. 

Ayllu Restaurant

Enjoy cuisine like no other at Ayllu in Paddington, with a menu that takes the best of Peruvian and Japanese dishes and creates a fusion. They offer all sorts of events too, everything from tasting menus to bottomless meals and live music.

Urban Missions

Some of the city's most dangerous criminals are getting ready for their next offence - will you be able to step up the challenge of saving London? Urban Missions, which has immersive experiences across the capital, sees you recovering lost items, solving mysteries and so much more.

The Absinthe Parlour At The Last Tuesday Society

If you like your cocktails with a side of strange, this place might just be your spiritual home and the answer to all unusual things to do in London. Displaying all kinds of weird stuff; The Last Tuesday Society is part Natural History Museum, part car boot sale and part nightmare. In the downstairs bar, suitably stiff drinks such as The Geneva Martinez with chocolate bitters are being served in abundance alongside tapas and bar snacks. 

The Escapologist

In 1848, the infamous Baron fled to London shrouded in scandal, his every action prompting outrage on the streets. He landed a date with the gallows - only to escape and develop his mythical reputation by befriending the likes of Disraeli, Brunel and Nightingale. Popularly referred to as The Escapologist - he now has a bar paying homage to his exploits - a basement bar styled as part Victorian men's club, part Masonic Lodge. Expect cocktails, authentic design and cheese-drenched pizzas at this inventive and intriguing Covent Garden drinking joint.

Cat-titude Cat Cafe

Fancy coffee and cake with a feline twist? Get on over to Cat-titude Cat Cafe. 

As you nibble on cakes and freshly-baked pastries, you can cuddle up with the eight rescued cats that call this place home. Every visit includes a 90-minute session, giving you plenty of time to relax with the residents and enjoy the soothing atmosphere.

Lucky Voice Karaoke - Venues in London

Strong cocktails, a dressing up box and tons of power ballad anthems makes for one lively night out in London. Get your mates together and engage your inner pop-star; there's thousands of songs for you to pick between and an adoring crowd awaits. Naturally perfect for fun-loving birthday shindigs, you can also add a cocktail masterclass to your package and make a real event of it.

Film Club & Brunch: Sunny Dancer Screening and Q&A

@ Charlotte Street Hotel on Sat, 3rd Oct 2026 @ 13:00 - 17:30

The vibrant Charlotte Street Hotel in Fitzrovia is hosting an experience that would make for the perfect gift for a film-lover who has an appreciation for brunch.

Each Film Club & Brunch ticket costs £55 and includes a brunch dish, hot drink, cocktail or smoothie, and a screening of the beloved new film, Sunny Dancer – followed by a Q&A with the director and co-producer. 

Your time will be split between the hotel's beautiful European bistro and exclusive cinema room, with popcorn to snack on while you enjoy the movie from your comfy seat. 

Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes

For all the art lovers out there, be sure to head to Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes in Shoreditch where their quirky London bar lies in wait. Bursting full of character and beautifully decorated, this cosy nook combines delicious cocktails and stoned baked pizzas with beautiful art installations and inspiring exhibitions. Expect fantastic colours, irresistible drinks and a night you won't forget anytime soon. 

Little Nan's

A venue boasting quirky teapot cocktails and exposed brickwork, Little Nan's is a great choice for weekends out with your pals. Enjoy everything from a bottomless brunch with sharing platters and endless booze through to tipsy afternoon teas.

Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands

@ Skuna Boats on Every Wednesday

If you're looking for an experience that genuinely stands out from standard London attractions, this floating hot tub tour delivers something refreshingly unexpected. You'll board a purpose-built hot tub boat and drift through the docklands while soaking in warm water and taking in the city from a low-level, waterside perspective.

The experience is guided rather than self-led, giving structure and context to the journey, while the relaxed pace allows plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings. Grab your tickets now from £39 per person.

The Scarlet Lotus

@ One Ninety Four on Thursday 24th September 2026

The Scarlet Lotus brings fire, dancing and high-octane circus artistry to Mayfair. Expect gravity-defying aerialists, mesmerising acrobats and all the allure of burlesque. 

As the immersive cabaret unfolds around you, there's a fantastic feast up for grabs, packing in delicious European and Chinese-inspired dishes. Grab your tickets to all this and more from just £27.50.

Quiz Boxing

Get your gloves, metaphorically, and book your spot at Quiz Boxing Camden, an interactive game that combines the elements of a TV quiz show with the rush of an arena bust-up. For teams of up to 12 players across three rooms and customise your play by picking a percentage of each theme, from music, sports, TV and more. There's also a 100% naughty package for those looking to up the raucousness of their day. 

Board Game Night

@ Doric Arch on Every Tuesday

If you are looking for something a little different to shake up your Tuesday evenings, this free Board Game Night in Euston offers the perfect blend of casual socialising and lighthearted competition. Situated just minutes from King's Cross, it provides a warm, welcoming space where you can completely detach from your screen, put your phone down, and connect with people over actual, physical games.

It is an incredibly flexible, low-pressure night out. You can drop in solo to meet fellow tabletop enthusiasts, bring a date for a low-stakes icebreaker, or gather a group of colleagues to settle scores over quick-fire party games and deep strategy boards. Backed by an enticing 20% discount on your first drink, it's a brilliantly refreshing, highly interactive alternative to your standard London night out.

The Most Indulgent Drag Night

@ The Chocolate Cocktail Club on Saturday 10th October 2026 and 3 other Saturdays

Get ready for The Most Indulgent Drag Night, taking place at The Chocolate Cocktail Club in Farringdon. Expect delicious drinks and high-energy entertainment, courtesy of talented drag queen Solero Summers.

There'll be fun, games and plenty of sass thrown into the show, with lots of interactive elements along the way. Nab tickets for only £20 per person, including a drink on arrival. Chocotini anyone?

London Dreamtime

From The Highgate Vampire to the Ghost of Christmas and The Snow Queen at the Asylum Chapel, London Dreamtime is coming in hot this winter with a tonne of spooktactular events. Horror fans will revel in these scary affairs all taking place in a super secret location. 

TAXIDERMY WORKSHOPS

A Field Guide Taxidermy are hosting a range of cracking workshops in London, taking place at Park Avenue Studios in Finsbury Park. These unique sessions are led by a master taxidermist, who'll teach you about the process before guiding you as you do it yourself.

There's a choice between animals, including rabbits, insects and more. Tickets start from £50 per person, including all your materials, and you'll be able to enjoy drinks and snacks while you work.

Ballie Ballerson London

Discounts available on certain events

A ball pit is definitely our idea of something a little different in London. Dive into one million different balls, enjoy unlimited pizza and drink two hours of bottomless prosecco on Saturdays or join the ball pit and cocktail bar madness. 

Fengzhen Supper Club

Looking to dine out a little differently? Get on over to Crystal Palace for the Fengzhen Supper Club. Chef and host Jay will be serving up his signature blend of Chinese and southeast Asian inspired flavours across ten incredible courses, all within his home.

Get on down to tuck into the likes of homemade beef baos with spicy chilli sauce, chicken satay skewers, prawn grapefruit salad, and sea bream in banana leaf. Tickets to this fantastic feast start from just £70.20.

The Candlelight Club

@ The Candlelight Club on Saturday 31st October and Saturday 21st November 2026

You can always rely on The Candlelight Club at a secret Central London location for a quirky night out. Not only are there Prohibition-themed cocktails and three-course menus up for grabs, but there's also plenty of live entertainment, from the likes of jazz and cabaret.

"Midnight Feast" by Nude Noir

@ Secret Location London on Sat, 17th Oct 2026 @ 20:00 - 23:45

This October, Nude Noir brings Midnight Feast back to London, offering a darkly alluring reinterpretation of Bram Stoker's Dracula. Over the course of three immersive hours, guests are drawn into a cinematic world where their captivating cast presents a series of beautiful yet unnerving rituals and performances - centred on themes of blood, desire, temptation and eternal hunger.

There's a dark and decadent dress code - think elegant velvets and lace, rather than Halloween costumes. Ticket numbers are deliberately limited to maintain an intimate atmosphere, and for something extra special, VIP couples' tickets include exclusive sofa seating for an added touch of luxury.

Black Market Knees-Up

@ Cahoots on Saturday 26th September 2026 and 58 other Saturdays

Transport yourself back to the 1940s with a trip to the Black Market Knees Up at Cahoots, taking place at the Soho venue every Saturday. Keep your lips sealed as you enter an underground, infamous cocktail bar, where illicit sips and gambling reign supreme.

Meet the escaped prisoner show master on arrival, who'll be leading your entertainment for the night. Expect a 1940s-style pub quiz and other fun games, as well as rationed snacks and quirky cocktails - with the option for bottomless drinks too.

Inamo Covent Garden

Unlimited Asian tapas & sushi with free-flowing wine or beer £59.95 per person and 2 other offers

With orders placed via sleek tablets and tabletops that you customise with your own images, Inamo is the place to be for an interactive dining experience in London. Check in on executive chef Jon Claro and his team via chef cam, you'll find them conjuring up all kinds of pan-Asian tapas plates as well as a healthy choice of sushi and sashimi options. Check in at the downstairs bars for Oriental-themed cocktails afterwards.

Hand Of Glory

Giant maypoles, wicker masks and brass icons converge to create an eccentric spirit at the Hand of Glory. Projecting a colourful exhibition of British folk culture, it's your place for rural ciders from some of the UK's best independent brewers, a cocktail menu fronting Seven Deadly Gins and a fresh menu influenced by award-winning chef Mark Edwards. They don't get much cooler than this.

Firmdale Hotels

After something a bit different? Firmdale Hotels are bound to impress. Think insights into bee-keeping, drinks tastings, rooftop yoga and floating HIIT classes with brunch afterwards. Whether unique food or fitness is more your thing, these guys deliver.

Biscuiteers: Various Sites

One of the most unique things to do in London, Biscuiteers are cafes offering you twee afternoon teas, delicious cakes and late-night icing sessions. A picture-perfect location through and through, it's ideal for hen parties, baby showers and friendly get-togethers.

Garage Brunch™

Combining beats and brunch into one amazing experience, Garage Brunch is a must if you're looking for something a little different in London. Enjoy a two-course meal with tipples and tunes in a top secret location. 

Bustronome

If you're looking for a truly unique way to dine in London, check out Bustronome where you'll get to feast on fine dining delicacies expertly paired with delicious wines, in an unparalleled setting. The glass-topped top deck is sure to provide the perfect surrounding for your dinner. 

Blingo - Hip Hop Bingo

@ O'Neill's Wardour Street on Thursday 1st October and Friday 4th December 2026

Bust a move over to O'Neill's Wardour Street for Blingo. Hosted by the unstoppable, potty-mouthed pensioner Grandma Flash and her 87-year-old DJ (and part-time lover) Harry Spelvin, this is not your nan's bingo night.

Expect a magnificent mashup of bingo, classic hip hop and RnB beats, lip sync battles, dance offs and a whole load of bling. This night is sure to sell out - grab your tickets from just £13.20.

Sounds Familiar Music Quiz - London

Less of a pub quiz, more of a rowdy disco, Sounds Familiar is great fun from minute one. Useless trivia is no good here, it's all about scribbling down songs and artists played out loud, and having a right old sing-along in the mean time. A unique night out in London for the extroverts, Sounds Familiar will have you dancing on the tables and belting out your favourite tunes long into the night.

Live Band Karaoke

Sing your heart out with Live Band Karaoke in the West-End and Peckham Rye. Enjoy the electric atmosphere as you sing solo or duet with your pals on stage, and feel true musicianship with the backing of sensational five-piece band.

Albert's Schloss - Soho

Guinness on draft and 6 other offers

For something a little unusual, head to Albert's Schloss in the heart of Piccadilly for a raucous, bier-fuelled time. You can catch live entertainment every time of the week in its cool Alpine-inspired dining room, and dance until the early hours of 2am. Enjoy cool, themed cocktails like the Apple Strudel made with spiced rum, and tuck into delicious eats like curried wurst, schnitzel and pots of fondue, perfect for sharing. 

Venn St. Records

Happy Hour

Bringing some variety to the Clapham nightlife scene is Venn Street Records, a vinyl-clad, rock 'n' roll drinkers den fitted with vintage music memorabilia. Track down the large neon sign outside and follow the sounds of the live bands and DJ sets inside, there's happy hour offers every day and #CheapDate deals that offer 2 drinks and 2 pizzas for £15 between Sundays and Wednesdays.

Punk Royale

Looking to dine a little differently? Make your way to Punk Royale. 

Stockholm's cult favourite is shaking up Mayfair with its brutal bistro concept that serves up an immersive, no-holds-barred approach to haute cuisine. The 20-course tasting menu promises foie gras, langoustines, caviar and all-round theatrics - think smoke machines, neon lights and non-stop party vibes.

The Five Points Brewing Co

If you're looking for something different in London, The Five Points Brewing Co have got you set with plenty of activities. From stand-up sessions to cheese tastings and epic tours of breweries, there won't be a single dull moment with their events.

The Kino Show

Held at The Two Brewers and The Bedford, The Kino Show delivers dazzling evenings packed with burlesque, live music, circus acts and spellbinding magic. Tickets start from just £11 per person, inviting guests into an immersive world of themed performances that celebrate the eccentric, the glamorous and the wonderfully mysterious.

Created by Kiki Noir - who also fronts the show with her captivating live vocals - each event promises a seductive mix of cabaret and theatrical storytelling. Expect standout productions inspired by everything from historical icons and period dramas to iconic showgirls of the silver screen.

Party n Paint

Party N Paint is your go-to class that combines sipping with art, meaning you get bubbles, will participate in a competition to see who created the best masterpiece and have a DJ bringing all the tunes. Plus, you can take your work home with you afterwards.

The Magic Hour

Taking place at the Sheraton Grand Park Lane, The Magic Hour is a captivating magic show that has been selling out shows since 2013. Master magician Snoic will be hitting the stage, dazzling the audience with slight of hand and mid reading.

A finalist in The Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year 2018, you can count on Sonic for a fantastic show. Tickets start from £49, and you can also enjoy a sumptuous meal in their restaurant beforehand.

Laoxa’s Creative Ground

After a wholesome outing with a friend or partner? Then check out this Rug Tufting Workshop, led by expert guide Lucy from arts brand Laoxa. This is an intimate session for just two people at a time, taking place from Friday to Sunday each week.

Across the four-hour class, you'll learn how to create your very own rug, with step-by-step guidance throughout. Choose your design and get tufting, with all the tools and materials provided as part of your £150 ticket.

THE DOUBLE R CLUB

Taking place at Walthamstow Trades Hall, The Double R Club is one of the best cabaret events around. Hosted by the mystifying Benjamin Louche, this sinister, nightmare-inspired show promises talented performers showcasing everything from burlesque to live music and comedy. Tickets to their events start from as little as £10 per person, promising a spooky night full of fun.

XT Events - Soul Supper Immersive Dining Experience

Soul Supper Immersive Dining Experience's events are the ideal way to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a unique date night. Tickets include a night of unbeatable live music along with a two-course dinner featuring chicken supreme, harissa-spiced cauliflower and signature cupcakes, as well as a welcome glass of fizz.

House of Burlesque...SPEAKEASY

@ QT at The Middle Eight Hotel on Every Saturday

Underneath the city streets is London's best kept secret - the House of Burlesque Speakeasy. Expect gin-soaked fun, feathers and fabulousness.

The Burlesque Queen, Tempest Rose, will guide you through a night of sensational performances from fan-dancing divas and tempting tassel-twirlers. Stick around post-show, and you can dance the night away at the after party.

The Final Lime - LIMIN SOUTHBANK Closing Party

@ LIMIN SOUTHBANK on Fri, 25th Sep 2026 @ 18:00 - 2:00

Celebrate the legacy of LIMIN, London's award-winning Caribbean restaurant in South Bank, by attending The Final Lime: the venue's almighty closing party. After six years, the venue is shutting up shop to make way for something new, but in true LIMIN fashion – they're going out with a bang

Ticket holders can expect a boozy welcome drink and street food dish on arrival to kick off the festivities. Expect a night filled with vibrant entertainment, unmatched vibes and food that will make you miss this place even more than you already were. The private beach will also be open for one last time. 

 

Avora: A New-World Cocktail Experience

@ Roscorp Laboratories on Various dates from Sunday 20th September 2026

Explore a whole new world at Avora, the mystical immersive experience created by the team behind Alcotraz and Moonshine Saloon. This magical location in Shoreditch is filled with luminous woodlands, where you'll find interactive actors and a mesmerising set design that changes from day to night. 

Don your custom jumpsuits and set off on on your mission, which begins with a briefing at Roscorp Laboratory. You'll take part in all kinds of scientific challenges and tasks, while sipping on three unique cocktails included in your ticket price.

Lil' Nashville

Get your honky tonk on in the heart of London at Lil' Nashville. Expect traditional Southern hospitality - we're talking top notch liquor and seriously good cookin'.

At The Big Nash Bash, you'll tuck into delicious BBQ, pick up some moves from the US line dancing team, The Country Roses, and then show off your do-si-do to live country music. Ticket to these epic evenings of entertainment start from just £27.50.

The Sublime Society

The Sublime Society is a celebration of sensuality as art. Nestled in London's West End, this seductive salon invites you to explore fantasy, touch, and connection in a setting where elegance meets the erotic.

From interactive installations to live acts that will stir your soul, every moment is designed to arouse curiosity and heighten intimacy. With Paris and Berlin editions on the horizon, London is just the beginning.

Comic Cosplay Afterparty

@ Fox Excel on Friday 23rd October 2026 and 2 other dates

Heading to MCM Comic Con at the ExCeL this October? Don't let the night end when the showroom floor closes - head straight to East London for the official Comic Cosplay afterparty running across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights from 6pm to 2am.

This nightlife sanctuary kicks off each evening with live sets from funk.chan before levelupleroy takes over the decks to spin tracks late into the night. 

God's Own Junkyard

God's Own Junkyard is a neon wonderland in Walthamstow - step inside and you'll be surrounded by dazzling signs, quirky installations, and retro pop culture pieces that make every corner a photo opportunity. Set inside an old industrial yard, it's part art gallery, part hangout spot, and entirely unforgettable.

The venue opens Friday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm, and is home to the Rolling Scones café, offering strong coffee, creative cocktails, and snacks that go down easy while you soak in the atmosphere. 

Fish N Gigs - Live Music From Poppies Of Camden

@ Poppie's Fish & Chips, Camden on Every 1st Friday of the month

Fancy dinner and a show? Then grab yourself a table over at Poppies of Camden, where its Fish N Gigs events bring you a cracking lineup of top-notch live music acts. Taking place on the first Friday of the month, this will see you chomping on a tasty tea, all while listening to original tunes and covers of your favourite hits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most unusual bars and experiences in London?

London is home to immersive cocktail experiences, themed prison bars, magical pop-ups, interactive dining venues, social gaming bars and rooftop destinations. Popular examples include Alcotraz, Avora, Hexmoor and Flight Club.

Are these experiences suitable for groups?

Yes. Many of the venues featured cater to birthdays, work socials, hen and stag parties, and larger groups, particularly experiences like Quiz Boxing, Electric Shuffle and Draughts.

Are there any unique experiences for couples in London?

Yes. Date-night favourites include Sky Garden, The Murdér Express, Avora, The Magic Hour and immersive cocktail experiences that combine entertainment with drinks.

Do I need to book in advance?

Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for immersive events, workshops and ticketed experiences, which often have limited availability.