Alternative Nights Out in London

It’s never just a standard night at Queens. Sure, you can just come for the MEATliquor food and cocktails from the bar, but you’d be missing out on the ice skating rink and 12 bowling alleys.

T.T Liquor's cocktail-making class gives small groups of mixers their very own custom-built bars to work with (alongside providing each individual with their own equipment) - so there's no taking turns here; this is two hours of continuous mixing and tasting! Master the basics before learning more complex techniques. By the end of the class, have a crack at making 'the best cocktail of the day!'

Do something really different with Bunker 51, where you can take part in everything from paintball to laser tag and airsoft – or even get immersed into their scary and interactive zombie SWAT experience.

Your nights out lacking some Pat Butcher style? What about weird crockery? Rectify that immediately with Little Nan's, the quirky cafe and restaurant that has opened in Fitzrovia for cocktails, meals and afternoon teas.

Your mates + a darts board + plenty of drinks = a great night out; it’s not rocket science. Well actually, it is. Flight Club’s pioneering approach fuses real-time scoring, animated features and a slick interface to bring something completely different to London’s social scene. A night of fun and games at Flight Club in either Shoreditch or Bloomsbury is a ground-breaking, interactive night out rivalling the wave of ping-pong bars you can find about town. There’s classic cocktails and sharing dishes to help keep the party flowing ‘til late.

You’ve been to retro nights, you’ve seen endless throwback Thursdays – but you’ve never experienced the 80s like this before. For something a little different on your night out, get down to Reflex Dance Studios, where you’ll receive a complete 80s makeover, a dance lesson with a professional choreographer, and then end the evening in an amazing 80s party.

Look, most of us love a glass of prosecco and going a bit crazy on cocktails in a club, but sometimes you just want to sit down and indulge in some delicious chocolate. That doesn’t mean sitting at home, though, as MyChocolate offer a range of nights that takes a playful, creative, and charming chocolate creating experience.

Organising everything from birthday parties through to corporate events, Retro Events are putting the fun back into partying. The group specialise in themed bashes, expect everything from magicians and singers through to sounds of the swinging '60s.

Roof East is a bar in Stratford where you can enjoy cocktails, creative events and open air movie nights all while you gaze out at views of the Olympic Park and the rest of the city. It’s a must-visit come the summertime, when their signature cars are crammed with plant pots filled with fresh lavender and everything from fitness classes to workshops are held from the play zone. There’s lots of quirky things to try as well as great-tasting cocktails and a street food menu from a Hawksmoor chef.

The London Cabaret Club puts on one of the most unique nightlife experiences in Central London. Combining a traditionally British fine-dining experience with an innovative live show, this is a night that you won't forget anytime soon. A cast of the West End's biggest cabaret performers deliver an excellently choreographed show whilst the kitchen here rustles up a menu of truly delectable dishes.  

Eschew the cute and kitsch winter rooftop for something a little more alternative. The South Pole Saloon meets all the criteria of your festive rooftop venue - Christmas cocktails, fabulous views - but does it with a bit more grit.

Dancing gets tough on the feet so having an alternative grand time is always a good idea. Look no further than The Bat and Ball in Stratford. This venue has two bars, a pizzeria, a deli, and did we mention more ping pong tables than you thought a venue could fit? The 'Games Hall' may just take center stage in your heart for a night out in London. Redefine rally at this East London nightlife alternative. Dancing will commence after victory though.

Who knew one of the most quirky nights out in London could be enjoyed atop a busy Shoreditch roundabout? Brought to Old Street by the mighty Burger Bear, discover this unique party space which gathers leading street-food vendors, artisan coffee shops and White Lyan cocktail serves together to host an almighty party.

With a name that suits, Oddbins offer an unusual night out in London for those who fancy themselves as lovers of le vino, or those who just love to learn a bit more about their drinks. Expect bespoke party packages with wine, beer or spirit tastings and even an opportunity to pitch your own tutored tasting experience. Oddbins will cater to you.