Best London Events In January 2026

Taking over Wonderville, just off Leicester Square, on Friday nights is London Cabaret Carnival - a spectacular evening of performances from the very best variety acts. Think performances spanning everything from comedy burlesque and drag singers to magicians and circus like contortionists or aerialists.

It's £25 per person for standard entry, or you can upgrade to seating with a premium view for an extra £10 each. Better yet, there are also dinner packages available if you want to eat at a nearby restaurant before the show.

One of the best cocktail experiences in the capital, Alcotraz: Cell Block Two-One-Two is a bar for the bucket list. Their collection of prison-themed venues will have you smuggling your own booze past the watchful wardens before some very talented inmates whip them up into a series of delicious drinks for you.

Soak up bottomless fizz and tuck into mouthwatering slices of pizza at one of the quirkiest places to visit in London this January, Ballie Ballerson. Haven't been to this glowing ball pit? Well now's your chance and it's going to be a corker.

January is full of amazing drinks and restaurant deals in the city and we've curated a guide to highlight the best of the best. From complimentary tipples to 25% off afternoon tea at a super fancy hotel, there's something for everyone to help beat the blues. 

Little Nan's quirky Deptford haunt serves up two hours of bottomless pints, prosecco, and teapot cocktails like a Lady Council Princess or a Sexy Frank Butcher paired with nibbles and sarnies fit for royalty. And if you're celebrating, they've got a special custom-made cocktail just for you. 

Looking for an amazing winter walk this January? We've got those. But what if we found you the best cosy pubs to end up at too? Yep, we've done the hard work so you just need to do the walking. 

With venues in Soho, Islington, Waterloo and beyond, Lucky Voice is the ultimate karaoke spot. All their venues are decked out in vibrant purple decor and neon signs, boasting multiple private rooms that you can book for groups of different sizes.

There are over 10,000 songs on their machines, spanning all genres and decades. There's a delicious cocktail menu too, and you can even book bottomless brunches on weekends.

If you're looking for things to do this January that don't require booze, then we've got you sorted with our guide to all things tipple-free. Think bingo, shuffleboard and escape rooms themed around demon barbers and creepy butcher shops. You won't be short of a great day (or night) out with these fun-filled activities.

Immerse yourself in the world of wizarding and dark arts at Hexmoor, the interactive experience created by the team behind Alcotraz, Moonshine Saloon and Avora. Don your custom jumpsuits, and descend into dark magic as you work with the inmates to break free from prison.

The convicts will prepare three delicious cocktails for you as part of your ticket price, engaging you in the story along the way. Stop off at Wilbott's Wand Shop for the opportunity to have your own personal wand made, and don't forget to snap plenty of pictures in this stunning set.

Every night of the week in January, there's something going on at Albert's Schloss London. Their live performances have earned them a party palace reputation in Manchester and Birmingham, before coming to London for free events every day. Just book for dinner or drinks and you'll get everything from a curated lineup of cabaret acts to the haus band playing riffs on your favourite tunes alongside DJs and dancers. Better yet? There's alpine food keeping you fed and German biers or twists on classic cocktails keeping you quenched. 

Hops fans rejoice; Camden Town are throwing open their doors for a tour of the brewery this January, offering a full tasting of their year-round beers and even a few sips of some seasonal serves. You'll even get behind the scenes access and try straight from the tanks.

Looking for some fun, affordable events this month? Then head to Oasis Bar & Terrace in Canary Wharf, where they're hosting free things to do and brilliant bottomless brunches every Saturday. This sleek bar promises rooftop views of the city, as well as plenty of tasty food and drink.

Whether you're in the mood to party to live DJs or you're looking for a cheap dinner and drinks package after the winter lights, do it in style here. Indulge in the likes of pitta pockets and Mediterranean small plates, all while boogieing to great tunes.

Beat the January blues with something bright and active. Club Curling is here to add sparkle to your new year. With lanes open daily, a cosy Italian-themed lounge, and plenty of ways to reconnect post-festivities, it's the perfect way to start 2025 on a high note. Grab your tickets now from £9 per person.

Kick off 2026 with one of London's quirkiest and most indulgent winter events. The Rhythm and Booze Project fuses gritty live blues with an open whisky bar, offering premium Scottish single malts alongside other world whiskies.

Held over two nights at Bermondsey's Crol & Co, you can sip, learn, and dance along to hypnotic grooves while sampling vegetarian haggis bonbons and enjoying a fully immersive musical and whisky experience.

Whether your festive period was a wine and cheese fest or not, we can guarantee you'll still want more at Vagabond's fun events. These masterclasses and tasting evenings pair the two together - ideal for date nights or get-togethers with mates alike.

Start your New Year with a big band bang at The Bedford. The Vince Dunn Orchestra will be joined by several supremely talented special guests for A Concert in the Loving Memory of Ann.

The wonderful Darcy Braimoh, sensationally soulful Miles Elliot and Queen of Scat, Lauren Dalrymple, will all be taking to the stage for a night of Latin, swing, jazz and toe-tapping funk. All proceeds will be donated to support the incredible work of Parkinson's UK, with tickets starting from £27.50.

Inject some Jamaican heat into your winter Sundays with delicious brunch dishes, flowing drinks and the biggest reggae and dancehall hits across London at the likes of Eight Embankment, The Forge and more. You'll be able to indulge in three courses of Caribbean flavours complete with a bottomless rum punch hour, that's enough to get anyone's temperature rising.

Chocoholics, assemble. The Chocolate Cocktail Club's cocoa-filled afternoon tea features finger sandwiches, warm scones, and a medley of choco delights for just £25/per person. Wash it all down with unlimited hot chocolate, tea, or coffee; yes, you heard that right, and while you're at it, indulge in their signature chocotini cocktail for the ultimate treat.

Fancy an award-winning immersive theatrical dining experience? Then you won't want to miss out on The Murdér Express. The murder mystery event will also include a delightful three-course meal in your train carriage.

If you're looking for a fun, foodie event to spice up your January plans, check out The Ultimate Baking Challenge by Bake Master London. This is perfect for couples, as you work in teams of two to create your very own three-tier cake.

You'll get to mix, decorate and bake your masterpiece, before taking it home with you. They offer vegan and gluten-free options too, and there's even a cocktail or mocktail-making session included.

The Phoenix Arts Club hosts a stellar cast, from drag sensations to jaw-dropping cirque acts. Nestled under The Phoenix Theatre, this world-famous hotspot is packed with history. Come for the cabaret, stay for the enchantment— with a lineup stacked with talent and the most epic cabaret and variety shows in town.

With plenty of locations dotted around London, Sounds Familiar Music Quiz is bringing the best club nights through their music competitions. Listen to all your favourite guilty pleasures and hit the dancefloor for nonstop entertainment at the likes of The Old Queen's Head and The Phoenix.

Make your way to Westfield Shopping Centre in Shepherd's Bush to discover Puttshack, a ground-breaking indoor golf venue that uses cutting-edge technology to work out your scores as you make your way round the colourful, quirky course. There are also live, electronic leaderboards around the venue.

You can play a game for £12.50 per person, with discounts available if you book two games in advance. Plus, they offer delicious drinks and tasty food like burgers or stone-baked pizzas.

Upgrade your January plans with Silent Sounds' epic range of boat parties. Hop aboard the two-storey Dutch Master for a night of dancing to your favourite music in your ears (from house to party anthems) all with a stunning backdrop of the city.

The almighty London collective, Hip Hop Brunch invite you down to a super secret location where you'll be fed a delicious two-course meal. There'll be some bottomless rum punch for an hour and a playlist of only the biggest classic hip hop anthems, so grab your tickets now from £18.99 per person. 

Discover the magic in London: If you're seeking a unique experience, look no further than The Magic Hour's enchanting shows. Hosted at the elegant Sheraton Grand Park Lane and Andaz London, tickets start at £49 for an unforgettable night. Prepare to be amazed by mind-bending magic that'll have you questioning reality and wanting more.

Add a little light-hearted fun to your dull and dark January evenings with a night at one of these wonderfully wacky immersive events. Take your pick between bopping along to musical bingo, trying your luck at fast-paced quizzing or singing your heart out with the help of a gospel choir to help you out at Gospeloke.

Escape The Power Cut in Control Room B of Battersea Power Station is a great shout for couples, friends and colleagues alike, in groups of up to six people. You'll be given 90 minutes to solve this puzzle, while sipping on two cocktails each, all for £55.

In need of January plans? The Covent Garden Comedy Club has got you sorted. Head over to the iconic pub in Central London, where you'll be met with a lineup of top-notch acts, from international stars to big-name headliners. Sign us up.

Lots is going on at the iconic Boisdale Of Canary Wharf this January, so you'll never be strapped for something to do. Hit up one of their DJ Nights accompanied by Mi Soul Radio's team of expert DJs, or grab tickets starting from £35 per person to a night of The Definitive Rat Pack. 

Head to London Bridge Distillery School this January for their gin experience. Get guided through the distillation process, have a taste of six beautiful botanicals, and then finish up by creating your own drink with specially selected ingredients, which you can take a 50cl bottle home of to show off to your friends. 

Looking for ways to liven up your January? Garage Brunch is hosting a bunch of exciting events throughout the month, where you can not only get stuck into a tasty two-course meal accompanied by bottomless cocktails, but also enjoy performances from some of the best UKG artists going.

Whether you're in Bloomsbury, Shoreditch, Victoria or Islington, Flight Club is the place to be for fun outings. Their fairground-themed bars come with state-of-the-art electronic dartboards, which offer a number of quirky minigames and add up all your scores for you - saving you the hard work.

They also offer brunch socials every weekend, where you can enjoy unlimited pizza and a bottle of prosecco each while you play - for as little as £35 per person.

Get out of your January funk with a trip to The Big London Bake either South or East of the city. The fun and light-hearted event will see you and your pal heading to a cool marquee where you'll compete against other teams to make a 90-minute masterpiece.

Putt your skills to the test at Plonk Crazy Golf, which has outposts in London Fields and Borough Market. While you play, enjoy a delicious selection of boozy bevs, including wine, cocktails and craft beer.

January is still serving the city a bitter chill, so where to set that aside? At some of London's best fondue locations. So gouda you won't want to miss them, enjoy everything from raclette in Alpine restaurants to gooey cheese in a unique pop-up.

Step into the rugged heart of the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon, London's immersive Western cocktail experience. This isn't just a bar; it's your chance to become an outlaw for the evening. Don your cowboy hat, tie on a bandana, and prepare for a thrilling adventure where the drinks are as bold as the characters you'll meet.

Upon arrival, you'll be smuggled into a clandestine saloon, where the Sheriff might be watching, but the moonshine flows freely. Bring your own bottle of spirits, and the skilled mixologists will transform it into bespoke cocktails tailored to your outlaw spirit.

Looking to unleash your inner child this month? Then head to Babylon Park in Camden, an indoor theme park complete with its very own rollercoaster. Suitable for all ages, this quirky, colourful space is free to enter, with handy tokens available for all your rides and activities.

Expect everything from dodgems to arcade machines and VR experiences, with candyfloss and popcorn machines dotted around. Plus, they've got two space-themed rooms for private parties.

Pergola Brixton is turning up the heat this winter with its ski lodge-themed pop-up, Pergola On The Piste. Enjoy £5 Aperol Spritzes during their Friday happy hours, or indulge in bottomless drinks on Saturdays, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Brixton Village.

With a retractable roof and heated outdoor spaces, it's the perfect spot to gather with friends for a unique and entertaining experience.

For a fun-filled experience in London, head to Ginger's Big Drag Brunch. You'll get to choose between avo toast and burgers, alongside a delish dessert and endless booze. Expect showstopping performances and cheesy pop tunes to keep the party vibes going.

Circe's Cloud 9 Pods offer an enchanting, cosy retreat above the bustling streets of London. Located in Waterloo, these heated private igloos provide the perfect setting for an intimate evening with friends or a special someone.

Enjoy a round of Grey Goose cocktails, table service, and stunning views of the London skyline. Each pod comes with plush seating, Bluetooth speakers for your own music, and blankets to keep warm.

One of London's quirkiest brunch events is back to add some extra sparkle to your January afternoons. With a stunning five hours of musical hits from some of the West End's biggest stars, you'll be wined, dined and amazed by this unique experience. 

Not doing dry January? Head to The Five Points Brewing Company for an exciting taproom tour and tasting. Explore the brewing process step by step, guided by the expert Five Points team, and discover how their award-winning beers come to life. From grain to glass, you'll learn the secrets of what makes their brews so refreshingly unique.

Soaring above 20 Fenchurch Street, the Sky Garden is a breathtaking urban retreat, featuring vibrant greenery and stunning panoramic views of London's skyline. Spanning three levels, this unique space offers a peaceful sanctuary from the city's hustle and bustle.

This January, the Sky Garden comes alive with events for every taste. Early birds can start their day at Sunrise at Sky Garden, soaking in the serene beauty of London and waking up amidst lush surroundings. Music lovers can groove to the beats of live bands and DJs during Music Nights at Sky Garden, with the twinkling city lights as a captivating backdrop.

This month, Drag Bus London are hosting a David Bowie-themed edition of their unique sightseeing tours. This is commemorating 10 years since Bowie passed away, raising money for Lunch Positive, a leading HIV charity in Sussex.

On a double decker bus, you'll cruise past locations linked to the singer's life, from his birthplace in Brixton to the spot where the iconic cover for 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' was photographed. Plus, there'll be live drag entertainment on board, complete with music, dancing and games.

If you're looking for some food and activity-filled fun this January, Electric Shuffle's brunch has you sorted. Head to the London fave for an afternoon of pizza, shuffleboard and DJs backed by flowing fizz and juice for the non-drinkers.

Need fun January plans? The Exhibit in Balham has got a boatload to get stuck into. Whether you fancy taking part in some life drawing touting creative feels or top-notch quiz nights and poetry open mics, the options are endless at this joint.

Supa Dupa Fly is the place to be for amazing parties in great locations – from your favourite clubs to mansions – whether you're here to see the DJ or are just hip hop and R&B mad, they've got all that and more.

Boasting outposts all across the capital, including Waterloo, Shoreditch and Clapham, Tonight Josephine is the place to go for wicked nights out and epic bottomless brunches. Expect Mamma Mia brunches, drag-doused debauchery in the form of a pop icons affair and tasty cocktails to boot.

Step inside the UK's largest permanent multi-sensory experience and watch your favourite paintings come to life. Frameless features four galleries where you can immerse yourself in the works of Dali, Van Gogh, Munch and more iconic artists. 

January in London has a habit of feeling a little grey, which is precisely why Decimo is serving up something far more transportive. For the fifth edition of La Mesa, the rooftop restaurant at The Standard is welcoming Mexico City's cult, Michelin-starred Masala y Maíz for a two-night-only residency on the 16th to the 17th of January. Led by chefs Norma Listman and Saqib Keval, the collaboration dives deep into stories of migration, memory and maize, tracing the shared diasporic threads that quietly link London and Mexico City.

Masala y Maíz's genre-defying cooking, blending Indian, East African and Mexican culinary lineages, has earned them global acclaim, from Chef's Table to TIME's World's Greatest Places, and now it lands high above Euston Road. Expect a menu shaped by native maize, vibrant market flavours and cross-continental influences spanning Kenya, Ethiopia, India and California, all filtered through Decimo's own bold, open-fire cooking.

Kick off 2026 in spectacular style at the London New Year's Day Parade, a kaleidoscope of music, colour and high-energy performances winding through the heart of the city. Over 10,000 performers take to the streets, from marching bands and dancers to acrobats and cultural groups representing the world's diversity. Headline acts this year include Eurovision star Sam Ryder, the Glencoe Marching Tide from the US, Virginia's clogging sensation America's Clogging All*Stars, and homegrown favourites like Medina Marching Band and the viral dance crew Bad Moms That Dance.

Stretching roughly two miles, the parade route is packed with giant floats, classic cars, oversized inflatables and a cast of characters that is impossible not to cheer for. Arrive early for the best views along Piccadilly or Trafalgar Square, or head further down Whitehall if you prefer a slightly quieter spot.