Cool And Quirky Events In London 2026

Dance across the decades at the Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk nights. This series of events at one of London's last remaining 1950s ballrooms is packed with non-stop hits and old school glamour.

Behind the decks, DJ Kobayashi will keep the vibes high and the tunes flowing all the way to 2am. Tickets to this night of nostalgia start from just £17.60.

Why go out to the pub when you can go all the way back to the magical era of Motown? At Soul Supper Fridays, you'll boogie to the biggest tunes from the likes of Marvin Gaye, Temptations, Four Tops and Supremes.

After a glass of fizz when you walk in the door, there's a two-course dinner, with a choice of succulent chicken or falafel balls up for grabs - followed up with a decadent dessert. Grab your ticket to the tunes that defined American music for just £30.74.

If you haven't already, make sure to check out Sky Garden, a gorgeous venue found at the top of The Walkie-Talkie building in the City of London. Found rubbing shoulders with the clouds, this buzzing hangout is keeping you entertained with a killer roster of events, from sunrise sessions through to music nights, yoga in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows and breakfasts to boot.

For an afternoon full of delicious cocktails and even better Southern-inspired food, head to the Hip Hop Brunch, an event that'll completely change the way you see lazy Saturday afternoons. Alongside an amazing dining experience, guests will have the chance to unwind to the sound of their favourite urban tracks and even practice spitting lyrics in a hip hop karaoke session. As fun-loving events go, this is definitely near the top of the list.  

Returning to Richmond Athletic Ground, Burger Fest UK 2026 is where over 20 of the UK's best burger traders throw down for the coveted UK Burger Championship belts, with the winners decided by public vote. Yes, your stomach gets a say.

Expect classic cheeseburgers capped at £10, wild one-off creations, DJ sets, eating competitions and live cooking demos, all wrapped up in a buzzy outdoor festival atmosphere. 

Enter the enchanted prison of Hexmoor, the world's first immersive wizarding bar where you're not just a guest - you're an inmate. Clad in your official jumpsuit, you'll be locked up with a cast of dark wizards and drawn into a world of magical intrigue. With live actors, immersive theatre, and the chance to collaborate with characters to plan your escape, this is a fully interactive experience that challenges your magical instincts.

To tailor your night behind bars, choose from three ticket options: enjoy three magical cocktails for £49.50, upgrade to four for £57.50, or for £77.50, receive four cocktails and a custom wand, hand-delivered by Willbott's Wand Shop as part of the experience.

Buck' N Bull Saloon is the ultimate crossover of British nightlife and Southern U.S. charm. Known for its epic Country Bottomless Brunches and neon-lit after-parties, this roaming country fest is a boot-stomping sensation. Dive into a whirlwind of mechanical bull challenges, high-energy line dancing, and unforgettable live performances from Nashville's rising stars.

Whether you're a country diehard or just curious to see what all the yeehaw is about, Buck' N Bull will have you two-stepping 'til the lights come up.

Prison isn't too bad when you've got cocktails. Sneak your favourite bottle of alcohol into this high-security prison and one of the inmates will shake you up something special. But in this immersive drinking experience, you better not get caught.

Searching for something a little out of the box? The London Cabaret Club is a great choice. Located in Holborn, this quirky venue has an epic lineup of immersive shows to enjoy in the glamorous space, all complemented by lovely fine dining plates and Champagne.

In need of something cool and quirky? We've got the thing for you. Head along to The Murdér Express at Pedley Street Station for an immersive dining experience, with a three-course feast and top-notch entertainment where live actors get you involved in the murder mystery to solve the case. 

London's most fun secret is back. Beneath London's iconic West End, the House of Burlesque Speakeasy brings you stockings, feathers and pure fabulousness.

Expect fan-dancing divas, tantalising tassel-twirlers, cabaret glitterati and spectacular live performances. With a 6pm kick off time, you can soak up the show before dinner or stick around for the after party to dance long into the night.

• Location: 350 Brockley Road, Crofton Park, SE4 2BY
• Price: from £13.20 per person
• Activity type: dancing, retro club night, live DJ
• Why we recommend: it's one of the quirkiest nights out that feels like a time capsule where you can swap small talk for spins on a vintage dancefloor and do something together

We think that Northern Soul at the Rivoli Ballroom is a total gem. It's a full retro immersion, set inside one of London's last surviving ballrooms, complete with glittering decor and a proper sprung dancefloor that practically begs you to get moving.

Instead of squeezing into a crowded bar, you're stepping into a space where the main event is dancing to hours of Northern Soul classics, rare tracks and unexpected throwbacks. Whether you're attempting spins, laughing through your lack of coordination, or fully committing to the rhythm, it gives you something shared to enjoy.

Flight Club across Shoreditch, Islington and Victoria have unique down to an art. Not only can you expect fairground interiors that light up the space, complete with rocking horses and littered in lights, join them for interactive darts games like never before alongside pizzas and trophy cocktails.

• Location: 231 Cambridge Heath Road, E2 0EL
• Price: from free
• Activity type: comedy, live performance, alternative night out
• Why we recommend: we love that you're part of the crowd reacting, laughing, sometimes even groaning, as the night unfolds. It's interactive, and it gives the whole experience a slightly offbeat, anything-goes feel

We think that Backyard Comedy Club delivers something different every single night. With a mix of seasoned pros, TV comedians and brand-new acts testing material, no two shows are the same.

With themed nights like Comedy Knockout or midweek showcases sitting alongside bigger headline acts, it's the kind of place you can return to again and again without it ever feeling repetitive. Perfect if you want a night out that's full of giggles and super affordable too. 

Looking for something a bit different in the city? Well then, how does a ball-pit bar sound? One of London's most sought after activities, Ballie Ballerson are leaders when it comes to an unusual night out with cocktails and antics aplenty at their Shoreditch location. You'll find epic, themed brunches packed with free-flowing drinks for 90 minutes and unlimited pizza from £35 per person. 

Promising an off-the-chain daytime event of nostalgic merriment, The 90s Brunch gang invite you to their retro-themed parties. To start with there's to be an hour of bottomless Mimosas, as well as a delicious spread of 90s-inspired grub served in sharing platter style. There's a full-on 90s dress-up box, a playlist full of classics from the decade and prizes for the winner of the lip-sync battles.

Celebrate the best in UK garage as Garage Brunch takes over London with an array of music-fuelled epic celebrations. Serving up delicious breakfast dishes along with bottomless drinks, a banging soundtrack and live appearances, it's a must for garage lovers.

Get ready for a night to remember with Silent Sounds: On The Thames. This isn't just a party - it's a silent disco with a view. Step aboard The Dutch Master, a two-storey boat gliding past London's iconic landmarks, from Big Ben to Tower Bridge. Starting at just £27 per person, this is your chance to experience London nightlife like never before.

With three music channels blasting disco classics, house anthems, and party hits, the dance floor is alive with energy. Feeling parched? Grab a drink at one of the two onboard bars and take in the shimmering city views. And when the boat docks, the fun continues at Ballie Ballerson, where select tickets include free guest list entry to London's favourite ball pit cocktail bar.

The UK's biggest pizza festival, Slice-O-Mania, is back with its biggest ever event. Over 20 traders will be slinging dough as they fight for the UK Pizza Championship - and slices are just three quid each.

That's not all. There's a main stage packed with entertainment, games, DJs and competitions, plus a free spirits and cocktail tasting area.

The UK's first official Old School R&B Brunch, this lively event takes place at The Steel Yard in the City of London twice a month. Expect an afternoon full of non-stop RnB hits from their top DJs, alongside immersive games and plenty of interactive fun.

The experience begins with an hour of bottomless rum punch, and you'll get to tuck into a delicious two-course meal of Southern bites too. With karaoke and prizes to be won, this is much more than your typical brunch.

Head to the Bedford in Balham for Fiddle Paradiddle's Pop-Up Ceilidh. Every month, you can get stuck into a lively ceilidh, led by an expert caller and a talented live band.

When you're not dancing, be sure to check out all the great food and drink on offer.

Popular City pub The Star by Liverpool Street has always got something fun going on. They host open karaoke several times a week, where you can sing your heart out to a crowd, with over 20,000 songs to choose from and free entry.

Fancy something a little more boozy? Then check out their drag or 80s musical bingo-themed bottomless brunches - complete with 90 minutes of unlimited drinks.

Hosted at their site in Covent garden and Glaziers Hall in London Bridge, The Whisky Exchange's lineup of events are not to be missed. They're brilliant for drinks lovers, whether it's Japanese whisky or agave spirits, with a series of tastings to enjoy.

You'll get to learn more about the spirits that you love, while trying out a range of delicious samples.

Taking place at venues across London, The Reggae Brunch is a vibrant daytime event that promises non-stop fun. begin with an hour of bottomless rum punch, before getting stuck into the mouthwatering Caribbean food available to buy.

Their DJs will be playing all the very best of reggae, dancehall, soca and commercial hits, guaranteed to keep you dancing. Plus, there'll be fun games, giveaways, photo booths, dance-offs and more.

Head to the Wild West world of East London for this cowboy pop-up where the choice of booze is entirely up to you. Smuggle in your favourite bottle of hooch and let some expert mixologists whizz you up some stunning cocktails at this cool and quirky London event.

Not your standard boozy brunch, Electric Shuffle's take on our favourite weekend pastime pairs pizza and prosecco with plenty of shuffleboard action. On top of that, there's live music providing the soundtrack to a lively afternoon alongside unique industrial and neon interiors across London Bridge and Canary Wharf.

Raucous fun from the first minute, Sounds Familiar (across Soho, Islington and beyond) is more of a rowdy disco than a pub quiz. There's no need for sneaky Wikipedia checks on your smartphone here, as your task is to identify the name and artist of famous songs instead. You'll be up on the tables, dancing and belting out the tunes in no time at all.

Dig out your pedal pushers and dust off your denim jacket for a three-hour throwback extravaganza. At the 90's VS 00's Bottomless Brunch, you can expect all the hits from the past two decades, live singalongs, lip sync battles, conga lines and the best dance offs since Pulp Fiction.

There's plenty more to keep you entertained too. The resident ringmaster will guide you through an afternoon of circus fun and games, mouth-watering burgers and 90 minutes of bottomless beer, prosecco or cocktails.

When it comes to quirky events, The Two Brewers in Clapham has just the thing. Nab a ticket for Clandestine Cabaret and expect live burlesque performances from the likes of ZeeZee Stardust to Aya L'Storm, alongside a roster of video entertainment and much more.

Taking place at DUO in Clapham on a monthly basis, Wild Wild Steps is all about country music. These buzzing nights out promise all your favourite artists, from Dolly Parton to Shania Twain, Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan.

They'll lead you in a line dancing lesson that will have even the most amateur dancers perfecting a routine, and cowboy-themed outfits are highly encouraged. Sip whiskey and soak up the Southern American vibes, with tickets starting from only £19.

Ever raved in a sauna? If not, it's about time you did. Sanctuary's sauna rave is where heat meets heartbeat.

With the temperature perfectly tuned for you to bust a move, you'll flow between waves of sound and steam, ice baths and mist showers, as DJs set the mood from behind the decks.

If you're after something unusual to do, check out what's on at The Sublime Society. This is an exclusive, intimate soiree hosted at Dear Darling in St James's, where fantasy and desire reign free in a sultry setting.

Expect dazzling burlesque routines and erotic live performances, as well as classes on intimacy and BDSM. They often welcome special guests too, and there's a carefully curated cocktail menu to boot.

If you're looking for something a bit alternative, how about you try bingo with a twist: Musical Bingo? There's even Gospeloke where you can sing your heart out and embrace your inner Whitney or Tina, plus a chance to test your music knowledge with Not Another Quiz Night. 

Perfect for any amateur bakers out there, The Big London Bake East and South is a quirky event revolving around yeast-based fun. Guests will be set a number of challenges by the event's talented professionals... Will you rise above the rest or crumble under the pressure?

An immersive experience that will transport you back to the 1940s, Cahoots are hosting a Black Market Knees-Up every single Saturday. As long as you promise to keep your lips zipped, you'll be welcomed into a dimly-lit underground station, where in infamous cocktail bar awaits.

Expect a theatrical ambience, as you select your cocktails that are disguised as everything from milk bottles to cyanide. You'll also get some rations to spend on mini pasties, brownies and other snacks. There are two ticket options on offer, one that includes two rounds of drinks or the other with bottomless sips.

Get your brunch with a West End twist, as you experience one hour of bottomless booze, tasty brunch dishes, performances from theatre stars and five whole hours of show tunes to keep the brunch party going. All of this and more at West End Musical Brunch. 

Looking for cool and quirky events in the capital? Dabbers is doing the lord's work and throwing some of the best bingo parties in London - think crazy challenges, hilarious hosts and the chance to win some very slick prizes.

Head to their venue in the City, where you can get stuck into lively rounds of bingo. That's not all though, as they also host everything from comedy and quizzes to drag entertainment - with tickets starting from as little as £12 per person.

After a seriously successful (and delicious) pop-up, The Chocolate Cocktail Club is here to stay, having made a home for themselves in Farringdon. Head over for unique, Instagrammable mixes, such as their lip-smacking Chocotini number. Entry costs just £10, including your first drink, or you can try out their 90-minute cocktail masterclasses and delicious afternoon teas instead.

Ever wanted to be a rockstar for the night? Now's your chance. Live Band Karaoke is taking over venues across the city to bring you a night of singing and dancing to all of your favourite tunes, with a live band to back you up as you channel your inner Mick Jagger.

Hidden in Central London, The Candlelight Club is a hub for all things cool and quirky. Step into this 1920s-themed retreat for an evening of glamour - think Prohibition-style cocktails, sultry three-course menus and an epic roster of live entertainment, such as cabaret or jazz.

For a futuristic night out inspired by the bright lights of Tokyo, Hijingo is a totally unique destination in Shoreditch. Expect stadium-grade lighting, high-energy music and live performers, with huge screens adding to the technologically advanced vibe.

They even host bottomless bingo brunches every single weekend, complete with 90 minutes of free-flowing beer or prosecco while you play. There are late-night sessions available as well, complete with two-for-one cocktails.

In the mood for something a little bit different? The Rosemary Branch Theatre in Islington has quirky events in spades, with everything from award-winning theatre performances to puppetry and podcasts taking place in its studio upstairs.

Located in Deptford, Little Nan's is a great place for your weekend shenanigans. Get stuck into disco fries and endless booze at a bottomless brunch or have fun at an afternoon tea featuring some seriously delish homemade cakes.

For those quirky events in Mayfair, Mr Fogg's Cocktail Experiments will impress with its afternoon of mixology. Don your lab jacket, as you'll get to witness magicians performing spells across the space, all while you whip up and test the best colour-changing antidotes.

Situated in Fitzrovia, Monopoly Lifesized is super jam-packed with immersive activities based on the board game. We mean building your own houses and getting stuck into escape room challenges. Head to the restaurant after for Hustle For The Wings and a slice of Mr. Monopoly's millionaire cheesecake.

If you're looking for unique immersive experiences in London, make sure to check out Jury Games' events. Whether you choose Jury Duty or The Inquest, you'll work as a team to question actors and unravel clues in the hopes of solving the mystery at hand.

For a thrilling evening of surprises and intrigue, snap up tickets to The Magic Hour. Located at Sheraton Grand Park Lane, this dazzling performance will certainly keep you on your toes, showcasing mind-reading, sleight-of-hand and so much more, with a spectacular event over at Andaz London too. 

Escape The Power Cut at Control Room B is a great activity for friends, family or colleagues in groups of up to six people. You'll have 90 minutes to solve the puzzle and fix the electricity, with two specially crafted included in the price of your £55 ticket. 

Think you've got what it takes to beat your friends in a high-energy quiz? Then take to the podium at Quiz Boxing in Camden, where you'll answer a series of questions in their interactive gameshow experience to prove that your knowledge is the very best. With up to 12 players at a time, you'll be given rounds on music, sport, history and more, coming in at just £25 per person for an hour-long game. But it's not just your straightforward quiz, as there are plenty of opportunities to sneak ahead throughout.

Albert's Schloss Soho is the place to be for free and exciting live performances. Reserve a table at the bar or restaurant to savour delicious alpine cuisine, German beers, or creative variations of classic cocktails while taking in the acts on the bier palace's stage. From request-based pianists to lively cabaret and the haus band performing popular tunes alongside DJs and dancing, they've got it all.

Fancy entering a whole new world? Then head to Shoreditch destination Avora, where you'll step into mystical woodlands on this cocktail-fuelled adventure. You'll begin your journey at Roscorp Laboratories, where you'll receive a briefing on your mission, as well as your first of the three drinks included in your ticket price.

Brought to you by the team behind Alcotraz and Moonshine Saloon, you can expect a theatrical production complete with live actors and a mesmerising set. The immersive experience will have you taking part in scientific tasks, working as a group to unfold the mystery of this place.

One of the UK's quirkiest events is returning to London Stadium for 2026, promising three days of £1.50 wings from over 45 vendors, alongside great bourbon and beer. Each trader will be competing for your vote, to be crowned best Buffalo, barbecue or wild wing.

Throughout the weekend, DJs and live musicians will be taking to the stage, and they're even hosting both eating competitions and the deadly Lava Wing challenge. What's more, there'll be amusement attractions, barbecue demonstrations, axe throwing and much more.

Inspired by the mystical mind of David Lynch, The Double R Club is a quirky cabaret show that takes place at Walthamstow Trades Hall, with occasional guest appearances elsewhere. This is led by the one and only Benjamin Louche, with a cast of talented performers.

Expect a dark atmosphere, influenced by cult TV show Twin Peaks, full of small town surrealism and nightmare-fuelled material. Tickets start from just £10, including free Agent Cooper shots and mini doughnuts while stocks last.

Paint Jam transforms sip and paint events with an immersive feel that blend painting, music and projection in unforgettable ways. Each pop-up party explores a different artistic theme, with live DJs and creative guidance included in your ticket from £36.

All materials are provided - just show up, get inspired, and take home your own original artwork.

Trade your screens for skeins and spend an afternoon creating your own custom rug at Laoxa's Creative Ground workshop. Hosted by Lucy, founder of Laoxa, this relaxed tufting session is all about slowing down, getting creative, and walking away with something totally one-of-a-kind.

All tools, yarn, and materials are provided, and you'll get step-by-step guidance as you bring your design to life. Whether you come solo, on a quirky date, or with your bestie crew, this workshop is equal parts fun, mindful, and Instagram-worthy. Plus, you'll leave with your own handmade rug - and a new addiction to tufting.

Perfect for birthdays, hen parties or just because, Drag Bus is the high-energy bus tour of London, complete with non-stop drag entertainment. On this two-hour ride, you'll see some of the city's most iconic landmarks, while getting involved in interactive games.

Expect outrageous looks, hilarious jokes, music and dancing, promising to be an unforgettable outing. Tickets include a welcome glass of prosecco, with the option to pre-order more drinks too.

For anyone drawn to unconventional experiences, the Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands by Skuna Boats is a polished, quirky option.

You can soak in heated tubs while cruising through the docklands, enjoying structured commentary and a safe, professional setup. Look forward to bubbles, great views, and more from £39 each - ideal for Londoners or visitors looking for something completely different.

From the Producers of Stranger Sings, Mulan Rouge and a whole host of critically acclaimed productions, The Unofficial Grease Parody is coming to The Vaults Theatre. Expect intoxicating songs, divine dance numbers and explosive desire.

Term is about to start at Olympus Academy and The Fates have decided to play rough. Grab your tickets to a night of writhing Gods and jiving nymphs for just £50.76.

If your idea of a great night out involves duck pin bowling, Oompah bands and steins bigger than your head, Springfest at The Bermondsey Bierkeller ticks every box.

This delightfully quirky April event transforms London Bridge into a Bavarian wonderland, complete with live brass music, communal tables and authentic Paulaners all night. There's also interactive darts, foosball and shuffleboard. 

Do something a little different with your day at Corner Corner. On an Indoor Vertical Farm Tour, you'll discover how food is grown right here in the city. 

Your expert guides will teach you everything you've ever wanted to know about plant life cycles, crop rotation, biodiversity, sustainable food systems and the journey from seed to harvest. You'll even get the chance to taste what's grown on site. Grab your tickets for just £11.

Want to get hands on with an ancient craft? Get down to Molten 1090 for the Glassblowing Tumbler Workshop. 

Your creative journey begins in collaboration with the resident experts to choose your favourite designs, colours and ombre techniques. Next, it's over to you to manipulate, shape and breathe life into molten glass with traditional tools. Tickets to unleash your inner artisan are just £165.

Shared Spirit is a whisky festival with a difference. In the historic St Mary's Primrose Hill, it brings together some of the world's top makers and most innovative distilleries.

Expect DJs playing, cocktails being shaken, street food cooking and up to 100 tasty tipples ready for you to try. Your £46.50 ticket gets you a welcome drink and free tasting glass.

A unique way to explore the city on foot, the official Race Across The World Experience is inspired by the BBC's hit TV show. This outdoor activity requires navigation, puzzle-solving skills and teamwork - suitable for groups of two to eight people.

You'll be given a limited amount of money and will have the opportunity to work for more, important for maintaining your budget. Public transport is banned, and you'll have to reach three checkpoints before finishing the race and hopefully winning a spot on the live leaderboard.

For those looking for fun events in Shoreditch this May, Veto-Vision Song Contest delivers an evening of cabaret, nostalgia, and interactive chaos. Hosted at The Joiner on Worship, it's a reimagining of Eurovision that invites you to ditch the standard format.

Expect everything from eurotrash classics on a giant screen to live performances from Tizzy Von Tassel and special guests, alongside games, audience voting, and themed cocktails. 

Cabaret & Cabernet: A Wine Tasting Soirée is firmly in a league of its own. Limited to just 25 guests and priced from £210.94, this is less a typical night out and more an immersive journey through flavour, performance, and atmosphere.

You can look forward to a four-course menu crafted to complement each wine, alongside performances that quite literally unfold across the table, from contortionists shaping themselves to match the structure of Champagne, to a dramatic vocal finale paired with the depth of Cos d'Estournel 2014. 

Join 'Human Jukebox' Kirsty Newton and her super talented sister Heather for a fun-filled, fabulous night at The King's Head. Put in your requests and they'll play all your favourite songs off the top of their head, with some incredible improvision along the way.

Lyrics are beamed up on the big screen so you can sing along at the top of your lungs. Grab your tickets to a night of spontaneous, interactive, immersive fun for just £16.50.

This bank holiday Sunday, enjoy a brilliant day out at The Brush East London Grand Café in Shoreditch. This stylish spot is promising a two-course brunch, complete with a cocktail of your choice, before you head down to the cinema.

Tuck into the likes of smashed avocado with poached eggs, bacon cheeseburgers and Basque cheesecake, before settling in to watch The Breakfast Club.

A bona fide pioneer is getting behind the decks at Freight London. As well as shaping the UK's club culture in the late '70s and early '80s, Greg Wilson made history as the first DJ to demonstrate live mixing on British TV, and even taught a young Fatboy Slim how to scratch along the way.

Expect a masterclass in groove, spanning electro, funk, soul, and beyond, delivered by one of the UK's most respected selectors. Tickets for this epic day session are just £5.50.

Step back in time with Murder, Mayhem & Mystery at The Lucky Pig. This immersive night out blends 60s jazz, cocktails, speakeasy vibes and true crime all in one.

Set in the hazy aftermath of the Summer of Love, something sinister lurks beneath the flower power facade - and only you can crack the case. Dust off your glad rags and grab your ticket to get involved from just £16.50.