Best Cool And Quirky Events In London

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By katie kirwan Head Of Brand & B2C At DesignMyNight Nightlife and hospitality expert with 13 years of experience and coverage in The Times, Time Out and Bar Magazine. Last updated on 24th July 2026

Looking for something a little bit different? We've visited the capital's most wacky and unusual spots, had a nosy at alternative nightlife, and sourced secret pop-ups to bring you a list of cool events in London.

Whether you want quirky cabaret, immersive supper clubs whipping up meals and murder mysteries to remember, or fancy baking masterpieces in a tent with your friends, this list will make sure that no London night out is ever normal again.

Cool And Quirky London Events: Fun Nights Out




Cool And Quirky Events In Central London

Silent Disco London

Fancy partying high above the city? Then check out Silent Disco London, taking place at The View From The Shard. Enjoy 360-degree views of the capital after dark from an elevated venue, all while boogieing with your best mates.

Don your glowing LED headphones and choose between three different DJs playing varied genres, meaning that everyone is catered to here. You'll be able to snap some Instagram-worthy photos throughout. Plus, there are events at outdoor venues, famous landmarks and more, as well as family friendly parties.

Soul Supper Fridays @ One Ninety Four London Mayfair

@ ONE NINETY FOUR on Friday 7th August 2026 and 4 other Fridays

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.

Sky Garden

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.

Hip Hop Brunch™

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.  

House of Burlesque...SPEAKEASY

@ QT at The Middle Eight Hotel on Every Saturday

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.

Flight Club

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.

Cutter & Squidge + miffy

Soho has seen its fair share of wild takeovers, but a pastel-hued bunny invasion might just take the cake. Cutter & Squidge is turning its basement into a Miffy wonderland this summer, offering both an ultra-aesthetic themed afternoon tea and a hands-on roulade-making masterclass.

It's quirky, it's incredibly chic, and it's easily one of the most unique food pop-ups hitting the West End this year.

Sounds Familiar Music Quiz - London

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.

The 90's Brunch™

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.

Garage Brunch™

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.

Silent Sounds Boat Party

@ The Silent Disco Boat on Saturday 15th August and Saturday 19th September 2026

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.

Old School R&B Brunch

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.

The Star by Liverpool Street

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.

The Whisky Exchange Events

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.

The Reggae Brunch

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.

Race Across The World Experience

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.

The Sublime Society

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.

Black Market Knees-Up

@ Cahoots on Saturday 8th August 2026 and 14 other Saturdays

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.

Dabbers Social Bingo

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.

The Chocolate Cocktail Club

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.

The Candlelight Club

@ The Candlelight Club on Saturday 19th September 2026 and 2 other Saturdays

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.

Albert's Schloss - Soho

Guinness on draft and 6 other offers

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.

Cabaret & Cabernet: A Wine Tasting Soirée

@ L'oscar London on Every 1st Friday of the month

Cabaret & Cabernet: A Wine Tasting Soirée is firmly in a league of its own. Limited to just 25 guests and priced from £147.34, 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. 

Blingo - Hip Hop Bingo

@ O'Neill's Wardour Street on Thursday 1st October 2026

Blingo Hip Hop Bingo is landing at O'Neill's Wardour Street. Get down here to spend a full-throttle night with the unstoppable, potty-mouthed pensioner Grandma Flash and her 87-year-old DJ Harry Spelvin.

Expect an extraordinary mashup of bingo, classic hip hop beats, lip sync battles, dance offs and more bling than you can throw a zimmer frame at. Tickets are limited and sure to sell out - grab yours from just £13.20.

Cool And Quirky Events In East London

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

@ Hexmoor: London on Various dates from Sunday 2nd August 2026

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.

Ballie Ballerson London

Discounts available on certain events

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. 

The Murdér Express Part Deux -Jewel Of The Empire

@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Sunday 2nd August 2026

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. 

Backyard Comedy Club

  • 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. 

Big Top 90's VS 00's Brunch

@ Trapeze on Saturday 8th August 2026 and 64 other Saturdays

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.

Sofar Sounds Presents Shoreditch Fringe Festival

@ 83 Rivington Street on Sat, 17th Oct 2026 @ 13:00 - 23:00

Want to check out some of the best grassroots talent in the UK? Get on over to the Sofar Fringe Festival: Shoreditch Takeover.

A festival, reimagined the Sofar way, it serves up music, comedy, dance, spoken word and more, with over 50 incredible acts over ten local venues. Grab your tickets to all this and more for just £27.50.

The Big Bakes

Discounts available on certain events

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?

Hijingo

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.

THE DOUBLE R CLUB

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.

Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands

@ Skuna Boats on Every Wednesday

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.

Avora: A New-World Cocktail Experience

@ Roscorp Laboratories on Various dates from Sunday 2nd August 2026

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.

Cool And Quirky Events In North London

The Rosemary Branch Theatre

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.

Quiz Boxing

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.

Laoxa’s Creative Ground

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.

Glassblowing Tumbler Workshop

@ Molten 1090 on Sunday 16th and Saturday 29th August 2026

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.

Kirsty's Singalong at The King's Head

@ Downstairs At The King's Head on Friday 18th September and Friday 30th October 2026

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.

Cool And Quirky Events In South London

Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk

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.

Indoor Vertical Farm Tours - Corner Corner

@ Corner Corner on Saturday 8th and Saturday 22nd August 2026

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.

Little Nan's

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.

Northern Soul at the Rivoli Ballroom

  • 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.

Live Band Karaoke

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.

WildWildStep

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.

The Kino Show

Roll up, roll up for a cinematic spectacle of glamour, scandal and stardom. At The Kino Show, you'll step into a dazzling world of feathers, sequins and smoke-filled cabaret.

This sensational show celebrates the very best of burlesque, vaudeville and Hollywood musical performances, from Chicago, The Last Showgirl and Moulin Rouge to the iconic performances of Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth. Grab your tickets to this epic evening of entertainment from just £17.60.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance for these events?

Yes, the majority of these events require advanced booking, as most of them are ticketed. Some may sell out, so it's always best to book early.

What are the best quirky events in Central London?

There are so many different choices for cool and quirky events in Central London. Some of our favourites include Sky Garden's music nights, House of Burlesque and Silent Sounds.

What are the most affordable quirky events in London?

Our list caters to all budgets, with some of the most affordable choices including Backyard Comedy Club, Electric Shuffle, Sounds Familiar Music Quiz and The Rosemary Branch Theatre.