Something A Little Different In London

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 London bars to help you on your hunt. 

Last updated on 21st March 2023




Sounds Familiar Music Quiz

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.

Supercharged VR

@ SuperchargedVR on Various dates from Friday 24th March 2023

Save 10% on ticket Weekend General Admission: 13.00-14.00 - Grand Prix with discount code INSTA10

Supercharged VR fully immerses you into the Grand Prix-style racing experience, thanks to its high-tech, specialised motion platforms. You can choose from an epic lineup of high-speed cars, as well as some of the most iconic tracks from around the world.

Ballie Ballerson London

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. 

Alcotraz: Cell Block Two-One-Two

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: London on Various dates from Wednesday 22nd March 2023

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.

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 Big Bakes

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 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 Liquid Love Experience

Taking place at Old Street, The Liquid Love Experience is a great shout if you're looking for something a little more intimate. At your own comfort, you'll get to explore your own body, sexuality and human connection using warm olive oil.

CAMPFRUIT

Not just a fabulous pub for drinking, dining and live music, The Bedford is keeping us entertained with its monthly showcase, CAMPFRUIT. Taking place on the first weekend of the month, this Balham boozer is combining live drag cabaret with sumptuous Sunday roasts.

The Rhythm and Booze Project

If you're on the hunt for fun drink tastings, The Rhythm and Booze Project makes for a very unique experience. Whisky professionals and musicians Felipe and Paul will both walk you through premium whiskies as they play show-stopping tunes.

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.

Restaurant Ours

On the hunt for unique things to do in Knightsbridge? Restaurant Ours is filling up your agenda with a whole host of cool goings-on. What's on the cards? Everything from brunches with live entertainment to quirky quiz nights and so much more.

TANTRA SOUND CLUB

After something a little out of the box? We thought as much. So be sure to check out the Tantra Sound Club's immersive experiences and workshops. Get ready to unwind and improve sleep patterns, all while adopting sound healing techniques and vibration therapy. 

RnBhangra Brunch

Get ready for the biggest bhangra-dedicated bash, as RnBhangra Brunch is hosting a few wicked events at secret London locations. Not only will there be a tasty two-course feast and an hour of unlimited cocktails, but also live performers, henna artists and cool magicians.

Vintage Arts Asylum

Hidden away in the depths of Hackney, this unique events series is taking you back to the heyday of jazz's golden era. Join the Vintage Arts Asylum team for incredible musicians, affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

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. 

The Murdér Express Part Deux -Jewel Of The Empire: Award Winning Immersive Theatrical Dining Experience

@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Thursday 23rd March 2023

Spruce up your plans with The Murdér Express Part Deux -Jewel Of The Empire at Pedley Street Station. This awesome immersive dining experience involves a murder mystery, along with a tasty four-course meal. Need we say more?

Curious Invitation Talks

Curious Invitation Talks is hosting all kinds of unique events over at The Century Club in Soho. Not only can you enjoy improv comedy nights and magical musical cabaret, but also discussions surrounding iconic names, from David Bowie through to Moomin's creator, Tove Jansson.

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.

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.

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. 

GIN HOUSE BURLESQUE

The King's Head is hosting another night of sexy burlesque and cabaret performances as Gin House Burlesque are back in town with their scintillating and captivating performances. With everything from a Josephine Baker tribute act to a ventriloquist, the night promises to put the spark back into your evenings.

Hackney Funhouse

Step inside the Breaking Bad inspired ABQ RV for a unique cocktail masterclass that will be teaching you the basics of molecular mixology in style. Don you hazmat suit because things are about to get all kinds of crazy.

MULTI-SENSORY DINNER EXPERIENCE : with a spicy ROPE twist

@ Secret Cottage London on Friday 31st March 2023 and 2 other dates

A unique event with your other half? Check out this multi-sensory dinner experience in London where you'll get to tuck into an aphrodisiac menu, alongside free-flowing fizz. Plus, there will be a couples massage, couples bonding activities and a free overnight in a double room.

Northern Soul at the Rivoli Ballroom

In the mood for something a little out of the box? Then venture to Brockley Road for Northern Soul at the Rivoli Ballroom. This fabulous venue will be hosting a retro-themed evening, with a lineup of top-notch beats spun by DJ Andy Smith.

plonk

From Hackney to Camden, Shoreditch and Borough Market, plonk is bringing you a variety of locations for your next crazy golfing sesh. These colourful dens combine crazy courses with your own competitiveness to create the perfect date night or group outing.

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.

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.

Inamo Covent Garden

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.

Toulouse Lautrec Jazz Club

Looking to switch up your night out agenda? This Elephant and Castle music venue might have just the thing. Fronting a mammoth programme of energetic events, the Toulouse Lautrec fronts everything from live jazz and poetry evenings to cabaret and art classes.

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.

Aeronaut

For an alternative night out in London, heading to Acton may not be your first port of call. But it should be because it's where you'll find Aeronaut and their pub turn brewery turn beer garden turn restaurant turn circus big top tent extravaganza. Yes, you can truly dabble in it all as you're dazzled by balancing acts, comedians, aerial artists and acrobats at large. 

Simmons Fitzrovia

Sunday Funday! and 5 other offers

The ultimately kitsch and oh-so-charming cocktail haven known as Simmons has to be a consideration when looking for somewhere unusual to drink in London. Something of a contemporary version of your nan's lounge, Simmons Fitzrovia is bathed in a neon ambience, where the cocktails pack quite a punch served in queen decorated china and the shelves are stacked with random memorabilia. 

Venn St. Records

#CheapDate

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.

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.

Paintvine

Feel like spicing up your usual night out or weekend antics? Then be sure to check out Paintvine at various locations across London for their awesome range of events, where painting and sculpture meet booze. This is definitely one not to miss.

 

Hidden Jazz Club

London's quirkiest things to do? How about a pop-up nomadic music event? The Hidden Jazz Club is bringing the best in local musicians to the stage for nights of sultry tunes, so you can bask in their talent while grooving along.

Blingo - Hip Hop Bingo

Trade in the usual happy hour drinks and party bars for something a little different at Blingo. Hosted by Grandma Flash and her bingo-loving crew, the hands-on event will have you and your mates dabbing, lip syncing and dancing for victory to RnB hits.

Neverland

Love a bit of James Bond? Or maybe a bottomless brunch or winter pop-up? We've got you covered with Neverland's unforgettable events. Head to an alpine-themed lodge or get boozy at their epic drag nights.

Ooh La La Burlesque Cabaret

Searching for something a little different in London? Taking place in Chiswick, Ooh La La Burlesque Cabaret is coming in hot with their burlesque beauties. Sit down and relax as you watch international performances inspired by 1930s Paris.

DISCO BRUNCH

It's time to add a big old dose of glitter and gold to your brunching habits with this new killer event; expect an hour of bottomless cocktails, two courses of brunch food and all the disco you can handle.

Barrio Soho

Amigo Hour and 3 other offers

Come over and get your fix of Latina flair at this gem of a Soho party bar. With flamboyant interiors, exotic tequila drinks and a lovely choice of Spanish bites, Barrio is a tropical oasis with a lovely atmosphere making for a quirky place to drink in London. Share a few plates with your mates, knock back a few of their corking cocktails or find your way to the dance floor, where a mix of live bands and DJs play until 1am.

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. 

That's Drag Bingo!

Grab life by the balls by heading along to one of That's Drag Bingo's events. Expect a range of hilarious bingo calls, sassy queens lip-syncing their way to your heart and local celebrities showing their faces. And if you win? Epic prize galore will ensue.

THE DOUBLE R CLUB

If you're a fan of the quirky and absurd, then this monthly cabaret night is the one for you. You'll find The Double R Club in Bethnal Green, serving up burlesque, live music, comedy and other performances inspired by the beautiful, yet dark, words of David Lynch.

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.

Paranormal Activity Tour

@ Outside Farringdon Station (Infront of Timpson) on Friday 24th March 2023 and 18 other Fridays

Travel across London and uncover the bloody past of the city. With the help of Ouija boards, K2 meters, you will search for spirits and poltergeists in some of the scariest places in London, from abandon goal cells formally hosting the world's worst serial killers to mountains of bodies that commuters walk on every day.

The Escapologist

Happy Hour and 4 other offers

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.

Hyper Reality

For quirky activities in London, look no further than a trip to Hyper Reality. Here, you can have a go at go-karting or surviving a zombie apocalypse in their VR gaming experiences. Then, head to the steampunk-themed bar or geek out at the arcade.