Quirky Activities In The UK

Let's be real, there's way more to the UK than just gorgeous dining destinations and swish bars. It also happens to boast some of the most unique events, whether it be classics such as bowling and roller skating, or unique painting classes and immersive cocktail haunts. If you're on the hunt for something different, we're breaking down the best-of-the-best when it comes to quirky activities in the UK.

Last edited by Marcus Sanigar

Last updated on 23rd October 2025




Rossendale: Golf Kingdom

Putt your skills to the test at Golf Kingdom Rossendale, a cool adventure golf venue. Here, you can try out the quirky Squirrel's Lair course, an 18-hole, woodland-inspired green featuring interactive rafts, awe-inspiring countryside views and life-like animal sculptures.

London: Silent Sounds Boat Party

@ The Silent Disco Boat on Various dates from Friday 27th March 2026

If you're looking for a way to explore more of London, the Silent Sounds Boat Party certainly is a unique way to do it. This quirky boat trip will take you down the Thames, and you'll get to see sights like the London Eye and Tower Bridge along the way - all while partying to tunes played through your headphones.

There are multiple DJs on board, so you can choose your favourite songs - think hip hop, pop and RnB. Plus, you can keep the fun going with an afterparty at Ballie Ballerson, where you'll receive discounted entry.

UK-Wide: NQ64

NQ64 is a nostalgic gaming bar that's popped up in venues all over the country, from London to Cardiff, Birmingham and Manchester. These neon-splattered destinations are filled with retro games and consoles like Pac Man, Guitar Hero, Mario Kart and much more, perfect for quirky date nights or group outings. They've got brilliant themed cocktails here such as the Disco Stu daquiri or an Aku Aku fruit punch, as well as classics like a negroni.

Sussex: Realms VR

Located in Crowborough, East Sussex, Realms VR is a brilliant day out that's suitable for adults and kids aged seven plus. They offer immersive escape rooms, as well as exciting VR games, starting from £30 per person.

There are all sorts of quirky themes on offer, from aliens to haunted mansions and ninja trials. Whether you're battling it out head-to-head or solving puzzles together, there's so much to enjoy here.

UK-Wide: Sounds Familiar Music Quiz

Put your pop-culture trivia to the test at Sounds Familiar Music Quiz, taking place in the likes of Birmingham, Edinburgh, Hastings and London. With various locations throughout the UK, this event will bring out your competitive side as you'll be guessing on all your favourite guilty pleasures, party anthems and much more.

UK-Wide: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Experience

Whether you're in Southampton, Bradford, Liverpool or beyond, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Experience is a great way to get outdoors and explore your local area. This is like an escape room, but out in the open - using only your phone to guide you.

You'll work in teams of up to eight people to solve puzzles and collect hidden clues, aiming to rescue Dorothy and her friends from the Wicked Witch. This can be done at any time of day, with tickets starting from £30 per group.

Hull: Hull Adventure

A multi-activity centre in East Hull, Hull Adventure is a fantastic pick for quirky things to do and unique experiences - whether with friends or family. Race up to 40mph on the 700-metre all-weather karting circuit, get competitive in five-a-side bubble football and archery tag, and even take part in an old fashioned sports day. Topping it off? Dodgeball.

London: Dabbers Bingo

Sometimes, Bingo is known for being a snooze-fest, but with Dabbers, you'll have a grand time. The venue brings a raucous version, complete with music, comedians, fabulous prizes and quirky themes, not to mention a couple of brilliant bottomless brunches.

Nottingham: Penny Lane

Kids main, drink and 3 tokens for £4.95 and 1 other offer

This nostalgic location is inspired by traditional seaside arcades, promising machines like ski ball, air hockey, donkey derby and much more. Penny Lane is the perfect place to unleash your inner big kid, with tokens available to play all these classic games. Topping it all off? A tasty menu full of hotdogs, burgers, halloumi fries and nachos, alongside creative cocktails such as the Calippo concoction - served with an entire ice lolly.

UK-Wide: Boom Battle Bar

With venues in Leeds, Plymouth, Birmingham, Norwich and beyond, Boom Battle Bar is a fun-filled activity bar where you can get competitive over all kinds of quirky games. We're talking crazy golf, axe throwing, shuffleboard, ping pong and everything in between, perfect for birthdays, hen dos, team nights out and more. Even better? They've got a mouthwatering menu full of cheesy bacon fries, fried chicken burgers and cauliflower wings.

London: The Ultimate Baking & Cocktail Challenge

@ Bake Master London on Various dates from Saturday 6th December 2025

Save 25% on ticket Saturday 2.30pm to 4.30pm with discount code BF25
Valid on the following dates: 17/01/2026, 18/01/2026, 24/01/2026, 25/01/2026, 31/01/2026, 01/02/2026, 07/02/2026, 08/02/2026, 14/02/2026, 15/02/2026, 21/02/2026, 22/02/2026, 28/02/2026, 01/03/2026, 07/03/2026, 08/03/2026, 14/03/2026, 15/03/2026, 21/03/2026, 22/03/2026, 28/03/2026, 29/03/2026, 04/04/2026, 05/04/2026, 11/04/2026, 12/04/2026, 18/04/2026, 19/04/2026, 25/04/2026 and 26/04/2026.
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You may think cake decorating and mixology are not the most obvious bedfellows, but London's Ultimate Baking & Cocktail Challenge begs to differ. Grab your apron and a friend for an afternoon of drinking and decorating at Bake Master London for just £65. 

While your showstopping cake bakes to perfection, you'll learn how to make a classic Cosmopolitan. Decorate your creation when the oven timer pings and, if you impress the judges, you could bag an extra prize to go home with. 

London, Derby, Bristol, Birmingham, Sheffield, Manchester: Wing Fest 2025

Aside from munching your way through £1.50 wings and voting for your favourites across a range of categories, Wing Fest also has plenty more quirky activities to get stuck into across the buzzing, three-day event. This festival also has wing-eating contests and hot wing challenges to get stuck into.

Other entertainment includes live music, DJs, BBQ cooking demos, water splash zones and more.

UK-Wide: I'm Puzzled

Taking place everywhere from Chester to York or Margate, I'm Puzzled's interactive Murder Mystery Experience is a great way to explore more of your local area. You'll work in teams of two to six to solve a high-profile murder case, cracking codes, gathering clues and interrogating virtual suspects along the way.

Nab tickets for as little as £19.99 for the whole group, and all you need to guide you is their handy app.

Dover: Maison Dieu

Step into the past at Maison Dieu, where £8 guided tours reveal the fascinating evolution of this 800-year-old landmark from sacred hospital to civic treasure. The Dragons, Ghosts and Gargoyles tour adds a playful twist for families, with sensory surprises and hands-on history.

From cultural showcases to live sports events, this venue blends heritage with modern-day excitement. Events outside of the history box here include live wrestling (from £12) and a Frankie Valli tribute act (from £20) - although watch this space for more.

Nottingham: Entertainment Golf @ Riverside Golf Centre

Boasting Inrange radar ball tracking technology and high-res touchscreen monitors at every single bay, Entertainment Golf @ Riverside Golf Centre is one of the most cutting-edge activity bars around - suitable for experts and beginners alike. You can compete in small or large groups to suit all occasions, from stag nights to team building sessions, with prices starting from just £6.75 per person for 30 minutes.

UK-Wide: Scavenger Hunt Bank Heist

Looking to get outdoors more? Then check out Scavenger Hunt Bank Heist, a quirky activity that can be done in groups of two to six, self-guided and completed at your own pace. This immersive experience is brought to you by I'm Puzzled, using their high-tech app to help you crack codes and plan the perfect heist.

You'll see more of your local area in the process, and the adventure is available everywhere from Newcastle to Warrington and Portsmouth. Tickets start from just £19.99 for the entire team, and you can start at any time you like.

Nottingham & Leicester: Puppy Love Events

For an instant hir of serotonin, check out Puppy Love Events. Their pooch therapy takes place at venues in Birmingham, Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester, Derby and Cheshire, led by expert dog trainer Jodi Harvey. You'll get an hour with these well-trained pups, teaching them socialisation skills while giving you a relaxing, wholesome afternoon. Tickets start from just £19 per person, including free drinks and snacks.

Surrey: Pro Paintball UK

Forget the usual weekend plans - Pro Paintball is one of the most unique and adrenaline-charged activities in the UK. Boasting six custom-built game maps, real-time MVP rewards, and a one-of-a-kind paintball experience, this is paintball like you've never played before.

With cash prizes, in-game power-ups, and unbeatable pricing, it's the perfect way to mix fun with competition - whether you're planning a birthday, stag/hen do, or just an epic day out.

Southampton: Dive N' Putt

@ Hedge End Golf Centre on Various dates from Friday 5th December 2025

Like to play games over a pint or two? Dive N' Putt at Southampton's Hedge End Golf Centre has you covered. Pit your wits against the marine-themed crazy golf course, taking in seahorses, sharks and giant squid along the way. 

Fancy another game? Head to the bar for pool, darts and shuffleboard, or bash some buttons in the arcade. 

UK-Wide: Ballie Ballerson

Discounts available on certain events

One of the most unusual things to do in South East England, Ballie Ballerson promises a memorable experience with two huge ball pits and cracking cocktails. Plus, the venue has several beautiful backdrops so you'll be sorted for Instagram photos galore in the likes of Edinburgh and Cardiff too.

York: York Ghost Bus

@ York Ghost Bus Pickup on Various dates from Friday 5th December 2025

Dare to take a ride on the York Ghost Bus, where spooky history and comedy collide in the most entertaining way possible. Hop on board the eerie 1960s Routemaster and let a haunting performer lead you through York's haunted streets, with stops at iconic landmarks like York Minster and Clifford's Tower.

With chilling ghost stories and wickedly funny anecdotes, you'll learn all about the city's darker side - without losing your sense of humour. Perfect for those who like a little fright with their fun.

London: Ale Hunters

Big brew lover? If you fancy an evening of beer and a boozy good time, then Ale Hunters is your answer. Enjoy tutored tastings, pub history lessons, and tours all around London so you can learn a thing or two from your expert sommelier.

Guildford: Sixes

Head to The Tunsgate Centre in Guildford to discover Sixes, a cool activity bar that allows you to live out your cricketing dreams. They've got several indoor batting cages where you can test out your skills, with different difficulty levels and settings to choose from.

There's also a hirable games room, complete with American pool, live sports on TV and more. They also serve a scrumptious menu that features tasty pizzas, nachos and garlic bread - and they even offer bottomless brunches too.

BYOC City - Carter Lane

Groups Get Extra Hour Free and 2 other offers

Think quirky bars in London, and BYOC City is guaranteed to pop up in your head. A personalised cocktail adventure in the heart of St. Paul's financial district, this one-of-a-kind boozer doesn't just serve drinks; it serves up experiences. Bring your fav spirits to their Carter Lane haven for their mixology wizards to work their magic and craft tailor-made concoctions that are as unique as your very own palate.

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

@ Hexmoor: London on Various dates from Friday 5th December 2025

Hexmoor is where magic meets mayhem in the world's first immersive wizarding prison bar. You'll be issued your official inmate jumpsuit and locked up with a cast of dark wizards who have a flair for the forbidden. With live actors driving the story and immersive theatre unfolding around you, you'll have the chance to interact, uncover secrets, and even plan your escape.

Choose your level of magical indulgence: £49.50 includes three cocktails, £57.50 includes four, or for £77.50, enjoy four cocktails and receive a custom wand, hand-delivered by Willbott's Wand Shop as part of the experience.

UK-Wide: Alcotraz

Taking inspiration from Hollywood prison stories, Alcotraz is one of the most popular UK attractions for adults in Brighton, Cardiff and beyond. Why you may ask? Well, you'll get to don orange jumpsuits while smuggling in booze and interacting with the sketchy guards. Nothing better than a little mischief, right?

UK-Wide: Flight Club

Known for its bottomless brunches and as the spot for social darts in the UK, Flight Club is bringing you wood-fired pizzas served on paddles, as well as glasses of prosecco. Enjoy a few raucous rounds of throwing at the oche and don't forget to practice your aim for this feel-good activity.

Lincoln: Game Saints Escape Rooms

A day out in the old Magistrates' Courthouse is about as quirky as it gets, but that's what Game Saints Lincoln has in store. With cinematic sets adding to the original chambers and cells, they've created five incredible escape rooms to test your detective skills.

Whether you choose to pit your wits against Ripper's Road, Mystic Alley or any other gripping storylines, you'll face a race against time to find clues, solve the crime and make your way back to reality.

Castleford: Gravity MAX

Located in Castleford, Gravity MAX is home to all kinds of quirky fun. Not only can you zip around the track in their state-of-the-art E-karting experience, but you can also explore a new world through their virtual reality gaming - themed around Ghostbusters, Squid Games and more. They've even got sophisticated private karaoke rooms where you can belt out tunes in style, all with a classy cocktail in hand.