Unusual Things To Do In London

• Address: 127 Hackney Road, London, E2 8GY
• Best for: sipping cocktails in prison

Nothing's ordinary about Alcotraz: Cell Block Two-One-Two, London's most infamous prison cocktail experience. Don an orange jumpsuit and befriend the crooked guards (to sneak your booze in, of course), all in a bid for them to create bespoke concoctions. 

You'll bring in a bottle of spirits of your choice, but be sure to watch out for the warden as you go. Four cocktails are included in your ticket price, and there'll be plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

• Address: 69-73 St John Street, EC1M 4AN
• Best for: one of the quirkiest dining experiences around

The original quirky London dining experience, Dans Le Noir plunges you into pitch darkness for a meal that depends entirely on your tastebuds and sense of smell. Your night starts with blind waiters leading you to your table, before you feast on an unknown delicacy.

They offer a two or three-course menu, starting at £58 per person, or £67 with a surprise glass of wine. Or if you want to go all-out, the chef's menu features five courses and two glasses of wine for £105, and they cater to all dietary requirements too.

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison offers a rare chance to enter a fully immersive wizarding prison - a world that combines theatre, mixology, and fantasy into one unforgettable experience. Slip into prison jumpsuits and interact with dark arts convicts while enjoying magical cocktails that transform before your eyes. The spectacular sets and special effects make it feel like stepping onto a Hollywood movie set.

For anyone tired of the usual, Hexmoor delivers a uniquely unusual experience in London's entertainment scene. The compelling storyline and interactive elements make it a top pick for those looking for extraordinary things to do.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: having your mind blown

Ditch the usual theatre plans and dive into The Magic Hour. Hosted at the legendary Sheraton Grand Park Lane and Andaz London, this captivating magic show promises to astonish and delight.

For just £49, prepare to be wowed by spellbinding illusions and enchanting performances. You won't believe your eyes.

• Address: 105 Great Portland Street, W1W 6QF
• Best for: meeting some cute cats

Java Whiskers is a cosy cat cafe found in Shepherd's Bush, boasting both a cat and a kitten lounge where you can hang out with these adorable fluffy friends. While here, you can enjoy a range of hot drinks, delicious sandwiches and freshly baked cakes - and they even offer afternoon tea as well.

That's not all though, as they also host a wide variety of events, ranging from relaxing yoga classes to painting sessions and tarot card readings.

• Address: 24 Rathbone Place, W1T 1JA
• Best for: weird and wonderful musical instruments

It's time to get creative over at Hobgoblin Music in Fitzrovia, where they're hosting a whole bunch of fabulous experiences. From guitar lessons led by a specialist staff member through to an introduction to weird and wonky instruments, there's something for everyone.

They sell all kinds of unusual instruments here, so if anything takes your fancy you could even leave with it. From kazoos to impressive Celtic harps, they really have got it all.

• Address: Southside Shopping Centre, Wandsworth High Street, SW18 4TF
• Best for: getting stuck in to all kinds of competitive games

If you're looking for a little dose of quirky, then Gravity in Wandsworth is a top choice. Touting eight immersive experiences, three bars and restaurants, you can rely on this hotspot to upgrade your plans.

They've got everything from E-karting to urban street golf, shuffleboard and even AR darts or bowling. Get competitive with friends or family, before tucking into the likes of spicy wings, pizzas and hotdogs.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: showing off your musical knowledge

Last time we checked, it's pretty unusual to find yourself standing on the tables, arms around a complete stranger, screaming out the words to Livin' On A Prayer at the end of a quiz night. This is the norm at Sounds Familiar.

A raucous disco in the form of a pub quiz, these guys part with the boring trivia and instead focus on sweet music. You'll find them at venues in Angel, the West End, Clapham and beyond, promising rounds full of chart toppers, indie anthems, throwback classics and more.

• Address: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PN
• Best for: board game lovers

Monopoly Lifesized offers you the chance to get up close and personal with the much-loved game as you take to the physical experience board for the chance to win it all. Choose between classic, classic: own it all, city and luxury and complete four escape room-style challenges, build your own houses and even escape jail.

There's also the Top Har Bar & Restaurant on hand whipping up themed cocktails and classic eats like burgers and Monopoly's very own Millionaire Cheesecake.

One of the UK's most unique events, Wing Fest is returning to London Stadium for 2026. You can spend the whole three days devouring £1.50 wings from some of the country's best traders, who'll be competing for your winning vote in the wild, Buffalo and barbecue categories.

There'll be all sorts going on on stage, including the Lava Wing Challenge and eating competitions, as well as live music and DJs. That's nit all though, as they're also promising free axe throwing, bourbon masterclasses, amusement attractions and much more.

• Address: 22 Park Avenue South, N8 8LT
• Best for: learning an unusual skill

Looking for something totally unique to do? Then head to Park Avenue Studios, where A Field Guide Taxidermy will be teaching you the art of taxidermy. These classes cost as little as £50 each, with all your materials included.

The sessions are led by an expert taxidermist, who'll teach you lots about the process and history of the unusual pastime. Choose between insects or a range of small mammals, and enjoy drinks and snacks while you work.

• Address: multiple start points
• Best for: exploring the city while completing challenges

Looking for something a little different to do in London? Gather your friends for an afternoon of clue decoding and riddle breaking at Game of Stones. You'll be tasked with racing against time to find various locations around Kingston and Richmond.

This can be done solo or in teams of up to six people, and all you need to guide you is your phone, where you'll be sent all the information you need to begin any time.

• Address: 178b Royal College Street, NW1 0SP
• Best for: quirky quizzing

Fancy experience all the thrills of a boxing match but without any of the physical challenges? Then check out Quiz Boxing, an interactive experience in Camden where you'll test your knowledge on topics of your choice - from music to spots, TV or history and geography.

In a group of four to 12 players, you'll compete to win the boxing match using your brains. And if you don't know the answer? You can play jokers like the uppercut, double-jab or hook to gain an advantage.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: a fun twist on art

Searching for cool and creative things to do in the city? Head to various bars across London for a quirky life drawing class. There's neon body paint, UV lights and models that are transformed into living sculptures for a unique art experience.

You can find these weird and wonderful event at locations everywhere from Kennington to Shoreditch and Peckham, starting from £17 per person to attend.

• Address: 28-30 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7DB
• Best for: immersive entertainment

Become a part of an illicit liquor-smuggling operation with tickets to Moonshine Saloon: Western Cocktail Experience as you get to know Wanted Man Clyde Cassidy and all the going-ons of the land.

Rub shoulders with locals, wear your best cowboy gear (with help from the local tailor) and sip on four bespoke tipples crafted by your smuggled booze - if you don't get caught, that is. Snap up your spot now from £36.50 per person while it's yee-hawt.

Looking for a quirky, sex-positive event in London's West End? Then check out The Sublime Society, who host regular evenings at Dear Darling. These feature live performances, special guests and even interactive classes, so you can both observe and get involved here.

They offer workshops on intimacy and BDSM, alongside Shibari performance art and seductive burlesque routines. Here, you can explore fantasies and taboo in a safe, inclusive space.

• Address: 11 Mare Street, E8 4RP
• Best for: boozy evenings out

The Last Tuesday Society in Hackney isn't your average bar - it's a world of eccentricity, creativity, and delightful oddities, all wrapped up in one unique venue. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, like the Chocolate Absinthe Sazerac, a quirky event, or a one-of-a-kind night out, this hidden gem delivers.

From the moment you step inside, you're transported into a whimsical wonderland of eclectic decor, with a dash of vintage charm and a side of the strange. Expect to find immersive events, fascinating art exhibitions, and the kind of atmosphere that makes every night feel like an adventure.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: karaoke lovers

With an impressive food menu, ranging from lemon and chilli chicken wings to delicious aged steak burgers, Hip Hop Brunch hope to add a Southern feel to your Saturday afternoons.

Alongside the delectable two-course meal, you'll have the chance to spit some lyrics and impersonate your favourite rappers during Hip Hop Karaoke. How better to spend a Saturday afternoon than by butchering a rendition of 'Juicy'? But if you'd prefer to leave it to the professionals, there'll be a DJ playing too.

• Address: Corner Corner, Maritime Street, SE16 7LL
• Best for: anyone with an interest in farming, ecology or sustainability 

Step into the world of urban farming at Corner Corner. On a vertical farm tour, you'll find out how fresh food is grown right here in the city. 

Expert Farm Operators and guides from Harvest London will show you how this place moved from seed to harvest using cutting-edge techniques. Once your mind is full, your belly will be to - as you'll get the chance to taste what's grown on site.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: testing out your baking skills in a fun environment

Like to think yourself a bit of a whizz in the kitchen? The Big London Bake is putting that claim to the test with their competitive cooking experience taking place in London. You've got 90 minutes on the clock, all the ingredients and equipment - it's all on you.

You'll work in pairs to create the very best bake, aiming to beat all the other teams in the tent. You can get involved at their events in Tooting or Haggerston, with tickets starting from £32.40 per person.

• Address: 97 - 113 Curtain Road, EC2A 3BS
• Best for: quirky ball pit parties fuelled by cocktails and pizza

Remember when birthday parties took place in ball pits with ample amounts of Panda Pops to sustain you? While we can't bring back the bubble gum drinks, we can promise some of that unfiltered joy with Ballie Ballerson, the unique ball pit bar in Shoreditch.

This party hotspot hosts all kinds of fun events, from bottomless brunches to DJ sets. Expect tasty pizzas, non-stop pop and house tunes and two-for-one cocktails on Sundays.

• Address: 14 Charter Street, E14 5GZ
• Best for: feeling like you're on an iconic TV show

Make your way over to Canary Wharf to discover The Cube - an immersive experience that makes you feel like you're in the TV gameshow. The three-storey venue is complete with 21 cubes, where you'll play seven specially chosen games that challenge your skills.

Expect your balance, judgement, memory and speed to be put to the test, fun for both competitors and spectators. There are also six mixologist-led bars on-site for refreshments afterwards.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: free outings that still reveal a quirkier side to the city

Lace up your trainers and prepare to see the sights via some of London's quirkiest walks and tours. These take place everywhere from the West End to the City and beyond, promising plenty of interactive fun along the way.

We'll help you really get to know the city, by veering away from tourist traps and uncovering hidden gems with everything from Rock Cab Tours (perfect for music lovers), to scavenger hunts around historic streets. 

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: interactive darts in a fairground-inspired bar

If you're going to talk about Flight Club, do it really loudly, all the time to everyone you meet because it's great and we're spreading the word across the city. This place is all about social gaming like never before, with revolutionised social darts, great drinks and sharing pizza paddles.

They've got locations in Shoreditch, Victoria, Islington and Bloomsbury, each with a unique fairground theme and electronic dartboards that add up your scores as you play quirky multiplayer games. And on weekends? Their boozy brunches offer an hour of darts, a whole bottle of prosecco each and unlimited pizza for a whole two hours.

• Address: Fishermans Walk, E14 4DH
• Best for: unleashing your childish side

Fairgame Canary Wharf is the ultimate grown-up playground where nostalgia meets competition. If you're looking for a fun, high-energy night out in Canary Wharf, this is where the magic happens. Packed with arcade games, immersive attractions, and a seriously stylish bar, it's the perfect place to unwind, channel your inner child, and enjoy some friendly rivalry.

Plus, with a killer cocktail menu featuring bespoke creations like the gin-based Fizz & Floss (topped with candy floss, naturally), craft beers, and great food, you can fuel up while you battle it out for bragging rights. Not in the area? Check out their City venue instead.

• Address: The Pump House Museum, adjacent to William Marshall Close, E17 8AN
• Best for: a unique dining experience

One for fans of both TFL and top-quality food, Supperclub.tube is a quirky meal out that you won't forget any time soon. You'll get the chance to devour a six-course tasting menu inside an tube carriage from the 1960s – hidden at The Pump House Museum in Walthamstow.

Expect a range of international, fine dining dishes, ranging from pressed lamb with aubergine to tuna ceviche or beef casserole - paired with premium wines.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: adventurous foodies

There's always a time and a place for a standard dinner - ambience, food, decor; you know what you're getting, right? But how about if we pointed you to eateries that are shaking things up in the dining experience department?

From interactive table tops providing Battleships while you wait to devouring a top meal in the dark, we've got it all in our guide to quirky London restaurants. 

• Address: 8 Northumberland Avenue, WC2N 5BY
• Best for: a wholesome day out

Hop on board a cute bus from £45 each and devour a gorgeous spread of mini sandwiches and scones thanks to Brigit's Afternoon Tea Ltd.

It'll take you around some of London's most iconic spots in an authentic 1960s route-master bus kitted out with leather seats and tables. Tuck into signature baked treats from the bakery and get to know your surrounds in the tastiest way possible. 

• Address: 90 Worship Street, EC2A 2BA
• Best for: futuristic bingo

If you're after something truly unique in London, Hijingo is a must-visit. Combining live bingo with a Tokyo-inspired bar, it's a night full of energy, competition, and fun.

The atmosphere is electric, with high-energy music, immersive games, and the chance to win incredible prizes. If you're looking for an unusual activity to spice up your night, Hijingo is the answer.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: seeing London's weirder side

London is full of fantastic museums - some of the best in the world - that are totally free to enter. But what about the whacky ones? Well, there are plenty of those too.

Scattered across the city you'll find plenty of alternative spots offering up the likes of wholphin skulls, Freud's furniture and so much more, and you can find them all in our guide. From The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities to the Pollock's Toy Museum and Denis Severs' House, there's something for everyone here.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: making the most of your meal out

It might not be everyone's favourite part of going out to eat, but visiting the toilets of a restaurant or bar is a pretty common experience - so we might as well make the most of it. And dotted around the city, there are some pretty quirky ones.

From urinals by the window on the 31st floor of the Shard to the disco-themed toilets at Jacuzzi and the famous egg-shaped cubicles at Sketch, there are plenty of places to snap a picture while visiting the bathroom.

• Address: 12-16 Artillery Lane, Shoreditch, E1 7LS
• Best for: discovering a cool speakeasy

Tucked away in Shoreditch, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is one of London's best-kept secrets, and entering it feels like stepping into a whole new dimension. Behind the unassuming fridge door in a quirky cafe lies this hidden, speakeasy-style bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and a mysterious vibe take centre stage.

The eclectic decor, dim lighting, and offbeat charm give the space an intimate, almost magical feel. Whether you're sipping on one of their signature concoctions, like the Mayor's Tea Party or the gin-based Flower Power, or enjoying the playful atmosphere, it's the kind of place where time slows down and every drink feels like a new adventure. 

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: animal lovers

Who said farms were just for the countryside? Not us, because London is full of city farms, tucked away between skyscrapers and busy roads. We've put together a list of the very best, where you can see animals up close without having to travel far.

From Hackney City Farm to Vauxhall City Farm or Mudchute on the Isle of Dogs, there's bound to be one close to you - and some of them are even free to enter.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: getting outdoors

Getting outside and exploring doesn't have to be boring, and we've got just the thing to make sure that's the case. London is full of secret gardens to discover, from hidden pergolas to herb gardens and green urban spaces.

Check out our guide to discover the very best of them, from the Barber-Surgeons Gardens near the Barbican to Angel's Culpeper Community Garden and Postman's Park.

• Address: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, E17 9HQ
• Best for: snapping unique pictures

For something truly off the beaten path, head to God's Own Junkyard, a neon-filled playground in Walthamstow that doubles as an art gallery, bar, and café.

With hundreds of vintage and giant neon signs curated by the late Chris Bracey, this glowing oasis offers an unusual, immersive experience you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for a bright burst of creativity and colour, it's open at weekends and completely free to enter.

• Address: multiple locations
• Best for: seeing a new side to the city

You don't have to look far to find something quirky in this city, and there are plenty of attractions that are a little out of the ordinary. We've rounded up some of the very best for you to check out, both free and paid-for experiences.

From Brixton Windmill to The Postal Museum and hidden beaches across London, there's plenty to keep you occupied.