Unusual places for a night out in London

London is one of the most inspiring cities in the world, with a mix of traditional culture and modern entertainment. It’s also one of the only places where you can find restaurants that will cook up cuisine from just about every country and culture in the world.

It means that no matter what you enjoy, whether it’s a wild party that lasts until the early hours of the morning, or something a bit more quiet and civilised, London has something you’ll enjoy.

So if you’re planning a night out in the British capital, here are some unusual places that you should consider.

Blues Kitchen

With three different locations, each located in the hearts of Shoreditch, Brixton, and Camden, Blues Kitchen brings a taste of early 20th century America by serving up a mix of mouth-watering Texan BBQ dishes, plenty of bourbon-based cocktails, and lots of live blues music.

It’s a great place to start your night with a bite to eat, choosing from a large selection of BBQ meats, hot buffalo wings, and pan-fried catfish. You then have the option to stay and dance along to live music and then watch the DJ blast out tunes until 3 am on Saturdays.

The Hippodrome

The Hippodrome is a former variety show and circus venue that was built at the beginning of the 20th century. It has since been turned into a casino, offering all the typical games you’d expect, including roulette, slot machines, and blackjack. If you’re an avid poker player who knows their royal flush from a straight flush, then you may want to check out the large poker area which hosts regular tournaments.

The Hippodrome has more than just the casino, though. You’ll have several dining and drinks options, and you can also catch a performance of Magic Mike Live, which is resident at the venue.

vFd

vFd used to go by the name of Vogue Fabrics but has recently changed its name. It describes itself as “an originator and incubator of queer arts and entertainment,” and that’s probably a fair description.

It hosts a range of events, including open-mic nights for poetry and spoken-word performances, live music, drag acts, and even raves. vFd is a unique place in London where everyone is welcome, and everyone can feel comfortable to express themselves however they wish.

Sky Garden

The Sky Garden inside the Walkie Talkie Tower overs spectacular views over London

If you want a night that’s got a little more sophistication, then the Sky Garden is an excellent option for you. Sat on the opposite bank of the River Thames to the famous Shard building, and next to The Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie Tower is another skyscraper that welcomes visitors.

While you can visit during the day for free to admire the views, it’s also a great place to grab dinner and some drinks during the evening and night. The Sky Garden is exactly what its name suggests; it’s a garden filled with different plants and foliage, water features, and winding paths, all located at the top of the tower.

You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city that pair perfectly with the fine food and drink that’s served in the restaurant. Be sure to book, though, as it gets packed on the regular.

NAMCO Funscape

If your ideal night is one that’s spent playing arcade games, pool, and 10-pin bowling, then NAMCO Funscape is a great option. It’s a paradise for gaming fans that’s located as centrally as you can get in London.

You’ll find NAMCO Funscape inside the County Hall building, which is the large white stone building on the south bank of the River Thames, next to the London Eye, and opposite the Houses of Parliament.

Inside, you’ll be treated to classic arcade games like Donkey Kong and Pac-Man, as well as plenty of pool and ping pong tables, 10-pin bowling lanes, an escape room, and even dodgems.

The Covent Garden Comedy Club

If you’re in the mood to laugh your socks off, then heading to one of London’s many comedy clubs is a good option. The Covent Garden Comedy Club is one of the best in the city, playing host to some of the UK’s best comedians in an intimate setting.

Top names like Lee Nelson, Rhod Gilbert, Andy Parsons, and Jack Whitehall have all performed there, both before and after they became household names.

In addition to the side-splitting laughs, you can enjoy great drinks options from its two bars. However, unlike some comedy clubs, you can’t buy food inside. Instead, The Covent Garden Comedy Club has done deals with local restaurants to create Comedy Dinner Packages.

Ballie Ballerson

You can’t get much more unique than a night club and bar that has its own ball pools. Ballie Ballerson has venues in Soho and Shoreditch and is a place for adults to dive into giant pits containing one million coloured balls, enjoy a great selection of drinks, and dance the night away.

Whether you just want to go wild amongst the balls or pose for some unique Instagram snaps, Ballie Ballerson is a truly unique venue that offers a night out unlike any you’ve tried before.

Bubbly and Art

If painting is your thing, then why not spend the night at Bubbly & Art? You and your friends can enjoy delicious pizzas and plenty of fizz while you paint your work of art.

Your ticket includes all drinks as well as art materials. You can even book a private event to paint with your friends, or you can attend an open event where you’ll get the opportunity to mix with like-minded people from a range of different backgrounds.