The Best Activities for Gamers in London: A Comprehensive Guide
London’s vibrant gaming scene isn’t confined to consoles and PCs. From retro arcades to immersive live-action adventures and celebrity-studded nightlife, the city offers gamers unforgettable experiences that blend play with culture, tech, and sophistication. Whether you’re a nostalgia-driven retro fan or a thrill-seeking socialite, here are the top activities gamers should explore in London.
Power Up at the Science Museum
The Power Up exhibition is an artificial paradise where all created consoles are in one place, and you get to have fun and enjoy yourself. It’s going to be a geeky day out. The last time the Science Museum did this was in 2019 and then in 2023.
The exhibition categorized the setup with sections for two-player games: Mario, Sonic, superhero-themed, driving, Zelda, PC, and even four-player setups. The timeline starts from 1976 with early systems like the Binatone TV Master and Atari 2600, moving through classics like the BBC Micro, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Nintendo Entertainment System. The nostalgia deepens with the Master System, Mega Drive, Mega CD, and Philips CD-i, followed by the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Wii.
The arcade section and physical games feature interactive experiences like bongo controllers, golf swings, and Guitar Hero. Mario and Sonic each have dedicated zones, celebrating their iconic status. PC games, including gems like GoldenEye 007 and sports titles like Pro Evolution and FIFA, bring back memories of playing with family. Disney and Lego sections highlight their gaming legacies, from Scrooge McDuck’s adventures to Lego Star Wars. Zelda’s standalone section honors its legendary status.
The exhibition feels like a geek’s paradise, blending history, nostalgia, and hands-on fun. From vintage consoles to modern multiplayer setups, it’s a celebration of gaming’s evolution, making it clear why this exhibition’s return is so exciting.
F1 Arcade: High-Speed Simulator Thrills
Located opposite St. Paul’s Cathedral, the F1 Arcade is open daily, with opening times and surprisingly reasonable prices for the experience. This location sees around a thousand people daily, so booking ahead is recommended. For F1 enthusiasts, the venue hosts live watch parties where fans can view races with real-time data feeds, including driver timings, track positions, and split-screen views similar to what pit crews see during actual races.
The arcade features over 60 state-of-the-art racing sims developed by Basaro, a premium UK-based simulator brand. The model used here, the Basaro V0, starts at around £40,000 and runs on rFactor 2 software, modified with custom overlays for an arcade-style experience. The sims include motion-controlled seats and dual screens—one for the driver’s perspective and another for a broadcast-style view. The setup accommodates all skill levels, from rookies using automatic gears to elite drivers with full manual controls.
The experience is heightened by tactile feedback through the wheel and seat, mimicking real-track conditions. The Momo F1-style wheel includes authentic controls, with future updates planned for full DRS functionality. Races are short and dynamic, switching tracks every five minutes to keep things fresh. Mini-games like the Batak reaction test add variety, with in-house currency (“Arcadians”) earned through racing and spent on food, drinks, or prize draws. The focus is on accessibility, ensuring casual visitors and serious sim racers can compete and enjoy.
The burgers and drinks wrap up the experience and emphasize the venue’s appeal for groups, couples, or solo visitors. Whether watching live races or diving into the sims, the F1 Arcade offers something for everyone, regardless of F1 knowledge or gaming skill. This spot is a must-try for those visiting London or future locations in Birmingham and Boston.
Tabu London: Glamour Meets Gaming Nightlife
Tabu London is a premier luxury destination in Mayfair, renowned for its exclusivity and status as a magnet for A-list celebrities and elite socialites. Beyond its reputation as a glamorous nightlife hub, the venue offers a uniquely sophisticated experience that appeals to diverse crowds—including gamers and entertainment enthusiasts seeking a vibrant yet upscale atmosphere. With its cutting-edge design, immersive Japanese-inspired aesthetics, and high-energy ambiance, Tabu London seamlessly blends opulence with playful innovation, making it an ideal spot for those craving luxury and excitement.
The club has solidified its celebrity credentials by hosting electrifying performances from global superstars such as Jason Derulo, Lil Pump, and Bryson Tiller, who have headlined exclusive artist nights, drawing crowds of music aficionados and trendsetters. These events amplify Tabu’s allure, combining live entertainment with its signature bottle shows, neon-lit theatrics, and secretive, multi-level layout.
Whether indulging in curated sushi and cocktails in the jungle-themed Yuki Lounge or dancing to hip-hop beats in the Tokyo-inspired lower level, guests are treated to a dynamic fusion of culture, technology, and VIP hospitality. For gamers and creatives, the venue’s avant-garde vibe and high-tech production offer an inspiring backdrop for socializing. At the same time, it’s celebrity sightings and star-studded events ensure every night feels like a headline-worthy occasion.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience: Teamwork Under Pressure
Inspired by the 90s TV show, this immersive challenge drops teams into themed zones like Aztec jungles and cyberpunk futures. The experience underscores London’s love for collaborative gaming, fostering creativity and quick thinking. It’s part of a growing trend of live-action adventures, including escape rooms and VR dungeons.
The Crystal Maze’s popularity highlights London’s community-driven gaming scene, where events like game jams and meetups thrive 10. Corporate groups and friends flock here, drawn by its blend of nostalgia and physical comedy.
Loading Bar, Dalston: Retro Gaming & Craft Beer
Loading Bar is a haven for casual gamers, offering retro consoles, board games, and themed cocktails. Its laid-back vibe contrasts with high-octane venues, emphasizing community over competition. Regular events, like retro tournaments and trivia nights, mirror London’s indie gaming culture, where small venues nurture grassroots talent 10.
The bar’s success reflects a broader trend: gaming cafes and pubs are proliferating across London, creating spaces where players can socialize without the pressure of elite competition.
Conclusion – The Best Activities for Gamers in London
London’s gaming landscape is a mosaic of history, innovation, and culture. Whether you’re racing simulators, networking at indie hubs, or sipping cocktails with celebrities, the city proves gaming is a lifestyle, not just a pastime. As esports and VR redefine play, London remains a global leader—press start and explore. 🎮✨