Fan of retro gaming? Looking for a super fun date night idea? There are many arcades in London that make the perfect setting for your next evening (or afternoon) out.
Due to the rise of retro, there are many gaming bars in central London that have popped up over the past few years. Arcades that are perfect for playing Pac-Man, pinball, or for a group game of Mario Kart.
I have rounded up London‘s best arcades to help you find the right choice for your event. Some will be family-friendly arcades but there will also be a number of gaming-themed bars suitable for a birthday night out or a fun first date in London.
Whichever you choose to play arcade games in London, you can be sure you will have a great night out.
The Best Arcades in London – for date nights and more
NQ64 Soho
Location: 53 Berwick St, London W1F 8SP
Closest tube station: Tottenham Court Road
The unique Soho bar, NQ64, offers a load of vintage token-operated machines, and classic consoles. It’s decked out with the brand’s signature neon-splattered walls and graffiti murals which glow under UV for an immersive, atmospheric experience.
Here, you’ll find all the retro games you know and love, from 90s first-person shooter Time Crisis to the iconic Guitar Hero.
And of course, there is gaming-themed cocktails and a DJ setting the musical tone.
NQ64 is an over 18s-only London arcade as it is also a cocktail bar/nightclub.
Four Thieves
Location: 51 Lavender Gardens, London SW11 1DJ
Closest Train Station: Clapham Junction
The Four Thieves is a pub, however, their first floor has been completely transformed into one of London’s best arcades, complete with the Moonshine Raceway racetrack.
You can simply walk in to use the Arcade, there is no need to book, and all of the activities can be used on a pay-as-you-play basis. All the games in the Arcade take contactless payments.
Alongside the arcade, other activities include bottomless brunch, VR experience, comedy nights, and karaoke.
Although Four Thieves is a pub, under 18s are allowed in to play and eat up until 8 pm every day.
Heart of Gaming
Location: 44-46 N End, Road, London, Croydon CR0 1UG
Closest train station: East Croydon
The Heart of Gaming is a gaming arcade in Croydon dedicated to providing fun and games for all the family. From retro consoles such as the SNES, Megadrive, and N64 to the newest consoles such as the PS4 and the Nintendo Switch.
Retro arcade games include the Simpsons and Daytona USA to the newest Japanese rhythm machine, Maimai, and House of the Dead 4.
It is your traditional style arcade, so you won’t find any bars or eateries, however, due to its high street location, you will find many close by such as Box Park Croydon. However, this does mean it is suitable for all ages and family-friendly at all times.
Also located close by is Ludoquist – one of the best board game cafes in London.
Four Quarters
Locations: Peckham, Hackney Wick, Elephant and Castle
Four Quarters is London’s original arcade bar and it has been so successful it now has three locations across the city, as well as one location in Bristol.
They bring a winning combination of nostalgic arcade games and craft beer. Not only have they gone all out on the gaming front, but visitors can choose from an impressive selection of craft beers, classy cocktails, and pizza.
Unfortunately, this arcade is for the big kids, and it is strictly over 18s at all times.
Las Vegas Arcade Soho
Location: Basement, 89, 91 Wardour St, London W1F 0UB
Nearest tube station: Leicester Square
Located in the heart of Chinatown, The Las Vegas Arcade Soho is another traditional video game arcade that would not look out of place in Japan.
Packed full of a combination of retro and modern games as well as multiple dance machine simulators – this location is popular with teenagers.
Entry is permitted for those over 16 years of age, however, the top floor is strictly for over 18s due to gambling machines being location this floor.
London Games Room
Location: 77 Hoxton St, London N1 6PJ
Closest Tube Station: Hoxton
The London Games Room has multiple locations across London, but if you are specifically looking for a gaming arcade then visit the Hoxton location.
Alongside various gaming machines, you will also find a Fireball foosball table as well as a large area to grab some craft beer and food.
This particular location has a ‘tropical oasis theming’ whereas the Farringdon branch, which also has a few games has an American theming.
Hyper-Reality
Location: 67 Mile End Rd, Bethnal Green, London E1 4TT
Nearest Tube Station: Bethnal Green
For a truly immersive experience then book yourself a visit to Hyper-Reality this is actually a VR Bar in London but I think it needs a mention on this list.
This bar exclusively has VR fighting experiences, rollercoasters, and even VR Go-karting, making it great for a night out with friends or for a work team-building experience.
Platform
Location: 2b Worship St, London EC2A 2AH
Nearest tube station: Moorgate
For a more personal gaming experience in London, Platform offers semi-private gaming booths complete with a variety of different consoles. Booths are hired for 90 minutes of gaming time and is a great option for a fun birthday gathering.
You can use the app inside your booth to order table service drinks and food, as well as a bottomless brunch option.
Other activities to combine with visiting an arcade in London
Depending on the vibe of your afternoon or evening out, you may want to combine your visit to a London retro arcade with another activity.
Seeing as many of the above are located in or near central London you will not find this hard. If you choose NQ64 bar how about combining it with visiting a restaurant or cocktail bar in Covent Garden.
For a family day out, I would suggest combining it with a Children’s afternoon tea in London for an extra special treat for the kids.
If you are looking to continue the competition, you could visit one of London’s many indoor mini-golf locations or Flight Club.
Alternatively, for a day-date activity before your night at a gaming bar, I would recommend one of London’s cat cafes, the Bermondsey Beer Mile or a romantic walk around a London Japanese Garden.
Looking for to continue drink? Then book bottomless bingo as part of your fun day!
As we know, London is full of quirky and fun things to do, there are endless possibilities. But visiting a London gaming arcade should always be at the top of your list.
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