🎮 Best Arcades in London
Aug 28th, 2024
London's arcade scene is like a sugar rush for your inner child and adrenaline junkie all at once. Whether you're a pinball wizard or a joystick jockey, the city is packed with spots that'll have you button-bashing and high-scoring like there's no tomorrow. Here’s the lowdown on where to get your game on:
1. F1® Arcade - St Paul’s
This place is the real deal for Formula 1® fanatics. With 69 state-of-the-art racing simulators, this is the closest you'll get to feeling like Lewis Hamilton without actually stepping onto the track. The simulators are so immersive, with full-motion effects, that you might forget you're still in London and not on the Silverstone circuit. If the thrill of racing doesn’t get you, the cocktails crafted to perfection and the view of St. Paul’s Cathedral certainly will
F1® Arcade - St Paul’s
- Highlight: Full-motion racing simulators with real-time F1 tracks.
- Location: St Paul’s, London
2. Plonk - Shoreditch
More than just mini-golf (although their crazy courses are a blast), Plonk is your go-to spot for a quirky, creative night out. Imagine playing Point Blank with a tiki cocktail in hand, surrounded by wild decor that screams fun. It’s the kind of place where the vibe alone will make you want to stay longer and play harder.
Plonk - Shoreditch
- Highlight: Unique courses and creative decor.
- Location: Shoreditch, London
3. Four Quarters - Peckham
Dive into retro heaven with 15 restored arcade cabinets from the ‘70s to the ‘00s. The nostalgia here is as thick as the craft beer on tap. Whether you’re after a round of Donkey Kong or a few pints with mates, this spot serves up the perfect mix of old-school gaming and laid-back vibes.
Four Quarters - Peckham
- Highlight: 15 restored arcade cabinets from the ‘70s to the ‘00s.
- Location: Peckham, London
4. The Four Thieves - Battersea
Upstairs at this quirky pub, you’ll find a Victorian-style music hall packed with games, including their infamous Moonshine Raceway. It’s a pedal-to-the-metal race that’ll have you laughing all night. Plus, their pub grub is just what you need to refuel after some serious joystick action.
Four Thieves - Battersea
- Highlight: The infamous Moonshine Raceway and vintage pinball machines.
- Location: Battersea, London
5. NQ64 - Soho
Neon lights, retro games, and cocktails named after your favorite characters—NQ64 is a gamer’s paradise. But what really sets it apart is the electric atmosphere and the way the place makes you feel like you've stepped into an 80s arcade movie. Whether you’re a Guitar Hero god or a Street Fighter savant, this spot has got you covered with games and good vibes aplenty.
NQ64 - Soho
- Highlight: A mix of classic arcade games and modern vibes.
- Location: Soho, London
6. Babylon Park - Camden
This one’s for the big kids and the little ones. With over 100 arcade games, a mini roller coaster, and free entry, Babylon Park is a playground of fun. Cashless and hassle-free, it’s the perfect spot for an impromptu gaming spree. And if you’re looking for a place that screams ‘family day out,’ this is it.
Babylon Park - Camden
- Highlight: Over 100 arcade games and a mini roller coaster.
- Location: Camden, London
7. QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl - Notting Hill
A triple threat of ice skating, bowling, and arcade games, QUEENS is your one-stop shop for a day of epic fun. After a few rounds of Tetris or air hockey, refuel with some mouthwatering burgers from MEATLiquor. The energy here is infectious, making it a great spot to hang out, even if you’re not in the mood to skate.
QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl - Notting Hill
- Highlight: A triple threat of ice skating, bowling, and arcade games.
- Location: Notting Hill, London
8. Fairgame - Canary Wharf
Step into a carnival wonderland at Fairgame, where classic fairground games get a modern, high-tech twist. Think whack-a-mole with a leaderboard, bumper cars with real bragging rights, and snacks that are pure funfair nostalgia. The vibe here is so contagious that even the most serious of adults will be lining up to play ring toss. Plus, it's all set against the sleek backdrop of Canary Wharf, giving it that extra edge of cool.
Fairgame - Canary Wharf
- Highlight: Modern fairground games with leaderboards and prizes.
- Location: Canary Wharf, London
So grab your mates, load up on coins, and prepare for some serious button-mashing at these top London arcades. Whether you're after the thrill of the race, a retro flashback, or just some good old-fashioned fun, London's got an arcade for you. Game on!
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We are actually not sure. No one ever came forward with the claim of being biggest arcade in London ( at least we never heard of it ) , but for sure there is one arcade that is biggest in the UK. The biggest arcade in the UK is Arcade Club Bury in Manchester!
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Tough one to answer since most big cities in UK have great arcade rooms. For instance Manchester Arcade Club Bury is Europe's largest arcade room, but never the less, we think London is there in the top 3 list for sure.
