Looking for quirky things to do in London?
Beyond the museums and tourist attractions that fill the city, London is home to some of the most creative and immersive experience bars that transport you into exciting, unexpected worlds.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a prison break, the mystery of a Sherlock Holmes puzzle, or the escapism of a 1920s speakeasy, the capital offers countless experiences that go beyond your average night out.
In this list, we’ll explore 10 of the best immersive bars in London, where you can sip on unusual cocktails whilst stepping into a whole new world. And don’t worry if you’re looking for a sober night out – these venues can be alcohol-free if you wish!
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Let’s dive in!
1. Alcotraz
Found in various locations across the UK – not just London – Alcotraz is a prison-themed immersive bar experience, filled with mischief and excitement around every corner.
From the moment you step through the doors, you’re immersed into the world of the notorious San Francisco prison. Dorn a stylish prison-issued jumpsuit and smuggle your liquor into your cell with the help of the crooked “guards”, and spend your “sentence” playing mini games to catch the warden and sipping custom cocktails crafted by your very own “inmate” bartenders.
Will you find a way to get an early release, or are you going down for life? Find out at Alcotraz London.
2. The Cauldron
Are you a bit of a Potterhead? With magical locations not just in London, but in New York, Philadelphia, and more, The Cauldron offers an enchanting adventure for all “spellcasters” at their immersive, potion-making bar.
Grab your wands and cloaks, and stir up some magic, as you craft bespoke cocktail potions in this interactive wizarding world. Work your charms and let science and design bring your Potter-inspired fantasy to life. And did we say the wands actually work?
Feeling magical? Head over to The Cauldron London to start your spellbinding journey!
3. Mr. Fogg’s Society of Exploration
A-hoy there, adventurer! In the heart of Covent Garden, Mr. Fogg’s invites you to embark on a journey through time and taste in his Victorian explorer’s club.
A speakeasy cocktail-haven, brimming with storytelling and secret spaces, this immersive bar is dedicated to the spirit of discovery – featuring the world’s first Mechanical Mixologist and a global menu of drinks inspired by far-off lands. Rub shoulders with fellow explorers as you sip on exploratory elixirs amidst a treasure trove of antique maps and explorer portraits.
Come on down to Mr. Fogg’s Society of Exploration and drink in the adventure!
4. Moonshine Saloon
Howdy, cowboy! With locations in the heart of Liverpool and London, Moonshine Saloon provides a Wild West adventure for all “out-laws” in their cowboy-themed immersive bar.
Become a true bootlegger in this Western experience, as you smuggle your liquor and have it turned into bespoke cocktails. Rub shoulders with the locals and dry your hand at dice and cards, but remember – discretion is key. Ensure you blend in with the “locals” with a trip to the tailor, and be sure to keep quiet when the sheriff is in town, or Cassidy’s Moonshine Distillery could soon crumble.
Ride on down to Moonshine Saloon London to find out more.
5. Evans and Peel Detective Agency
Got a case? Hidden away in Chelsea, Evans & Peel offers an immersive and mysterious experience at their secretive detective agency speakeasy.
Step inside their secret safe house and escape the 1930s prohibition, where you can rub elbows with fellow investigators and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. Discretion is key, and you’ll need a case worth solving to get you in.
You think you have what it takes? Try Evans & Peel for an evening of mystery and mixology!
6. The Mind Palace
You may be no Holmes, but we’ve got just the place to test your skills. Tucked away in West London, The Mind Palace Bar is a Sherlock Holmes-themed speakeasy – hidden behind a clever disguise at Doyle’s Opticians.
Step into the world of deduction as you sip on Sherlock-inspired cocktails and solve intriguing puzzles. Test your powers of deduction in thrilling mini-games, all whilst surrounded by relics from Holmes’ most famous cases.
Unlock the mysteries waiting in this secretive, immersive world at The Mind Palace!
7. Avora
Ready to explore the unknown? Step into a magical new world at Avora, an immersive adventure that blends mystery and wonder and brings cocktails to life.
Embark on a thrilling mission as you journey through lush, bioluminescent landscapes, sip on unique, colour-changing cocktails, and uncover secrets from the mystical Avorians. Time bends as day turns to night, and the fate of this enchanting world rests in your hands.
Experience this otherworldly adventure in the heart of London at Avora!
8. Cahoots
Spirits, scoundrels and swing. Tucked away in three different areas of London, Cahoots are a collection of 1940s-themed speakeasies where cocktails flow and spirits run high.
Step back in time in a forgotten underground station, postal office or ticket hall and enjoy a range of immersive experiences, from secret black market knees-ups to puzzle-filled bootlegger challenges. With quirky cocktails, swinging live entertainment, and hidden rooms, it’s an adventure waiting to be uncovered.
Jive down to Cahoots and enjoy a night of high spirits and swing!
9. Control Room B
At the iconic Battersea Power Station, Control Room B invites you to step back into the 1950s, where you’ll discover the thrilling world of power distribution.
Enjoy electrifying cocktails in this historic setting, whilst surrounded by original control desks and switch gear. You can even dive into an escape room-style challenge to “fix the power cut” and test your skills.
Whether it’s a coffee break or a late-night drink, Control Room B promises a high-voltage experience!
10. Barts
London’s worst-kept secret! Hidden behind a discreet door in Chelsea, Barts is one of London’s original 1920s prohibition era speakeasies.
Enter the lair of “Uncle Barts” and sip on illicit cocktails crafted by his “shady associates”. With drinks served in teapots, flaming concoctions, and paper bags, every sip is an adventure. Whisper the secret password to get in, and let the night unfold with live DJ parties and hidden rooms.
Embrace the thrill of the Prohibition era at Barts tonight!
Searching for the perfect city for a night out? Discover which cities are notorious for a night out and uncover an Alcotraz near you. Whether it’s a hen do or a corporate event, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.