Quirky Things to Do with Friends in London After Work
London after work can go two ways. You either end up in the same pub you’ve been to a hundred times, pint in hand, moaning about your boss—or you do something completely different and remind yourself why living (or working) in this city is actually exciting.
And honestly? London has plenty of quirky things to do once you clock off. Whether you’ve got just a couple of hours or you’re ready for a late night, this city knows how to surprise you. Here are some fun, unusual, and downright memorable ways to spend an evening with friends after work.
1. Axe Throwing in Shoreditch or Vauxhall
Forget darts—try hurling an axe instead. Places like Whistle Punks in Vauxhall and Shoreditch let you and your mates channel your inner lumberjack. It’s surprisingly addictive, weirdly therapeutic after a long day, and guaranteed to bring out your competitive side.
2. Explore London’s Secret Bars
Sure, you could head to a pub—but how about sneaking into a hidden bar behind a bookcase or inside a fridge door? London’s speakeasies are everywhere:
Cahoots (Soho) throws you into a 1940s Tube-themed cocktail bar.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency (Earl’s Court) makes you “book a case” to get in.
Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town (Spitalfields) is literally hidden behind a fridge.
Half the fun is just finding the place. The other half? Creative cocktails worth bragging about.
3. Go Bowling—but Retro
Bowling’s not new, but All Star Lanes in Holborn or Brick Lane makes it feel cool again with retro vibes, cocktails, and DJs. It’s casual, fun, and perfect if your group’s the “let’s do something but not too intense” type.
4. Get Competitive at Crazy Golf
Mini golf, but with neon lights, cocktails, and ridiculous courses. London has plenty of these spots:
Swingers (City & West End) feels like a party with golf clubs.
Junkyard Golf Club (Shoreditch) goes for graffiti and UV madness.
You’ll laugh more than you’ll actually play seriously.
5. Try a Puzzle at an Escape Room
Fancy locking yourself in a room with your friends and solving puzzles to get out? London escape rooms are next-level creative. From spooky Victorian murder mysteries to sci-fi adventures, there’s one for every vibe. HintHunt near Euston is a classic, and Sherlock: The Official Live Game in Shepherd’s Bush is perfect if you’re into mysteries.
6. Rooftop Cinema Nights
When the weather’s on your side, nothing beats an open-air rooftop cinema. Venues like Rooftop Film Club in Peckham or Shoreditch serve cocktails, blankets, and epic views alongside classic films. Imagine finishing work, grabbing a beanbag, and watching a cult movie under the London skyline. Bliss.
7. Sing Your Heart Out at Karaoke
Sometimes you just need to belt out cheesy pop songs with friends. Places like Lucky Voice (Soho & Islington) give you private booths, touch-screen playlists, and cocktails on tap. Whether you’re into Beyoncé or Bon Jovi, you’ll leave with zero voice and zero regrets.
8. Go on a Ghost Walk
London’s history is full of creepy corners, and night-time is the best time to explore them. Join a guided ghost walk through the City of London, Greenwich, or Hampstead, and you’ll learn spine-tingling tales you’ll never forget. Perfect if your group likes history with a twist.
9. Try a Quirky Workshop
After-work activities don’t all have to involve drinking. How about…
Pottery classes (think Great Pottery Throw Down energy).
Paint and sip nights (wine + canvas = messy fun).
Cooking classes (from pasta-making to sushi rolling).
London is full of pop-up workshops that make weekday evenings feel a bit more special.
10. Late-Night Museum Adventures
Did you know many of London’s big museums stay open late on certain nights? The Science Museum Lates and Natural History Museum Lates are legendary bars, DJs, talks, and exhibitions, all after hours. Way cooler than a school trip.
11. Shuffleboard, Ping Pong & Retro Games
Bars with games are everywhere now, and honestly, they’re the perfect mix of fun and chill. Try Bounce (ping pong in Holborn), London Shuffle Club (Shoreditch), or Four Quarters (arcade bars with retro video games). Perfect for groups that love friendly competition.
12. Night Walk Along the Thames
Sometimes, the quirkiest thing you can do is… nothing fancy at all. Just take a night walk along the South Bank or across Tower Bridge. The city feels different after dark lit up, quieter, more dramatic. Grab some takeaway coffees, walk, chat, and remind yourself why London is so breathtaking.
Why Quirky Beats Routine
The thing about after-work hangouts is it’s so easy to fall into a routine. Same pub, same pint, same complaints about deadlines. But trying something quirky even once in a while—flips the script. You get memories, laughter, and actual stories to tell the next day instead of just a hangover.
And in a city like London, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re chucking axes, solving puzzles, or singing your lungs out, there’s always something to make a Wednesday night feel like a Friday.
Final Word (and a Little Invite)
So next time your group chat says “Pub again?”—send them this list. Shake things up, surprise yourself, and remember why London is such a playground after dark.
And if you’re hunting for more quirky spots, hidden gems, and local secrets, make sure you follow @london.yaar. I’m always sharing fresh finds so your London life never gets boring.