London on a Saturday? Forget queuing for those stuffy museums and sipping overpriced afternoon tea. Never mind the tourist traps – there’s actually fun stuff to do here, trust me.
From hidden gardens tucked away in bustling streets to quirky pubs with stories etched in their walls, let’s paint the town red (or whatever colour strikes your fancy!). Join me today in uncovering those crazy-good London adventures the guide books never mention!
Catch a magic show at The Magic Circle
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Location: Centre for the Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7387 2222
As the headquarters of the world’s most prestigious magic society – aside from Hogwarts, obviously – this place offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the world of illusion.
You can explore a museum filled with artefacts like Houdini’s handcuffs, then witness world-class magicians defy expectations with their mind-bending skills.
You can even choose between intimate close-up shows or grand theatrical productions, and opt for themed experiences like “History and Mystery” for an added dose of magical lore.
Enjoy a comedy brunch at The Top Secret Comedy Club
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Location: 170a Drury Ln, London WC2B 5PD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7956 539784
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- Friday – 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 12:30 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Hidden away in Covent Garden, this place crackles with a speakeasy vibe – it’s like you’ve stumbled onto the best-kept secret in the comedy world.
Here you can sip a surprisingly affordable drink and find yourself face-to-face with a comedy legend (the kind you normally pay a fortune to see) workshopping their newest, sharpest jokes.
Plus, they offer a jam-packed schedule with shows for every taste, whether you’re into witty observations or side-splitting stories. And bonus points: its location makes it the perfect spot to kickstart or finish off a night exploring London’s vibrant scene.
Watch a thrilling performance at the Underbelly Festival
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Location: 4 36, 38 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8EB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7307 8480
Opening dates: April 29 to July 31
Underbelly gets it – the best nights out aren’t all about fancy cocktails and dress codes. It’s the electric atmosphere, the food trucks, the chance to mingle with a crowd buzzing with anticipation… Heck, you might even bump into one of the performers grabbing a pre-show bite!
And here’s the kicker: you won’t need to sell a kidney to afford this. Tickets are surprisingly reasonable (£15 to £30), proving that world-class entertainment doesn’t have to come with a jaw-dropping price tag.
They’ve got family-friendly shows during the day and an adults-only vibe after dark (think “La Clique” – a wild ride you’ll be talking about for ages).
Race against time in an escape room at clueQuest
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Location: 169-171 Caledonian Rd, London N1 0SL, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7798 772382
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Here, it’s all about choosing your mission, outsmarting a villainous mastermind, solving a classic mystery, and maybe even tackling mind-control conspiracies. All in a variety of themed rooms!
This is perfect for families, friends, or even work colleagues, clueQuest is designed for groups of 2-6 players. And get this: you won’t need to empty your bank account for this epic experience (£25 to £30 per person).
Zipline across Go Ape Battersea
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Location: Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 1603 895500
Opening hours:
- Thursday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Located in one of the best parks in London, Go Ape Battersea is all about embracing your inner adventurer. They’ve got wobbly bridges, high ropes courses, and exhilarating swings that’ll challenge you in the best possible way.
And the backdrop? London itself offers a view you won’t find on any walking tour.
What’s great about this place is that it caters to every thrill-seeker, from seasoned adventurers to families seeking a bonding activity. Their Treetop Challenge will test even the bravest soul, while the Treetop Adventure Plus and Treetop Adventure offer levels of excitement to suit everyone.
And here’s a bonus: this unforgettable experience is surprisingly budget-friendly, with prices ranging from £23 to £39.
Try roller disco at Roller Nation
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Location: 117 Bruce Grove, London N17 6UR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7720 9140
Opening hours:
- Monday & Thursday – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Roller Nation takes roller skating to the next level with themed nights. Come dressed as your favourite ’80s pop star, ’70s disco legend, or whatever else your glitter-loving heart desires – because embracing the absurdity is half the fun!
Need a break from the rink? Their classic American diner and well-stocked bar will refuel you for another round of groovy skating. Sometimes, they even throw in a vintage market for a unique shopping twist.
Oh, and did I mention it’s budget-friendly? With prices starting at only £11!
Join a graffiti workshop at Leake Street Arches
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Location: Leake St, London SE1 7NN, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Opening hours (graffiti workshop):
- Thursday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
What’s awesome about Leake Street Arches’ workshops is that they’re open to everyone, regardless of experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a family looking for a bonding experience with a difference, you’re welcome here.
And guess what? It’s surprisingly affordable. They’ve made it possible for you to create awesome street art without breaking the bank (£50 for adults and £40 for those under 18).
Plus, they’ve got your back with safety gear and insurance, so you can focus on channelling your inner Banksy.
Make your own candles at Earl of East
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Location: Unit 2, Quadrant Arcade, 80 Regent St., London W1B 5RL, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Let’s break it down: with a world of essential oils at your fingertips, you’ll dive into the art of fragrance blending. Crave a sense of calm? Opt for soothing lavender. Needing an energy boost? Zesty citrus is your friend!
But Earl of East workshops offer more than just a gorgeous, hand-poured candle to take home. The act of candle-making itself is a wonderfully therapeutic break from the city grind.
And don’t worry about needing any special skills! They also provide all the guidance, materials, and expertise you need. Think premium waxes, high-quality fragrance oils, and instructors who’ll demystify the art of candle-making.
Create your own pottery at Turning Earth
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Location: Railway Arches, 361-362 Whiston Rd, London E2 8BW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7729 4819
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
At Turning Earth, you become the artisan, transforming a lump of clay into something uniquely yours. You can channel your inner Demi Moore (minus the heartbreak and creepy ghost stuff) at the pottery wheel or try your hand at expressive hand-building techniques.
They even offer various courses designed for everyone – total beginners, seasoned mud-slingers, or those just wanting a relaxing creative outlet.
Now, about the practical stuff: a standard class lasts three hours, with a dedicated cleanup session included (remember, the clay gets everywhere!). They offer a basic toolkit for a fiver, but if you’re a pottery enthusiast with your own gear, feel free to bring it along.
Sing your heart out in Lucky Voice
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Location: 52 Poland St, London W1F 7NQ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7439 3660
Opening hours:
- Monday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Tuesday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Sunday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Lucky Voice is all about letting loose and embracing the joy of singing, even if your vocal range isn’t exactly Mariah Carey-level (yet!). With over 11,000 songs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find your anthem.
So whether you want to hit that whistle note or just want to belt out cheesy ’90s hits, they’ve got you covered. You can also dance like a total goofball (they’ve got private rooms!) and take full advantage of that magical “thirsty” button that delivers drinks directly to your booth.
Sessions here typically last about 2 hours and can accommodate up to 15 people, with prices starting around £20 per person.
Enjoy a late-night jazz session at Jazz Café
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Location: 5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7439 3660
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Giants have graced this stage, their energy still lingering in the air, while rising stars cut their teeth here. This is your chance to witness a raw, powerful performance at one of the best jazz clubs in London.
The revamped space keeps things fresh and modern, yet retains the cosy charm that makes live music feel extra special. Whether you’re in the heart of the action downstairs or enjoying the view from a balcony seat, you’re in for a night that’ll stick with you long after the last note fades.
And here’s a huge bonus: Jazz Café keeps it real with ticket prices ranging from a mere £10 to £30. For the calibre of music you’ll experience, that’s actually an incredible deal.
Dance the night away at Fabric
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Location: 77A Charterhouse St, London EC1M 6HJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7336 8898
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday -11:00 PM to 6:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM
Fabric has built its reputation on consistently booking the best DJs in the business. Whether you’re into pounding techno or the heart-thumping energy of drum and bass, they’ve got you covered. And with three distinct rooms, you can hop between sonic experiences or find your perfect vibe and stick with it.
Just be prepared to be blown away by the infamous Room One’s bodysonic dancefloor – it does exactly what the name suggests, vibrating to the music for an immersive experience.
And yes, this epic night out means staying up way past your bedtime, but trust us, it’s worth it! While tickets can be a little pricier (especially if you need more time), seasoned clubbers know it’s an investment in an unforgettable experience.
Take a Jack the Ripper walking tour
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Contact: 020 8530-8443
Textbooks are cool, but they can’t compete with the atmosphere of Jack the Ripper’s actual stomping grounds. This tour takes you to the very same shadowy alleyways where the Ripper left his mark.
While the Ripper is the main attraction, these tours offer a fascinating peek into the East End’s vibrant past and present. You’ll see a neighbourhood reborn, from its grimy Victorian beginnings to its trendy, multicultural streets today.
Yes, the Ripper is the star, but these tours delve deeper, revealing the social issues that plagued 1880s London. Poverty, addiction, and the harsh realities for women – it’s a glimpse into a bygone era that’s both unsettling and thought-provoking.
Experience the city from above with The London Helicopter
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Location: Hangar 1, Redhill Aerodrome, Redhill RH1 5JY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7887 2626
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Forget jostling for the best view on a double-decker bus – a helicopter is a sightseeing chariot like no other. You’ll soar above landmarks, spot hidden gems, and enjoy a moment of tranquillity amidst the urban buzz.
Let’s be honest, soaring over London in a helicopter is one of those experiences you’ll talk about for years. It’s the perfect mix of luxury (around £175 for a standard flight), adventure, and a perspective few people get to enjoy.
Take a boat ride to the Thames Barrier with Thames River Sightseeing
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Location: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3778 0700
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Think of it: iconic London sights like the Tower of London, the grand Houses of Parliament, and even the shiny Shard, all gliding by while you relax with a cool drink from the onboard bar. Now, that’s bliss!
What makes this a great Saturday choice is the variety. Craving a chill cruise with fascinating live commentary? They’ve got it. You can even learn the city’s secrets as you float past landmarks, with expert guides filling your head with cool trivia.
Plus, hop-on, hop-off tickets let you design your perfect day. And it’s surprisingly affordable, with prices starting at a mere £8.40.
