Picture this: you’ve wrapped up work, your friends are pinging you, and you’re done with the same old pub crawl. What if you could grab drinks and actually do something fun compete, laugh, challenge one another, make memories? That’s the magic of activity bars in London where games + cocktails + social buzz collide. From darts and shuffleboard to reality‑defying challenges and giant board games, these are the spots that will elevate your night out.
What Makes Activity Bars in London So Popular Right Now?
Activity bars bring something pubs and clubs don’t always offer: engagement.
People these days don’t just want drinks they want shared experiences. Whether it’s teaming up for a game of shuffleboard or battling it out over augmented reality darts, these venues add purpose and play to your night. Experts in hospitality trends point out that competitive socialising games inside nightlife has reshaped the way Londoners socialise post‑pub era.
How Do I Choose the Best Activity Bar in London for My Night Out?
Look at:
- Type of experience: arcade nostalgia? Axe throwing? Shuffleboard?
- Group size: some are better for big groups, others best for two or three
- Booking requirements: some need reservations for games
- Vibe: late‑night club energy vs chill lounge
Whether it’s a first date or a big birthday, there’s a bar that fits the plan.
Top 12 Activity Bars in London
1. Oche The Strand – “Darts, Pizza & Cocktails”
Oche The Strand delivers a modern social darts experience blended with casual dining in the heart of central London. The venue uses interactive darts technology that keeps games simple, fast, and accessible for all skill levels. Guests can play while enjoying freshly made pizzas served directly to the table. Cocktails are playful and well-balanced, designed for relaxed social sessions.
The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive rather than overly competitive. Group bookings are common for birthdays and casual celebrations. It’s an ideal choice for mixing food, drinks, and light competition.
- Website: https://oche.com/uk/london
- Address: 105 Strand, London, WC2R 0AA, UK
2. 180 Club Camden – “Classic Social Darts Bar”
180 Club Camden focuses on a more traditional darts-led experience with a relaxed social vibe. Electronic dartboards simplify scoring without heavy technology. The venue attracts casual players and darts enthusiasts alike. Cocktails are straightforward and reliably made. The atmosphere remains calm and conversational throughout the evening. It works well for informal meetups and laid-back weekends. A great option for those who prefer darts without distractions.
- Website: https://180clubcamden.co.uk/
- Address: 75–89 Lower Walkway, Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF, UK
3. Boom Battle Bar London – “Augmented-Reality Darts & Party Games”
Boom Battle Bar offers a high-energy social gaming experience built around augmented-reality darts. The venue combines darts with competitive games like axe throwing and shuffleboard. Bundled packages include drinks, food, and gameplay in one booking. Lighting and music create a party-style atmosphere throughout the space.
The crowd is lively and celebration-focused, especially in the evenings. It is strictly adult-oriented later at night. Best suited for birthdays, group events, and energetic nights out.
- Website: https://boombattlebar.com/
- Address: 70-88 Oxford St, London W1D 1BP
4. Box Piccadilly – “Electric Darts and Big Screen Sports”
Box Piccadilly combines electric darts with live sports and DJ-driven nights in the West End. The dartboards are easy to use, making them ideal for casual games with friends.
Large screens show major sporting events throughout the week. Cocktails and beers are served quickly from a busy central bar. The atmosphere is loud, upbeat, and highly social. Regular themed nights keep the venue fresh. It’s perfect for spontaneous plans and late-night fun.
- Website: https://www.theboxbar.co.uk/
- Address: 58–60 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QX, UK
5. Bat & Ball Stratford – “Games Hub with Dart Boards”
Bat & Ball Stratford is a large-scale games bar offering darts alongside multiple competitive activities. In addition to dart boards, guests can enjoy pool, table tennis, and karaoke in one venue. The open layout makes it ideal for larger groups and social gatherings. Drinks are served quickly with a casual but reliable cocktail menu.
The atmosphere is energetic without feeling chaotic. It appeals to mixed groups with different interests. A strong choice for variety-driven nights out.
Website: https://www.thebatandball.com/
Address: 2 Montfichet Rd, Westfield Ave, London E20 1EJ, UK
6. Hawkins Forge – “Interactive Darts Pub Vibes”
Hawkins Forge blends a stylish pub environment with interactive darts experiences. The venue is spread across multiple levels, keeping the energy flowing throughout the night. Craft beers and cocktails are a central focus.
Darts fit naturally into relaxed social drinking sessions. Regular events add buzz without overwhelming the space. The crowd is lively yet approachable. Ideal for casual competition and after-work meetups.
- Website: https://www.hawkinsforge.co.uk/
- Address: 110 Battersea Rise, Greater London SW11 1EJ, UK
7. The Moretown Belle – “Sports & Dart Bar”
The Moretown Belle is a relaxed sports bar that includes darts among its entertainment options. Large screens show live sports throughout the week. Dart boards add casual competition without dominating the venue. The menu features classic pub food and popular drinks. The atmosphere is friendly and social rather than high-energy. It attracts a mix of locals and professionals. Best for combining darts with sports viewing.
- Website: http://bellepubsandrestaurants.co.uk/
- Address: 5 Thomas More St, London, E1W 1YY, UK
8. Roxy Ball Room St Paul’s – “Games, Darts & Competitive Socialising”
Roxy Ball Room St Paul’s is a high-energy activity bar built around competitive social games. The venue offers modern darts alongside pool, beer pong, and shuffleboard. Darts are casual and fast-paced, making them easy for mixed-ability groups.
The drinks menu focuses on cocktails, craft beers, and party-friendly serves. Music and lighting create a lively atmosphere throughout the evening. The crowd is social, energetic, and celebration-focused. It’s a strong choice for group nights out and birthday events.
- Website: https://roxysballroom.co.uk/venues/st-pauls
- Address: 1 Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 7AJ, UK
9. Players Social – Spitalfields Bar, Restaurant and Games – “Games, Drinks & Social Play”
Players Social in Spitalfields is a vibrant games and cocktail bar where interactive darts sit alongside shuffleboard, foosball, and DJ nights, making it a lively social destination for evenings out. Guests can unwind after work or celebrate special occasions with a wide range of games that suit groups of all sizes and interests.
The interactive darts are fun and easy to pick up, encouraging friendly competition without pressure. Alongside the games, the cocktail menu is creative and designed for sharing while you play.
The venue hosts live sports screenings and DJ sets that add to the energetic atmosphere. The crowd is youthful and social, bringing a sense of community and excitement. It’s an ideal spot for casual hangouts, birthdays, or group nights where games and drinks are both a priority.
- Website: http://www.players-social.com/
- Address: 1 Crispin Pl, London, E1 6DW, United Kingdom
9. Wapping Tavern – “Pub Games, Darts & Shuffleboard Fun”
Wapping Tavern is a lively East London destination known for its mix of classic pub games including darts, shuffleboard, pool, and table tennis, all paired with a great drink and food menu. Its Games Room is equipped to entertain groups with endless rounds of darts and other friendly competitions. Craft beers, cocktails, and wood-fired pizzas make it easy to stay for a few games or a full evening out.
The atmosphere combines a traditional pub feel with an upbeat social vibe that works well for groups and casual celebrations. Live sports screens and regular events add to the fun without overwhelming the space. The staff are welcoming and help keep play organised during busy nights. It’s a top choice for anyone looking to combine drinks, food, and games in one social venue in London.
- Website: https://wappingtavern.co.uk/
- Address: 78-80 Wapping Lane, E1W 2RT, London
11. Shuffleboard Bar London – “Shuffleboard & Social Games”
Shuffleboard Bar London brings classic shuffleboard tables to the city’s activity bar scene, paired with casual drinks and arcade fun. Its laid-back vibe makes it easy for beginners and seasoned players to enjoy long social sessions. Alongside shuffleboard, guests can try arcade games, pool, and other classic bar competitions.
The bar menu includes well-priced drinks and food, making it suitable for both afternoons and late evenings. The venue’s social seating and shared gaming areas encourage group interactions. Staff are known for friendly service and keeping games running smoothly. It’s an excellent option for groups looking to play multiple games and enjoy a relaxed social bar environment.
- Website: https://shuffleboardbars.com/london
- Address: 37 Tavistock Pl, London, WC1H 9SE, UK
12. Fairgame – “Fairground-Style Games & Social Play”
Fairgame in Canary Wharf blends a vibrant fairground-style games experience with drinks and social entertainment in a spacious, modern venue. The bar features a variety of playful, retro-inspired games set up in a high-tech environment that encourages group interaction and friendly competition.
Guests can rotate between different game stations while enjoying cocktails, beers, and casual bites from a well-rounded menu. The atmosphere is energetic and colourful, designed to appeal to both casual groups and organised celebrations.
Fairgame is popular for work socials, group meet-ups, and milestone celebrations thanks to its inclusive vibe and variety of activities. Staff are attentive and help ensure smooth game play throughout busy evenings. It’s a fantastic alternative for anyone seeking fun beyond traditional darts or shuffleboard.
- Website: http://www.wearefairgame.com/
- Address: 25 Fishermans Walk, Canary Wharf Estate, London E14 4DH, United Kingdom
Conclusion
London’s nightlife is no longer just about what you drink it’s about what you do while you’re there. Whether it’s toss‑up shuffleboard, ping pong challenges or interactive darts, activity bars in London turn ordinary evenings into unforgettable experiences. With plenty of options across the city, you can tailor your night to your vibe from chill after‑work drinks to full‑on competitive celebrations.
FAQs About Activity Bars in London
What should I wear to an activity bar in London?
Casual and comfortable think smart casual. You’ll be moving around and playing games, so shoes and clothes that let you be active are ideal.
Are activity bars suitable for work parties?
Absolutely! Many venues offer group bookings and even tailored packages for team socials.
Can I book games in advance at these bars?
Yes, especially for weekends and bigger groups, advance booking is recommended.
What age restrictions apply at these venues?
Most activity bars serve alcohol and require patrons to be 18+, though some daytime events may be family‑friendly.
Are there food and drink deals at activity bars?
Many offer sharer platters, cocktail deals and lunch menus check individual venues for specifics.
Do these bars charge separately for games?
Some include games in the booking price, others charge per game or table. Always check ahead.
Are activity bars good for first dates?
Yes, the games provide easy conversation and fun challenges that break the ice.
