London offers an abundance of options for entertainment, but there’s something timeless about spending an evening playing classic arcade games, isn’t there? Picture this: a lively atmosphere filled with energy and anticipation, everyone engrossed in their screens, and an overall feeling of joy, playfulness, and, hopefully, good-natured competition in the air. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, searching for a unique date night, you’re out for a day trip after leaving your bags at a luggage storage in London, or simply embracing your inner child, we’ve compiled a list of the top arcades in London that guarantee a delightful experience. Let the games begin!
- Las Vegas Arcade Soho
The casino experience of Las Vegas blending seamlessly with the thrill of an arcade is quite the
combo, isn’t it? Focusing on a fantastic array of Japanese video games, this spot caters to everyone, regardless of age. Little ones can dive into racing, street fighting, or dancing adventures, while the grown-ups can try their luck on the casino floor upstairs.
Nestled conveniently next to Chinatown, you’ll find many delectable food options to indulge in
before immersing yourself in gaming fun. And guess what? They’ve got Mario Kart waiting for you. If
screen manoeuvres aren’t your style, fear not – engage in a friendly game of pool or air hockey
before showcasing your moves on the Dance, Dance, Revolution floor. Finally, we heard a rumour
that Las Vegas Arcade Soho will soon add Harpoon Lagoon Arcade Game. So, if you are a big fan of
fishing-themed games such as the Sweet Bonanza online game, you should watch this London
arcade. - The Heart of Gaming
Discover the thrill of Pinball at The Heart of Gaming, affectionately known as HOG for the
trendsetters. Crafted and overseen by Arcade Engineer Mark Starkey, each visit promises a novel
experience. Mark consistently breathes new life into select machines, delighting guests with
unexpected renovations fuelled by his genuine passion for gaming.
Dive into a gaming paradise featuring classics like Nintendo 64, SNES, Megadrive, Daytona USA, and Simpsons games. Embrace the latest Japanese sensations like House of the Dead 4 and Maimai. Feel the rhythm with in-house Dance, Dance, Revolution! that guarantees to set your feet tapping.
Immerse yourself in a day of excitement, surrounded by an array of shopping outlets and eateries.
The Heart of Gaming isn’t just an arcade; it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. - Novelty Automation
Let’s give a shout-out to the genius behind the name of this spot! Just a quick stroll from Chancery
Lane station, Novelty Automation is like stepping into the fun games of your childhood fairs.
Tim Hunkin, an inventor and cartoonist driven by pure passion, brought this entire wonderland to
life. There are eccentric machines and wild games everywhere you turn, so soak it all in and enjoy the ride! - Rowans
Rowans might not fit the classic arcade mould, but it totally deserves a spot on the list—especially for bowling enthusiasts. Rowan’s iconic bowling alley has been a local favourite for over a century, and yes, it comes with its own arcade vibe. Immerse yourself in the groove of 70s, 80s, and 90s tunes echoing amid neon-coloured lights. Dive into a game of air hockey and relive the charm of old-school favourites from your beloved retro arcades, all with a local flair! - Four Thieves
Honestly, let’s face it: the charm of yesteryear is a major pull that keeps us coming back to arcades,
and Four Thieves nails that vibe perfectly. Picture this: a Victorian dancehall, virtual reality
adventures, and high-speed race car excitement – it’s like a time machine for fun. And as if that’s not enough, they’ve got a brewery and comedy nights, too. What more could you ask for? - The Heart of Gaming
At the Heart of Gaming, nostalgia takes centre stage with a whopping 60 games and over 20
consoles. From the latest hits to the classics, they’ve got everything to ensure your time is nothing
short of memorable. And as if that wasn’t cool already, they throw in a couple of pool tables for
when you need a breather from the digital buzz.
But here’s the kicker – if you’re up for it or happen to be a gaming maestro, they spice things up with occasional tournaments. It’s your chance to flaunt your skills and, of course, earn some serious
bragging rights. - Otherworld VR
Forget about being stuck in another decade; Otherworld takes you to a whole new dimension. I’m
not just saying that; it’s literally in the name. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill arcade with the usual games and those consoles you can manipulate for extra tickets (not that I’ve ever tried that…). At Otherworld, it’s all about virtual reality magic. Grab your friends, hop into the luxury immersion pods, throw on the VR headset, and boom – you’re zombie hunters or strolling through a visually stunning park or garden in your mind. The options are limitless in this video-centric arcade.But hey, if you’re more of a real-world drink enthusiast, they’ve got a public bar area where you can kick back with a classic drink.
