Looking for the best arcades in London? You’ve found the right place. Step back into retro times with the best arcades in London to get your game on.
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In this day and age, it’s hard to find London activities that don’t involve some kind of ‘new, cool and insta-worthy’ element (Okay I’ll admit, I may be part of the problem) but London arcades are proof that retro can still thrive in this city.
Whether you’re a gamer looking for your fix or simply (like me) keen to try something different for a night out in London, here are the 5 best arcades to get your game sesh on, like a local.
The Best Arcades in London
1. Las Vegas Soho
Basement, 89, 91 Wardour St, London W1F 0UB
If there was anywhere to put a Las Vegas in London, it would be Soho. The retro video game arcade is where you go after a night out (or before) to enjoy London life at its best. And by best I mean, Dance Dance Revolution. Excited yet?
If you’re extra keen you can even take up one of their game night competitions over street fighter brawls and race car driving. It’s also right off of the Central line, so perfect for popping in whenever you find yourself in Soho.
Website: lasvegasarcadesoho.co.uk
2. The Four Quarters
187 Rye Ln, London SE15 4TW
Sometimes a sit-down at a pub with a cheeky craft ale is all you need. But if that’s not enough, you can always head to The Four Quarters.
Plopped in Peckham and Hackney Wick — The Four Quarters is a local favourite, and one of the best arcades to unwind with some friends after a long workday.
Known as the ‘barcade’ you can take up everything from Alien vs. Predator to Indiana Jones Pinball here, sounds like a good time to me!
Website: fourquarters.bar
3. Novelty Automation
1A Princeton St, London WC1R 4AY
First off, hats off to whoever named this place! A short walk from Chancery Lane station Novelty Automation is filled with the kind of games you would find at your childhood fairs.
The whole thing was founded by inventor and cartoonist Tim Hunkin as a passion project, and it shows. There’s quirky machines and crazy games at every corner, so make the most of it!
Website: novelty-automation.com
4. Rowans
10 Stroud Green Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 2DF
Okay okay, so it’s not strictly an arcade, but still very worthy of the list — especially if you like to bowl.
Rowan’s cult bowling alley has been going strong for over 100 years, with an arcade very much included. Jam out to 70’s, 80’s and 90’s music blasting through the neon-coloured lights while you hash out on some air hockey and all the old-school games from your favourite retro arcades, local style!
P.S – Entry is £1 (unless you’re bowling too)
Website: rowans.co.uk
5. Four Thieves
51 Lavender Gardens, London SW11 1DJ
Let’s be real, nostalgia is one the biggest reasons we still visit arcades — Four Thieves gets it just right. Met with a Victorian dancehall, virtual reality games and race car driving, there’s no better place to step back in time. Plus there’s a brewery and comedy nights, need I say more?
Website: fourthieves.pub
Tips for Visiting the Best Arcades in London
• Make sure to bring some pound coins with you to the arcade! (Although most arcades in London have caught up with the times now and accept contactless)
• Arcades in London are a great pre and post-activity for a night out, so plan your visit in advance!
• Not a gamer? Don’t worry at all! London arcades are welcome to everyone and anybody.
Happy gaming,
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Liked this post? Be sure to check out more unique activities to get up to in London!
