10 Fun Things to Do in London That Aren’t Sightseeing

30th January 2026

Once you have seen the landmarks, London opens up in a very different way. If you are looking for fun things to do in London that are not sightseeing, the city’s experience-led entertainment scene offers plenty of alternatives.

Here are some ideas that focus on doing, not just looking.

Moving Beyond Traditional Sightseeing

Many visitors reach a point where museums and attractions lose their appeal. London has responded with a growing number of interactive experiences designed to be shared rather than observed.

The Rise of Immersive Games

Immersive games are built around participation. Instead of watching from the sidelines, players take on short challenges that test coordination, reactions, and problem-solving.

In London, formats inspired by television game shows, including THE CUBE, have helped make this type of entertainment more mainstream.

Indoor Activities for Groups and Couples

Activity-based experiences work well for friend groups, date nights, double dates, and work socials.

Because the focus is on the activity, conversation flows naturally without feeling forced.

Food, Drink and Social Spaces

Many modern entertainment venues combine activities with bars and food options, making it easy to spend an entire evening in one place rather than hopping between locations.

Escape Rooms and Challenge Experiences

Escape rooms, physical challenges, and puzzle games remain popular alternatives to sightseeing, especially for groups who want something immersive and time-limited.

Hidden Markets and Food Halls

London’s indoor markets offer an easy way to explore the city’s food scene without committing to a restaurant or battling the weather.

Comedy Nights and Game Bars

From stand-up comedy to game-focused bars, London offers plenty of evening entertainment that does not revolve around clubs or late nights.

Indoor Workshops and Creative Experiences

Workshops, from cocktail making to creative classes, offer something different and often make for memorable shared experiences.

Relaxed Indoor Entertainment

Bowling lounges, board-game cafés, and virtual reality spaces provide low-pressure ways to spend a few hours indoors.

Final Thoughts

London has no shortage of options once you look beyond sightseeing. Immersive games, social activities, food spaces, and shared experiences all offer a different way to enjoy the city.

For those interested in challenge-based indoor entertainment, THE CUBE in Canary Wharf is one example of how London is shifting towards more interactive, experience-led fun.