Cool And Quirky Events In London 2026

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By Kiera Chapman Junior Editor Expert in food and drink, with 5 years in editorial, including bylines in Marie Claire. Last updated on 30th March 2026

We've visited London's wackiest and weirdest spots, had a nosy at alternative nightlife, and sourced secret pop-ups to bring you a list of cool and quirky things to do. Whether you want cool cabaret, immersive supper clubs whipping up meals and murder mysteries to remember, or fancy baking masterpieces in a tent with your friends, this list will make sure that no London night out is ever normal again. 




The Sublime Society

If you're after something unusual to do, check out what's on at The Sublime Society. This is an exclusive, intimate soiree hosted at Dear Darling in St James's, where fantasy and desire reign free in a sultry setting.

Expect dazzling burlesque routines and erotic live performances, as well as classes on intimacy and BDSM. They often welcome special guests too, and there's a carefully curated cocktail menu to boot.

The Big Bakes

Perfect for any amateur bakers out there, The Big London Bake East and South is a quirky event revolving around yeast-based fun. Guests will be set a number of challenges by the event's talented professionals... Will you rise above the rest or crumble under the pressure?

Black Market Knees-Up

@ Cahoots on Saturday 4th April 2026 and 32 other Saturdays

An immersive experience that will transport you back to the 1940s, Cahoots are hosting a Black Market Knees-Up every single Saturday. As long as you promise to keep your lips zipped, you'll be welcomed into a dimly-lit underground station, where in infamous cocktail bar awaits.

Expect a theatrical ambience, as you select your cocktails that are disguised as everything from milk bottles to cyanide. You'll also get some rations to spend on mini pasties, brownies and other snacks. There are two ticket options on offer, one that includes two rounds of drinks or the other with bottomless sips.

Dabbers Social Bingo

Looking for cool and quirky events in the capital? Dabbers is doing the lord's work and throwing some of the best bingo parties in London - think crazy challenges, hilarious hosts and the chance to win some very slick prizes.

Head to their venue in the City, where you can get stuck into lively rounds of bingo. That's not all though, as they also host everything from comedy and quizzes to drag entertainment - with tickets starting from as little as £12 per person.

The Chocolate Cocktail Club

After a seriously successful (and delicious) pop-up, The Chocolate Cocktail Club is here to stay, having made a home for themselves in Farringdon. Head over for unique, Instagrammable mixes, such as their lip-smacking Chocotini number. Entry costs just £10, including your first drink, or you can try out their 90-minute cocktail masterclasses and delicious afternoon teas instead.

Live Band Karaoke

Ever wanted to be a rockstar for the night? Now's your chance. Live Band Karaoke is taking over venues across the city to bring you a night of singing and dancing to all of your favourite tunes, with a live band to back you up as you channel your inner Mick Jagger.

The Candlelight Club

@ The Candlelight Club on Saturday 16th May 2026 and 2 other Saturdays

Hidden in Central London, The Candlelight Club is a hub for all things cool and quirky. Step into this 1920s-themed retreat for an evening of glamour - think Prohibition-style cocktails, sultry three-course menus and an epic roster of live entertainment, such as cabaret or jazz.

🎬 Scala Cinema Nights at Karma- Quadrophenia

@ Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel on Sun, 26th Apr 2026 @ 18:00 - 23:30

If you like your flicks with a side of silver screen glamour, get down to Scala for its monthly film night. On the last Sunday of every month, it's bringing you certified cult classics. 

Start as you mean to go on with a screening of Quadrophenia on 26th April. Want to make a night of it? Get down early for a happy hour cocktail on the roof terrace and stick around afterwards for a Q&A with one of the stars of the film, Mark Wingett.

Hijingo

For a futuristic night out inspired by the bright lights of Tokyo, Hijingo is a totally unique destination in Shoreditch. Expect stadium-grade lighting, high-energy music and live performers, with huge screens adding to the technologically advanced vibe.

They even host bottomless bingo brunches every single weekend, complete with 90 minutes of free-flowing beer or prosecco while you play. There are late-night sessions available as well, complete with two-for-one cocktails.

The Rosemary Branch Theatre

In the mood for something a little bit different? The Rosemary Branch Theatre in Islington has quirky events in spades, with everything from award-winning theatre performances to puppetry and podcasts taking place in its studio upstairs.

Little Nan's

Located in Deptford, Little Nan's is a great place for your weekend shenanigans. Get stuck into disco fries and endless booze at a bottomless brunch or have fun at an afternoon tea featuring some seriously delish homemade cakes.

Jury Games

If you're looking for unique immersive experiences in London, make sure to check out Jury Games' events. Whether you choose Jury Duty or The Inquest, you'll work as a team to question actors and unravel clues in the hopes of solving the mystery at hand.

Quiz Boxing

Think you've got what it takes to beat your friends in a high-energy quiz? Then take to the podium at Quiz Boxing in Camden, where you'll answer a series of questions in their interactive gameshow experience to prove that your knowledge is the very best. With up to 12 players at a time, you'll be given rounds on music, sport, history and more, coming in at just £25 per person for an hour-long game. But it's not just your straightforward quiz, as there are plenty of opportunities to sneak ahead throughout.

Albert's Schloss - Soho

Guinness on draft and 2 other offers

Albert's Schloss Soho is the place to be for free and exciting live performances. Reserve a table at the bar or restaurant to savour delicious alpine cuisine, German beers, or creative variations of classic cocktails while taking in the acts on the bier palace's stage. From request-based pianists to lively cabaret and the haus band performing popular tunes alongside DJs and dancing, they've got it all.

Avora: A New-World Cocktail Experience

@ Roscorp Laboratories on Various dates from Tuesday 31st March 2026

Fancy entering a whole new world? Then head to Shoreditch destination Avora, where you'll step into mystical woodlands on this cocktail-fuelled adventure. You'll begin your journey at Roscorp Laboratories, where you'll receive a briefing on your mission, as well as your first of the three drinks included in your ticket price.

Brought to you by the team behind Alcotraz and Moonshine Saloon, you can expect a theatrical production complete with live actors and a mesmerising set. The immersive experience will have you taking part in scientific tasks, working as a group to unfold the mystery of this place.

LONDON WING FEST 2026

@ London Stadium, on Friday 24th July 2026 and 2 other dates

One of the UK's quirkiest events is returning to London Stadium for 2026, promising three days of £1.50 wings from over 45 vendors, alongside great bourbon and beer. Each trader will be competing for your vote, to be crowned best Buffalo, barbecue or wild wing.

Throughout the weekend, DJs and live musicians will be taking to the stage, and they're even hosting both eating competitions and the deadly Lava Wing challenge. What's more, there'll be amusement attractions, barbecue demonstrations, axe throwing and much more.

THE DOUBLE R CLUB

Inspired by the mystical mind of David Lynch, The Double R Club is a quirky cabaret show that takes place at Walthamstow Trades Hall, with occasional guest appearances elsewhere. This is led by the one and only Benjamin Louche, with a cast of talented performers.

Expect a dark atmosphere, influenced by cult TV show Twin Peaks, full of small town surrealism and nightmare-fuelled material. Tickets start from just £10, including free Agent Cooper shots and mini doughnuts while stocks last.

Paint Jam London

Paint Jam transforms sip and paint events with an immersive feel that blend painting, music and projection in unforgettable ways. Each pop-up party explores a different artistic theme, with live DJs and creative guidance included in your ticket from £36.

All materials are provided - just show up, get inspired, and take home your own original artwork.

Laoxa’s Creative Ground

Trade your screens for skeins and spend an afternoon creating your own custom rug at Laoxa's Creative Ground workshop. Hosted by Lucy, founder of Laoxa, this relaxed tufting session is all about slowing down, getting creative, and walking away with something totally one-of-a-kind.

All tools, yarn, and materials are provided, and you'll get step-by-step guidance as you bring your design to life. Whether you come solo, on a quirky date, or with your bestie crew, this workshop is equal parts fun, mindful, and Instagram-worthy. Plus, you'll leave with your own handmade rug - and a new addiction to tufting.

The London Taco Experience: Brixton Edition

@ Freight Brixton on Sat, 18th Apr 2026 @ 15:00 - 22:00

Calling all foodies: The London Taco Experience is coming to Freight Brixton this April. There'll be six different taco traders across this spacious indoor and outdoor venue, promising plenty of tasty food.

They've got lots of margaritas to wash down your food, as well as a hot sauce showcase. As for the entertainment, expect talented DJs and a live mariachi band.

DRAGBUS London

Perfect for birthdays, hen parties or just because, Drag Bus is the high-energy bus tour of London, complete with non-stop drag entertainment. On this two-hour ride, you'll see some of the city's most iconic landmarks, while getting involved in interactive games.

Expect outrageous looks, hilarious jokes, music and dancing, promising to be an unforgettable outing. Tickets include a welcome glass of prosecco, with the option to pre-order more drinks too.

Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands

@ Skuna Boats on Every Wednesday

For anyone drawn to unconventional experiences, the Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands by Skuna Boats is a polished, quirky option.

You can soak in heated tubs while cruising through the docklands, enjoying structured commentary and a safe, professional setup. Look forward to bubbles, great views, and more from £39 each - ideal for Londoners or visitors looking for something completely different.