If you and your family are gaming enthusiasts or simply love a challenge, then an afternoon at one of London’s best arcades is a must.
Many of these venues are suitable for all ages, from young children to teens and beyond, so the whole family can have a great time together. As a bonus, many of these games require problem-solving skills, which encourages your young ones to engage their minds while having fun and learning about teamwork.
When planning your arcade adventure in London, you have the choice of an exciting selection of interactive fun, such as escape rooms, virtual reality gaming, retro arcades, puzzle solving and much more.
We’ve put together the following list of the best arcades for you to check out!
And if you want to find more fun things to do for teens, you can search Loopla for workshops, classes, shows and more.
1. Babylon Park
Area: Camden, NW1 8QU
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,101 Google reviews
Babylon Park is a space-themed indoor amusement park offering endless entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the roller coaster, bumper cars, arcade games, bowling, a Gymboree and more.
Arcade winners are rewarded with tickets that can be redeemed for prizes. Plus, for extra fun, friends and family can join you from home to play games via the Babylon Park app.
Games by age at Babylon Park
Babylon is suitable for all ages, although the following restrictions are in place for certain activities:
- Roller Coaster: 4 years +
- Drop Tower: 4 years +
- Alien Ride: 2 years +
- Tagada: 4 years +
- Convoy: 2 years +
- Babylon Kids: 3 – 10 years
- Baby-Low: 0 – 3 years
Ticket prices at Babylon Park
Entrance to Babylon Park is free with Game Coin packages on sale for the arcade and rides. The more Game Coins you buy, the cheaper they become.
Purchase your coins online in advance to skip the queue on arrival.
Opening hours for Babylon Park
Babylon Park is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The nearest tube station is Camden Town.
Babylon Park reviews
Babylon Park is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,101 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“We had such a wicked time at Babylon Park and I would highly recommend it. They cater for all ages and it’s a lot of fun even for adults.” – Kaye
Where to book Babylon Park
Visit the Babylon Park website for more information.
2. DNA VR
Areas: Camden, N7 9LR; Hammersmith, W6 8JA; Battersea, SW11 8AB
Ages: 7 years +
Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars from 343 Google reviews
DNA VR takes the title as the first virtual reality arcade experience in London, offering single and multi-player games guided by an expert VR game master.
This immersive experience transports players into imaginary worlds to fight zombies, explore the ocean, fly through space and embark upon other adventures. You can also choose to tackle the VR escape room for group fun.
Games by age at DNA VR
Children must be at least seven years old to visit DNA VR and the following age limits apply:
- VR Arcade: 7 years +
- Premium Free Roaming: 12 years +
- VR Escape Rooms: 10 years + (7 years + if accompanied by an adult)
- Ubisoft’s VR Escape rooms: 12 years + (10 years + if accompanied by an adult)
Ticket prices at DNA VR
Ticket prices vary depending on the VR challenge you choose, the day you attend, the size of your team and the duration of your visit. Click here to calculate the price.
It’s highly recommended that you book online in advance.
Opening hours for DNA VR
DNA VR is open Monday to Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The nearest tube stations to Camden are Caledonian Road and Kentish Town. The nearest tube station to Hammersmith is Hammersmith. The nearest tube station to Battersea is Battersea Power Station.
DNA VR reviews
DNA VR is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 343 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Took a bunch of kids for a birthday party and it was such a fun experience. Emilio and Raven were absolute darlings, making sure everyone had a brilliant time and incredibly patient and kind. A really lovely experience. Highly recommend it.” – M Mashkoori
Where to book DNA VR
Visit the DNA VR website for more information.
3. Energize
Area: Islington, N1 1WL
Ages: 12 years +
Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6 Google reviews
Energize is an interactive arcade experience where teams of between two to five players conquer dozens of games across eleven rooms. Teams can be collaborative or opposing, depending on how you want to play.
Games by age at Energize
Children must be at least 12 years old to visit Energize. Those under 13 require adult supervision and those under 16 require signed consent from a parent or guardian.
Ticket prices at Energize
Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time of your visit. Click here for full information. A 15% student discount is available with a valid ID from Monday to Thursday.
You must book online in advance.
Opening hours for Energize
Energize is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The nearest tube station is Highbury and Islington.
Energize reviews
Energize is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Me and my friends were lucky enough to get a chance to test the games in a pre-opening event. We had an amazing time and loved all the rooms, especially the Beams and the Squares ones.” – Adriana
Where to book Energize
Visit the Energize website for more information.
4. QUEENS
Area: Bayswater, W2 4QP
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,662 Google reviews
QUEENS is an ice rink and bowling alley that also features an arcade den. In the den, players of all ages can enjoy a selection of retro and modern games, such as Basketball, PacMan and Tetris.
As well as getting your skates on, knocking pins down and gaming the afternoon away, you can also play pool or try your luck at curling.
Games by age at QUEENS
Kids of all ages are welcome until 7:00 p.m. when the venue becomes for over 18s only.
Ticket prices at QUEENS
Entry to QUEENS is free, with the cost of arcade games starting from £1 per play.
Booking for the ice rink and bowling alley must be made in advance, with patrons able to enjoy the arcade during their visit.
Opening hours for QUEENS
QUEENS is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. The nearest tube station is Queensway.
QUEENS reviews
QUEENS is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,662 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Great fun and location…Super-friendly, bright, energetic staff. Ideally located for a nice walk at Hyde Park and beautiful meal anywhere in the neighbourhood for a perfect afternoon and evening.” – Isabel
Where to book QUEENS
Visit the QUEENS website for more information.
5. Funland
Area: Bloomsbury, WC1N 1AW
Ages: 3 years +
Reviews: 4.4 out of 5 stars from 228 Google reviews
Funland is an arcade offering a selection of different video games, from dancing to sports and driving to shooters, as well as pinball machines and more. Plus, many of the games dispense tickets to winners that can be traded for prizes.
Games by age at Funland
Funland states there are games available for those aged 3 years to 103 years!
Ticket prices at Funland
Entrance to Funland is free and there’s no need to book in advance. Simply turn up and pay to play.
Opening hours for Funland
Funland is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The nearest tube station is Russel Square.
Funland reviews
Funland is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars from 228 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Very nice place, warm and funny staff, great location and reasonable prices. Good mix between classic arcade games and ticket machines. Safe place enough for kids as well.” – Yoann
Where to book Funland
Visit the Funland website for more information.
6. The Heart of Gaming
Area: Croydon, CR0 1UG
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars from 496 Google reviews
The Heart of Gaming is a video game arcade and lounge suitable for the whole family. Here you can spend an entire day choosing from more than 60 arcade machines and 20 game consoles.
Games by Age at The Heart of Gaming
All ages are welcome here.
Ticket prices at The Heart of Gaming
Entry wristbands give you unlimited access to all games for the entire day. Adults pay £20 and children under 16 years pay £15. Special pricing is available for groups and events.
Wristbands can be bought on entry, so booking in advance is not required.
Opening hours for The Heart of Gaming
This arcade is open Monday to Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. The nearest train stations are East and West Croydon.
The Heart of Gaming reviews
The Heart of Gaming is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 496 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“The biggest and the best free play Arcades venue in London. The owner is really cool and friendly. Great selection of classic video games. Probably the only place in UK to have the cult classic PropCycle! Been here twice and had an amazing time. Great value for the price. Highly recommend it.” – Alex
Where to book The Heart of Gaming
Visit the Heart of Gaming website for more information.
7. The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
Area: Westminster, W1D 7EU
Ages: 9 years +
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,354 Google reviews
Based on the popular 90s TV show, The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is a chance to have a go at this immersive adventure yourself. You and your team will make your way through the exciting challenges in 75 minutes of non-stop fun.
This gaming adventure requires a team of eight, but if your group is made up of fewer people, then you can team up with others on the day.
Games by age at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
This experience is suitable for those aged nine years and above. Visitors under the age of 18 must have one paying adult on the team.
Ticket prices at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
Pricing varies depending on the ticket type, with standard tickets, premium tickets and family tickets available. You can also enjoy The Crystal Maze for birthdays and corporate events.
To visit, you must book a timed-entry ticket in advance. The nearest tube station is Picadilly Circus.
Opening hours for The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
Opening days and times vary.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience reviews
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,354 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“A truly top-quality immersive experience. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves during our time here. The whole layout, challenges, and the game show acting were very similar to the original show itself.” – Lee C
Where to book The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
Visit the The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience website for more information.
8. Rowans Tenpin Bowl
Area: Finsbury Park, N4 2DF
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,466 Google reviews
This retro American-style bowling alley is a fun day out for the whole family. A visit to Rowans Tenpin Bowl is not just for bowling — it’s also a chance to play pool, do karaoke and enjoy a range of arcade video games.
Games by age at Rowans Tenpin Bowl
Children of all ages are welcome, but those under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times. From Sunday to Thursday, under 18s must leave by 10:00 p.m. and by 8:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Ticket prices at Rowans Tenpin Bowl
Admission costs £1 but is increased to £3 on Friday and Saturday after 7:00 pm.
Opening hours for Rowans Tenpin Bowl
Rowans is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Bookings can be made online. The nearest tube station is Finsbury Park.
Rowans Tenpin Bowl reviews
Rowans Tenpin Bowl is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,466 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Rowans Tenpin Bowl is a fantastic place for a fun and entertaining time! The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it a great spot for friends and families.” – Thomas
Where to book Rowans Tenpin Bowl
Visit the Rowans Tenpin Bowl website for more information.
9. OTHERWORLD VR
Areas: Hackney, E8 4EA and Victoria, SW1W 0QJ
Ages: 12 years +
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,181 Google reviews for Hackney and 4.4 out of 5 stars from 381 Google reviews for Victoria
OTHERWORLD VR calls itself the world’s most immersive VR experience. Through the combination of an individual VR pod and headset, you and your team will travel to an island paradise where you’ll embark upon 16 different adventures.
Games by age at OTHERWORLD VR
Visitors should be 12 years or over to enjoy OTHERWORLD, but those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Due to the bar on site, the venue suggests children don’t stay past 6:00 p.m.
Ticket prices at OTHERWORLD VR
Ticket prices vary depending on group size and session duration.
Bookings with timed slots must be made in advance.
Opening hours for OTHERWORLD VR
OTHERWORLD is open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.The nearest station to Hackney is Haggerston Overground Station. The nearest station to Victoria is London Victoria.
OTHERWORLD VR reviews
OTHERWORLD VR in Hackney is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,181 Google reviews and 434 out of 5 stars from 381 Google reviews for Victoria. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“The VR Experience was simply amazing. There were a large selection of games to play which all were very immersive and interesting. I really enjoyed being able to play along with my friends.” – Bryen
Where to book OTHERWORLD VR
Visit the OTHERWORLD VR website for more information.
10. Meetspace VR
Area: Wembley, HA9 0JT
Ages: 8 years +
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars from 195 Google reviews
Found inside BOXPARK Wembley, Meetspace VR offers four separate experiences — Zero Latency, VR Escape Rooms, the VR Quest Arena and the Digital Play Wall.
Each of these experiences offers a different virtual reality adventure that you can take on by yourself or tackle as a team.
Games by age at Meetspace VR
- For Zero Latency, players must be aged over 12 years, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- For VR Escape Rooms, age requirements vary depending on the game, with a minimum of ten years.
- The VR Quest Arena and Digital Play Wall are suitable for players over eight years old. However, those under 16 must be with an adult.
Ticket prices at Meetspace VR
Ticket prices vary depending on the experience you choose and the time of your visit.
Bookings must be made online in advance.
Opening hours for Meetspace VR
Meetspace VR is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The nearest tube station is Wembley Park.
Meetspace VR reviews
Meetspace VR is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 195 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Went here with my daughter as a birthday gift. What a great fun experience. We did zombie survival + outbreak origins. I think great for any gamer and for anyone into zombie genre based on experience we did. Great for friends, family or work” – Robert
Where to book Meetspace VR
Visit the Meetspace VR website for more information.
11. clueQuest
Area: Kings Cross, N1 0SL
Ages: 9 years +
Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,003 Google reviews
Offering the choice between four unique escape room missions, clueQuest is a great way to have fun and challenge yourself.
Teams can be between two and six players, but if you’re a larger group you can split in two and compete against each other in identical rooms. Each team will have one hour to solve the clues and escape.
Games by age at clueQuest
Two of the escape rooms are suitable for anyone aged over nine years and the other two are suitable for those over 14 years. One person per team must be at least 16 years old.
Ticket prices at clueQuest
Tickets are £30 per person during off-peak times and £35 per person during peak hours.
Bookings must be made online but you can also call on the day to check for last-minute availability.
Opening hours clueQuest
clueQuest is open Monday to Friday from 10:45 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The nearest train station is King’s Cross St Pancras.
clueQuest reviews
clueQuest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,003 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“From the moment you arrive outside, you already feel like you’re on a mission. 10/10 for atmosphere and all the tech they use. Various difficulty levels available, easy to get to from the station, and super friendly staff who make you feel welcome and looked after.” – Noor
Where to book clueQuest
Visit the clueQuest website for more information.
12. Immersive Gamebox
Areas: Southbank, SE1 0XN; Wandsworth, SW18 4TF; Shoreditch, EC2A 2BA
Ages: 3 years +
Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars from 3,261 Google reviews
At Immersive Gamebox, you and your team enter a digital adventure room where a combination of motion tracking, projection mapping, touch screens and surround sound create a seriously immersive 60-minute gaming experience. Here you can choose from a great selection of games and get stuck in.
Immersive Gamebox has made it into Tripadvisor’s top 10% of attractions worldwide, so you know you’re in for a treat for the whole family.
Games by age at Immersive Gamebox
Children of all ages are welcome in the venue, but only those over three years old are allowed to play. Additionally, certain games are age-restricted, with some only suitable for teenagers over 16. Anyone under the age of 12 must be with an adult.
Ticket prices at Immersive Gamebox
Ticket prices vary depending on the length of the games with bundles available.
Opening hours for Immersive Gamebox
Opening hours vary depending on the venue. The nearest tube station for Southbank is Southwark. The nearest train station for Wandsworth is Wandsworth Town. The closest stations for Shoreditch are Shoreditch Overground and Liverpool Street.
Immersive Gamebox reviews
Immersive Gamebox is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 3,261 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Such a brilliant experience! We played the Squid Game, which was so much fun. It’s a 2 min walk from the station, lots of lovely places to eat around the area. A massive shout out to Henry that looked after us. He was so kind and so caring. We will definitely visit here again!” – Jay B
Where to book Immersive Gamebox
Visit the Immersive Gamebox website for more information.
13. Flip Out
Areas: Brent Cross, NW2 6LW; Newham, E6 1LB; Croydon, CR0 1TA
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,655 Google reviews
Flip Out makes for a great full day of fun for adults and children. With a range of attractions, such as Laser Quest, mini golf, a synthetic ice rink and arcade games, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Games by age at Flip Out
Flip Out is suitable for all ages, although certain attractions have age and height restrictions. One parent or guardian must be present for a group of up to ten children.
Ticket prices at Flip Out
Prices vary depending on the time and ticket type.
Adults can purchase a membership ticket for £21.95, which gives them free entry for one year when purchasing a standard child’s 3-hour experience ticket.
Bookings must be made online in advance.
Opening hours for Flip Out
Opening hours vary depending on the venue. The closest stations for Brent Cross are Hendon Train Station and Brent Cross Underground Station. The nearest tube stations for Newham are East Ham and Upton Park. The nearest stations for Croydon are East and West Croydon stations.
Flip Out reviews
Flip Out is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,655 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“A good place for children to burn the energy and have fun doing it. It was great to meet Mohammed and Letisha too. They were very helpful and supportive. I will definitely come back here more often.” – Ajakaiye Folakemi
Where to book Flip Out
Visit the Flip Out website for more information.
14. Escape London
Areas: Shepherd’s Bush, W12 8NL and Whitechapel, E1 0LB
Ages: 10 years + recommended
Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,838 Google reviews for Shepherd’s Bush and 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,297 Google reviews
A trip to Escape London first involves being locked inside a themed room with your team. You must then use your powers of observation to find clues and solve puzzles to escape. You might find yourself in a Mayan Temple, a casino, a school for witchcraft and wizardry or on another exciting quest!
Games by age at Escape London
Escape London suggests that players are aged ten years or older, but welcomes younger visitors. An adult must be present and participating if anyone is under the age of 14.
Ticket prices at Escape London
Ticket prices vary depending on the number of people in your team.
Booking online in advance is highly recommended, but it’s also possible to call on the day to check availability.
Opening hours for Escape London
- The Shepherd’s Bush venue is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The nearest tube station is Sheperd’s Bush Market.
- The Whitechapel venue is open Monday to Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The nearest stations are Limehouse DLR and Shadwell Overground.
Escape London reviews
Escape London in Shepherd’s Bush is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,838 Google reviews and the Whitchapel location is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,297 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Took my daughter and 6 of her friends to celebrate her birthday. They had a great time, super excited! Staff on the day Reuben and Ellie May were fantastic. From recommending excellent local coffee, arranging a card which they both signed and a group photo to mark the occasion exemplary customer service. A very bone anniversaire!” – Machel Bogues
Visit the Escape London website for more information.
15. Fox in a Box
Area: Hackney, E8, 3AZ
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars from 203 Google reviews
Fox in a Box features four different 60-minute escape room experiences for teams of up to six players. Choose from themed adventures, such as making a prison break, finding your way out of an abandoned bunker or escaping from the zodiac killer.
Games by age at Fox in a Box
Fox in a Box welcomes children of all ages and offers escape room experiences tailored to younger players.
Ticket prices at Fox in a Box
Ticket prices start from £32 per person, rising to £40 per person during peak hours.
Opening hours for Fox in a Box
Fox in a Box is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The nearest station is Dalston Junction Overground.
Fox in a Box reviews
Fox in a Box is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 203 Google reviews. Here’s what one parent had to say:
“Such a fun experience! Lovely day out with family. We were greeted by smiling employees and were given really well instructions. A great place to go with friends and family if you want to spend some time out on a rainy day.” – Gul Bozkart
Where to book Fox in a Box
Visit the Fox in a Box website for more information.
Which arcade to visit with teens
With such a fantastic selection of arcades and other gaming experiences for kids, teens and adults all across London, you’re truly spoilt for choice. Plus, since several of these venues offer additional activities, such as ice skating, bowling and more, you can keep everyone smiling.
So, if you’re looking for something different to do this weekend or planning a school holiday day out, make sure a London arcade is on the agenda.
Before you head out for your gaming adventure, make sure to check your transport route, investigate the food and drink options at the venue and check whether you need cash to play.
