10 cool immersive themed bars in London

London has hundreds - if not thousands - of bars within its borders. And with everyone trying to do something new, you can bet there is pretty much every kind of bar you could imagine in the UK capital. We have rounded up 10 of the coolest, quirkiest, unique bars that will transport you anywhere from 1940s London to the middle of a board game. So grab your date or your mates and get ready for a night like no other at these fun, immersive themed bars in the city.

1. Cahoots

All aboard! Set in an abandoned train station that was once an air raid shelter, Cahoots brings 1940s London to life as soon as you walk through the doors. Tipping a hat to those seeking underground shelter during the blitz, this station speakeasy keeps morale running high through delicious cocktails and live swinging entertainment. The original bar ‘Underground’ along with the other two unique spaces ‘, Ticket Hall’ and ‘Signal Station’ can all be found on Kingly Street in the heart of Soho. But, if you want to make a real evening of it, why not start with a Soho food tour tasting local favourites and popular bites? All while learning about Soho’s scandalous history!

2. Alcotraz

Ever wondered what prison would be like? Well, now is your chance. Alcotraz Cell Block Two One Two invites you into a world of mischief as you become inmates smuggling liquor in for the notorious bootlegging gang. There is no drinks menus here - the mixologists will make up delicious, tailored cocktails based on the liquor you bring and what you like. Do not spend too long picking an outfit for a visit to Alcotraz because you will all be wearing orange jumpsuits as you become a part of the story.

Alcotraz, London

3B Hackney Rd, London E2 8GY, UK

3. The Escapologist

Based in what was once the headquarters of a Victorian Secrety Society, The Escapologist’s underground parties are sure to immerse you in the scandal and controversy of the infamous Baron Von Took. You can expect surprises around every corner and some outrageous behaviour as you sip on mind-bending cocktails and munch on delicious pizzas. Get ready to party like it is 1899!

If immersive experiences are your thing, you could even spend the afternoon playing an immersive exploration game before heading into the Secret Society. This game has you solving clues and unlocking secret sights through central London, starting at Piccadilly Circus and ending in Soho, just a few minutes walk from The Escapologist.

4. Monopoly Lifesized

Who does not love a good game of Monopoly?! At the Top Hat Restaurant & Bar, all your Monopoly-playing dreams reach a new level as you can actually be IN the board. This 4D experience features heaps of activities based on the game, like building houses, along with themed cocktails and freshly cooked comfort food. Do not forget to try their famous Mr. Monopoly’s Millionaire Cheesecake! 

5. The Bletchley

This may be the first cocktail bar in the world where every drink is unique. After entering this immersive world of code-breaking and cocktail-drinking, The Bletchley has you donning military jackets as you help the mixologists create personalised cocktails just for you by using the WW2 Enigma machines and protocols. Sounds intriguing, right?

6. Evans & Peel Detective Agency

Prepare to make your case to Evans and Peel - a highly renowned detective duo who operate from their hidden agency in Chelsea. The experience begins before you have even arrived, as you must make an appointment and ring the doorbell before stepping into their office to make your case. There is no case too big or small, but they are not the friendliest pair, so be prepared to come with confidence. Only then will you be invited to join their prohibition-style bar serving up illegal drinks.

Evans & Peel Detective Agency, London

Evans & Peel Detective Agency, 310c Earls Ct Rd, London SW5 9BA, UK

7. ABQ London

Are you a fan of Breaking Bad? Then this is definitely the bar for you. ABQ is the first immersive molecular cocktail bar where you can infuse your own drinks in - yep, you guessed it - an RV motorhome! You will get all the gear, including your hazmat suit, mask, acids, and alcohol, so you can get your cook on, yo! As you can imagine, the RV is pretty small, so you might also be cooking up in The Lab. But the experience is the same, and you are actually closer to the main bar, so either is a win in my book! While you are in Hackney, why not check out the nearby Craft Brewery Tour before going all "Yeah, science!!" at ABQ? And if beer is not your thing, there is also East London Liquor Company's gin tour and tasting nearby!

8. Flight Club

Flight Club reinvents that ‘game of darts in the pub with your mates’ atmosphere for the 21st century with their idea of ‘Social Darts’ bringing you and your friends together for unexpected, ridiculous joy. Mixing bespoke cocktails and sharing platters with a range of fast, multi-player games, a night at Flight Club is perfect for groups getting to know each other or some effortless fun between friends.

9. The Courtesan

This cool Brixton bar is themed as a Chinese opium den with dark, intimate lighting and vintage furniture. Their innovative, fresh approach to their menus and unique storytelling aesthetic are all inspired by the legendary courtesans of Ancient China, making an evening here nothing short of unique. Think Fujian teas, cocktails, and dim sum unlike any you have ever had before.

10. Little Nan’s

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to get drunk at Nan’s? Well, this might be the closest you will get. Filled with someone’s Grandma’s furniture, including ornaments and heirlooms, you will be delivered your signature cocktails in quirky vessels like teapots and vases. And when you start to get hungry, you best believe there are fish finger sarnies on the menu! 

And why not arrive at Little Nan's in style? Grab a hop-on hop-off ferry ticket so you can cruise through London on the Thames to Greenwich and wander through the neighbourhood to the bar. So much more fun than the train!

Little Nan's Bar, London

London SE8 3NU, UK

Whether you are a local or visitor to London, an immersive themed bar experience is bound to be one of the most memorable evenings you will have for a while. So what will it be? A night in the cells or a night at Nan’s?