London is one of the most exciting cities in the world – no matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, if you love unique experiences, then this article is for you! In this post, I’ve gathered together 20 of the best immersive and interactive activities that London has to offer.
Some of these experiences will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to another magical realm, while other will have you shivering in your pants with fear or adrenaline!
No matter which immersive experience from this list you go with, chances are you’ll have a really amazing time!
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25 Things To Do In London (For People Who Love Immersive Experiences!)
1. The London Dungeon
The London Dungeon is an immersive theatrical experience that takes you on a journey through London’s dark past. It’s 100% worth doing for those who are interested in historical reenactments, comedy, or just looking for a fun way to kill a few hours in the city!
During your experience, you’ll go from room to room, encountering live actors, special effects, and detailed sets that recreate infamous moments in London’s history (The Great Plague, Jack the Ripper murders, etc.).
I had the chance to experience The London Dungeon on my first trip to London, and I’m still telling everyone about it because it was so much fun. I was traveling solo, but honestly, I had such a blast that I could only imagine how much more I’d be laughing if I’d been with friends or my partner.
I’m definitely a chicken and can’t handle real horror, but this was hands-down one of my FAVORITE experiences in London. Seriously, why don’t more cities offer stuff like this?
If you loved the experience, you can even pick up a souvenir booklet at the gift shop that recounts all the shows and history lessons you encountered that day!
2. Sherlock: The Official Live Game
Want to feel like a true master detective? If so, this one’s perfect for you!
Sherlock: The Official Live Game is an immersive experience that challenges groups to solve a mystery in the heart of London. If you’re obsessed with the Sherlock films or BBC’s Sherlock series, it’ll be so much fun to problem-solve your way through these themed rooms!
Players will be transported to 221B Baker Street and will work together to gather clues, solve puzzles, and unravel a complex mystery. With live actors, realistic sets, and atmospheric music, you’ll feel like you’re living in the world of Sherlock Holmes himself.
👉 Pro Tip: This activity is included with The London Pass too!
3. The London Bridge Experience
If you’re seeking more horror in your life, this one’s for you! The London Bridge Experience is an award-winning immersive theatrical attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the past 2,000 years of dark and gruesome history of London Bridge.
This is yet another activity that’s totally worth doing for those who love history, horror, and immersive experiences all rolled up into 1 hour of fun. If you’re like me (someone who has a hard time digesting history lessons without really feeling like they’re living in it), this is another must-do!
Similar to The London Dungeon above, you’ll encounter live actors, special effects, and detailed sets that recreate moments in London’s history, including the Great Fire of London, the plague, and the infamous London Bridge ghost.
Traveling with children? I’d recommend passing on this one. While it’s not suitable for young children who are easily frightened, teens will probably love it!
4. The Making of Harry Potter – Warner Bros. Studio Tour
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter is an experience that most Potterheads probably already have on their London bucket list.
Located just outside the city, the tour gives you an insider look at how the magical world of Harry Potter was brought to life on screen. You’ll explore iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest, all while getting up close to the actual costumes, props, and special effects used in the films.
Interactive exhibits let you try your hand at some movie magic, and you’ll even learn behind-the-scenes secrets that fans can’t get enough of.
A full-day studio tour from London is perfect for those who are passionate about films, special effects, and the art of filmmaking.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead and book your tickets early. This tour often sells out, especially during weekends + peak seasons. Add on a return transfer from London to make the trip even easier!
5. Have Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition and a must-try experience when in London. It’s a mid-afternoon break featuring tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes – perfect for relaxing between sightseeing or shopping.
Many hotels and tea rooms, like The Ritz, Claridge’s, The Savoy, and Fortnum & Mason, offer traditional afternoon teas with elegant settings and top-notch service.
Spots like Fortnum & Mason’s got you with its live classical music, while the Shangri-La Hotel’s Sky High Afternoon Tea has got you on the epic views. With that said, these bougie places do come with bougie pricetags.
There are many other high-tea options available at all kinds of price points, so if a tea experience is on your London bucketlist, put in a little research to find an afternoon tea menu that fits your budget.
For something super uniquely themed (and fun for the kids), check out the Charlie & The Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych!
6. Catch one of the many theater shows at West End
London’s West End is where you go to catch Broadway-style musicals. But it’s not a copycat – it often rivals or even outshines New York’s theater district!
With over 40 theaters showcasing a variety of performances, it’s a must-visit destination for theater lovers, or anyone looking to be swept away by a night of unforgettable entertainment.
All throughout the year, there will be something great playing, from timeless classics like The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, and Cats, to more contemporary hits like Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
What had us excited recently? The Ghibli Musical (My Neighbour Totoro), which was playing in London last year – such a magical fusion of animation and live theater!
For an idea of what shows are available right now, check the current show offerings on Viator.
I dabble in the live arts from time to time, so I recommend Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Wicked, and The Book Of Mormon! All of these shows are SO worth the money!
👉 Pro Tip: If there’s a show you can’t wait to see, booking your seats in advance is a smart move. It’s also a must for larger groups. That said, if you’re more of a last-minute adventurer (or traveling as a party of 2 or less), head to the Leicester Square ticket booths for standby or discounted tickets. TKTS is a solid go-to for snagging deals on the day.
7. Take a historical pub walking tour of the city
This Historical Pub Walking Tour is the perfect blend of history and a good pint – because who says you can’t learn about the past while enjoying a cold drink?
On this tour, you’ll step inside some of London’s oldest and most iconic pubs, some dating back to the 1600s, and hear stories about their connections to historical figures like Charles Dickens, who was known to write in pubs while sipping on a brewski.
Pub culture in London has deep roots, and many of these ancient ale houses have served as meeting spots for political debates, historical events, and creative minds over the centuries. Your guide will lead you to these historic watering holes, sharing juicy tales of London’s past while you sip and explore important landmarks along the way.
8. Catch a play at The Shakespeare Globe
The Shakespeare Globe is a period-based experience that all Shakespeare lovers should experience at least once. This theater puts on plays just a little bit differently — and we love them for it!
This replica of the original Globe Theatre gives you the chance to experience productions just as they would have been in the 16th century, with actors in period costumes performing Shakespeare’s plays using the original scripts.
The theater offers a variety of performances, so you’ll want to check the schedule to see what’s on during your visit. In addition to watching a show, you can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the theater and Shakespeare’s life.
Personally, we learn much better on guided tours. On this fun and interactive tour of The Globe, you’ll learn about the history (and drama) surrounding the theatre, play with props, and even try on costumes from famous Shakespearean plays!
👉 Pro Tip: This activity is included with The London Pass!
9. Jack the Ripper Tour with ‘Ripper-Vision’ in London
The Jack the Ripper Tour with ‘Ripper-Vision’ in London is an immersive walking tour perfect for people obsessed with true crime and dark history.
For the uninitiated, Jack the Ripper is the notorious unidentified serial killer who terrorized the Whitechapel district of London in 1888, brutally murdering at least five women. It’s a sad yet significant part of London’s history.
On this immersive walking tour, your guide will lead you through the streets where the murders took place, using ‘Ripper-Vision’ to project images and footage of the crime scenes as they appeared during that dark time.
👉 ON A BUDGET? London is packed with amazing free walking tours (tip-based, of course!), and FREETOUR makes it easy to find the perfect one. Explore iconic landmarks on the London Essentials Free Tour, get a taste of local life with the Authentic Sunday London Markets Tour, soak up the bohemian vibes of Soho & Covent Garden, and so much more.
10. Taste your way through Borough Market
Borough Market is London’s most famous food market and a must-visit for any food-obsessed traveler. Located near London Bridge, this market is known for its high-quality fresh produce, street food, and artisanal goods.
You’ll find everything from piping hot chai to morning donuts, fresh seafood to gourmet cheeses, and diverse international flavors to classic British bites. Many of the food stalls offer ready-to-eat meals, so you can grab lunch while you explore. I especially loved the paella here!
Expect crowds, especially on weekends.
Pro Tip: Get there early to avoid the rush. Go on an empty stomach and try a little bit of everything!
11. Have afternoon tea at Wands and Wizard Exploratorium
London is Harry Potter central, so it’s fitting to find tons of HP-themed experiences in town.
At Wands and Wizard Exploratorium, you can step into a magic-filled world with an interactive afternoon tea experience like no other. You’ll brew your own color-changing teas, snack on themed treats like cauldron cakes, and soak in the cute wizarding atmosphere.
If you’re up for even more magic, you can also try potion-making or wand-making workshops, where you get hands-on with crafting your own magical creations.
Pro Tip: Afterward, swing by Maison Bertaux next door for some seriously good pastries!
12. Take a day trip to The Cotswolds
A day trip to the Cotswolds is basically going to be a whole day of magical sights and sounds. If you’re a fan of picturesque English countrysides, this is the perfect place to spend your day away from London!
A typical day trip to the Cotswolds takes visitors on a journey through charming villages and towns, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes. You can expect to see historic buildings, thatched cottages, and traditional market squares. The beauty of rural England will be all around you!
These full-day tours also offer opportunities to sample local foods, do a little bit of shopping, and visit historic sites that only a fraction of other travelers get to see.
13. Mamma Mia! The Party
No, we’re not talking about Mamma Mia! the musical. While that is ALSO worth doing, if you’re a fan of this musical/movie, then you need to experience Mamma Mia! The Party.
This ultra-unique dinner experience transports guests to a Greek taverna where they can enjoy a Mediterranean-style meal while watching a live performance of the musical. The meal includes Greek-inspired dishes such as grilled meat, fresh seafood, and Mediterranean salads.
This massive dinner party is worth doing for anyone who loves musicals, Greek cuisine, and wants to immerse themselves in the world of Mamma Mia!
Since Nikos Taverna is a social-first place, you may find yourself sharing a table with other guests. But that should be no issue since you’re basically one huge party!
14. Up at The O2
Up at The O2 is really only gonna appeal to people who love heights. During this excursion, you’ll actually be allowed to climb the roof of the O2 arena! Oh yeah, it’ll feel like you’re on your own 007 mission.
If you’re worried about safety, no need, it’s a completely safe experience! You’ll be provided with safety equipment and led by a guide who’ll keep you safe while also providing interesting facts about the arena.
The climb takes about 90 minutes and includes a 360-degree view from the top.
15. Explore Camden Town
Spending an afternoon in Camden Town is like stepping into a mash-up of music history, street food heaven, and alternative culture all at once.
Start by wandering through Camden Market (a local fave!), where you’ll find everything from vintage fashion to handmade jewelry and quirky collectibles. Don’t skip the food stalls—your options there are limitless! We’re talking Ethiopian stews, giant burgers, gourmet mac and cheese, and more.
If you’re into music, pop into Cyberdog for a rave-inspired shopping experience or head to the Roundhouse, one of London’s most legendary live music venues. For a more laid-back vibe, stroll along the Regent’s Canal or grab a pint at one of Camden’s historic pubs.
And if you’re a fan of Amy Winehouse, be sure to visit her statue near the market—a nod to Camden’s deep-rooted music scene.
16. Use all five senses at SENSAS
SENSAS is a hands-on, multi-sensory experience that challenges you to engage all five senses in unexpected ways. Over two hours, you’ll navigate themed rooms filled with interactive challenges—think blindfolded tasks, scent identification, and crawling through obstacles designed to test your limits.
Guided by facilitators, your team will tackle mind-bending activities that trigger adrenaline, laughter, and maybe even a little fear. It’s an immersive, high-energy experience that’s as fun as it is unpredictable, making it a great activity for groups looking for something beyond the usual London attractions.
17. Hop aboard a “comedy-horror” ghost bus tour
Before you go and skip this one because of your fear of ghosts, I’ll start by stating this is a comedy-horror-themed experience!
The London Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus combines humor, horror, and history into a one-of-a-kind adventure through the streets of London. During the tour, you will be taken on a journey through the city’s dark and eerie past, visiting some of its most haunted locations and hearing tales of the ghosts and ghouls that still haunt them.
But relax, it’s not all scary! You’ll get a ton of hilarious and irreverent commentary from your tour guide, who will have you laughing and screaming inside in equal measure.
18. Shrek’s Adventure! London
Shrek’s cult following has grown so much over the years that now it’s at a point where I know at least a dozen grown-ass adults who are absolutely obsessed with the franchise. If you’re one of the Shrek lovers out there, then you’ll wanna check out Shrek’s Adventure! London.
This interactive experience takes you on a journey through the world of Shrek and his friends–you’ll meet some of your favorite characters from the movie, solve puzzles and challenges, and even get to ride on a magical bus.
19. Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is a super funny and interactive theatrical performance that takes place during a three-course meal at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotel.
The show is based on the classic British sitcom, “Fawlty Towers,” and (if you’ve ever seen it) features all your favorite characters, including Basil, Sybil, and Manuel.
The actors serve as the waitstaff and interact with the audience throughout the performance, so you bet it’ll have you laughing and enjoying yourself from start to finish!
20. Ride the Mail Rail at The Postal Museum
The Postal Museum in London offers a super unique chance to learn about the history of Britain’s postal service.
Aside from the interactive exhibits and rare artifacts (like the first postage stamp!), you can catch a ride on the Mail Rail, a miniature train that takes you through the OG underground tunnels used to transport mail across the city.
Admission is free, but the Mail Rail ride does cost extra.
👉 Pro Tip: The Mail Rail train ride is included with The London Pass.
21. The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience London
While this is another experience that we non-British might not understand, it’s a rather big deal in England! The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is an interactive adventure that puts you in the shoes of a contestant on the world-famous 90’s phenomenon TV game show.
During the experience, you will face a series of physical and mental challenges in a race against the clock to earn crystals and ultimately win the grand prize. The challenges range from skill-based puzzles to physical obstacles, so you’ll need to work with your team to succeed.
The attention to detail and production value of this experience are known to be some of the best in London — you’ll feel like you’re really on the game show, and the rush of adrenaline you’ll feel as you race to beat the clock is going to be hard to forget!
22. Secret Cinema
Secret Cinema is an immersive movie experience where you don’t just watch a film—you step inside it. Each event is themed around a specific movie (past features include GREASE, Dirty Dancing, and Guardians of the Galaxy), with the location, sets, and actors bringing the world of the film to life.
Before the event, you’ll receive a character assignment and dress code–how freaking fun. Once you arrive at the secret venue, expect detailed, interactive sets, live performances, and plenty of surprises that make you feel like you’re inside the movie!
The film itself is screened at the end, but by then, you’ll have already lived part of the story.
23. Relive the 1940s at Cahoots Bar
Fancy a drink after all those activities we just listed? How about Cahoots Bar, a time machine whisking you back to the 1940s?
Cahoots Bar is a 1940s-themed speakeasy set in a repurposed Underground station, complete with vintage train signs, wartime memorabilia, and swing music. The staff stays in character, making you feel like you’ve stepped into post-war London, where revelers gather in a hidden drinking den to celebrate.
The cocktail menu leans into the theme too, featuring creative drinks served in teacups, tin cans, and vintage milk bottles, all inspired by the era’s underground drinking culture.
24. Take a food-themed walking tour
In a city as big and diverse as London, you can bet there are tons of food tours to explore different cuisines and cultural experiences. If you’re into quirky, ethnic, or just downright interesting food adventures, here are some food tours worth checking out:
- Obi’s African & Caribbean Food Tour in Brixton (3 hours) – A deep dive into the rich flavors of African and Caribbean cuisines in one of London’s most unique neighborhoods.
- No Diet Club: Food Tour in East London (3.5 hours) – This tour mixes street food and hidden gems in the trendy East End, perfect for anyone looking for unexpected bites.
- 3-Hour Secret Indian Food Tour (3 hours) – London is so much more than Dishoom. Taste your way through London’s best-hidden Indian eateries, with everything from street snacks to sumptuous curries.
👉 Pro Tip: There are a few different food tours included with The London Pass, such as The Three Markets Tour + Indian Tasting Menu and The Walking Food Tour + British Cream Tea.
25. Gingerline’s Immersive Dining Experiences
Gingerline, a top-secret immersive dining experience where food meets interactive storytelling, has taken London by storm.
Your venue is only revealed last-minute, and each event transports guests—known as “Flavourologists”—through themed “dimensions” blending theater, art, and inventive cuisine.
While the specifics of each event are closely guarded secrets, past experiences have included Chambers of Flavour, a multi-room dining adventure, and The Grand Expedition, a whimsical journey through fantastical landscapes. Every event is different, making it part mystery, part dinner, and entirely unforgettable.
Sign up for their email list to catch the next one!
Other Limited-Time Experiences In London
Sherlock’s Mind Palace Afternoon Tea & Mini Mystery – exactly what it sounds like! Indulge in afternoon tea while testing your skills of deduction with a mini-mystery quiz.
London Exotic East End Immersive Food Tour – a weekend-only guided food tour through London’s East End featuring the famous Jewish style “Beigel Bake”, samosas, sweet “Jelaby”, Ghanaian hot chocolate, and more.
Bubble Planet – an immersive experience in which you’ll surround yourself with bubbles! Use all five senses to go beyond your imagination with VR technology, themed rooms, fantastical landscapes, and even a hot air balloon flight simulator.
Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience – experience a real Martian invasion in London. See it, hear it, live it, with 24 extraordinary scenes, multi-sensory effects and virtual reality – all set to Jeff Wayne’s iconic music.
Get The London Pass To Save On Attractions
The London Pass can save you a ton of money if you’re looking to see a lot in a short amount of time.
This super-popular sightseeing card is jam-packed with goodness and provides free entry to 100+ attractions in London.
The pass can be purchased for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 10 consecutive days, with prices varying depending on the duration of the pass. With the pass, you can skip the ticket lines at many of the included attractions, saving you time and allowing you to fit more into your day.
There are two types of passes: The London Pass+ and The London Pass.
The London Pass+ includes all activities, while The London Pass is better for budget travelers who don’t care for activities like The London Eye, The View from the Shard, Big Bus London, or Madame Tussauds.
Some of the top attractions included on both passes are:
- 30+ London Sights Tour – Retail Cost: £47.00
- Tower of London – Retail Cost: £35.80
- Westminster Abbey – Retail Cost: £30.00
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – Retail Cost: £25.00
- London Zoo – Retail Cost: £41.80
- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour – Retail Cost: £27.00
- The Three Markets Tour + Indian Tasting Menu – Retail Cost: £59.00
- The Walking Food Tour + British Cream Tea – Retail Cost: £59.00
- Frameless – Immersive Art Experience – Retail Cost: £32.00
- Sherlock Holmes Escape Room – Retail Cost: £49.00
- London Bridge Experience – Retail Cost: £33.00
- Brit Movie Tours – Retail Cost: £18.00
- Chelsea FC Stadium Tour – Retail Cost: £32.00
- … and so much more!
The London Pass+ also includes a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that takes you to many of the city’s top sights while also doubling as free transportation for the day!
If you ask me–someone who loves to learn about local culture and history in fun ways through guided tours and immersive activities–getting the London Pass is a no-brainer for saving money while having fun.
DEAL ALERT: For a limited time, use the above link + the promo code AFFGOALL for an additional 5% off your London Pass. This code is also valid for all other Go City passes around the world!
Looking for more London travel tips? You may also like:
40 Essential London Travel Tips For First-Timers
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London In One Day Tour: A Jam-Packed Full-Day Adventure Through London
50 Brilliant Ways To Travel Europe On A Budget
10 Best Women’s Shoes For Walking Around Europe (That Are Actually Cute)
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