How to have (alcohol-free) fun in London?

London is famous for the opportunities it offers to partygoers, and it would be hard to deny that visiting one of the many pubs in the city is the quintesentiall student experience. However that’s certainly not everyone’s thing – so it’s lucky that London also has plenty to offer for those who prefer to have fun with no alcohol involved. Here are some ideas on where to go for one-of-a kind alcohol free experiences.

Courtesy of Reka Olah

1.Explore the magical world of the West End

Visiting London’s world-famous performances is a must for all theatre lovers. You can’t go wrong with classics like Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton, Wicked or Les Misérables. Check out the London Theatre Direct website for tickets – the cheapest ones are around 20-30 pounds!

2. Challenge your friends to a game

While many of us don’t have a massive board game collection in our accommodation, this doesn’t mean we have to miss out on a games night with friends. London has several great cafés, such as the different branches of Draughts, where you can play any of their board games in exchange for a small entry fee. 

3. Enjoy a movie

If a unique cinema experience is something you would enjoy, you should check out the programme of the Backyard Cinema. Here you can watch your favourite movies, or explore new ones in a special setting. The journey inside leads through a remake of a steam train from the 1920’s, and takes you to the projection room, which has a seasonally changing décor. Right now, you can enjoy your movie in an enchanted forest of snow-topped trees.

4. Try something new at a food market

One great thing about London is its multicultural atmosphere, which is also reflected in the variety of food one can find here. Don’t worry if you’re not good at making decisions about your next meal – the city’s food markets have got you covered. Borough Market, Mercato, Camden Market or the South Bank Food Market all offer a variety of different cuisines from around the world, for affordable prices. A bonus thing is that the Mayfair venue of Mercato is hidden in a repurposed church building - and their fresh pasta is to die for!

5. Discover the refurbished Battersea Power Station

Battersea Power Station has recently been restored and is officially open to the public. Not only does the inside of the building offer interesting art deco and Brutalist design elements – here you can also find a massive shopping hall and a glass elevator that can take you to the top of the chimneys.

6. Ride the world’s longest tunnel slide

The Arcelormittal Orbit is an impressive work of art in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, offering great views of the London skyline. It also has a 178 m long tunnel slide - it twists and turns 12 times during the exciting 40 second trip down. Bring along your bravest friends for this adventure!