The Friends Experience London review: A must-see for any fans of the hit sitcom

The Friends Experience London review: A must-see for any fans of the hit sitcom

As a lifelong Friends fan who has spent countless hours rewatching the series and quoting its iconic lines, I must say that The Friends Experience London is nothing short of a dream come true! Having grown up with this beloved sitcom, it’s incredible to finally step into the world of Monica, Ross, Chandler, Joey, Rachel, and Phoebe.


The Friends Experience has finally landed in London – could we BE any more excited?

This engaging, immersive exhibit has traveled extensively, gracing cities such as New York, Boston, and Las Vegas. Now, it’s landed on British shores, finding a home in our very own London, perfectly timed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the program.

As a dedicated fan of Friends, I can’t help but reminisce about the pivotal role London played in the series, particularly during the unforgettable two-part finale of season 4 – “The One with Ross’s Wedding Parts 1 and 2.” It was here that Monica and Chandler shared their first magical moments together, Joey crossed paths with the Duchess of York, and Ross, well, let’s just say he made a tiny, yet significant mistake at the altar.

Fans of Friends now have the opportunity to tread on the same aisle, just like their favorite characters, as well as explore other famous spots from the series, including the characters’ apartments, the fountain, and Central Perk.

You’re likely very acquainted with Joey and Chandler’s pad, as well as Monica and Rachel’s residence; the Friends Tour allows you not only to explore these spaces, but also peek into their cabinets – maybe you’ll stumble upon some unexpected finds!

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, if you yearn to hoist a sofa up the stairs like Ross did (oh, the nostalgia!), take a bite of that iconic Central Perk floor cheesecake or truly sink into Joey and Chandler’s famously cozy chairs, then prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey: here’s your comprehensive guide to The Friends Experience: The One in London.

What happens at The Friends Experience London?

The Friends Experience London review: A must-see for any fans of the hit sitcom

Kick off with the Friends Experience London is initiated by a brief video, skillfully narrated by none other than Maggie Wheeler, who’s famously known as Janice. After the video concludes, the experience commences with an ideal snapshot chance on the renowned orange sofa, positioned before the fountain.

After that, you’ll step into an exhibit showcasing famous costume designs. Here, you’ll find mannequins wearing the traditional costumes of various characters, and there will also be a video presentation by costume designer Debra McGuire, providing further insight.

Your adventure into Friends souvenirs and set replicas kicks off there, commencing with Rachel’s 18-page letter (front and back). Jump on a flight to London, dear, where you can explore Joey’s map, chat on the phone with Regina Phalange, and stroll down the aisle at Ross and Emily’s wedding location.

As you explore the collections and displays, you’ll come across educational signs detailing each character, along with details such as their chronological relationships and global viewing statistics for the series.

The re-creations carry on, allowing you to stroll around and investigate Joey and Chandler’s apartment (it might be fun to peek inside the freezer, if you’re brave enough), Monica and Rachel’s apartment – where you can watch Friends on their television – and the corridor connecting the two, adorned with the world’s most scrumptious cheesecake.

After all this excitement, it’s definitely time for a break. Why not drop by Central Perk, where you can don an apron, step behind the counter, unwind on the iconic orange couch, and maybe even take the stage to sing your own version of Smelly Cat?

At the end of The Friends Experience, you’ll find numerous chances to snap photos with memorable props from the series, such as Phoebe’s grandmother’s taxi cab, the lovable dog Pat, and a sofa that can’t be pivoted easily.

At various spots during your journey, feel free to capture moments using your phone. If you’re looking to elevate your photos, consider buying a photo pass. This will give you the opportunity to have your picture taken by professional cameras at each of these points.

How long does the Friends Experience London last?

Every visitor holding a ticket will get an hour’s time to explore The Friends Experience at their leisure.

To delve deeper into the workings of the production and gather statistical data, feel free to explore the informational signs. If capturing Instagram-friendly moments is more appealing to you, don’t hesitate to find spots where you can strike a pose instead.

Are the props at The Friends Experience London real?

The Friends Experience London review: A must-see for any fans of the hit sitcom

At The Friends Experience London, you won’t find the actual props and set pieces from the TV series, but their replicas still create an exciting and engaging atmosphere that doesn’t diminish your enjoyment.

The set recreations are true to the show and you can touch and interact with almost everything – an unlikely scenario if these were the props from the show!

When is The Friends Experience London?

On August 12, 2024, the “Friends Experience” officially welcomed visitors, with plans to remain open until February 2nd, 2025.

How much is The Friends Experience London?

On your chosen visit day, ticket costs may fluctuate, but rest assured, an adult single ticket will typically range from £20 to £29.50. I’d be thrilled to join you at such a reasonable price!

For kids between 11 and 15 years old, ticket prices start at £10. Younger children aged 4 to 10 get in for as low as £5, and those under 3 years old can enter for free. Plus, by taking advantage of the Friends Ticket Bundle, you’ll receive six tickets for only five times the price of £16.

To elevate your overall experience, consider purchasing a VIP pass priced at around £65. This premium ticket comes with perks such as an exclusive swag bag, bypassing lines, a 10% discount in the souvenir shop, and additional benefits.

Where is The Friends Experience London?

The Friends Experience London review: A must-see for any fans of the hit sitcom

You can find the experience at Immerse LDN on the ExCel waterfront.

Heading a bit eastward in London, you’ll find the place, not too far and yet just enough to feel slightly off the beaten path. It’s conveniently accessible via the DLR or the Elizabeth line, with the Custom House station serving as your gateway.

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2024-08-30 13:04