Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

As a self-proclaimed Potions enthusiast and foodie extraordinaire, I must say that these immersive experiences are absolutely enchanting! The Cauldron, with its real-life Hogwarts potions class, is an absolute dream come true for any Harry Potter fan like myself. And can you imagine being transported back to the 1970s at Fawlty Towers? I’ve always fancied myself as a Basil Fawlty in the making!


In London, there’s always a great time to be had! Whether you’re a local, new resident, or just passing through for a short while, there’s an endless supply of enjoyable activities. From West End performances and plays, to Drag Brunch events, sports matches, and live music shows, London has something to cater to all tastes in the bustling city.

Over the recent years, there’s been an increase in interactive forms of entertainment. Within the past decade, immersive activities have gained popularity, such as Secret Cinema – a unique cinema experience where film enthusiasts engage in the movie plot, and escape rooms – challenging you to decipher puzzles to exit before time runs out. These immersive experiences call for active engagement from the participant, involving playing games, solving mysteries, and interacting with live performers.

I totally get the significance of managing finances, and that’s why I’m excited to share an assortment of unforgettable experiences tailored for all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a splurge or a steal, there’s something amazing in store for everyone on my top immersive experience list. Let’s dive right in!

If you’re up for an exciting challenge, why not give London’s top escape rooms a try? Our Going Out section provides plenty of ideas to keep you inspired throughout the entire year.

Jump to:

  • Best immersive experiences in London at a glance
  • Best immersive experiences for the family
  • Best immersive experiences for friends
  • Best immersive experiences for date night
  • Best immersive experiences for foodies

Best immersive experiences in London at a glance:

  • Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, from £16
  • Frameless, from £17
  • Twist Museum, from £19
  • Shrek’s Adventure, from £21
  • Crystal Maze Live Experience, £143 for two
  • The London Dungeon, from £31
  • Squid Game immersive experience, from £34
  • Avora: New World cocktail experience, from £40
  • The Gunpowder Plot, from £42.50
  • Monopoly Lifesized, from £54
  • ABBA Voyage, from £55
  • The Murdér Express: An Immersive Dining Experience, £79.60
  • Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, from £68.50
  • The Cauldron Immersive Magical Cocktail Experience for Two, £76
  • Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Bar theatrical experience for two, from £93
  • Mamma Mia! The Party, from £109
  • Le Petit Chef, from £119

Best immersive experiences for the family

The Gunpowder Plot

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Each year on Bonfire Night, we commemorate a well-known historical event – the infamous Gunpowder Plot. This story is now vividly portrayed in “The Gunpowder Plot,” where Tom Felton, famously known for his role in Harry Potter, plays Guy Fawkes. During an immersive 90-minute experience with VR headsets, participants will embark on a journey starting by rowing down the Thames towards the Houses of Parliament, followed by returning to Tower Hill Vaults where they’ll witness the dramatic end of Guy Fawkes.

For more like this, be sure to take a look at the best murder mystery experiences.

Shrek’s Adventure

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

In a heartwarming journey through the enchanting world of Shrek, I found myself immersed in an adventure that brims with characters, rides, and engaging games straight from the Shrek universe. Shrek’s Adventure could be seen as DreamWorks’ magical response to Disneyland, but it has a unique charm, nestled on London’s vibrant South Bank.

If you’d like to learn more about this exciting excursion, feel free to check out our detailed explanation in the ‘What is Shrek’s Adventure?’ article.

Monopoly Lifesized

Instead of reminiscing about those cherished rainy afternoons where we played Monopoly and held back the urge to flip the board, how about we elevate our experience a notch higher?

Experience Monopoly Life-Sized as you step into a full-scale, immersive 4D gameboard, complete with real-life challenges and activities that could potentially earn you fortunes!

Seize the moment to step into a Monopoly game (let’s hope there are no squabbles among the players this round…!)

If you enjoy exploring the world yet find yourself uneasy around loud sounds, here’s a helpful guide explaining how Loop Earplugs function.

Additionally, we used the earplugs for a period of six months, and you’ll find our genuine thoughts about them in our Loop Earplugs assessment.

Best immersive experiences for friends

The London Dungeon

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Attention all adventurers: It’s high time for a visit to The London Dungeon! Ideal for those who aren’t easily spooked, this interactive journey delves into some of London’s most haunting stories, including Sweeney Todd and the plague-fighting doctors.

If you’ve got a knack for the unconventional, why don’t you give a go at some unique activities, such as the top-rated UK zombie encounters?

Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Bar theatrical experience for two

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Modeled after the notorious American penitentiary, Alcatraz, this adults-exclusive interactive event invites you to sneak liquor into a prison-styled cocktail lounge where you can create your own drink concoctions. Brace yourself for an exciting evening filled with your preferred tastes, but remember to stay clear of the watchful gaze of the Warden!

Twist Museum

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

At The Twist Museum in Oxford Circus, London, your perception of reality is challenged – can you perceive non-existent colors? Can you discern which way is up or down? Could you traverse a corridor that seems infinite? These illusions and interactive spaces have been crafted with the collaboration of artists, neuroscientists, and philosophers to offer an unparalleled immersive experience.

Embarking on an extraordinary journey, I found myself at this captivating destination nestled within the heart of Oxford Circus. Effortlessly accessible via the Bakerloo, Victoria, and Central underground lines, this strategic location is ideal for those who might find their perception of reality subtly challenged by a visit to this unconventional museum!

For more like this, be sure to check out the best immersive museums.

Crystal Maze Live Experience for Two

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

As a movie critic diving into the realm of live entertainment, let me share my thoughts on an exciting endeavor that’ll stir memories from your ’90s game show days: The Crystal Maze Live Experience. If you’re a die-hard fan or simply yearn for a fresh challenge, this interactive adventure could be tailor-made for you.

The goal is for you and your team to gather as many crystals as possible. Gathering a lot of crystals will grant you extra time within the fabled Crystal Dome.

Mamma Mia! The Party

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

If you’re yearning for a sunny vacation this year but can’t make it happen, reserving tickets for “Mamma Mia! The Party” might be your next best option. This event will whisk you away to the picturesque Greek island of Skopelos and encourage your inner dancing queen to shine. Prepare for a scrumptious four-course Greek meal, numerous drinks, live performances of the beloved songs from Mamma Mia, and an ABBA disco following the celebration.

Wow, “Mamma Mia! The Party” could make for an outstanding bachelorette or bachelor party! And guess what? We’ve got plenty more fantastic ideas waiting for you in our article as well.

Squid Game immersive experience

Experience the thrill of “Squid Game” right here in the UK! Rest assured, participating won’t put your life on the line like the series. Instead, you’ll enjoy a live adaptation of six exhilarating games straight from the show: Red Light, Green Light, Honeycomb Challenge, Tug of War, Marbles, Glass Stepping Stones, and finally, a fun round of Squid (the classic childhood game).

Immersive experiences would make a brilliant gift for a friend. For more present ideas, check out the best London experience gifts and the best tech gifts and gadgets.

Best immersive experiences for date night

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

If you’re an art lover, take a look at our guide to the best art exhibitions in London.

ABBA Voyage

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Are you looking for a chance to dance and truly enjoy yourself? If that’s the case, ABBA Voyage offers an immersive concert experience tailored just for you! This unique performance features digital versions of the original ABBA band members – Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad – all brought to life through cutting-edge CGI technology. The singers have recorded their voices and movements, which are then transformed into 3D avatars (ABBAtars), ensuring you’ll hear iconic songs like “Mamma Mia” and “Waterloo” performed live!

To get a unique perspective on ABBA’s music, consider purchasing tickets for Waterloo: The Best of ABBA and exploring our guide on candlelight concerts.

Avora: New World cocktail experience

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Are you all set for a journey to a different realm? Embark on the fascinating universe of Avora through this unique cocktail adventure, where you’ll engage with the inhabitants of Avora. Immerse yourself in this novel world’s breathtaking environment while donning an Avora jumpsuit and sampling three specially concocted cocktails. Capture countless photo moments to ensure that this unforgettable experience stays etched in your memory forever.

Frameless

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Frameless is an engaging art exhibit that transports visitors through four themed spaces: Beyond Reality, Colour in Motion, The World We Live In, and Abstract Artistry. This journey showcases artworks by renowned artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Max Ernst, and Salvador Dalí. Interactivity is encouraged as you’re able to manipulate certain art pieces on the floor in one gallery.

The Cauldron Immersive Magical Cocktail Experience for Two

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Regardless if you’re a Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, or Slytherin, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy a magical experience at The Cauldron. Here, you can participate in an authentic potions class similar to the renowned one at Hogwarts, where you’ll concoct delicious elixirs.

Here, your expertise in blending molecules will be utilized effectively, and as a bonus, you’ll also receive a lab coat and a mystical staff to aid you in your work.

The Cauldron Immersive Magical Cocktail Experience for Two for £76 at Virgin Experience Days

Best immersive experiences for foodies

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Lovers of the BBC TV series “Fawlty Towers” will be thrilled with this fresh, immersive event, tailored for food enthusiasts. Travel back to the 1970s at the President Hotel in West London, where you’ll dine on a delightful three-course meal while being enveloped by actors who spontaneously reenact some of the funniest and memorable scenes from “Fawlty Towers”.

Did you know there’s a Fawlty Towers West End show?

Le Petit Chef

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

This experience will undoubtedly provide some fascinating conversation topics. Standing at a mere six centimeters, Le Petit Chef is famed for his extraordinary French culinary skills. Marvel as he prepares your meal through an awe-inspiring projection on your tabletop, followed by the delight of tasting the actual food served to you.

Visitors are free to select among several menus that include the Grand Chef, the Classic Petit Chef for kids, a vegetarian option, and more. Delightful dishes such as lobster risotto, vanilla creme brulee, and Hereford beef fillet are part of the offerings. Enjoy your meal!

The Murdér Express: An Immersive Dining Experience

Best immersive experiences to try in London: from ABBA to Squid Game

Hop on board! Although the name “The Murdér Express” might not sound too inviting at first glance, trust me, you’re in for an unforgettable ride. Rest assured, it’s nicknamed that because it’s bound for the fictional French town of Murdér… or is it? With a scrumptious meal, access to a cozy bar car and scenic views, there’s no reason to be concerned… or so I thought!

Right beyond Spitalfields, I’ve stumbled upon an extraordinary immersion (courtesy of Fever) that’s got my heart pounding and taste buds yearning simultaneously. It’s more than just a movie or a meal; it’s a chilling yet delectable adventure!

As a movie buff, I can’t wait to share some exciting news with you! Swing by our ‘Nightlife’ segment for the scoop on upcoming ticket launches. You won’t want to miss out on scoring tickets for Michael Bublé and ELO concerts!

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2024-10-28 19:40