Best Arcades in London: Top Spots for Classic Gaming and VR Experiences

If you’re a fan of retro gaming, and you’re heading to London anytime soon, we’ve got some good news: there’s an abundance of arcades in London. These make a great option for a day, or evening out, and it’s something that you can involve the whole family in. The kids may be a little surprised by some of the games of old, but you can be sure that they’ll love them (don’t worry if retro’s not your thing – there are VR and new games too!)

The whole retro vibe has been growing of late, and that means that there has been a boom in London arcades. There are arcades in central London, as well as on the outskirts, and they feature great games such as Pac-Man, Pinball and Mario Kart. The number of arcade games in London goes way beyond these, but they give you a flavour of what to expect.

If you’re looking for an arcade in London, then we’re here to help. We’re going to take a look at the best ones around so that you can plan an amazing trip out.

Key Takeaways

• Discover Retro and VR Gaming: Explore the best arcades in London for a fun day out with family or friends, featuring classic games and modern VR experiences.
• Family-Friendly Entertainment: Find arcades across London that offer a mix of retro vibes and new-age gaming, perfect for all ages and interests.
• Variety of Gaming Options: Experience a wide range of gaming activities, from pinball and arcade classics to immersive VR adventures and multiplayer fun.

Arcades in London:

• Four Quarters
• Pizza Pilgrims
• Rowans
• Four Thieves
• Novelty Automation
• DNA VR
• Otherworld VR
• Hyper reality
• Las Vegas Arcade Soho
• Loading Bar
• Belong
• Funland Arcade
• MeetspaceVR
• Queens London
• Chief Coffee
• BrewDog Shephard’s Bush
• The Fighting Cocks
• NQ64 Soho
• London Games Room
• Platform

Four Quarters

Address: 20 Ash Avenue, Elephant Park, SE17 1GQ

Nearest tube: Elephant and Castle

Perhaps the best way of describing Four Quarters is as a no-frills bar with some great arcade games. As London arcades go, this one has a real down-to-earth feel about it. The lighting is dim and that means that the action from the games stands out even more. You can expect bright retro bar stools that go well with the election of games.

When it comes to arcade games in London, here you’ll find titles such as Street Fighter II and Ninja Turtles. This gaming experience is one that’s great value for money too. With just £1, you get 4 quarters to spend on games of your choice. A fiver in your pocket could see you enjoying arcade games for hours.

Pizza Pilgrims

Address: 266 Seven Sisters Road, Finsbury Park London, N4 2HY

Nearest tube: Finsbury Park

With arcades in London, you’ll find that many of these are nestled alongside other businesses. This is the case with Pizza Pilgrims, a top pizzeria. As well as great food, this business also offers lessons to kids so that they can learn to make their own pizza.

By including arcade games in the pizzeria, Pizza Pilgrims has managed to create a real 90s vibe. This is one where you can snack on pizza, wash it down with slushies and play retro games to your heart’s content. With titles such as Pac-Man and Street Fighter, Slice has the classics covered. The game selection isn’t the biggest here, but the vibe makes up for it and is the main reason to go.

Rowans

Address: 10 Stroud Green, Finsbury Park, London, 4 2DF

Nearest tube:  Finsbury Park

On your hunt for arcade games in London, Rowans is a must-visit location. While there are some great arcade games to choose from, the main draw here is the karaoke and ten-pin bowling. Even if this is what you first visit for, you can’t help but be pulled over to the selection of arcades. There are some great retro titles and you can be sure that you won’t be leaving at the time that you’d planned to.

The good news is there’s no rush to leave: Rowans has a late licence so the adults can enjoy a drink or two as the evening goes on. Something else that’s really great here is that you’re allowed to order your Dominoes and bring them in. Pizza, drinks and arcade games make for the perfect evening out.

Four Thieves

Address: 51 Lavender Gardens, London, SW11 1DJ

Nearest tube: Clapham South Station

Four Thieves has to be one of the top arcades in London and there’s plenty of space allocated to some truly amazing games. At the Four Thieves, you’ll find a pub downstairs. Upstairs sits an old Victorian dancefloor which has now been converted into a great gaming centre. While you’ll find a selection of retro games here, this arcade in London has a different focus.

You’ll find that a great deal of space is used for VR. The idea is to create a group-playing experience rather than people playing solo. There’s also the smallest crazy golf course that you’re ever likely to see along with a racing track for remote control cars.

Novelty Automation

Address: 1A Princeton Street, London, WC1R 4AY

Nearest tube: Holborn

Novelty Automation arcade is unlike any other arcade in London. What you’re not going to find here are the classic titles that you’ll find at other arcades in London. That’s because Novelty Automation is a highly specialist arcade. It’s the pet project of Tim Hunkin who is a writer, inventor, engineer and cartoonist. The majority of the arcade games here are of his design and making.

This is a great evening out if you’re looking for something different. You’ll find games that you simply can’t find anywhere else and that means that it offers a truly unique experience.

DNA VR

Address: Unit 1&2 York House, 400-404 York Way, London, N7 9LR

Nearest tube: Hammersmith

DNA VR in London is another that provides a great experience and offers a great evening out. This is another where the focus is on the VR gaming experience, rather than that of retro games. If VR is your thing, then it has to be said that DNAVR is a must.

Here, there are games that are suitable for single players but there are also plenty of multiplayer ones so that you can get friends and family involved in the fun. There are options such as fighting off zombies as well as heading to try your skill and luck trying to leave an escape room.

Otherworld VR

Address:  336 Acton Mews, London, E8 4EA

Nearest station: Haggerston overground

It seems that London arcades have a love of offering all things VR. As the name suggests, Otherworld VR is another of these. That’s not to say that there are too many of these around. The truth is that they all offer different experiences. Whereas DNAVR is all about fighting for your life, Otherworld VR balances this with things slightly more serene.

One of the most relaxing options has to be the island experience. Here, you and friends can kick back and even find yourself earning free drinks for the time you spend there. That being said, there are plenty of other VR experiences for those who are seeking something a bit more adventurous.

Hyper reality

Address: 67 Mile End Road, Bethnal Green, London, E1 4TT

Nearest tube: Bethnal Green

One of the top arcades in London, Hyper reality offers a truly outstanding experience. There’s the Cyberpunk bar and the obligatory karaoke to try out, and then there’s the stunning collection of VR experiences. The range of games on offer here means that there is something for everyone.

There are VR games that can see you fighting, exploring or relaxing. There are options to play alone or as part of a group. Aside from these types of games, what we really like about this place is the VR rollercoaster experience and the VR go-karts. The latter of these is simply amazing.  If you’ve never tried virtual reality then we would recommend heading to Hyperreality and giving it a go.

Las Vegas Arcade Soho

Address: Basement 89, 91 Wardour Street, London, W1F 0UB

Nearest tube: Oxford Circus

Las Vegas Arcade Soho offers a great experience and it’s one that the whole family can be involved with. That’s because downstairs is all about great gaming, while upstairs allows those who like the casino-themed experience to have some fun. The upstairs is restricted to those aged 18 and over, while downstairs is open to all.

No matter what your taste in arcade games, you can be sure that Las Vegas Arcade Soho has you covered. There’s a great selection that covers, fighting, racing and dancing, and everything else that you can think of. Being just around the corner from Chinatown, this arcade in London provides the perfect excuse to get out of shopping!

Loading Bar

Address: 129 Stoke Newington High Street, London, N16 0PH

Nearest tube: Mile End

Loading Bar is another one of the best arcades in London. The thing here is that there is so much more going on than just the arcade games. While there’s a great mix of old and new titles, you’ll also find that this location has a regular DJ who adds a whole new dimension to your gaming experience.

While you’re enjoying all that the arcade games have to offer, you also have the chance to sample a great selection of drinks from the bar. If you’re looking for something else when you’ve had your fill of video games (if that’s even possible), there’s even a selection of board games for you to try out.

Belong

Address: 318 Oxford Street, London, W1C 1HF

Nearest tube: Oxford Circus

Belong Arcade in London is a great place to visit if you want to get together with like-minded gaming fans. As the name suggests, this arcade is all about making you feel like you belong. That means that it doesn’t matter if you’re an avid gamer or if you’re an arcade newbie, there’s something for everyone and there’s an overwhelming feeling of community.

This London arcade isn’t about games of old. Here, you get to enjoy the latest console games on the likes of PlayStations and Xboxes. If you want to give something else a try then there are VR booths to explore. This allows you to have a completely different gaming experience, and there are some great tournaments to get involved with.

Funland Arcade

Address: Unit 25/27 The Brunswick Centre Bernard Street, London, WC1N 1BS

Nearest tube: Holborn

As far as London arcades are concerned, Funland Arcade is perhaps one of the most family-friendly that we’ve come across. It has over 35 games to choose from, and these suit people of all ages. If you’re a fan of pinball then you’re sure to love it here as there are plenty of pinball tables to try.

Don’t worry, it’s not all about pinball machines though. There’s also a great selection of games that focus on dance, music and sport, so no matter what you’re into, there’ll be something to keep you entertained. Yes, there are other arcades in London that are suitable for kids, but this one seems to lean heavily this way and has games that will keep them entertained for hours.

MeetspaceVR

Address: Box Park, Olympic Way, Wembley Park, Wembley, HA9 OJT

Nearest tube: Wembley Park

We’ve already seen arcade games in London that focus on the virtual reality experience, and MeetspaceVR is another one of these. The best way of describing this location is as a VR theme park. With a huge 200-meter square arena, there’s plenty of room to move around as you seek survival during the zombie apocalypse.

The reality aspect of this game means that it’s definitely not suitable for younger children out there. Well, not unless you’re prepared for a whole load of sleepless nights. One watch-out here is that there’s no fixed entry price. The price you pay will depend on the gaming experience you’re after, so be sure to check this out before you turn up.

Queens London

Address: 17 Queensway, London, W2 4QP

Nearest tube: Queensway

Another arcade in London that makes the grade as a great family day out. At Queens London you’ll find ten-pin bowling and ice skating among the attractions. The arcade games themselves are well chosen to ensure that they cater for young and old meaning that you can have peace of mind when the little ones are desperate to get involved.

The other plus point here is the food and drink. There’s plenty of variety so you can be sure that you can feed the family with minimal disruption to their gameplay. For the adults, there are some pretty awesome cocktails to enjoy too.

Chief Coffee

Address: Turnham Green, Terrace Mews, Chiswick, London, W4 1QU

Nearest tube: Turnham Green

If you’re looking for London arcades that come with an 80s vibe then you’re going to be a huge fan of all that Chief Coffee has to offer. The main focus here, in terms of games, is pinball and the classic Japanese titles that we all know and love. There’s also some top food on offer and, whenever you visit, trying one of the signature coffees is a must.

While there is very much an 80s feel to the place, it’s also very laid back and relaxed. This provides the perfect atmosphere for people to tune out and lose themselves in the games. That being said, there are plenty of opportunities to get social too.

BrewDog Shephard’s Bush

Address: 15-19 Goldhawk Road, London, W12 8QQ

Nearest tube: Goldhawk Road

BrewDog Shephard’s Bush arcade in London is just as well-known for its food and drink offerings. This is a bar that has Scottish-brewed beer as a speciality, and people are happy to travel here just to try this. Beyond the great beer, there are also tempting burgers and wings to sample. There’s no way you can leave without giving at least one thing a go.

When it comes to the games, the selection is pretty impressive. You’ll find that pinball features quite heavily, but there’s also a great selection of other vintage games such as the legendary Space Invaders. The feel of the place all adds to the experience, and it’s one of the arcades in London that you should really visit.

The Fighting Cocks

Address: 56 Old London Road, Kingston Upon Thames, KT2 6QA

Nearest station: Kingston train station (overground)

The Fighting Cocks arcade in London is famous for its music scene. If rock music and live bands are your thing, then you should get yourself to The Fighting Cocks and see just what there is on offer. While the music may steal the show, there’s also great food and drinks alongside an impressive display of games.

While arcade games are popular here, you’ll find that most people like to turn their hand to a game of pool. This provides the perfect environment and atmosphere for this. Even if pool isn’t your usual game of choice, you’ll still enjoy the experience here.

NQ64 Soho

Address: 53 Berwick Street, London, W1F 8SP

Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road

NQ64 Soho arcade in London is strictly for those ages 18 and over. That’s because it’s also a cocktail bar and nightclub. The arcade experience here is exceptional, with a range of vintage games sitting along slightly more modern gaming consoles. You’ll see the NQ64 in neon lights, as well as a splattering of graffiti on the walls. It’s all part of the feel and the atmosphere of this arcade.

There are plenty of first-person shooter games from the 90s, and you can even become a rock god by having a go at Guitar Hero. When you’re ready for a drink, you’ll find game-themed cocktails all served under the sounds of the regular DJ.

London Games Room

Address: 77 Hoxton Street, London, N1 6PJ

Nearest tube: Hoxton

When looking for arcades in London, it’s worth noting that London Games Room is in a variety of locations around the capital. However, it’s this one on Hoxton Street that has the real focus on arcade gaming, and that’s why it’s made our list.

There are plenty of arcade games to choose from, and you’ll also find a Fireball football table. Another draw here is the fact that there are some great craft beers to try, as well as some delicious-tasting food. The theme here is centred on a tropical oasis, and this makes it very different to some of the other locations where this operator is featured.

Platform

Address: 2b Worship Street, London, EC2A 2AH

Nearest tube: Moorgate

This is the last of the London arcades that we’re going to look at. Platform offers an experience that’s a little more private when compared to the other London arcades that we’ve looked at. That’s because Platform offers a number of booths that are semi-private, where you can fully immerse yourself in the gameplay.

The gaming booths can be hired for 90 minutes at a time. Of course, while you’re lost in a game, there’s no time to go looking for food and drink. For that reason, Platform has a great app that lets you order from your booth and have everything brought over to you.

Overall

As you can see, when it comes to London arcades, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, or an evening for adults along with a few drinks, everyone is catered for. It’s great to see that arcades in London have so many family-friendly options.

What we also like about London arcades is that there is a perfect balance between old and new. There’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy all of the retro classics, but equally, you can lose yourself in a great VR experience too. No matter what your game of choice, you’re bound to find something that you enjoy.

FAQs

What are the best arcades in London for retro gaming?

For fans of retro arcade games and nostalgic arcade games, London offers a variety of options. Four Quarters, Las Vegas Arcade Soho, and NQ64 Soho stand out as top destinations. These arcades provide a trip down memory lane with classic consoles, pinball machines, and arcade machines featuring timeless favourites like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and Donkey Kong.

Where can I play virtual reality games in London?

DNA VR, Otherworld VR, and MeetspaceVR are premier venues for VR experiences in London. These arcades offer immersive virtual reality games that range from serene island adventures to thrilling zombie apocalypse survival scenarios, making them perfect for an exciting day out.

Can I find family-friendly arcades in London?

Absolutely! Funland Arcade, Queens London, and Las Vegas Arcade Soho are great family-friendly options. They offer a whole host of games suitable for all ages, including fairground games, racing games, and VR experiences, ensuring so much fun for the entire family.

Are there any arcades in London that also serve craft beer?

Yes, BrewDog Shephard’s Bush and The Fighting Cocks are known for combining gaming with a great selection of craft beers. These venues offer a unique blend of fun games, retro machines, and craft beer, making them ideal for date nights or competitive socialising with friends.

What arcades offer unique gaming experiences in London?

Novelty Automation and Platform provide unique gaming experiences with quirky machines and novelty games designed by artists and engineers. Novelty Automation, for example, features custom-made games that you won’t find anywhere else, offering a truly unique visit.

Where in Central London can I enjoy arcade games?

Las Vegas Arcade Soho, NQ64 Soho, and Belong are fantastic arcades in central London. They’re easily accessible and offer a diverse range of gaming experiences, from retro games to the newest consoles, making them perfect for a quick gaming session or a full day of entertainment.

Can I host events at London arcades?

Many arcades in London, such as Four Quarters and Loading Bar, offer space for private events. These venues can accommodate birthday parties, corporate events, or competitive socialising events, providing games, food, and drinks to make your event memorable.

Are there arcades in London that also offer food and drinks?

Yes, places like Pizza Pilgrims and Four Thieves not only offer a fantastic selection of arcade games but also serve delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or craft beers, these arcades ensure you can play and dine in one spot.

What are some arcades in London for competitive gaming?

Platform and Belong are geared towards gamers looking for a competitive edge. They offer tournaments and gaming machines for a more competitive experience, making them hotspots for those looking to test their skills against others.

How can I find an arcade in London that offers a specific game like Mario Kart?

Las Vegas Arcade Soho is renowned for its wide selection of games, including Mario Kart. For those seeking specific games, it’s recommended to visit the arcade’s website or contact them directly to confirm the availability of classic consoles and arcade games.