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Top 10 Unique Things To Do In London (2026)
Quick summary
- London with your friends: Test your teamwork in GAME OVER’s escape rooms, play a life-sized game of Monopoly, explore global street food at District in Brent Cross, or snap vibrant photos at God’s Own Junkyard.
- London with your family and kids: Let little ones burn energy at Topsy Turvy’s Soft Play, experience a truly unique reading experience at the free Brent Cross Town Monthly Book Club, or enjoy mind-bending fun at the interactive Twist Museum.
- London with your partner for a romantic day out: Wander through the floral oasis of Florescenza, share an Afternoon Tea Bus Tour around London’s landmarks, or take a peaceful stroll through Kyoto Garden in Holland Park.
Are you looking for something truly different to do in London in 2026?
Whether you’re a visitor eager to explore beyond the usual sights or a local hunting for fresh ways to spend time with friends, family, or a special someone, London has a surprising array of unique experiences to offer.
From neon-lit wonderlands and life-sized board games to quirky museums, secret gardens, and immersive dining experiences, there’s something unforgettable around every corner in this city.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 unique things to do in London, split into 3 categories: fun with friends, family-friendly activities with children, and romantic outings.
Unique things to do in London with your friends
If you want to have a fun day out with your friends in London, there are plenty of unique activities to try.
From unusual experiences to interactive adventures, here are 4 ideas that will make your time together unforgettable: 👇
Try one of GAME OVER’s escape rooms at Brent Cross
Location: L1, Prince Charles Dr, London NW4 3RW.
You and your friends can challenge your problem-solving skills at GAME OVER’s escape rooms in Brent Cross, North London.
Escape rooms are team activities that require you and others to get out of a room before time runs out by finding clues, solving puzzles, and deciphering secret messages.
In GAME OVER, there are escape rooms that are suitable for both beginners and experienced escapers with thematic options, including:
- The Lost City of Atlantis
- Nightmare Hotel
- School of Magic
- Alice in Wonderland
These immersive rooms are full of puzzles, hidden clues, and clever challenges that make teamwork essential.
Whether you choose a horror, mystery, or adventure theme, every room is designed to get your minds working together while having a laugh.
We’d consider this fun activity as perfect for groups who enjoy a mix of strategy, excitement, and friendly competition.
Each experience lasts around an hour, making it a fun pre-dinner or evening activity.
Local tip: Booking in advance is recommended, as popular rooms fill up quickly, but walk-ins are also welcome.
We’d consider this fun activity as perfect for groups who enjoy a mix of strategy, excitement, and friendly competition.
Each experience lasts around an hour, making it a fun pre-dinner or evening activity.
Local tip: Booking in advance is recommended, as popular rooms fill up quickly, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Experiment with different international foods in Brent Cross’ District
Location: Prince Charles Dr, Brent Cross, London NW4 3FP. Located on the Lower Mall opposite M&S.
We’ve got something for London’s food lovers who are hungry to try something new: District, Brent Cross’ vibrant new street food destination in North London.
Brent Cross’ District is a foodie heaven with flavours from around the world: you and your friends can wander from stall to stall and taste Asian street food, European treats, and other dishes, including:
- Pasta Remoli’s handmade pasta, Roman-style pizza, and burrata.
- Yaay Yaay’s fiery Kaprow chicken, rich Panang curry and fragrant riceberry rice.
- Smatcha’s creamy lattes and refreshing yuzu spritzers
- Oshpaz’s signature plov that comes with lamb, chicken or veg and all the traditional sides.
- Smoky Boys’ stacked burgers, saucy wings, loaded fries and shakes.
- Three Uncles’ Cantonese-style roast meats, fluffy bao buns, and warming noodle bowls
It’s perfect for groups who love trying new flavours and sharing plates.
The lively atmosphere adds to the experience, making it feel like a mini culinary adventure inside Brent Cross’ shopping centre.
Play Monopoly Lifesized
Location: Monopoly Lifesized, 213-215 Tottenham Ct Rd, London W1T 7PS.
A dream come true for some, with a little bit of nostalgia for others, you and your friends can play a life-sized game of Monopoly at Monopoly Lifesized.
You will be able to walk across giant game tiles, buy properties, and dodge oversized tokens in a full-scale version of the classic board game. It’s perfect for groups of friends who love playful competition and a few laughs along the way.
There are 4 life-sized boards that you’ll be able to choose from:
- Luxury Board
- Classic Board
- Classic Own It All
- City Board
Its blend of strategy and silliness for all ages can be a unique way to spend an afternoon or evening together, especially for fans of the iconic game. After you're done, you can relax at the place’s bar and restaurant, The Top Hat.
Visit God's Own Junkyard
Location: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ.
God's Own Junkyard is a visually stunning spot in London, full of neon signs and artistic creations.
You and your friends will be able to take colourful photos and wander among its dazzling lights, some of which have allegedly been used in movies. This activity is perfect for friends who love quirky, Instagram-worthy locations. The space itself is filled with artwork from film props to neon installations, making it feel like stepping into another world.
Unique things to do in London with kids
Looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained in London? These 3 fun and engaging activities are perfect for families and will make any day out exciting for kids.
Let kids run wild at Topsy Turvy’s Soft Play
Location: L1, 117 Prince Charles Dr, Hendon Way, Brent Cross, London NW4 3RW. Located just opposite the Brent Cross multi-storey car park (level 3).
Topsy Turvy’s Soft Play in Brent Cross is a paradise for little ones with its climbing frames, slides, and ball pits. Your kids will be able to burn off energy in a safe environment while you are grabbing a bite at the café.
The venue also offers birthday packages and is a good option for longer visits, with a dedicated area for under-3s and a multi-tiered play frame for older preschoolers and under-12s. The soft play areas are safe, colourful, and designed to encourage kids’ confidence and active play.
💡 Topsy Turvy is fully padded and runs with a smart one-way system for your peace of mind.
⚠️ Disclaimer: There's a 1.5 metre height limit.
Discover North London's literary side at the Brent Cross Town Book Club
Location: Brent Cross Town Visitor Pavilion, 145 Claremont Road, NW2 1FE.
If you are looking for something a little different to do with the family in London, the Brent Cross Town Monthly Book Club offers an experience you will not find in a typical guidebook.
North London has long inspired some of the city's best-known authors, and this free monthly event brings that heritage to life through a curated selection of recent books by local writers.
Each session is led by Collette Lyons, a best-selling author and North Londoner who also writes under the pen name Ellery Lloyd alongside her husband, with their novels having been chosen as Richard and Judy Book Club and Reese Witherspoon UK Book Club picks.
The discussion is warm and welcoming, making it a brilliant option for families with teenagers or older children who enjoy stories and want to experience a side of London that most visitors never see.
Registration is required as spaces are limited, but the event itself is completely free and includes light refreshments. It is the kind of unique, community-driven activity that turns a London trip into something more personal and memorable.
💡 The book club runs monthly from January to June 2026 at the Brent Cross Town Visitor Pavilion, so it is worth checking the schedule and reserving your spot early.
Experience the Twist Museum
Location: 248 Oxford St, London W1C 1DH.
The Twist Museum in London is an interactive space full of optical illusions and playful exhibits that can be a fun day out with your family. Children can explore its 80+ exhibits that bend perspective, test their senses, and take fun photos.
It’s perfect for families who enjoy hands-on experiences and mind-bending fun. The museum is designed to be both educational and highly entertaining, and every corner offers surprises that keep kids engaged and curious.
Unique things to do in London with your partner
If you’re planning a romantic day in London, there are plenty of charming and memorable experiences to share with your partner. From peaceful strolls to playful adventures, these 3 ideas are perfect for couples.
Enjoy the beauty of fresh blooms inside of Florescenza
Location: Outside Brent Cross, Prince Charles Drive, NW4 3BR, London.
Florescenza in Brent Cross is a garden centre (more like a serene oasis) filled with stunning floral arrangements and seasonal blooms.
You and your partner will be able to wander among the fragrant flowers, admire unique designs, and even learn a little about floral artistry. We’d consider this activity perfect for couples who love nature, creativity, and a calm, intimate experience. The space itself is cosy and beautifully curated, making it ideal for quiet conversation and romantic photos.
At the end, you can make time for a coffee or dessert at their on-site Mediterranean restaurant, Il Cortile, or enjoy a relaxed breakfast surrounded by its greenery.
Go for Brigit Bakery’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Location: Gate O, Victoria Coach Station, London, WC2N 5BY.
An Afternoon Tea Bus Tour experience is a unique activity that combines sightseeing with delicious treats on a double-decker bus.
You and your partner can enjoy freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and tea as you glide past London’s landmarks, including the London Eye, Big Ben and Nelson's Column.
It’s perfect for couples who enjoy food, fun, and a little adventure rolled into one.
The moving tea room offers a playful twist on a classic London tradition while offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on its menu.
You’ll get to explore the city from a new perspective while sharing a cosy moment together.
According to VisitLondon, the total tour duration is 1 hour 30 minutes, and its departure point is Gate O, Victoria Coach Station, WC2N 5BY.
Local tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially for weekend tours, as they can sell out quickly.
Take a chilled walk at Kyoto Garden in Holland Park
Location: Holland Park, Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA.
Kyoto Garden, located in Holland Park, is a tranquil Japanese garden with koi ponds, waterfalls, and elegant greenery.
The place has been created by an eminent Japanese designer and makes for a quality romantic day out, as you and your partner can stroll along winding paths, enjoy the peaceful scenery, and spot colourful fish.
The garden, originally founded in 1991, offers quiet corners for conversation or simply enjoying the beauty of nature together.
💡 Local tip: Visiting during spring or autumn adds an extra touch of magic with its seasonal blooms.
Spend a nice day out with your friends, family, or partner in Brent Cross
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or your special someone, there’s always something exciting to discover in Brent Cross. From delicious food to escape room adventures, Brent Cross Shopping Centre offers a variety of surprises and unmissable moments all year round.
You can plan your visit to Brent Cross here to see how to reach us by car, taxi, train, bus, or bike.
If you visit us by car, you’d be surprised to find that parking in our multi-storey car park is completely free, and if you’re coming with an EV, you’ll be able to charge your vehicle with RAW Charging’s EV charging points.
