Perhaps it’s been a long day. You’re not in the mood for the ride home, or another night in the same pub. Maybe you’ve got something you want to celebrate. Or talk over. Or you’ve just got some energy to burn.
The nights are getting longer, and whatever the weather, London has something that perfectly suits your needs. Dare to be trivial? Or to opt for a spot of self-improvement? There is enough going on in the centre of town to keep you busy all Winter. It’s easy to take London for granted if you see it every day on the way to work.
So, what to do after a day at the office?
Well, there’s the newest Alcatraz Prison–themed cocktail bar in Covent Garden! The original in Brick Lane proved so popular, they’ve had to open another, which might say something about everybody’s experience of life over the past few years.
Buy a ticket, get a processing number, smuggle in your own booze (aka bring your own bottle). Watch out for the warden, meet the crooked guard, wear the latest in tangerine jump suits and play along with the cast of actors who help you beat the system.
If all this sounds pretty tasteless to you, be aware that part of your ticket goes to Switchback, a charity that helps young Londoners find a way out of the justice system and back into a stable life.
But if you’re after something a bit more innocent, then why not try the newest temple to crazy golf from the Swingers brand?
Swingers West End can be found on Oxford Street, a seaside–themed nine hole venue located inside the old British Home Stores flagship. Four bars, including a bandstand, and ‘cocktail caddies’ on the golf course, plus a wooden boardwalk of beach huts offering lots of street food.
Another very British theme comes courtesy of Flight Club Darts (cocktail bar and darts in Shoreditch, Victoria and Bloomsbury). Lush pub surroundings and lights that dance in time to music, with cocktails and sharing plates. Plus darts played fast and daft.
The London Theatre season is hotting up at last, too. Among our many (genuinely) world beating productions, there are some fine curiosities.
Included in this category is an immersive version of “The Great Gatsby” (advertised as taking place in Gatsby’s Mansion, Mayfair, in a new location, Immersive LDN). Step through a drugstore into a world of riches and intrigue, we are told. Depending on which character you follow, you’ll find out about different strands in the story. It doesn’t set out to be the flashiest production, but it’s absorbing, immersive theatre. Faithful to the book. And you’ll want to dress up.
You can be the star of the show in an immersive escape experience in the heart of London (Rogue Productions), you and your teammates have 60 minutes to plan and commit the perfect crime. Your brief is to get your hands on the most valuable missing piece of art in the world. Will you complete the most memorable theft, or will you get caught?
Alternatively, you could just go for a luxury overnight stay in a central London hotel. There are some remarkable top London hotel deals on offer right now. One night with luxury spa, dining and drinking options all in, could prove tempting for you and your friends. Especially if you opt for a boutique apartment like those on offer from Tower Suites London, with its breath-taking views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. There’s also a 50 ft terrace bar overlooking the whole city skyline, a restaurant, and a hotel bar that is open 24–seven for guests. Spa treatments, and a gym too.
For more contemplative sorts, there are late nights at the London Museums and galleries, and evening classes at the Art Academy on Borough High Street. Not to mention Christmas markets and pop–up events like the Moonshine Saloon (bespoke cowboy cocktails and desperados on offer). It’s there for the taking. London calling.
Contact us at
hello@centrallondonalliance.com