20 of the Best Things to Do in London at Night

Date post added: 13th May 2025

New York isn’t the only city that never sleeps. London’s brilliant at day, but at night it offers a new dimension and truly comes alive. There’s such an array of fun things to do in London – an offering as diverse as its inhabitants.

Whether you want to sing or dance the night away, immerse yourself in history or culture, or feast on incredible global food, you can do that – and so much more – in London.

In this blog, we share 20 favourite things to do in London at night. You’ll find something for everyone, whether you’re venturing out as a family, a couple, a group or on your own. There are fun things for any dynamic in London.

What to do in London at night?

When London’s streets, landmarks and skyline are adorned with twinkling lights, the city seems truly magical. At the very least, it’s harder to see the grime. There are so many reasons to venture out as the sun goes down. And here are 20 fun things to do in London.

1. Catch a West End show

Central London’s West End hosts best-in-class, world-famous musicals, gripping dramas, stylish cabarets, and hilarious comedies. Taking in a West End show is an absolute must. From family-friendly favourites like The Lion King, Wicked or Matilda, to enduring classics like The Mousetrap or Les Miserables, there really is something for everyone.

For a truly spectacular, immersive experience, don’t miss Moulin Rouge or Cabaret at The KitKat Club. You really feel as if you’re in a cabaret bar. You’re transported to a different time and place for the duration of the cabaret show.

2. Spend a late night at a museum

Look out for late night openings at iconic London museums. It tends to be quieter than in the daytime, and you can participate in different events. Think pub quizzes, DJ nights, silent discos or candlelit tours. It’s a total vibe!

The British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern often have special evening events, including tours, talks, and workshops.

Looking for a memorable family experience? How about sleeping underneath a ginormous blue whale? Sleepovers at the Natural History Museum give adults and kids aged 7 to 11 the chance to explore the museum after dark.

3. Walk along the South Bank

For a romantic stroll or just to soak up the city lights, London’s South Bank is hard to beat. We recommend starting by the London Eye. As you walk along the banks of the River Thames, you’ll pass cultural hotspots like the Southbank Centre, Tate Modern and onto Shakespeare’s Globe. Take in the gorgeous views of St Paul’s Cathedral across the Thames. The South Bank has a wonderful vibrancy, with plenty of street food trucks and pop-up bars along the way.

4. Sip cocktails in a stylish bar

There’s no lack of watering holes in London. But how about something out of the ordinary? Conjure up your own personal potion or elixir in Mr Fogg’s Victorian Apothecary in Mayfair. It’s fabulously eccentric and majestic.

Step back into the 1940s at Cahoots in Soho. This retro speakeasy is set in a disused underground station. Over in Spitalfields, hunt for the hidden gem The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town. This spectacular cocktail bar is hidden behind a fridge door in The Breakfast Club diner. Yes, you can have a bottomless brunch here, but this award-winning cocktail bar is a perfect nighttime venue.

5. Tuck into some street food

Feast on world foods and delicious drinks at a food market. Grab some noodles, bao or pizza accompanied by a craft beer and maybe live music. Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is open until 11pm from Wednesday to Saturday. Choose from 20 independent food sellers and two bars. Mercato Metropolitano serves up authentic, tasty food and has venues in Mayfair, Canary Wharf and Elephant & Castle. Their unusual Mayfair venue is an old church with towering stained glass windows.

Over in East London, the Brick Lane food market is amazing but closes at 6pm. But there are still many places nearby to enjoy a curry or late night/ early morning bagel.

6. Go on a Jack the Ripper tour

The original immersive experience, walk along the same streets as Jack the Ripper and his victims as night falls. Retracing the steps of one of London’s most notorious criminals is equal parts creepy and fascinating. It’s an absolute must for true crime fans.

Join your guide to explore the cobbled alleyways and dark streets of Whitechapel and Spitalfields that Jack the Ripper and his victims frequented. It’s a Victorian CSI (crime scene investigation). Our Jack the Ripper walking tour runs nightly at 7.30pm.

7. Witness the Ceremony of the Keys

Now this is one for the whole family. Every night, the historic Ceremony of the Keys takes place at the Tower of London. What’s the Ceremony of the Keys, you say? It’s part of the process of locking up the Tower for the night.

8. Enjoy panoramic views of London

Why visit the London Eye at night? London looks exceptional from above when the city lights are twinkling. You get a bird’s eye view from your glass pod. It’ll be a truly memorable half an hour.

There are many rooftop bars offering panoramic views of London. Scroll down for a few of our recommendations. But our absolute favourite way to look over the London skyline is from a natural vantage spot. Head to Greenwich or Hampstead for incredible hilltop views.

9. Cruise along the River Thames

A nighttime river cruise is a relaxed way to take in the landmarks. Tick off the sightseeing essentials like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. You get a different viewpoint from the water.

For a glam and special Thames river trip, opt for an evening cruise complete with a four-course meal and live music with a backdrop of spectacular views.

10. Dance ‘til dawn

What can I do in London after midnight? You can dance and party the night away.

London’s nightlife is world famous. Whether you’re into gritty underground nightclubs in Dalston, LGBTQ+ parties in Soho, or house music in Shoreditch, there’s always somewhere to dance the night away.

11. Gaze at the stars

Check out the night sky at London’s only planetarium. The Royal Observatory in Greenwich hosts various stargazing events and talks – a must for budding astronomers. There are plenty of family-friendly shows throughout the day. But a nighttime show is epic – and sells out fast.

12. Hit a strike

Looking for a great group activity? Ten pin bowling is a hit! There are several All Star Lanes locations in Central London – Holborn, Brick Lane, Stratford and White City. They take bowling to another level. Open ‘til 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, you can enjoy cocktails, American-style food and karaoke to round off your night.

13. Retro gaming fun in Hackney

Spend your evening with Pacman and Space Invaders at Four Quarters, an amazing venue packed with your favourite old school video games. It’s nostalgic heaven for gamers.

As you’d expect from a canalside location in Hackney, there’s a curated selection of local craft beers, spicy marg cocktails and vegan pizza options.

14. Catch live music at Ronnie Scott’s

Soho’s legendary jazz club is the place for a laid-back, but sophisticated night. From up-and-coming artists to jazz icons, it’s always a silky smooth experience. Just make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment.

15. Late night shopping

You can shop until 10pm at the vast Westfield shopping centres on either side of the city – Stratford in East London and White City in West London. You’ll find high end and high street brands all under one roof. Plus there are heaps of eateries and entertainment options too.

The renowned London shopping destination that is Oxford Street is home to world-famous department store, Selfridges. Always impressive and inspiring, Selfridges is open until 10pm on weeknights.

16. Grab the mic

How about karaoke? It often seems a good idea after a few drinks. You’ll find Lucky Voice karaoke bars in Soho, Islington and Holborn. Belt out a power ballad or sing along to show tunes. It’s a fun way to bring friends together and sing your hearts out.

17. Discover live music venues in Camden

Camden’s live music scene is legendary with the likes of Adele and Amy Winehouse starting out there. It’s a great place for a gig, whatever style of music you’re into.

Camden boasts many live music venues like KOKO’s, Dingwalls, The Dublin Castle or The Camden Assembly. Want to explore Camden’s music scene further? Don’t miss our Rock ‘n Roll Camden tour which follows the neighbourhood’s walk of fame.

18. Have a laugh

Why visit London’s comedy clubs at night? Well, that’s when the best shows take place. London’s vibrant comedy scene is thriving. A hilarious show is a great distraction from the daily grind.

From vast arenas to dingy pubs, there’s an eclectic mix of comedy venues around the city. The Comedy Store (near Piccadilly Circus) has been the place for serious laughs since 1979. The Backyard Comedy Club in Bethnal Green has hosted most of the big names in comedy over the past 20 years. Then there’s The Top Secret Comedy Club in Covent Garden, the Soho Comedy Club or the intimate King’s Head pub in Crouch End.

19. Sip up on the roof

There’s something enchanting about looking out over the city from a rooftop bar. Even better, watching the sun descend on a warm evening.

What are the best rooftop bars in London to visit at night? If you’re willing to spend serious money, then the top of The Shard is rather remarkable. At 95 storeys high, you can enjoy panoramic vistas across London.

The Rooftop Bar at the Hilton Trafalgar Square is a real find in the West End. Enjoy an open air drink whilst drinking in the majestic London skyline. David’s tip is to visit on a weeknight.

20. Boogie nights at a roller disco

Picture yourself at a funky 1970s roller disco, perhaps in LA. Well, thanks to Usher, you can actually live that experience in Shepherd’s Bush, West London.

Flippers Roller Boogie Palace is open to all ages during the day. But on Fridays and Saturday evenings they mix up a few cocktails, add DJ sets, and keep rolling until 1am.

What to do in London by yourself at night?

Join a London walk of course! You don’t need to know anyone else in the group, but you may do by the end of it. You’ll feel safe wandering London’s streets at night with an expert guide to regale you with stories.

Are there any night tours in London for families?

We run nightly tours in London. Their suitability depends on the age and sensibilities of your kids. Some are enthralled by our Jack the Ripper walking tour or spooky Ghosts of the Old City. History buffs will enjoy our Old Westminster by Gaslight and The Ancient City at Night tours.

Spend your London night with us

Join us for a London walking tour any night of the week. We explore Victorian crime scenes, haunted areas, historic beauties and pubs! London at night is a special place to be. Come and discover it with us.