Hey, gamers! Ready to level up your weekends? London is a paradise for anyone who loves gaming, offering a range of venues where you can dive into virtual worlds, battle it out with friends, or just chill with like-minded gamers. Whether you’re into retro classics, cutting-edge VR or competitive esports, there’s something here for you. Grab your controllers, and let’s explore the best gaming spots in the city!
Loading Bar Dalston
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Located in the hip neighbourhood of Dalston, Loading Bar is a haven for gamers. This quirky spot combines a café vibe with an impressive selection of board games, consoles, and arcade machines. Whether you fancy a latte while playing Mario Kart or a drink with some tabletop gaming, Loading Bar has you covered. It’s the perfect place to hang out with friends and make new ones.
Four Quarters East
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If you’re a fan of retro gaming, Four Quarters East in Hackney Wick is the place to be. This cool venue is packed with classic arcade machines from the ’80s and ’90s, and you can play them all with tokens! They also have a fantastic selection of drinks, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day of classes. Don’t forget to try your hand at the original Pac-Man or Street Fighter II!
Platform
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Right in the heart of Shoreditch, Platform offers a unique gaming and dining experience. This venue is perfect for social gamers, featuring private gaming booths with the latest consoles and a fantastic menu of pizzas and drinks. Gather your mates for a FIFA tournament or dive into a co-op adventure game. Platform’s stylish, neon-lit atmosphere makes it an Instagram-worthy spot too!
The Heart of Gaming
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Situated in Croydon, The Heart of Gaming (or HoG) is a community-driven venue that boasts a huge array of arcade machines, consoles, and PCs. It’s a paradise for fighting game enthusiasts, with regular events and tournaments. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to meet fellow gamers and challenge them to a round of Tekken or Super Smash Bros.
Meltdown London
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Meltdown London in Islington is the go-to spot for esports fans. This esports bar offers live streaming of major tournaments, gaming PCs, and console setups. You can join in on the action or just chill with a drink and cheer for your favourite team. Themed events, quizzes, and tournaments make every visit exciting and different.
VEGA London
Located in Soho, VEGA London combines the thrill of gaming with the buzz of a nightclub. This venue features state-of-the-art VR experiences, console gaming, and a lively bar area. Perfect for a night out with friends, VEGA offers a mix of immersive gaming and dance-worthy tunes. It’s the ultimate spot for a fun-filled evening.
Bonus Tip: Game and Chill Meetups
Keep an eye out for local gaming meetups and events. Websites like Meetup.com and Eventbrite often list gatherings where you can meet fellow gamers, try out new games, and participate in tournaments. It’s a great way to expand your gaming community and discover new venues across London.
There you have it, gamers – the ultimate guide to the best gaming venues in London! Whether you’re a casual player or an esports fanatic, these spots offer something for everyone. Grab your mates, hit up these venues, and get ready for some epic gaming sessions. See you on the leaderboard!
And if you want to turn your passion for gaming into a career, check out our games courses!
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