London has always been a busy eco-space for gamers but, this year, it is getting better. If you are in London for the first time, you will never run out of gaming activities. The city offers options for both casual and hardcore gamers. It ranges from esports tournaments to grand festivals.
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1. Engage in Esports and Betting
London has some of the best betting lounges. This is because it has a growing esports betting scene and most gamers find real excitement not just in high scores and epic wins but also in the prediction of the next champion.
These lounges offer an exciting way to test your luck, especially for gamers who are tired of playing indoors. Venues like Aspers Casino in Stratford, The Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square, or HyperX Esports Arena provide a high-end experience with live betting options like esports betting, virtual sports, or traditional wagers.
If you are a punter who prefers the convenience of staying home and gaming, then you should definitely check out the latest online casinos. These new sites accepting UK punters are making waves this year with even more exciting odds, exclusive promotions, and bonuses.
2. Attend the London Games Festival 2025
The most anticipated game of the year is the London Games festival. It is returning for its 10th anniversary and taking over Trafalgar Square for two days. The festival is a global celebration. The event showcases the various diversity and creativity within the gaming industry.
This year, the event is happening from the 2nd to the 13th of April, 2025. Fans and newbie gamers can interact with industry experts, game developers, and even investors to pitch their ideas. Free demos, interactive exhibits, and fun-filled activities are readily available to make the day better.
You can also get competitive and battle out unreleased titles with other gamers or just soak in the gaming culture. This festival promises to be an annual highlight.
3. Chill at New Meta Gaming Arena
For a more relaxed gaming session, visit the New Meta Gaming Arena, London’s premier gaming café. They have high-end PCs, consoles, a streaming room, and a fantastic selection of food and drinks. It is the perfect spot for casual and competitive gamers alike. Regular tournaments and social nights make it a great place to meet fellow gamers and test your skills.
4. Compete at EGX London 2025
You can experience this ultimate gaming expo at the ExCeL Centre. This event is a paradise for gamers, with hands-on access to upcoming games, live esports competitions, and exclusive merch drops. The fun part is you get to meet your favourite game developers or try out the next big thing before the release. EGX provides a platform to immerse yourself in the gaming world.
5. Experience the Nintendo Switch 2
The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to have a hands-on event in London this year before its official launch. The waitlists are already up for registration. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience Nintendo’s latest console before its official release. Guests will get the chance to experience the next-gen console ahead of time, with exclusive demos and special Nintendo-themed activities.
6. Explore the Best Board Game Cafés in London
If board games are more your style, various board game cafes like Draughts and The Arcanist’s Tavern offer an extensive library of games to choose from. These cafes are competition-friendly and have a relaxed atmosphere. With locations in Dalston, Waterloo, and Shoreditch, this café provides a cosy atmosphere in which to enjoy classic and contemporary board games. They also serve a variety of complementary foods, coffee, and snacks.
7. Try Old-School Gaming
Enjoy Retro Gaming at Loading Bar. Located in Dalston, it offers a nostalgic gaming experience with retro arcade games, consoles, and a selection of board games. The setting is usually laid back and has a mix of modern and retro gaming setups.
With classic arcade machines, modern consoles, and a menu full of gaming-themed cocktails, it is an ideal spot for a relaxing night out with friends.
8. Experience the Unreal World
If you crave an immersive experience beyond screens and controllers, then step into the world of virtual reality at Sandbox VR. This place offers a next-level adventure. They have modern motion capture technology that creates a memorable experience. You can enter virtual cities and interact with aliens and zombies or zoom off into a futuristic world and have a sense of what is yet to come. The graphics are hyper-realistic and have full-body tracking. This is perfect for casual fun and hardcore competition, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to push the boundaries of gaming.
9. Participate in the London Anime & Gaming Con 2025
If it is not festivals, it is conventions. The London Anime & Gaming Con is a dream haven for true anime and gaming fans. The activity list features panel discussions, workshops, gaming tournaments, and cosplay competitions, offering a comprehensive experience for attendees. It is scheduled for August 29-31, 2025, at Novotel London West.
This convention is usually a buzzing marketplace filled with rare collectables and merchandise from various shows and games. There is something for everyone.
10. Join a Gaming Pub Quiz Night
For gamers who like to show off their knowledge, then you can find popular pubs ready to give you a night of quizzing competition. Venues like The Four Quarters in Peckham regularly host quizzes. They feature everything from classic retro games to the latest AAA releases. This is a great way to put your expertise to the test while enjoying a few drinks with fellow fans.
