Everyone’s workplace socialising habits are different. Some of us have every Thursday until the end of time blocked out in our diaries for after-work drinks. For others, these occasions might happen on a more ad hoc basis. But one thing we know for sure is that hanging out with your work mates is great – and you certainly don’t need to wait for someone to organise an office party to do so.
In fact, we’ve partnered with South Western Railway to inspire you with cool things to do with your colleagues. So rally the troops and get ready for some fun post-work activities!
Flow LDN
Squeezing in an after-work sweat with your colleagues is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. There’s nothing like factoring a hit of endorphins into your post-work activities to put a spring back in your step when the day is done. And the best part is, you get to socialise whilst doing it! At Flow LDN you can take classes in Barre, Yoga, Pilates and Reformer Pilates, so whatever your workout style – there’s something for you. And of course, we’d never pick somewhere that didn’t have great drinking and dining options nearby for after. Located on Tottenham Street, you’ll be perfectly situated to head out after and explore central London’s unrivalled bars and restaurants. 11 Tottenham St, W1T 2AG
Le Garrick
This intimate, family-owned restaurant looks as inviting on the outside as it feels on the inside. The stripped back yet cosy interiors make the perfect setting to natter with your work mates over some regional French cuisine and some exquisite wine. And with this SWR reward, each diner can get a free glass when they order a starter and a main course. If there’s four of you, you’ll get a whole bottle. We’d recommend the classic grilled entrecote with a glass of full-bodied red. Bon appétit! 10-12 Garrick St, WC2E 9BH
Shoryu Ramen
A comforting bowl of ramen, fluffy bao buns and Japanese-inspired cocktails – what more could you want from a week night dinner? Brought to you by the same people behind Japan Centre, Shoryu Ramen is Japanese food, exactly as it should be. Unpretentious, bursting with flavour and made to be shared and savoured with others. We’re not about to tell anyone how they should order. But if it were us, we’d be getting the Hakata Set Menu – giving you a main course, dessert and drink for just £23! And we can’t not mention their Happy Hour deal, offering £7 cocktails or 2 pints for £10, 4pm-7pm Monday to Thursday. 3 Denman Street, W1D 7HA
Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are always on hand to provide their top London recommendations. Sandy is a culture vulture with a love for the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to gigs with his mates. But one thing they can both agree on is their love of darts. And their favourite place to enjoy this particular pastime is Flight Club. Here you can reserve your own area, with the luxury of delicious cocktails and sharing plates brought to you while you play. There’s nothing like a little bit of health competition between colleagues to keep things interesting! 55 New Oxford St, WC1A 1BS
Little Scarlet Door
When the evening is going swimmingly and you’re not ready to throw in the towel, sometimes you just need one more venue. So round off this batch of fun post-work activities we give you The Little Scarlet Door on Greek Street – who are always happy to oblige. But if you happen to be finishing early, it’s also a great place to kick off, as they do £5 picantes until 6pm Mon-Fri. Whilst their cocktails are the main attraction, there’s also a selection of tasty bar snacks, toasties and canapés, should you need something extra to soak up all of the liquid.