In today’s fast-paced world, it’s often necessary to engage with our inner child and let go of our adult worries, even if just for a moment. Playing, exploring new worlds and creating when we were little would boost our mood and fuel inspiration. Well… who says we can’t experience this again? Step away from daily pressures at these nostalgic activities in London below that are guaranteed to reawaken your childhood memories, and have you feeling like a kid again.
1. Treat your inner child to an unforgettable soft play adventure
Treat your inner child to an unforgettable experience in a nostalgic soft-play adventure near Palmer’s Green. Take a trip down memory lane as you slide into a ball pit, play your favourite arcade games, and strike a Cheshire Cat grin at the photobooth in this Alice in Wonderland-themed party. Finally, watch as playtime transforms into a nightclub atmosphere, with DJs spinning the best old-school anthems for you to dance and sing along with your friends. A night that is guaranteed to bring back all your childhood memories!
2. Run wild at an indoor fairground
Five-metre hook a duck? Check. Whac-a-mole? Obviously. Hall of mirrors? You betcha. Spanning 20,000 square feet, Fairgame in Canary Wharf is the world’s first immersive adults fairground. They’ve taken our fave nostalgic activities and brought them under one roof here in London, with the addition of some modern-day tech. Each gamer can get their hands on an RFID wristband to log scores and purchase rounds on – will it be some boozy slushies on order? There’s also prosecco-infused candy floss and plenty of toffee apples to go around…
3. Rediscover your favourite childhood artists at a Candlelight concert
Most of us no doubt have distinct memories of our many music phases. Well, embrace the soundtracks of those years once again. Queen, ABBA, The Beatles, and more will all get the Candlelight concert treatment in the next few months: classical musicians will perform their hits in a brand-new way, under the soft glow of hundreds of candles.
4. Pop into Bubble Planet
Remember how blowing bubbles was a fun pastime as a child? Well, the multi-sensory world, Bubble Planet, offers pure nostalgic delight in London’s Wembley. Over an hour, you can work your way around 11 rooms themed around different types of bubbles, each more enchanting than the last. And, don’t worry, unlike traditional bubbles, the bubbles at Bubble Planet won’t disappear once popped. There is a hot air balloon flight simulation room; a VR experience room, where you see the world as you become a bubble yourself; a room filled to the brim with oversized balloons; and much much more.
5. Feel like the king of the jungle with The Lion King Musical
There’s nothing like seeing all your favourite childhood stories come to life, and better yet when that story is The Lion King. Experience the uplifting and inspiring effects of the power of love, hope and perseverance as compelling characters like Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa take the stage. Feel again all the excitement you felt as a child as you watch the Savannah come to life before your eyes. You’ll feel nostalgic as you journey through Simba’s coming of age and sing Hakuna Matata!
6. Take a trip down memory lane at this SEGA retro gaming bottomless brunch
Did someone say arcade & drinks? Enjoy the best things of being a kid and an adult at this 90s SEGA Retro Gaming Bottomless Brunch. Who needs VR when you can relieve the glory days of playing Sonic The Hedgehog and Mortal Kombat? Play four generations of SEGA games, whether Master System, Mega Drive, Saturn or Dreamcast, while you sip on some mimosa and challenge your friends to a one-on-one. All is fair in the arcade and brunch!
7. Stay up late at this gaming and cocktail bar
Head to Platform, where cocktails meet all your childhood games. Feel nostalgic while playing your old favourites, such as Mario Kart and Just Dance, and of course, FIFA. Expect to drink creative cocktails paired with delicious food at this fun concept bar.
So, whether you’re reminiscing, or just need a break from the daily grind, try out one of these nostalgic activities in London and relive the joy of your childhood. Who knows, you may even make some new memories to look back on in 20 years!