The pub is a classic go-to in London. It’s reliable, relaxed, and always nearby. But sometimes, your group wants something a bit different. Maybe you’ve done the usual drinks-after-work routine too many times. Maybe it’s a special occasion. Or maybe it’s just about finding a new way to spend time together without shouting over the sound of the football.
Whether you are catching up with old friends, planning a night out with the squad, or celebrating something that’s worth more than a pint and some crisps, there is no shortage of group-friendly activities to do in the evening in the city.
This is the adults’ list—those aged 30s, 40s and above—who require something easygoing, homely but still fun. Here is how to enjoy your evening without the pub.
1. Cook Something Together
There’s pleasure in cooking an evening meal with friends—especially if someone else does the prep and washing-up.
Book a group cookery session. There are plenty around London to choose from: pasta-making in Italian Borough, curry-making in Thai Hackney, or rolling sushi in Soho. Most come with a glass of wine and sit-down supper afterwards. It’s sociable, laid-back, and something to talk about afterwards.
2. Sample a Wine or Whisky Tasting
Trade in your regular pint for something higher-brow. Independent wine merchants and distilleries offer evening tastings that are ideal for groups.
Independent wine merchants like 67 Pall Mall, Bedales, or the Whisky Exchange offer guided tastings that are special without being stodgy. You learn a little bit, taste something different, and it’s a pleasant change of pace.
3. Go Bowling—but Better
Ditch the neons and sticky shoes of the 90s. Bowling has come a long way.
Head to All Star Lanes or QUEENS. They bring together bowling with nice cocktails, reasonable food, and an adult atmosphere. It’s great for groups because it’s casual, easy to socialise and chat, and everyone is included.
4. Book a Group Restaurant Table
Sometimes, the best nights are the simplest—good food, decent people, and space to talk. That is where group dining comes in.
London boasts many restaurants that are designed for larger parties with fixed menus, private areas, or shared platters. If you are planning a reunion or a business dinner, pre-booking does make all the difference.
The advantage of eating in a group? Nobody needs to cook or clean—and everybody can unwind.
5. Laugh Together at a Comedy Night
A good laugh always unites. London has plenty of little comedy clubs with budget tickets and decent line-ups.
Try The Bill Murray in Angel or Top Secret Comedy Club in Covent Garden. They do most weeknights, and you can have dinner or drinks nearby first.
It’s a good choice if your group likes something light, social, and off the tourist trail.
6. See a Play or a Show
You don’t need to take the entire West End (if you don’t want to). London has smaller theatres with plays, live music, or fringe productions that are more last-minute bookable.
Look at The Old Vic, The Almeida, or Southwark Playhouse. A decent reason to dress up a bit and get established for something worth it—particularly if you do a pre-theatre dinner nearby.
7. Play Board Games in a Pub—Without the Pub Vibe
Places like Draughts in Waterloo or Hackney let you hire out a table, get some snacks, and play from a variety of games.
It’s casual but gives you something to do together. No screaming music. No shouting to be heard. Just a quiet way to catch up and have the evening.
8. Try a Pottery or Craft Night
If your group is into trying new things, book a hands-on evening. Pottery cafés like Social Pottery or craft studios around Peckham and Shoreditch host relaxed, evening workshops with drinks and good conversation.
You don’t need to be “creative.” It’s more about enjoying the process than making something perfect. And if you’re catching up with old friends, it’s a great backdrop for good conversation.
9. Take a Walk at Night
This one’s free, flexible, and a bit underrated.
London is beautiful at night—especially along the Thames. Start at Tower Bridge and walk west. You’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe, the Southbank Centre, the London Eye, and cross over to Westminster if you’re feeling energetic.
You don’t need a guide. Just stroll, stop for a coffee or gelato, and enjoy the atmosphere.
10. Escape Room with a Twist
Escape rooms aren’t all for birthdays or teenagers. Most venues now accommodate adults with fun themes, more complex puzzles, and better set pieces.
Mission: Breakout, Escape London, and ClueQuest all offer games that feel like mini-adventures. It’s ideal for smaller parties (usually 4–6 people per room) and is brilliant if your party likes some collaboration without the anxiety.
Final Thought
An evening in London doesn’t have to begin and conclude at the same old pub you always frequent. There are plenty of familiar activities to do in the city yet still discover something new.
So whether you’re planning a low-key catch-up or something a bit more memorable, try swapping your usual pint for an activity that gets everyone talking. Book a group dining spot to anchor the night, then build around it with something that fits your pace.
You don’t have to go far to find something new. London is all about making something happen—even when the intention is only a relaxed night out with friends you appreciate.