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Whether you’re a stay-at-home player who loves a quiet gaming session or someone who loves the energy of live tournaments and immersive VR lounges, London’s gaming scene has something just for you. The city’s filled with activities for gamers; from competitive events to virtual reality experiences, there’s something for everyone.
1. Stay In and Play with Flexibility
Not every gamer likes the bustling outdoor gaming activities. For those who prefer staying home to play, online casino games are one way to keep the excitement going without leaving your couch. The thing is, UK-based players sometimes run into restrictions due to programs like Gamstop, a self-exclusion tool for those who want to take a break from gambling platforms. So, for those looking to resume playing just for fun or to improve their casino skills, there are plenty of casinos not on Gamstop that offer more flexibility and a wider game selection. They’re accessible, convenient, and perfect for gamers who enjoy playing from the comfort of their home.
2. Catch EGX London 2025
EGX is a trade fair for video games organised by ReedPop and held annually. The event pulls in an average of 75,000 attendees. This year’s EGX London is set to be bigger than ever, and it’s a must-visit for every type of gamer. Expect exclusive game previews, panels with your favourite developers, indie showcases, and maybe even a surprise or two from big studios. It’s not just about playing new games and having fun; you’ll also meet people who live and breathe gaming, just like you. It is scheduled to take place from Saturday, October 25 to Monday, October 27, 2025, at ExCeL London. So, plan accordingly.
3. Compete or Watch at the Red Bull Gaming Sphere
Red Bull remains the leading energy drink brand globally. Even though it sold over 12.6 billion cans in 2024, what they’re known for is high-energy sporting activities like racing and gaming. Tucked away in Shoreditch, the Red Bull Gaming Sphere is one of the most advanced gaming spaces in the city. It’s a one-stop hub for tournaments, community nights, developer showcases, and more. Its Red Bull Pindrop events are known for exclusive showcases of games before they launch. Last year, it revealed TEKKEN 8. Whether you’re going to compete or just watch others play and soak up the energy from the sidelines, it’s a space that really celebrates the spirit of esports and competitive gaming.
4. Game and Dine at Platform Shoreditch
The Platform has earned its name as one of the best social gaming bars in London, and food lovers will love this one. At Platform, you can book private gaming booths with your friends, order food and drinks straight to your seat, and battle it out on really great consoles. Whether it’s Mario Kart, FIFA, or a nostalgic throwback to classic arcade games, it’s a relaxed spot where good food meets great games.
5. Visit Meltdown London for Esports Nights
Meltdown London is one of the few bars in the city entirely dedicated to esports. With big screens showing live matches and tournaments, themed cocktails, and weekly gaming competitions, it’s a go-to place for serious fans of games like League of Legends, Valorant, and Overwatch. And yes, you can jump on a PC and join in too.
6. Move Into The World Of VR at DNA VR
If you love outdoor gaming, DNA VR is one of the coolest ways to experience immersive gaming in London. With locations in Camden, Manchester, Battersea, and Hammersmith, it offers everything from escape rooms and zombie battles to rhythm games and fantasy quests. Players don’t need their own headset. Just show up, pick a game, and get transported to another dimension. Whether you’re solo or coming with friends, you’ll love it.
7. Dive Into AR Worlds at Otherworld
Located in Hackney and Victoria, Otherworld combines gaming with art and immersive tech. You enter through a neon-lit portal (literally), and inside, you’ll find state-of-the-art VR pods that take you to dreamlike virtual environments. There’s also a cool bar and lounge area for post-game chats. It’s part gaming, part sensory experience, and 100% worth it.
8. Chill at Kyoto Garden Between Sessions
After a long day of gaming or a late-night tournament, you might just need to chill a bit. Tucked inside Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is one of the most peaceful places in London. With its koi-filled ponds, waterfall, and beautifully manicured landscape, it’s a nice way to reset your brain after hours of screen time.
9. Check Out Gaming-Themed Cafés Like Loading Bar
If you’re looking for a casual spot to play indie games, sip coffee, or even grab a beer? Loading Bar in Stoke Newington offers a chill setup where you can play games on everything from Switch to PlayStation while surrounded by game-inspired drinks and décor. It’s cosy, welcoming, and just the right mix of gaming and a chill time.
Bonus: Plan to Explore Indie Gems at New Game Plus in 2026
If you love indie games or they’re more your thing, then you would have loved WASD in 2024. Indie games (short for independent games) are video games created by individuals or small development teams. These games tend to have more artistic expressions than mainstream games. WASD was a gaming expo that showcased up-and-coming developers and gave gamers a chance to try out fresh titles before they go mainstream.
Unfortunately, the organising company, Roucan Events & Content Ltd, closed up late last year. In response to that, the London Games Festival introduced New Game Plus to fill the gap. The 2025 edition already took place on April 3-4, and the turnout was great. This is an event to look out for in 2026 if you missed this year’s edition.
Gaming in 2025 looks different for everyone, and that’s the beauty of it. Maybe you like playing solo at home, or maybe you love the vibrant and active energy of a VR lounge or a gaming bar. No matter your style, there’s something for you in London. From chill spots to big tournaments, the city has a little bit of everything. And just like the people who play, the gaming scene keeps growing, changing, and staying full of life.
