London is a fun, vibrant city that is perfect for a weekend away with friends. Don’t be fooled into thinking that all you can do is a spot of sight-seeing, as there is so much more to this vast city!
We know it can be challenging to find new, exciting activities, especially in such a large place so we’ve done all the hard work for you and put together this handy guide of where to stay and things to do in London.
Where can I go with a group of friends in London?
Top activity: The Dare Skywalk
Top place to visit: Camden
Top restaurant: STK
Fun things to do in London with friends
1. The Dare Skywalk
Although you may be more used to skywalks through trees, the Dare Skywalk has a more urban vibe. Perfect for you and your adrenaline junkie mates (although perhaps not Arsenal fans!), this has got to be one of the coolest things in London. Spend 90 minutes on this clip and climb experience, scaling the heights of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and taking in stunning views.
The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, N17 0BX
2. AIM Escape Rooms
Fully immerse yourselves in an innovative escape room experience that’s set to puzzle you and your friends. With multiple themed games to choose from, the level of detail in the rooms at AIM Escape is mind-blowing. This is a perfectly fun place to go in London with friends in London, putting all of your skills to the test.
8 Canter Way, E1 8PS
3. The Ginstitute
If you and your friends are fans of a few gins on a Saturday evening, take your love for the botanical drink to the next level with a trip to The Ginstitute. Here you can spend the day crafting your own bespoke bottle of gin and enjoy the results with friends at your accommodation later!
186 Portobello Road, W11 1LA
Top places to visit in London with friends
1. Shoreditch
Visit this eclectic part of London with its hip scene that is home to an abundance of independent stores, cool eateries, and quirky bars. This part of London is definitely best for nightlife. Be sure to head to Junkyard Gold on Brick Lane where you can tee off at an indoor neon, graffitied crazy golf park.
Finish the night in the local nick, although don’t panic, you aren’t under arrest! Alcotraz is an immersive drinking experience based on the infamous American prison, Alcatraz. What better way to spend time with friends than locked up in a cell with some fabulous cocktails?
2. Camden
Probably the most fun neighborhood in London, Camden is always a hit, with plenty to do. Head to the markets where you’ll find a treasure trove of independent traders selling unique goods and be sure to check out the wonderful food stalls on offer. If that isn’t enough to keep you all entertained, take a trip to London Zoo and spend some time with the animals too!
3. Marylebone
If adventure isn’t your cup of tea, keep things classic with a trip to Marylebone where you can shop till you drop, with the occasional stop for a cup of tea, or something stronger if that takes your fancy! There are some great boutique stores in the area, but it is also close to popular destinations such as Soho and Regent’s Park in case you fancy finding more things to do in Central London.
Best places to stay in London with friends
1. Montcalm East
If you like the idea of staying East in hipster heaven, you and your friends should book into Montcalm East. The boutique rooms offer views across the city and there is an impressive spa to boot.
If you want somewhere close to the action, this is a lovely hotel with great amenities, right at the heart of busy city life.
151-157 City Road, EC1V 1JH
2. Sanctum Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments are a great way to spend a weekend away with friends in London. Not only are they more spacious but they are often more affordable when split with other people. Book a stay at Sanctum’s Serviced Apartments where there are up to 4 bedroom apartments on offer that give you greater freedom to come and go as you please with your friends, whilst still being in a luxurious setting. The locations are perfectly suited to finding plenty of fun things to do in London with friends.
Sanctum London, Various Locations
3. The Treehouse London
For a unique stay that will give you and your friends plenty to talk about, book the Treehouse London. This is a nature-filled space with plenty of quirky design points and great views. It does lack some facilities, however, such as access to a gym and kettles in the room, which might contribute to its 4-star rating. It doesn’t necessarily offer luxury, but it is fun and filled with quirky details.
Where to eat in London with friends?
1. Sexy Fish
Head to one of the most popular restaurants in London right now, and make like all the influencers, with dinner at Sexy Fish. In the heart of Mayfair, this Asian restaurant offers Japanese-inspired sushi, sashimi, seafood, fish, and meat all cooked on a Robata grill. The opulent space will add a glamorous touch to your time with friends.
Berkley Square, W1J 6BR
2. STK
For a sleek lounge vibe mixed with a contemporary steakhouse, take a trip with friends to STK. This place is popular for a reason with its high-quality ingredients and impressive surroundings, and it’s the perfect chance for you all to put your glad rags on and enjoy a superior fine dining experience.
336-337 Strand, WC2R 1HA
3. No. Fifty Cheyne
For a more casual setting that still provides first-class cuisine, head to No. Fifty Cheyne. This Chelsea gastropub serves up ornate takes on pub classics, as well as some plates that are more suited to fine dining but, one thing is certain, you and your friends won’t go hungry here!
50 Cheyne Walk, SW3 5LR
14-15 Langham Place, W1B 2QS
Wrapping up the best things to do in London with Friends
There isn’t much you can’t find in London to do with friends. The best time of year to visit is April to September when the weather is milder, and you don’t need to fear the dreaded British rain quite so much. Be sure to plan your trip with friends in advance and book where needed!