London's full of side quests.
1,000+ things to do
Late-night bookshop / library eventEvening author talks & launches
Sweat through a fiery Southern Thai curry-over-rice in Covent GardenPlaza Khao Gaeng recreates a Thai 'khao gaeng' curry shop: curries thick with coconut and fermented fish, and searing stir-fries, from Southern Thailand.
Sir John Soane's MuseumFree; the architect's house left as in 1837. Open Wed-Sun 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30). 90-person cap, no advance booking for general entry - arrive at 10:00 to avoid queues. Narrow, no lifts. Free Private Apartment tours Wed/Fri/Sun 2pm (first-come). Paid Highlights Tour ~£25.
BJJ / judo clubGrappling clubs welcome total beginners
African drumming circle / djembeWest African drumming workshops & circles; no experience needed. Find a session on Meetup.
Alcotraz prison cocktail experienceImmersive prison-themed cocktail experience - smuggle in your own spirit, they mix the rest in character. ~£50pp for ~2 hrs. 18+. Book well ahead. Alcotraz London is on Brick Lane E1; other branches in Manchester and Brighton.
Good Ship Comedy (Four Thieves)Fortnightly Wednesday club night. Runs at The Four Thieves, Lavender Gardens SW11.
Evening pottery / craft classWind down making something with your hands
Grill your own halal Korean BBQ at the table near BarbicanSit round a tabletop grill and cook beef, chicken and seafood yourselves, with Korean side dishes, rice and soup; a private room and a group area take bigger parties.
Spend a day at Thorpe ParkThe serious rollercoasters, reachable from Waterloo in under an hour. Height restrictions apply on most of the big rides — check before promising anyone anything.
Coffee cupping / barista classLearn to taste & brew with London roasters (e.g. workshops via specialty cafes). Half-day classes; book ahead.
Open-air theatre (Regent's Park)Plays & musicals under the skyGuides
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