2026 guide to immersive experiences in London you can’t miss

How we chose the best immersive things to do in London

London is a global leader in immersive experiences, offering activities that blur the lines between theatre, gaming, art and nightlife. From large-scale digital installations to interactive storytelling and live-action adventures, the city has no shortage of ways to step into another world.

Our recommendations in this guide are drawn from local knowledge, sale insights and first-hand experience from our London-based editors, to curate a fantastic list of the best immersive experiences you need to try.

Each inclusion is chosen for its originality, quality and visitor appeal, with a focus on what feels distinctly London. We assess storytelling, interactivity, accessibility and enjoyment, alongside practical planning details, to create a balanced mix of iconic favourites and innovative newcomers for all interests and budgets.

Immersive theatre experiences in London

ABBA Voyage – Best for electric nostalgia

Housed in the purpose-built ABBA Arena and exclusive to London, ABBA Voyage pairs cutting-edge visual technology with a live band to create the unforgettable illusion of ABBA performing right before your eyes.

Unlike any traditional concert, this fully immersive experience celebrates the songs that defined generations – from Gimmie! Gimmie! Gimmie! to Thank You for the Music – captivating devoted fans and newcomers alike. We love how the live band and digital “ABBAtars” make the whole show feel both futuristic and nostalgic.

To make the most of your visit, arrive early and soak up the atmosphere as the venue comes to life. Explore the merchandise store or enjoy food and drinks at the on-site bars and dining spots before the mesmerising show begins.

Best for: Music lovers, groups and anyone who wants a spectacular night out.
Good to know: Exclusive to London – book ahead to secure tickets as performances sell out quickly. The arena can get a little warm, especially with all the dancing you’re doing, so be sure to grab a sparkly ABBA fan before the show to keep you cool – plus they look fabulous!

Phantom Peak – Best for immersive storytelling at your own pace

Dive into the world of Phantom Peak, an immersive theatrical experience where you become part of the story.

Using your phone, you’ll navigate through different missions and quests at your own pace, interacting with mysterious characters, uncovering clues and shaping your own adventure as you go. We love that no two visits are the same, and you can even pay a little extra to join mini side missions with the live actors, which adds an extra layer to the experience. On our visit, we encountered Dr. Winter, a definitively evil scientist with free reign over the Phantom Peak kingdom.

You’ll also find themed bars and eateries along the way, making them the perfect resting spot to recoup from your adventure. The food is surprisingly good too – don’t sleep on the mac and cheese.

Best for: Groups, adventure-seekers and theatre fans.
Good to know: Phantom Peak is moving to its new location, Westfield Stratford City, in summer 2026. Keep an eye out for updates and ticket release date.

Immersive dining and drinking experiences in London

The Lost Estate – Best for immersive fine-dining storytelling

Step inside The Lost Estate and discover one of London’s most extraordinary immersive nights out where theatre, live music and fine dining come together to create a richly transportive experience.

Whether it’s the glitz and glamour of 1930s New York’s 58th Street with a six-course Manhattan-inspired tasting menu and Harlem jazz, 1890s Parisian cabaret spectacular and an indulgent three-course Parisian feast at CHAT NOIR or the festive magic of The Great Christmas Feast complete with a Victorian dining theatre retelling of a Dickens' classic, each production pulls you into a different world.

We love the effortless fusion of performance, storytelling and cuisine. Prepare to become part of the narrative, surrounded by immersive sets and themed cocktails that transform you to another era.

Best for: Immersive experience fans, theatre lovers and celebratory nights out.
Good to know: Advance booking essential to guarantee the best seats in the house. Tables by the stage are the most immersive, putting you right in the heart of the experience. Each show has a dress code, so we recommend dressing up to feel complete immersion into the experience.

Mamma Mia! The Party – Best for ABBA singalong fun

Travel to the sunny island of Skopelos and immerse yourself in the heart of a sun-soaked Greek taverna for an unforgettable evening of food, music and storytelling at Mamma Mia! The Party.

Tuck into a four-course Mediterranean feast, including traditional Greek dips with tear-and-share bread, layered filo pastries with spinach and feta and slow-cooked beef with garlic-roasted baby potatoes, all while performers bring a feel-good ABBA-inspired story to life around you. Save room for a dessert platter served later in the evening, including Greek yoghurt with cherry compote, baklava and orange Ravani cake, before the night continues on the dancefloor with a live DJ.

We love that every seat here, whether on the ground floor or in the balconies, provides a unique perspective on the performance. The vibe is incredible and you really do end the night feeling like you've been whisked away to a Greek paradise!

Combining theatre, dining and live music, it’s a wonderfully immersive experience that feels like a mini holiday in London.

Best for: ABBA fans, singalong fun and escapist entertainment.
Good to know: Wondering what to wear? You'll see a mixture of people dressed in ABBA-themed outfits, 1970s-inspired styles or simply something casual.

Immersive exhibitions and museums in London

FRAMELESS – Best for art escapism

FRAMELESS transforms a traditional art gallery into something magical by placing visitors inside iconic masterpieces. Famous artwork by the likes of Monet, Dalí, Klimt and Van Gogh are brought to life through floor-to-ceiling projections, motion sensors and tailored soundscapes.

Explore four extraordinary art gallery spaces and see the artwork shift through movement, colour and perspectives. Whether you’re spinning to scatter Monet’s waterlilies or stepping into the surreal dreamscapes of Dalí, every room creates a unique emotional experience.

We love the smooth, relaxing transition from room to room, stepping into different interactive spaces and enjoying watching the magic unfold around us. Grab a bench, walk around the space or even lay on the floor and enjoy immersing yourself into the everchanging art.

Best for: Art lovers, families and immersive art fans.
Good to know: Late night sessions available on Fridays and Saturdays.

Lightroom – Best for immersive digital art and film

See spectacular immersive exhibitions at Lightroom, bringing culture, photography and storytelling to life at scale.

Using floor-to-ceiling projections and powerful sound, you’re transported to visually stunning worlds as the drama unfolds around you, from epic landscapes to iconic artists and global stories. The immersive shows are a captivating way to experience art differently, whether you’re a culture lover or simply curious. There are several places to sit, stand and even lie down to watch the show unfold around you. We recommend standing or grabbing a seat on the mezzanine area to see the action from all angles.

Exhibitions change regularly, so we recommend checking back for new additions to Lightroom’s portfolio. The big exhibitions launching at Lightroom London in 2026 are David Bowie: You’re Not Alone and Larger Than Life: Starring Wallace & Gromit, Shaun and More.

Best for: Modern art experiences, culture lovers, families of all ages and something to do on a rainy day in London.
Good to know: Most shows last around 45 to 60 minutes, but you can stay as long as you like. Don’t forget to browse the merchandise shop for unique pieces, from books to clothing, available to purchase.

Twist Museum – Best for entertaining photo ops

Explore more than 60 immersive exhibits and illusions at Twist Museum, a vibrant, multisensory world where your eyes, ears and mind are constantly put to the test. Travel through rooms that challenge your senses and spatial awareness, with every space forcing you to question what’s real.

We love the Twist Museum for its playful, curiosity driven approach. Key exhibits to look out for include striking visual colour experiences in the Colour Flip Room, an immersive photo-friendly room packed with kaleidoscopic patterns in the Kaleidoscope Room and sensory-testing illusions in the Sound Lab.

Best for: Curious minds, illusion lovers and groups.
Good to know: Interactive exhibits offer great photo moments – get snap happy! There are a limited number of free lockers to store coats and personal belongings, so we recommend travelling light so you can enjoy the experience.

Fun immersive experiences to enjoy with friends in London

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience – Best for high energy group activities

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience brings the iconic TV show to life in a fast paced, immersive challenge for teams.

Step inside marvellously themed zones and tackle a series of physical, skill based and mental challenges as the clock ticks down, all in pursuit of those all important crystals. Combining teamwork, problem solving and a healthy dose of nostalgia, it’s a thrilling way to put your abilities to the test.

We loved how varied the challenges were, ranging from rock climbing over spikes and memory games in a control room to operating on an alien onboard a spaceship and answering riddles to the sun god. We were beside ourselves with laughter on the jousting challenge on horseback, wait until you see the horse…

Whether you’re a fan of the original series or simply love interactive experiences, we love this action packed outing that promises big laughs and lasting memories in the heart of the city.

Best for: TV show fans, interactive adventures and problem-solving fun.
Good to know: Challenges aren’t just physical – expect a mix of mental, skill and physical challenges so everyone can get involved.

Monopoly Lifesized – Best for immersive play for fans of board games

Monopoly Lifesized brings the classic board game to life with interactive adventures with giant dice, themed boards and escape room challenges. Choose from four exciting boards, each following the same core rules but with unique challenges.

We love the fun and interactive elements that bring the board game to life, alongside the hands-on challenges and mini games that you can take part in along the way.

Once you’re finished, check out the award-winning Top Hat Bar for a celebratory drink and bite to eat. You’ll find themed cocktails and small plates here, the perfect way to round off your experience.

Best for: Competitive groups, board game lovers and families.
Good to know: Different boards and tokens offer varied challenges, from strategy led to more active play.

Alcotraz Immersive Cocktail Experience – Best for a night out with a twist

Flip everything you know about a traditional bar on its head and get ready to step into the Alcotraz Immersive Prison cocktail experience.

Don an orange jumpsuit and expect a briefing behind bars with your inmates, before smuggling your own spirits past the Warden so the expert inmate mixologists shake up bespoke cocktails inside a theatrical prison set. You can sit in your jail cell and watch the drama unfold, or talk on the phone and take mugshots with the interactive set. We smuggled in gin and loved the four different cocktails we were made, garnished with fresh fruit and tailored to our taste preferences.

With live actors, hidden flasks and plenty of storytelling, it’s a playful and interactive night out that puts you at the heart of the action.

Best for: Celebrations, group nights out and interactive drinking experiences.
Good to know: As a guide, a 35cl bottle of spirit per two people or a 70cl bottle for a group of four people is recommended. All bitters, purees, juices, syrups and other ingredients are included in the ticket price.

The Cube – Best for fans of game shows

Put your skills, nerve and teamwork to the test at The Cube, the high-stakes game experience inspired by the hit TV show.

Step inside The Cube and take on a series of deceptively simple challenges that demand focus, precision and calm under pressure, all against the clock. With dramatic lighting, suspenseful sound effects and plenty of tension, it’s an adrenaline fuelled immersive experience that keeps everyone on edge.

Recharge between challenges with fully loaded burgers, succulent small plates and crispy pizza slices, alongside vibrant and refreshing drinks. We love the buttermilk crispy fried chicken tenders – a must-try.

Best for: Group activities, competitive fun and teambuilding.
Good to know: Games are played in groups of four, split into two teams of two players. If you book as a two, you’ll be paired with another team on the day.

Best immersive experiences for kids in London

The London Dungeon – Best for a spooky fun day out

Experience the capital’s most gruesome history brought to life through immersive sets, live actors and thrilling rides at The London Dungeon.

Journey through more than 1,000 years of London’s past as you encounter infamous characters, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd, with plenty of shocks and laughs along the way. Combining storytelling, special effects and theatrical performances, it’s a memorable way to explore history with a twist.

If you’re feeling brave, make sure to experience the exhilarating vertical free fall on Drop Dead: Drop Ride, plunging you three stories through the London Dungeon.

Best for: Spooky fun, interactive experiences and history buffs.
Good to know: The ride is included in the London Dungeon ticket price and is optional to go on.

The Paddington Bear Experience – Best for family friendly immersive fun

Experience the charming world of the Paddington Bear Experience in this joyous multi room immersive adventure designed for all ages.

Your journey begins at Paddington Station, where you board a full-size train carriage and set off through bustling London before arriving at 32 Windsor Gardens, home of Paddington and the Browns. Explore beautifully detailed sets, wander through interactive rooms, meet beloved characters and help prepare for the biggest celebration of the year – the Marmalade Day Festival.

We love this experience for its warmth, creativity and attention to detail – it’s a joyful, hands-on adventure that leaves both children and adults smiling.

Best for: Families, Paddington Bear fans and film lovers.
Good to know: Extend the adventure with Paddington The Musical at the Savoy Theatre.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – Best for wizardry magic

Step behind the scenes of the beloved Harry Potter film series at Warner Bros. Studio Tour and immerse yourself in the spellbinding world where all eight films were brought to life.

We love how this tour lets you wander through iconic sets at your own pace, from the Great Hall and Diagon Alley to Dumbledore’s office and the Forbidden Forest – all while seeing hundreds of original costumes, props and special-effects secrets up close.

Boarding the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾ is always a highlight for visitors – don’t forget to snap a photo on the platform beside the luggage trolley!

Best for: Harry Potter fans, families and film lovers.
Good to know: Seasonal themes run throughout the year, including Magical Mischief, Dark Arts and Hogwarts in the Snow, making repeat visits just as enchanting.

Paradox Museum – Best for mind-bending fun

Playful, mind-bending interactive exhibits await at Paradox Museum, challenging perception and reality.

Explore a series of immersive rooms filled with optical illusions, gravity-defying spaces and hands-on installations designed to surprise and delight. From vanishing into walls in the Camouflage Room to gravity-defying illusions in the Reversed Room, it’s a fun, curiosity fuelled experience that encourages you to question what you see.

The Zero Gravity room is the centrepiece of the museum, captivating visitors with its padded, anti-gravity chamber that defies the laws of physics. The showstopping attraction simulates the sensation of space exploration, allowing visitors to lie upside down on walls and fully immerse themselves in an unparalleled, surreal adventure.

Best for: Curious minds, groups and memorable photo moments.
Good to know: Look out for the explanation plaque near each exhibit for insights into the science behind the illusion.

Epic VR experiences in London

Sandbox VR – Best for high-energy thrill seekers

Step inside action-packed worlds, from zombie apocalypses to futuristic adventures, at the immersive virtual reality experience Sandbox VR.

Using full-body motion capture and cutting-edge VR tech, you’ll see yourselves inside the game as you move, dodge and work together in real time. It’s an adrenaline filled outing that’s perfect for trying something different in London, delivering big thrills whatever the weather.

After the games, we recommend grabbing a drink from Toni the robotic bartender and getting comfy in the lounge to rewatch footage of you playing the VR games, guaranteed to produce some belly laughs!

Best for: Thrill-seekers, groups and high energy fun.
Good to know: Evening and weekend sessions are popular, so advance booking is recommended.

Free immersive experiences in London

Outernet London – Best for free immersive entertainment

Outernet London is a free, immersive entertainment district at Tottenham Court Road, home to some of the world’s largest high resolution digital screens.

Step inside vast, wraparound spaces where art, music and video content are brought to life through dazzling visuals and sound. With constantly changing displays, pop up installations and live events, there’s always something new to discover. Previous free immersive experiences include the Butterfly Trail, a magical mixed reality experience bursting with sound and colour.

After enjoying the free immersive experiences at Outernet, we recommend exploring the vibrant areas around the venue. Check out Tottenham Court Road for a variety of high-end and high street stores, restaurants and cafes.

Best for: Free immersive experiences and all-weather entertainment.
Good to know: Visuals and installations rotate throughout the day, so no two visits are quite the same.