London isn’t just a capital city – it’s the capital of nerdy cool! Here, every niche interest and quirky passion finds its home. “Geek is chic” is such a terrible phrase, but it’s not untrue. Brainy is back, retro has returned, and the people of London are embracing it with open arms. This city has a treasure trove of hidden gems and unexpected delights waiting to be unearthed by the curious mind. So, fetch your magnifying glass (or joystick) and get nerdy with this ultimate guide to nerdy things to do in London.
1. Science Museum Lates
If you avoid the Science Museum during the day, we don’t blame you–it’s just an unpleasant pit of school kids and tourists. But, there’s really no excuse not to visit after hours (don’t worry, it’s nothing illegal). The free London museum throws after-work, adults-only events on the last Wednesday of every month. Each evening takes on a different theme (e.g. food, robots, sex, space, gaming) and there are talks, drinks and live music to keep you entertained. Discover this year’s lineup of ‘Lates’ here.
2. Sky High Retro Gaming
Throw it back to the old-school gaming era and have a play on all 4 generations of SEGA consoles. Expect deadly Mortal Kombat competitions and plenty of 80s and 90s games. Enjoy breathtaking, Instagram-able views of the London skyline from this East London vantage point, while you sip on drinks, listen to tunes and mingle with like-minded gamers. Book your tickets here.
3. Candlelight Concerts
Immerse yourself in the music of Hans Zimmer at a stunning Candlelight concert in the historic Central Hall Westminster. Nerd out as you hear iconic soundtracks from movies like Inception, Gladiator, Batman, Sherlock Holmes, The Lion King, and more performed by a talented string quartet or a pianist, all by candlelight. The perfect way to unwind after a day of indulging your inner nerd.
4. The Case of The Poisoned Chalice
Watson, the game is afoot! A most curious invitation awaits. Step into the shadows of Sherlock Holmes’ very own Mind Palace, where Sebastian Moran, Moriarty’s cunning accomplice, has set a devious challenge. The Case of the Poisoned Chalice unfolds before you. Can you decipher cryptic clues, unearth hidden ingredients, and concoct the perfect libation? One sip could be your triumph or your demise. Do you possess the keen intellect and unwavering spirit to succeed? Muddle your way through this immersive Sherlockian cocktail experience, where every twist and turn leads to a delectable reward.
5. Royal Observatory Museum
Gazing at the stars is one thing, but understanding them? That’s a whole new level of nerdiness. Head to the Royal Observatory Museum, where the universe unfolds before your eyes. Check out their live science and astronomy demonstrations and learn from the Observatory Explainers, as you become one with space. But if you’re craving some earthly bragging rights? Stand astride the Prime Meridian of the world, with one foot in the west and one in the east. Then, dive into the history of Greenwich Mean Time and discover why Greenwich became the world’s timekeeper.
6. Forbidden Planet
Known as the world’s largest cult entertainment retailer, Forbidden Planet is a nerd’s dream. Comics, graphic novels, action figures, merch for every fandom you can imagine (Trekkies, Whovians, Marvel fanatics)– it’s got it all. The megastore takes its name after the 1956 cult film of the same name. Opened in London in 1978, the comic store has become a synonym for all things geek ever since. Keep an eye out for their upcoming meet & greet events, like the Terry Moore book signing on May 30.
7. Novelty Automation
If you’re looking for arcade games and a laugh, head to Holborn for a trip back in time. Tucked away is Novelty Automation, a museum packed with satirical homemade arcade machines. Get yourself a tenner worth of tokens and practice money laundering, operate a nuclear reactor, or even meet an alien’s mum, and much more. And if the laughs aren’t enough, pass by on June 6 for their Thursday Bar Evening from 5 to 9 p.m. to have some drinks while you play the machines.
8. Test your knowledge with a pub quiz
London’s pubs are legendary, but for the quiz-loving crew, there’s a whole other scene. From movie trivia to historical deep dives, there’s a pub quiz for every kind of nerd. So, grab your mates, order a pint, and see if you can trivia-dominate the night at these best pub quizzes in London.
9. Platform 9 and 3/4 at King’s Cross
Calling all Potterheads! No “Nerdy things to do in London” guide is complete without a visit to King’s Cross Station. Find the famous Platform 9 ¾, the gateway to Hogwarts. Snap a pic pretending to disappear into the barrier, or just soak up the magic vibes.
10. Bletchley Park
For the history buffs with a puzzle streak, this day trip is a must. Bletchley Park may not be in London’s city centre, but for nerdy things to do, it doesn’t get much cooler. This is where the brilliant minds of World War II cracked the Enigma code, a feat that some say shortened the war. Explore the secret headquarters, learn about the codebreakers’ ingenious methods, and see the historic machines that helped win the conflict.
11. Shrek Adventure!
Not all nerdy things are historical or scientific! If you’re a fan of the hilarious Shrek movies, then the Shrek Adventure! London needs to be on your nerdy things-to-do list. This immersive experience throws you right into the wacky world of Far Far Away. Join Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and Puss in Boots on a 4D adventure filled with laughter, thrills, and maybe even a little ogre-sized scare. And you know what’s best of all? If you come dressed head-to-toe (including socks) in green on May 27, you can score free entry to the swamp. So dig out your greenest garb, from t-shirts and leggings to face paint and fuzzy hats – the greener, the better!