Ultimate Guide to Group Activities in London

Ready to discover London’s most thrilling adventures with friends? At WeJam, we’ll transform your squad into rockstars in just one session, even if you’ve never read a musical note in your life! This unique experience creates bonds and memories that last far beyond your London visit. Already mastered our music studio and eager to find your next extraordinary outing? We’re happy to share! Scroll through our carefully curated collection of London’s most exciting and unexpected group experiences that will make your time in the capital absolutely unforgettable.

Why London is Perfect for Group Activities

London’s diverse attractions, excellent public transportation, and variety of venues make it an ideal destination for groups of all sizes. The city’s rich history, cultural significance, and modern attractions provide something for everyone, ensuring that no member of your group will feel left out.

Planning Your Group Activity

Before diving into specific activities, consider these essential factors:

  • Group size: Many venues have different pricing and booking requirements based on group numbers
  • Budget per person: London offers options from budget-friendly to luxury experiences
  • Accessibility needs: Most attractions offer excellent accessibility, but it’s worth checking specific requirements
  • Time of year: Some activities are seasonal or weather-dependent
  • Location: Consider transport links and proximity to other attractions

Planning Group Events in London: A Complete Guide

Top Indoor Group Activities

1. Escape Rooms

London’s escape room scene has exploded in recent years, with over 50 venues offering unique themed experiences. Standout locations include clueQuest’s spy missions near King’s Cross, Enigma Quests’ magic-themed rooms in Liverpool Street, and AIEscape’s cutting-edge AI-powered rooms in Aldgate. Most venues can accommodate groups of 4-12 people per room, with larger groups split across multiple rooms competing for the fastest escape time. For corporate groups, many venues offer meeting spaces and catering packages to combine team building with business objectives. Popular themes include historical mysteries set in Victorian London, futuristic cyber adventures, and horror-themed experiences for braver groups.

2. Food Experiences

  • Borough Market food tours – Expert-led tours through London’s oldest food market, featuring tastings from over 15 artisanal vendors, historical insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of market life. Perfect for groups of 8-20 people.
  • Cooking classes in professional kitchens – Learn from Michelin-trained chefs in state-of-the-art facilities. Popular options include British classics at The Jamie Oliver Cooking School, Indian cuisine at The Cookery School at Little Portland Street, and pastry making at Le Cordon Bleu.
  • Afternoon tea experiences – From the elegant surroundings of The Ritz and The Savoy to quirky themed experiences like the Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel or the Peter Pan tea at Aqua Shard. Most venues offer private rooms for groups of 15+.
  • Wine tasting sessions – Expert-led tastings in historic wine cellars like Berry Bros. & Rudd, London’s oldest wine merchant, or modern venues like Vagabond Wines where groups can sample up to 100 wines by the glass using self-service dispensers.

3. Cultural Activities

The city’s museums and galleries offer specialized group tours and workshops. Many are free to enter, though special exhibitions may require tickets:

Outdoor Group Activities

1. Thames-Based Activities

The river provides numerous opportunities for group entertainment:

  • River cruises with dinner and dancing
  • Kayaking adventures
  • Speed boat experiences
  • Stand-up paddleboarding (seasonal)

2. Royal Parks Activities

London’s royal parks offer space for organized activities:

  • Treasure hunts in Hyde Park – Professional operators like HiddenCity and City Hunt create immersive experiences using mobile technology and live actors. Routes can be customized to include the Serpentine Gallery, Rose Garden, and Peter Pan Statue, with puzzles tailored to your group’s interests.
  • Team sports in Regent’s Park – With 12 pitches available for hire, groups can organize football, rugby, or cricket tournaments. The Hub sports facility offers changing rooms and equipment rental. For less competitive groups, try the boating lake or join a guided wildlife walking tour of the park’s 12,000 roses and 100 species of wild birds.
  • Outdoor theater in Greenwich Park – Summer performances by the Greenwich Theatre Company and Outdoor Theatre UK. Bring blankets and picnics for productions ranging from Shakespeare to modern classics, with the stunning backdrop of the Royal Observatory and London skyline.
  • Picnic experiences in Richmond Park – London’s largest Royal Park offers dedicated picnic areas with views of protected wildlife including 630 red and fallow deer. Local caterers like Plates of London and Richmond Picnics can deliver gourmet hampers directly to your group.

Indoor vs Outdoor Team Building Events: London’s Best Options

Evening Entertainment

1. Theater and Shows

West End shows offer group booking discounts, with some venues providing private pre-show experiences or backstage tours. Popular options include:

  • Musical theater productions
  • Comedy shows
  • Immersive theater experiences
  • Opera and ballet performances

2. Unique Dining Experiences

  • Rooftop restaurants with city views
  • Medieval banquet experiences
  • Interactive dining shows
  • Private dining rooms in historical buildings

Corporate Group Activities

1. Team Building

2. Learning Experiences

  • Photography workshops around iconic locations
  • Art classes in historic settings
  • Craft workshops in local studios
  • Wine and spirits masterclasses

Corporate Days Out in London: Unconventional Team Building Ideas for 2025

Practical Tips for Group Organizers

Insider Tips for Success

  • Most museums offer free entry but charge for special exhibitions. Book the first slot of the day (usually 10 am) to avoid the largest crowds. The British Museum and Natural History Museum are quietest on weekday afternoons after 3 pm.
  • Many restaurants offer “exclusive hire” at a lower minimum spend on Sundays and Mondays. You can often negotiate better rates by booking outside peak times (Tuesday-Saturday evenings).
  • Several attractions offer “combination tickets” that aren’t advertised online. For example, you can combine Tower of London entry with a Thames Clipper river cruise at a 25% discount by booking directly through the Tower’s group booking office.
  • The City of London is quietest on weekends, making it perfect for large group activities. Many venues in the financial district offer premium spaces at reduced weekend rates.

Hidden Gems for Groups

  • The Horniman Museum in Forest Hill offers private butterfly house tours and handles groups much better than its central London counterparts.
  • Wilton’s Music Hall, the world’s oldest surviving grand music hall, hosts unique events and offers fascinating historic tours for groups, with far fewer crowds than West End venues.
  • The Garden Museum near Lambeth Palace has a beautiful courtyard café perfect for group lunches and can accommodate up to 120 people in its medieval tower.
  • Middle Temple Hall in the legal district offers public access and group bookings, providing a Harry Potter-esque dining experience without the crowds of tourist-heavy themed restaurants.

Booking and Planning

  • Book at least 2-3 months in advance for popular activities, especially during peak tourist season (June-September) and around major holidays. West End shows and high-end restaurants often release group bookings 6 months ahead.
  • Request group rates and packages – Many venues offer discounts starting at 10 people, with significant savings for groups of 20+. Some attractions like the Tower of London and Madame Tussauds offer fast-track entry and private guides for groups.
  • Consider weather contingency plans for outdoor activities – Many outdoor venues partner with nearby indoor locations. For example, The Luna Cinema offers indoor screening alternatives, and Royal Parks can suggest nearby historic houses or museums as backup venues.
  • Check cancellation policies and insurance options – Look for flexible booking options that allow changes up to 48 hours before. Companies like Events Insurance and Hiscox offer specific group activity coverage starting from £50 per event.

Transportation

  • Pre-book group transport where necessary – Companies like Addison Lee and Parker Car Service offer luxury group vehicles with advanced booking discounts of up to 25%. For public transport, London Underground offers dedicated group booking services for 10+ people.
  • Consider hiring a minibus for larger groups – Operators like London Minibus Hire provide vehicles from 8 to 70 seats, with qualified drivers who know London’s restricted traffic zones. Popular options include the 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter (from £45/hour) or 33-seater Luxury Midi Coach (from £65/hour).
  • Look into London Transport group travel cards – Groups of 10+ can save up to 30% on off-peak travel with Group Day Travelcards. For international groups, the London Pass with Travel option combines attraction entry with unlimited transport.
  • Plan meeting points near easily identifiable landmarks – Choose covered areas with seating and facilities nearby. Popular meeting points include the Trader’s Gate at Covent Garden (near toilets and cafes), the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral (covered seating available), and the South Bank’s Queen Elizabeth Hall foyer (indoor waiting area with cafe).

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Activities (June-August)

  • Outdoor cinema screenings
  • Rooftop bar experiences
  • Garden party venues
  • Festival activities

Winter Activities (November-February)

  • Ice skating at historic venues
  • Christmas markets
  • Indoor gaming tournaments
  • Craft workshops

Winter Activities in London: Indoor Edition

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Many attractions offer free entry for the group organizer and coach driver when booking for 15+ people.
  • Book theatre tickets for weekday matinees – they’re often 30-40% cheaper than evening shows and more likely to accommodate large groups together.
  • Take advantage of “shoulder season” (March-May and September-November) when group rates are more negotiable and attractions are less crowded.
  • Consider package deals through companies like Golden Tours or Evan Evans, who often have preferential rates with attractions and can combine multiple activities.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Don’t assume all members of your group can walk at the same pace or handle the same amount of standing. Build in regular rest stops and check accessibility in advance.
  • Avoid booking restaurants in tourist hotspots during peak times (12-2pm and 6-8pm) – you’ll often face inflated prices and rushed service.
  • Don’t try to pack too much into one day. London attractions are more spread out than they appear on the tube map.
  • Remember that some historic venues have restricted access or limited facilities – always check if there are bathroom facilities and rest areas for your group size.

Conclusion

London’s group activities offer something for every interest, budget, and group size. The key to success lies in careful planning and considering your group’s specific needs and interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, London’s diverse offerings ensure an unforgettable group experience.

Ultimate Guide to Group Activities in London

Related Articles: