14 ridiculously fun birthday ideas in London

Stuck on birthday ideas in London? We've lined up a string of wacky, wonderful, and fun things to do in the city. From dazzling West End musicals to abseiling off iconic landmarks for thrill-seeking adventures, London’s got it all. Experience the diverse culinary scene with everything from a quintessentially British afternoon tea to a tour around the world-famous Borough Market.

Whether you're looking for birthday ideas in London with kids, a romantic getaway, a trip with friends, or a solo adventure, brace yourself for a celebration like no other in this bustling metropolis.

Rent a boat and sail on the River Thames

What better way to celebrate a birthday in London than floating down the River Thames in a cruise? There are options for lunch, a 4-course dinner paired with live cabaret, or you can go traditional with an afternoon tea cruise. Got a need for speed? Get your heart racing with a thrilling speedboat tour instead.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• For the best views, head to the open-air upper deck as you pass under Tower Bridge.
• If you're opting for the speedboat thrill, choose a "Thames Barrier Explorer" trip – it's longer and takes you past more sights, including the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf.

Go to the theatre in London’s West End

The West End shows aren’t your average productions. These are world-class experiences, among the best globally. From smash-hit musicals to historical masterpieces and comedy sketches, a trip to the theatre is one of our favorite birthday ideas in London. Be prepared to be wowed!

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• For a contemporary experience, check out Soho Place. It’s the first new-build West End theatre in over 50 years. Its round auditorium pushes boundaries and ensures there’s no bad seat in the house. The acoustics are unbelievable too.
• Don’t miss the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London's oldest theatre. With almost 400 years of theatrical history and an opulent interior, this place is truly special.

Connect through food at Borough Market

It’s a well-known rule: calories don’t count on your birthday. So indulge guilt-free at the iconic Borough Market, sampling London’s best snacks and treats on a mouthwatering food tour. Don’t miss the truffle stand for a luxurious birthday treat, and try the legendary grilled cheese at Kappacasein.

Insider tip from a Londoner:

• Visit on a Thursday or Friday for the full market experience with fewer crowds than on Saturdays.
• Arrive early (around 10:00 AM) to watch vendors set up and snag the freshest picks.
• For a unique experience, book an early morning photography tour before the crowds arrive. You’ll get amazing shots and insider stories from longtime vendors.

Address and opening hours:

Borough Market, London SE1 9AL, United Kingdom. Open Tuesday- Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Open Sunday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Closed Monday.

Treat yourself to a royal-worthy afternoon tea

Indulge in a quintessential London experience with a luxurious afternoon tea. Sink into plush chairs at a posh hotel or cozy tearoom and savor a tower of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and exquisite pastries. Sip on perfectly brewed teas or add some sparkle with a glass of champagne. Tea is served!

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• For a truly unique birthday, experience a traditional English Afternoon Tea on board the Cutty Sark. Explore the iconic ship, celebrated for her record-breaking trips around the world.

Ride the London Eye

No London birthday is complete without a spin on the London Eye. Treat yourself (it's your birthday, after all!) to breathtaking views from 135 meters up. For an extra dash of luxury, book a private capsule for you and your friends. Toast your birthday with bubbles at the top, overlooking the city’s skyline.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• Take a stroll along the vibrant Southbank after. Catch street performers, browse the book market under Waterloo Bridge, or grab a bite at one of the diverse eateries.
• On weekends, the Southbank Centre Food Market offers a tasty post-ride treat.

Address and opening times:

Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom. Open daily 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM.

Experience the vibrancy of Camden Town

Don't miss Camden Town, with its punk past still pulsing through its veins. The world-famous market is perfect for treating yourself to a birthday gift. Then, if the weather permits, you can set sail on Camden Lock. There are boats where you can bring your own booze and snacks and cruise at your leisure. It's a unique way to celebrate, floating through London with friends while soaking in canal-side views.

Insider tip from a Londoner:

• The Junkyard Golf Club, the craziest golf club in the world, is in Camden! This place is weird and wonderful with disco balls, slides, neon lights, and so much more. A truly memorable birthday experience.
• Check out The Cheese Bar, nestled in the heart of the market. It’s a cool spot for fromage lovers, where you can pick British artisanal cheeses from a conveyor belt. The concept offers a quirky twist on the traditional sushi train.

Climb or "Skydive" at the O2 Arena

Take your birthday to thrilling new heights at London's iconic O2 Arena! Choose your adventure: scale the massive dome for panoramic city views over North Greenwich and Canary Wharf, or experience freefall in the indoor skydiving wind tunnel for an exhilarating simulation without ever boarding a plane.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• Pack a small camera or use your phone – there's a designated photo point at the summit with stunning 360° views.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and layers; it can get chilly up top.
• For an extra thrill, try the "Edge Climb" on weekends, where you can lean back over the edge, secured by a harness.

Address and opening hours:

The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX, United Kingdom. Up at the O2 is open daily from 10:00 AM - 08:30 PM in the summer and 10:00 AM to 06:30 PM in the winter. iFLY Indoor Skydiving is open Monday - Thursday, 10:00 PM - 08:00 PM, Friday - Sunday, 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM.

Take to the streets on a guided tour

Discover London's coolest spots on a guided walking tour. Popular options include Harry Potter tours, the intriguing (if a bit dark) Jack the Ripper walks, and the Beatles in London tour, where you'll cross the iconic Abbey Road. For an artsy twist, try the East End street art tour through Shoreditch and Brick Lane's hipster haunts, ending with a spray painting session to create your own birthday masterpiece.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• Book a small group or private tour for a more personalized experience. Many tour guides offer "off-the-beaten-path" options.
• For the East End art tour, go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and catch artists refreshing their work.
• Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring a portable charger for all those Instagram-worthy moments!

Visit the magical world of Harry Potter

Muggles, rejoice! Dive into Harry Potter's enchanting universe at the Warner Bros Studio. Learn the secrets behind the movie magic, just a short train ride from London. For hassle-free travel, book a ticket with Central London transfers included.

Insider tip from a Londoner:

• Book your tickets well in advance – they sell out quickly, especially during school holidays. Arrive early to beat the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
• Don't miss the Butterbeer tasting, and bring your camera for the green screen broomstick ride photo op.

Address and opening hours:

Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR, United Kingdom. Open daily from 9:30 AM - 10:00 PM on Monday and Tuesday and 8:30 AM - 10:00 PM Wednesday - Sunday.

Take a trip up The Shard

London's skyline boasts many iconic structures, but The Shard stands out. At 310 meters, this glass giant with its distinctive point is the tallest building in London. At the top, award-winning bars and restaurants await. Dine sky-high with panoramic views of London, toasting to another year around the sun.

Insider tips from a Londoner

• Book well in advance, especially for Oblix or Hutong. These restaurants fill up quickly, particularly for sunset slots.
• For the best views, request a window table when booking. However, be prepared to pay a premium or have limited time slots available.
• For a more casual experience with great cocktails, try GŎNG Bar on level 52. It's the highest bar in London.
• Aqua Shard on level 31 is perfect for a special occasion breakfast. The views are just as spectacular, and it's less crowded than at dinner time.
• If you’re celebrating a birthday, mention it when booking. Many of the restaurants offer special touches for celebrations.

Escape the city

There’s no doubt that London is one of the greatest cities in the world, but sometimes you just need to escape the big smoke and go somewhere new. For a royal encounter, Windsor Castle awaits, or Brighton offers pier-side fun and beachfront fish and chips. For scholarly charm, explore Oxford or Cambridge's historic colleges and quaint villages.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• Book Windsor Castle tickets online and arrive early to catch the Changing of the Guard.
• In Brighton, skip the crowded pier restaurants. Head to The Lanes for better, cheaper eats.
• Visit Oxford or Cambridge midweek to avoid crowds. Don't miss punting on the river – it's a quintessential experience.
• For a hidden gem, try the Cotswolds. The village of Burford is particularly charming and less touristy.
• Use a Railcard if eligible – it'll save you 1/3 on train fares for your day trips.

Sing your heart out on a silent disco

If there was ever a time to lose your inhibitions and let your hair down, it’s your birthday. Don your headphones, loosen your limbs, and get amongst the fun. This is a fun birthday activity to do with a group of friends.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• For musical theater fans, try the West End silent disco walking tour. It's packed with back-to-back show tunes, fun facts, and dances. The guides make the experience, leading you through London's theatrical heart with infectious energy.

Abseil 80 meters off the ArcelorMittal Orbit

Adventurous birthday experience

If you’re up for a bit of a birthday challenge, the UK’s highest freefall abseil is not a bad place to start. Get kitted up in all your safety gear, lower yourself over the edge of the platform, and descend from 80 meters down to the ground while soaking up the mind-blowing views.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• If that is too much of a thrill, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is also home to the world’s longest tunnel slide, for a less nerve-wracking way down.

Address and opening times:

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton St, London E20 2AD, United Kingdom. Please note that this experience is currently closed for work and will re-open in early 2025.

Dance the night away

Put on your dancing shoes and hit London's streets, home to a world-class nightlife and bar scene. The city has everything from swanky cocktail bars to craft brewery tours. For a unique experience, get "locked up" with your friends at Alcotraz, where Orange is the New Black comes to life. Don your prison garb, dodge patrolling guards, and enjoy sneaky cocktails in this immersive experience.

Insider tips from a Londoner:

• For a truly local experience, explore the hidden gems of East London with the neighborhoods of Hackney or Shoreditch.
• Many of London’s best bars are tucked away in basements or behind unmarked doors, so don’t be afraid to explore!

FAQ's

What are the best London birthday ideas for adults?

London offers numerous exciting birthday ideas for adults, including afternoon tea at The Shard, a Thames dinner cruise, West End show tickets, or a guided tour of the Tower of London. For something more unique, consider a cocktail masterclass or a street art tour in East London.

What are some family-friendly birthday activities in London?

London has plenty of family-friendly birthday options. Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour for Harry Potter fans, explore the Natural History Museum, or take a ride on the London Eye. For active families, try a treasure hunt around the city. Many attractions offer special birthday packages for children.

Where can I celebrate a milestone birthday in London?

For milestone birthdays in London, consider booking a private pod on the London Eye, enjoying a Michelin-starred restaurant, or hosting a party at a rooftop bar with skyline views. The Sky Garden or Kensington Roof Gardens offer stunning settings for memorable celebrations.

What are some budget-friendly birthday activities in London?

London has plenty of budget-friendly birthday activities. Enjoy a picnic in Hyde Park, take a free walking tour, visit world-class museums like the British Museum or Tate Modern, or explore vibrant markets like Borough Market or Camden Market for tasty treats.

Are there any special birthday discounts or freebies in London?

Many London attractions and restaurants offer birthday discounts or freebies. Some popular options include free entry to Namco Funscape on your birthday, complimentary dessert at selected restaurants, and birthday deals at adventure golf courses. Always check in advance and bring ID to claim these offers.

What are unique London birthday experiences for thrill-seekers?

Thrill-seekers can celebrate their birthday in London with adrenaline-pumping activities like climbing The O2, ziplining across the Thames at Lee Valley, taking a speedboat ride on the river, or trying indoor skydiving at iFLY. For a truly unique experience, consider a helicopter tour over the city.