A guide to five of the best immersive experiences in London; from artistic to history-based experiences – perfect off-the-beaten-path activities!
Whether it’s raining or sunny out, there are some immersive experiences in London that are so interesting, they just shouldn’t be missed.
My love for immersion dates way back, from the day I took part in the Wolf of Wall Street immersive play in Broadgate a few years ago.
And while the play has since long shut its doors, there are plenty of experiences that make for a great day out in London, especially when it’s raining and the days are getting cooler.
5 Immersive Experiences in London You Shouldn’t Miss
For the purposes of this guide, I’ve selected five of my favorite immersive experiences in London, including the famous Bubble Planet and Van Gogh expo, and a couple of lesser-known spots.
Hopefully, you’ll find some new places you really want to visit in London – and want to get off the beaten path! From hidden gems to lesser-known neighborhoods, there’s so much to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Whether you’re after cozy cafes, charming markets, or picturesque streets, London is a treasure trove of surprises waiting to be uncovered. Don’t forget to check out the festive side of the city too, with countless Christmas activities in London to enjoy during the holiday season, from ice skating rinks to dazzling light displays.
Best Immersive Experiences in London: Bubble Planet
Located in Wembley, not that far from the London Designer Outlet, is Bubble Planet, an immersive experience made to stimulate the senses and enhance fantasy.
Dream is the keyword here, and at Bubble Planet, anyone from kids to artistic minds will find happiness, in a world full of bubbles; from the smallest to the most oversized bubbles.
It’s important to note that kids under 4 can enter for free, so if you’re traveling to London with kids, Bubble Planet is a must-visit for a surreal moment lasting up to an hour and a half.
Read: The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Secret and Free Museums
Best Immersive Experiences in London: Life Chronicles
For history lovers, Life Chronicles is another one of the immersive experiences that has caught my heart – we’re tracing back our planet’s history over 3.5 billion years.
Located in Westfield Stratford City, where you can go shopping afterwards (especially TK Maxx, a huge discount store offering anything from affordable candles to makeup, clothes, handbags and shoes!), Life Chronicles allows us to interact with our past, and to understand our present a little better.
Along with a virtual guide, young researcher Charlie, and Darwin, her robot, we learn about Earth’s history, embarking on the discovery of major geological periods and life forms – intriguing and oh, so entertaining.
Read: The Best Harry Potter Things to Do in London
Best Immersive Experiences in London: Illusionaries, Canary Wharf
Located on Crossrail Place, Canary Wharf, where we can also find the Crossrail Place Roof Garden and its exotic plants, Illusionaries is probably one of the most striking immersive experiences going on at the moment in London.
If Life Chronicles teaches us about our planet’s past, Illusionaries allows us to dive deep into our subconscious, in patterns, shapes and colors blur the lines between the dream and reality.
A very acid-like experience that art lovers will very much enjoy, and perfect for some well-deserved inspiration before enjoying some great food in Canary Wharf.
Read: The Best Things to Do in London When It Rains
Best Immersive Experiences in London: Van Gogh Experience, Spitalfields
The world-renowned, multi-award Van Gogh experience has been going on for quite some time in the heart of the Spitalfields area, and is another one of the immersive experiences London is best known for.
You are basically stepping into a painting as soon as you enter the Van Gogh experience, which offers a new way to enjoy, feel, and understand art from none other than painting master Van Gogh.
When you’re done enjoying the 360-degree video projections of the paintings, why not make your way to Brick Lane for some more art?
Or, change the scope completely and wander around Liverpool Street, Bethnal Green, or the City of London to discover some inspiring, gorgeous hidden gems!
Read: The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Street Art Neighborhoods
Best Immersive Experiences in London: Outernet, Tottenham Court Road
While the aforementioned immersive experiences all call for a fee, the Outernet at the Now Building, just off Tottenham Court Road station, is completely free, and a must-visit.
Every now and then, the immersive art displays change to broaden our minds and make our hearts go ‘wow’.
Up to now, my favorite piece has been the Butterfly Trail, which becomes immersive as soon as you take your phone out to catch butterflies.
A great activity to take part in with kids, but also overwhelmingly inspiring for our own inner child – once you’re done, if you’re feeling snacky, pop by Donutelier a few minutes away for some avant-garde, colorful doughnuts!
Read: The Best Things to Do in Greenwich
5 Immersive Experiences in London You Shouldn’t Miss
London simply has it all.
Whether you’re looking into learning about art, history, or want to dive deep into a dream-like state, you’ll find the immersive experiences mentioned here all offer something pretty exciting.
Whether you want to jump into a pool of bubbles at Bubble Planet or enjoy VR and history at Life Chronicles, these are all must-visit spots at one point or another!