If you’re looking for something a bit different from your usual route of bars and pubs in the area, south west London has quite a distinct collection of venues for you to visit.
Some have snuck away a sneaky retro hall that anyone from the ’80s would revel in, and then there are the almost uncategorisable themes and settings.
Here’s what to look for to set a grand adults’ night out.
Made for some ’80s action
For those of us old enough to enjoy the heyday of the 1980s in entertainment, when blockbusters that continue to be ripped off by Hollywood today reigned supreme, so too did the arcade machines.
Chief among them was pinball.
The premise was simple: hit the little ball with the levers trying to avoid the pins and pocket it in prize holes.
This formula has continued to live strong and is even the basis of hit promotions like Betfair Prize Pinball.
Leaning into all that makes pinball great, it sees users launch the ball up the board to find out if they win a free jackpot of £1,000 or more, bonus funds, other cash prizes, or free spins.
Pinball may not be as prevalent as it was some four decades ago, but it still holds a lot of appeal, as does its fellow 80s entertainment machines.
The Four Thieves in Battersea has established a hidden haven of these classics, found upstairs in the pub that’s open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Themes that defy being categorised
Next, we have a couple of bars that are so novel in their design, layout, and offering that it’s rather difficult to categorise exactly what they are.
As a result, these unique South West London venues will remain unforgettable to all who visit.
We’ll stick close to The Four Thieves with Blame Gloria.
Hailed as a late-night spot that specialises in pretty cocktails, it’s always buzzing with its bumping soundtrack and collection of dance areas.
Easily the most eye-catching aspect is, of course, the aesthetic.
Blame Gloria leans into what can only be described as a wacky design scheme.
Chequered floors, flowered or mirror-tiled walls, and beaming neon lights around the bars and tables, Blame Gloria is easily among the most memorable in its aesthetics.
Next, rather than leaning into the audacious, this pick looks to emulate the classic at-home feel familiar to those who’ve enjoyed a house party.
Run by The Little Door & Co, which opened its fifth venue in London in September 2024 with Little Violet Door, you’ll find one of their best offerings near South West London.
The Little Blue Door is over in Fulham, everything about the setup is trying to settle you into a rather lavish house party.
Incredible decor is coupled with cool vibes and a delectable drinks menu.
Bundle in its party games selection and sitting room, and you’ve got the formula for a great start to the night.
South west London, and very nearby, boasts a nice little collection of distinct and quirky pubs and bars that go above and beyond to offer you a unique experience on a night out.
Feature image: Free to use from Unsplash
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