How to live like a local in London

London is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, full of stunning environments, rich culture and world class entertainment. However, many of the best London experiences are found off the normal tourist routes. Becoming involved in the real experiences of London locals is one of the best ways to experience the real ways of life to be found in the city. Here is a short list of some of our favourite immersive experiences.

Be the star of the show

For a little of the unknown, immersive theatrical experiences are becoming the latest craze in London, taking bemused audience members on a whirlwind ride through their dreams, fears and fantasies in a short space of time.

The wacky You Me Bum Bum Train, an immersive theatrical experience created in 2004, is a unique experience, whereby audience members play centre stage in their own production, surrounded by hundreds of volunteers. Audience members are shuttled through a series of terrifying, uplifting or bizarre scenes where visitors play a number of different roles throughout the evening. Previous experiences including hosting a game show, robbing a bank full of terrified customers or giving motivational speeches to football players in a changing room.

A scene from You Me Bum Bum Train
A scene from You Me Bum Bum Train

Before you have time to become too engaged with the scene, you are hurried off to the next room for an alternative experience. Sounds like a blast.

Step into someone else’s shoes for a few days

London based onefinestayhas shown that ‘living like a local’ can be made simple, with their alternative service to traditional hotel accommodation. Dubbed the ‘unhotel’, onefinestay allows visitors to London and New York to stay in someone else’s home when they are out of town.

The intriguing Rothwell Street, North West London, UK
The intriguing Rothwell Street, North West London, UK

Guests stay in the property like they would in a boutique hotel, yet have all of the comforts of a home. Additional perks include fresh linens, fluffy towels, 24 hour guest services and an iPhone to use during your stay (which is preloaded with tips on the best places to go in the area).

Immerse yourself in food

A combination of food, theatrics and fun, Gingerline is at the forefront of creating ‘immersive dining experiences’ for ‘London’s food adventurers’ at various locations along East London’s overground line (which is orange, hence the name).

Gingerline creates immersive dining experiences in London, UK
Gingerline creates immersive dining experiences in London, UK

As a follow on to the pop-up dining experiences that are gaining momentum in the city, Gingerline diners are given directions 60 minutes before the event is due to start, adding an element of secrecy and excitement of the evening. Diners are treated to various different forms of entertainment throughout the evening from musicians to jugglers, which complement the theme and menu for the evening.

With a selection of unusual experiences like this available, it’s no wonder visitors to London are looking to venture off the beaten track for a real taste of what the city has to offer.

 

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *