Bring on the Alternative Olympic Events Pt1

Take a look at our first roundup of Olympic flavoured fun to be had across London this summer. Think we’re missing a trick? Tell us we don’t know what we’re doing and leave your picks in the comments section at the bottom of the page.


The Pembury Tavern

While the rest of the world is watching the athletes, you’ll be competing in your own event. The catchy, Sample As Many Different British County Beers As You Can, erm, event. The Pembury Tavern is one of Hackney’s biggest pubs and its 14 hand pumps and numerous bottles will be your challenge as you take a chance on the likes of Colchester Metropolis, Milton Cyclops and Wentworth Rampant Gryphon. The vast school hall of a venue comes complete with pool table for those who say ‘ick’ to ales. Ready, go!


Bunga Bunga

Looking for a slightly weird angle to approach the Games? Why not join the Italian love in at Bunga Bunga? In honour of the Olympics the club will be transforming itself into the ultimate Italian players lounge. Think Italian anthems, running tracks in place of red carpets, drinking games, the ‘Olympic Flame-ing Cocktail ‘ and a concerted attempt to make karaoke a recognised event.


Archer Street

Thanks to the presence of the Olympics, many of Soho’s theatres look set to shut their doors temporarily this summer. But, in defiance of the semi-lockdown, Archer Street will be turning on a schedule to show the tourists an enviable array of London’s iconic musical theatre. Casts from musicals like Jersey Boys and Mamma Mia will be on hand to sing like they're winning (gold) for your pleasure. This is London…


Fish Island Riviera

While the Regents Canal hardly shimmers, smoked salmon manufacturer H. Forman and Son has embarked on a makeover to dress an area of East London waterway like the Cote d’Azure. Fish Island Riviera has a corporate feel but with an onsite club as well as moored yachts and beach volleyball, ‘the man’ might be forced to take a back seat. Look for the after parties to rub shoulders with gold medal winners and CEOs.

Kona Kai

Get Tiki in Chelsea at Kona Kai where you can be transported to a Hawaiian paradise of hula hooping, limboing and Honolulu dance moves. All the competitions come with medals and awards for the successful. But fear not, if your mouth’s writing cheques your body can’t cash, the consolation of the Spirit of Olympia Iced Tea cocktail will be on hand to pick you up.


Look out for part two of our Alternative Olympic Guide, coming soon to an All In London Bars and Clubs page near you…