City Arcades
Explore our recommended list of the best British city arcades. From classic amusement centres to the latest immersive experiences, these urban venues across towns and cities offer family-friendly fun, indoor amusements, and exciting arcade entertainment for all ages.
Find city arcades near you
Discover indoor attractions
Explore classic amusements
Local inland arcade fun
Amusement arcades in towns and city centres often differ significantly from those found on the coast. The best inland arcades are usually located in larger cities, in easily accessible spots such as central shopping malls, entertainment complexes, or indoor recreational venues that often include bowling alleys, cinemas, and other fun attractions. With so many established venues (and new ones opening each year) there is no shortage of options. Major cities like London and Birmingham feature specialised arcades, from claw machine and free-play arcades to adult-only venues such as arcade bars or retro slots centres.
Many people are surprised to learn that quality arcade venues aren’t limited to major cities, regional areas and small towns have plenty to offer as well! Drawing on years of experience and local knowledge, we’ve compiled these venues into review listings on our website, making it easy to discover new amusement arcades across the country. Browse our listings below or use the interactive map to pinpoint exciting new arcade destinations in the locations of your choice today.
Amusement arcades were once a common sight in towns and cities throughout the 1980s and 1990s, before entering a period of decline in the early 2000s. Since Covid, that trend has reversed, driven by renewed interest in shared, out-of-home entertainment. Today, new city arcades are opening every month, each offering distinct play styles, from claw machine arcades and retro pinball bars to themed indoor venues. Alongside these nostalgic favourites, a new generation of arcades is pushing boundaries with cutting-edge technology, including VR, AR and other immersive technologies delivering futuristic entertainment experiences far beyond what home consoles can currently offer.
