21 Loveable London Team Away Day Ideas (2024)
Welcome to our definitive guide on planning a memorable team away day and team building activites in the heart of the United Kingdom – London!
This dynamic city, rich with history, culture, and a range of team building activities, serves as an excellent backdrop for fostering teamwork and camaraderie.
Whether you’re a start-up company working with a shoestring budget or a well-established corporation going out with your whole team, our curated list of team building ideas promises to inspire and engage.
Let’s dive into why London is an irresistible location, 21 loveable team away day ideas, and more!
Contents
Why London is a Great Place to Host Your Team Away Day
How to Plan Team Building Activities For Your Team Away Day in London
21 Loveable London Team Away Day Ideas
- Hire a Wellbeing Speaker
- Escape Room Challenge
- River Thames Cruise
- Explore London’s Rich History
- London Cooking Classes
- Street Art Tour
- London Science Museum
- Go-Karting
- Kew Gardens
- Jack The Ripper Tour
- Tea Tasting
- Film Tour
- Craft Beer Tasting
- Canal and Kayaking Adventure
- London’s Literary Heritage
- Sixes Social Cricket Club
- All Star Lanes Bowling
- Platform: Social Gaming Hub
- Pizza Pilgrims
- Hijingo
- Puttshack
Map of London Team Away Day Ideas
What is the Best Time of Year to Plan a Team Away Day in London?
How to Ensure the Safety of Your Team During an Away Day in London?
Why London is a Great Place to Host Your Team Away Day
The bustling capital of the UK, boasts a unique blend of historic charm and modern innovation, making it a great choice for a team away day and team building.
The city’s multicultural atmosphere cultivates an environment where everyone feels welcome.
Its diversity also extends to the range of team building activities it offers, from thrilling escape rooms and arcade games to stunning views for picnics or river cruises along the Thames.
In addition, London’s transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world.
The extensive network of the London Underground, buses, and trains makes it easy to navigate, ensuring your colleagues can move from one team building activity to another seamlessly.
Lastly, London is a hub for innovative businesses and industries.
It offers numerous networking and learning opportunities that can enrich your team building experience and bring them closer to the trends and practices of leading companies.
Whether your team prefers history, culture, nature, adventure, or food, London has events and activities to please everyone.
How to Plan Team Building Activities For Your Team Away Day in London
Planning a successful team building event in London requires a blend of good organisation, clear communication, and a dash of creativity.
Here are some key steps to follow:
Define the Objectives
Start by understanding what you want to achieve.
This could range from improving communication and building teamwork, to celebrating a company milestone.
Having clear goals will guide your choice of team building activities.
Consider Your Team
Take into account the preferences, interests, and physical abilities of your colleagues.
This will ensure everyone feels included and excited about the day.
You know your team best. Ensure your activities align with colleagues.
Budget Planning
Budget affects your choice of activities, transportation, and dining options.
London offers a wide range of activities to suit various budgets.
Be upfront about your budget to set clear expectations.
Plan accordingly, a day out in London can quickly start to add up.
Select Activities
Now, choose the best team building activities that align with your objectives and your team’s preferences.
Consider a mix of fun, relaxation, and team-building exercises.
Don’t forget to have a plan B in case of unexpected situations like bad weather.
Schedule Your Day
Create a timetable for your away day.
It’s essential to balance activities with free time for relaxation and spontaneous interactions.
Consider travel time between locations.
Although London transport is usually pretty good, disruptions can occur due to maintenance, strikes, or other factors.
Communicate the Plan
Once you’ve organised everything, communicate the plan to your team.
Let them know the objectives, activities, location, time, what to bring, and what to wear.
Employees like to feel involved and in the loop.
Ensure they are so they can plan accordingly.
On-the-Day Coordination
Assign someone as the point of contact for the day.
This person will manage logistics, coordinate with activity providers, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Giving specific job roles to individuals lowers the burden on the organiser.
After all, everyone wants to be able to enjoy the day.
Remember, the goal of a team away day is to create a fun, engaging, and memorable experience.
Involve your team in the planning process to foster a sense of ownership and anticipation.
Make them a part of the process behind the team building events.
This is your team’s day, do your best to make it special!
21 Loveable Team Building London Team Away Day Ideas
Here is a list of 21 of the best team building activities for your team away day in the capital.
1. Hire a Wellbeing Speaker
One of the most effective ways to enhance your team away day is by hiring a wellbeing speaker.
A wellbeing speaker can bring a wealth of engagement, fun, and energy making it one of the best team building activities
Firstly, a wellbeing speaker can deliver a wellbeing workshop to provide valuable insights into the importance of mental health and self-care, especially in a high-pressure work environment.
They can offer practical advice and strategies to help your team manage stress, improve resilience, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Secondly, a wellbeing speaker can inspire and motivate your team bringing high energy and professionalism. Whether its small or large groups, they can accommodate.
Hearing from someone who is an expert in their field can be incredibly inspiring and can encourage your team to take their wellbeing more seriously.
Lastly, a wellbeing speaker can help to foster a supportive and understanding team culture.
By promoting open conversations about wellbeing, they can help to break down any stigma associated with mental health and create a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
Tyler Lowe is a Wellbeing Speaker with over 5 years of experience.
Get in touch for more information to give your team an experience they’ll never forget.
2. Escape Room Challenge
An escape room is a thrilling, fun-filled experience to play that fosters team collaboration and solving clues.
The capital boasts a variety of escape rooms, each offering a unique and immersive experience.
Try ‘HintHunt’ in Euston, where teams are locked in a room and must solve a series of puzzles to escape within 60 minutes, or ‘The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience’ based on the popular TV show, featuring a series of physical, mental, skill, and mystery challenges in different themed zones.
These experiences not only offer adrenaline-pumping fun but also present an opportunity for teams to work together under pressure.
Check out “Escape London” for more info
Customer Testimonial – “Amaziiing! Was our first escape room experience and was so intense and great! Sef was amazing during the whole experience! For sure will come back to another one“
3. Thames River Cruise
There’s nothing quite like the perspective you gain from London’s iconic waterway, the River Thames.
A river cruise is a fantastic way for your team to soak in the capital’s majestic skyline, marvel at landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament, all while coasting past south bank over delightful refreshments and great food.
Various companies offer cruises tailored to corporate events, and some even include team building activities on board creating a fun a thrilling experience for colleagues.
It’s a surefire way to create memorable moments!
Check out City Experiences for more info
Customer Testimonial – “We greatly enjoyed the trip with City Cruises and a shoutout for Dylan on the microphone who made the trip enjoyable with his “guided tour with a twist”… it was hilarious! Thank you.“
4. Explore London’s Rich History
The Capital is steeped in history, and a team away day is a perfect opportunity to explore it.
Consider arranging a guided tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, or the British Museum.
These tours can be both educational and entertaining, providing a unique team building experience.
Alternatively, you could organise a historical treasure hunt around the capital, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving while also allowing your team to discover more about the city’s past.
Check out Evan Evans London Tours for some possible options.
Customer Testimonial – “Mel was great!!!! Very informed and kept us entertained. Provided clear instructions and great suggestions.“
5. Take Part in a London Cooking Class
The capital’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, making it a fantastic place to try your hand at cooking a new cuisine.
Many establishments across the city offer cooking classes that can create a fun time for co workers and an interactive team building activity.
Create a bit of friendly competition by seeing who is the best team with the best dish.
Create a fun name for the event, like “The Big London Bake”
This not only allows team members to work together to create delicious food, but also provides an opportunity to learn about different foods.
To organise your cooking event, check out the cooking team building venues with The School of Wok
Customer Testimonial – “We did the 3 hour Thai course which was brilliantly organised and really informative. Vanessa the tutor was excellent and made it really fun as well. We also turned out some wonderful dishes. I would highly recommend.“
6. Participate in a Street Art Tour in Shoreditch
Shoreditch, a vibrant area in East London that is known for its impressive street art.
A guided tour of the area’s murals and graffiti can be a unique and inspiring team away day activity.
The tour could be followed by a street art workshop, where team members can try their hand at creating their own art.
This encourages creativity and collaboration, and team members will have a tangible reminder of the day.
To organise your street art tour, check out Shoreditch Street Art Tours
Customer Testimonial – “The guide is just fabulous . This tour is one of the best I have ever had . Lots of details about the artists”
7. Attend a Workshop at the London Science Museum
The London Science Museum offers a variety of interactive workshops that can provide a unique and educational team away day experience.
These workshops can range from exploring the science of climate change to understanding the intricacies of human biology.
Participating in these workshops not only fosters a sense of curiosity and discovery but also encourages team members to work together to solve problems and understand complex concepts.
These run on set days so the workshops will have to align with your desired dates, but it’s a great option.
Click here to secure your group booking at the London Science Museum
8. Experience the Thrill of Go-Karting
For teams that enjoy a bit of friendly competition, go-karting can be one of the most exhilarating and popular team building activities.
The capital boasts several top-notch go-karting tracks that offer a fun and fast-paced experience.
This activity requires teamwork, strategy, and a bit of courage, making it a great way to foster team spirit and camaraderie.
Plus, it’s a great way for your team to let off some steam and have a bit of fun outside of the usual work environment.
For a large business, consider hiring the whole venue.
Check out Capital Karts to book your team building Go-karting in the city.
Customer Testimonial – “I booked a corporate session with my company for 25 racers…..I initially emailed Capital Karts and they immediately responded. Luke and Becky took everything in hand and accommodated every request with ease. Nothing was too big to handle and showed the upmost professionalism….and I was a nuisance 😐 The track is so long, and the karts are rapid…..so much fun!”
9. Visit the Kew Gardens for a Botanical Workshop
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, located in southwest London, is a beautiful and expansive landscape filled with a vast range of flora.
The gardens offer a variety of workshops that can be a unique and relaxing team building activity.
For instance, your team could participate in a botanical drawing class, a guided tour of the gardens, or even a workshop on plant conservation.
This not only provides a tranquil setting for team bonding, but also an opportunity to learn about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.
These workshops are often on specific dates so find one that aligns with your schedule.
Check out Kew Gardens Courses for more info
Customer Testimonials – “Visited gardens for the first time and started with a one hour tour. Our guide was Peta and she gave just the right information to go on and visit the areas of particular interest.”
10. Embark on a Jack the Ripper Historical Walking Tour
London’s East End is steeped in history and mystery, making it the perfect setting for a Jack the Ripper historical walking tour.
This infamous unsolved case from the Victorian era can offer your team an intriguing insight into the city’s past.
Guided by professional historians, your team will visit key locations related to the case, learning about the social context of the time and the impact of these crimes on society.
This team building activity could be considered one of the more unusual activities but encourages bonding and conversation, while also offering a unique cultural and historical experience.
For more info, check out London Walks
Customer Testimonial – “Jeremy was the best guide, had spot on historical accuracy and humor. Our group had so much fun despite the dark historical background to the tour!”
11. Participate in a Traditional British Tea Tasting
The capital is renowned for its tea culture, and a traditional British tea tasting can be a delightful and relaxing team building activity.
Several tea houses in the capital offer tea tasting sessions where your team can learn about the art of tea making, the history of tea in Britain, and of course, taste a variety of teas.
This activity not only provides a calming environment for team members to chat and enjoy each other’s company but also offers an authentic British cultural experience.
Plus, who doesn’t love a good cup of British tea?
For more info, check out Tea 2 You
Customer Testimonial – “I enjoyed the onsite tea and the explanations provided by the owner himself. He is unstoppable when he talks about tea. You should stop by and try some tea and if willing to buy you can get advice about it.”
12. Experience a London Film and TV Locations Tour
The capital has been the backdrop for countless films and TV shows, from James Bond and Harry Potter to Sherlock and Doctor Who.
A guided tour of these filming locations can be an exciting and engaging team building activity for your away day.
Your team can explore iconic locations like the Millennium Bridge, which was destroyed in ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’, or 221B Baker Street, the residence of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes.
This team building activity not only offers a unique way to explore the capital, but also encourages team bonding through shared interests in popular culture.
For more info, check out Brit Movie Tours
Customer Testimonial – “Konstantine did a great job and was very knowledgeable! I will go back and watch the movies we discussed and look for the sites we saw in London.”
13. Participate in a London Craft Beer Tasting Tour
London’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with numerous microbreweries popping up across the capital.
A craft beer tasting tour can be a fun and educational team building activity.
Your team can visit several breweries, learn about the beer-making process, and of course, sample a variety of unique and flavourful beers.
Alternatively, try a cocktail bar experience.
This team building activity not only offers a relaxed and social atmosphere for relaxed conversation, but also provides an insight into London’s thriving craft beer industry.
Just remember not to drink too much!
You don’t want to act silly in front of colleagues.
For more info, check out London Brewery Tours
Customer Testimonial – “Good selection of beers and brewery taps. Each brewery has something for everyone. Kevin the guide explains the beers at each stop before taking your order. Kevin was very friendly and made sure it was an enjoyable afternoon. Recommend.”
14. Explore the Hidden London Canals on a Kayaking Adventure
The city’s network of canals offers a unique perspective of the capital, away from the hustle and bustle of its busy streets.
Organising a team kayaking adventure along these hidden waterways can be a fun and active way to spend your team away day.
You could paddle along Regent’s Canal, passing by the London Zoo and going through the Camden Lock, or head to Canary Wharf and explore the Limehouse Cut, London’s oldest canal.
This team building activity provides an opportunity to see a different side of the capital, all while getting a bit of exercise.
For more info, check out Secret Adventures
15. Discover London’s Literary Heritage
The capital has been the home and inspiration for many famous authors and is the setting for numerous novels.
A literary tour can be a unique and enlightening team away day activity.
Your team can visit places like the Charles Dickens Museum, Sherlock Holmes Museum, or the sites related to Shakespeare’s life.
You could also explore locations featured in modern novels like the Harry Potter series or Sherlock Holmes mysteries.
This activity not only offers a unique way to explore the city, but also sparks discussions about literature and history, fostering a deeper connection among your team members.
For Literary places to visit in the capital, check out Printed Pearls
16. Sixes Social Cricket Club
Why not try an active and exciting team-building journey at Sixes Social Cricket Club.
Sixes is London’s premier destination for cricket enthusiasts and novices alike.
This unique venue combines the thrill of cricket with a social atmosphere, making it perfect for team away days.
Whether your team members are seasoned players or trying cricket for the first time, Sixes offers an inclusive experience that encourages teamwork and friendly competition.
With state-of-the-art batting nets and interactive game technology, your team can engage in a spirited game of cricket.
his experience not only fosters camaraderie but also introduces your team to a quintessentially British sport, adding a cultural twist to your away day.
There are a few Sixes Locations across London, including Shepherd’s Bush, Fitzrovia and Fulham.
Customer Testimonial – “What a fab night!! We booked for a works do and it was brilliant! The cricket was so much fun and got everyone involved! Drinks were so quick and the cocktails were tasty!!”
17. All Star Lanes Bowling
All Star Lanes offers a unique team away day experience.
It combines boutique bowling with fine dining and cocktails.
Located in key London spots, it’s ideal for team relaxation and fun.
The alleys boast a stylish, retro vibe.
They’re great for ice-breaking and team bonding.
Post-game, teams can enjoy American-style dishes and drinks.
This creates a relaxed, social atmosphere.
All Star Lanes is more than bowling.
It’s an experience that blends sports, food, and socialising. This makes it a memorable choice for any team event.
All Star Lanes across London include: Brick Lane, Holborn, Stratford, and White City.
Customer Testimonial – “Fantastic place to have a day out! Food super tasty and all the staff members are friendly ! Lorenzo really looked out after my team!”
18. Platform: Social Gaming Hub
Platform in London is a unique gaming bar that elevates social gaming.
The venue boasts eight gaming booths with Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5.
It also features an E-sports stage with ten gaming PCs.
This setup is ideal for both competitive and cooperative play.
Apart from gaming, Platform offers signature cocktails, craft beer, and wood-fired pizzas.
These options cater to all tastes, ensuring a complete social experience.
The venue is perfect for corporate events and team away days.
It’s designed to encourage team bonding and fun.
Platform is more than just a gaming spot, it’s a place for teams to connect and unwind.
Platform Locations include Canary Wharf and Shoreditch.
Customer Testimonial – “Had the best time at Platform. Amazing staff, atmosphere and games. Couldn’t recommend it more to anyone. Perfect for group meet ups with colleagues as well.”
19. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims offers a unique team event with pizza masterclasses.
Known for their authentic Neapolitan pizza, they focus on crafting the perfect crust.
The masterclasses are ideal for team building and fun learning which can be perfect for a team away day.
During these sessions, teams learn top pizza-making techniques.
The classes cater to all, from large groups to small teams.
This makes them perfect for various team sizes and events.
It’s an interactive way to bond and improve culinary skills.
Pizza Pilgrims are located across London in Dean Street, Shoreditch, West India Quay, Camden, London Bridge, and Victoria.
Customer Testimonial – “Delicious original Neapolitan pizza, lovely and attentive staff.. very generous pizzaiolo. Thank you for the lovely evening”
20. Hijingo
Hijingo transforms bingo into a multi-sensory adventure.
It blends live entertainment with advanced lighting and sound effects.
The venue also features engaging motion graphics.
Prizes like cash and holidays add to the excitement.
This venue is ideal for a range of events, including work parties, team away days and team building activities.
It offers an interactive, fun-filled bingo experience.
The unique setting elevates the classic game to an entertainment spectacle.
Hijingo is perfect for teams seeking a novel and exciting experience.
It’s a memorable way for teams to connect and enjoy an innovative take on bingo.
Hijingo is based in London in the Shoreditch area.
Customer Testimonial – “This bingo experience is for couples, friends, small or large groups.
Definitely worth a trip to come and play.
Fun prizes, a holiday was won!”
21. Puttshack
Puttshack redefines mini golf in a fun and modern way.
It’s a high-tech venue with automatic scoring and live leaderboards.
The golf balls track performance, making scorecards obsolete.
The courses at Puttshack feature unique themes and challenges.
It’s not just a place to play crazy golf, the venue includes an island bar and restaurant as well.
The bar has a Vegas-like vibe, and the restaurant serves diverse dishes, including vegan options.
Puttshack is ideal for team-building as part of your London team away day.
It offers a blend of technology, golf, and entertainment.
Puttshack Locations across London Include: White City and Bank
Customer Testimonial – “Went for a work Christmas event – absolutely amazing fun. Food was perfect – plenty for everyone and easy enough to eat and chat at same time. The crazy golf games were fun and different – the element of luck giving everyone a chance.”
Map of London Team Away Day Ideas
What is the Best Time of Year to Plan a Team Away Day in London?
The best time to plan a team building activities in London largely depends on the type of activities you have in mind and your team’s preferences.
Here are some considerations:
For Outdoor Activities
If you’re planning outdoor activities, the months from June to August are typically the warmest and have the longest days.
However, they also tend to be the busiest in terms of tourists.
For a balance between good weather and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months of May and September.
For Indoor Activities
If your team away day is focused on indoor activities, such as museum workshops or theatre visits, then the time of year is less critical.
However, the winter months, particularly December, can be quite festive with Christmas markets and special events.
Why not check out our blog on team building venues here.
For Budget Considerations
If budget is a concern, the off-peak travel season, from November to early March (excluding the Christmas/New Year period), can offer lower prices for travel and accommodation.
However, do keep in mind that the weather can be quite cold and days are shorter.
For Avoiding Rain
London is known for its unpredictable weather, and rain is possible throughout the year.
However, the driest months are typically from March to June.
Remember, no matter when you plan your team away day, London has a wealth of team building activities to offer year-round.
It’s always a good idea to have a mix of activities indoor and outdoor, so you can adapt to the weather if needed.
You could even take some card or board games as a backup.
Get your creative juices flowing if you need to.
Check out our blog on “Planning Your Team Away Day“
How to Ensure the Safety of Your Team During an Away Day in London?
As some who was born and raised in London, I can’t stress enough the importance of ensuring team safety during your away day.
Safety in London involves some key things to consider that you may not have thought about:
Street Safety
London is a bustling city with busy streets.
Encourage your team to be mindful of traffic when crossing roads, especially in areas where the traffic flow may be different from what they’re used to.
This is essential, especially for those in large groups.
Pickpocketing Awareness
Like any major city, pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas.
Remind your team to keep their belongings secure at all times, avoid displaying expensive items in public, and be aware of their surroundings.
Public Transport Safety
If your team is using the Tube, buses, or trams, remind them to mind the gap between the train and the platform.
The trains operators will usually remind you of this.
Hold on to rails when standing, and be aware of emergency procedures.
Emergency Contacts
Ensure that everyone has the contact details of the event organiser and knows the location of the nearest hospital.
It’s also a good idea to familiarise your team with the UK’s emergency number (999).
Risk Assessment
Conduct a risk assessment of the activities planned.
This should include any specific risks associated with the locations you’ll be visiting in London.
Group Check-Ins
Regularly check that all team members are accounted for, especially when moving between locations.
The capital can be extremely busy and it’s easy to get lost in big crowds.
Health and Hygiene
Encourage team members to maintain good hygiene practices, particularly when using public transport or visiting busy public places.
Bring antibacterial gels and wipes just in case they’re needed.
Briefing
Provide a safety briefing at the start of the away day.
This should cover all the points above and any other safety considerations specific to the activities planned.
Being aware of these London-specific safety considerations allows you to ensure a safe and enjoyable away day for your team in London.
Planning team building activities in the capital offers a wealth of opportunities for unique and engaging activities that can strengthen team bonds and create lasting memories.
From exploring the city’s rich history and diverse culture to participating in workshops and tours, there’s something for every team.
Remember, the key to a successful team away day is in the planning, so take the time to consider your team’s interests and the unique opportunities that London has to offer.
At Loving Life, we deliver employee wellbeing services to help you support the health and wellbeing of your employees.
Whether as part of your team away day, or your wellness program, get in touch to see how we can help.
Author
Tyler Lowe – Health & Wellbeing Speaker
BSc Sport & Exercise Rehabilitation
Tyler has helped support a range of companies with their team away days ensuring a fun and memorable experience for all.
