A gamer’s food and travel itinerary across the UK
The UK is now one of the top gaming destinations in Europe, not just for its game studios, but for the way it combines gaming with food, drinks, and social experiences. For gamers who like to eat good food, or foodies who like to game, there is no reason why you cannot do both. This is the perfect opportunity to combine two of your favourite things to do across the UK, from classic arcades to modern VR lounges and to world-class restaurants.
Across cities like London, Leeds, and Manchester, gaming venues are finding new ways to make visits more exciting. This itinerary isn’t just about eating and gaming. It is also about winning. Sites like realraffle.com let UK-based gamers enter raffles for everything from consoles and gaming chairs or even foodie experiences. It is worth checking out between cities. You might just score some travel loot while waiting for your next train.
In the heart of Soho, London, there’s NQ64. It is a neon-lit arcade bar with retro games like Street Fighter, Guitar Hero, and Mario Kart. Drinks here are named after popular games, with themed names like “Power Up” and “Dr. Ro Bevnik.” The bar draws a mixed crowd of tourists and regulars, especially on weekends. It’s the kind of place where you can play classics, try a few game-themed cocktails, and maybe win something through an in-house raffle or event night.
Up north in Bury, Greater Manchester, Arcade Club, according to their website, boasts of being Europe’s largest free-play arcade. To non-gamers, stocking arcade games may seem like holding on to the past. But to savvy gamers, this is a must-have for any gamehouse. And from a business standpoint, it is a lucrative business model. In 2024, it was reported that the market revenue of indoor amusement centres in the UK was about USD 2.96 billion (GBP 2.22 billion), with arcades being the largest contributor. The Arcade Club is spread across three floors and has over 300 games, including pinball, VR, shooters, and arcade machines from the 80s to modern ones. Once you pay your £18 at the door, everything inside is free to play. It’s a great deal, especially for those who want to try everything without worrying about anything else. The venue also hosts tournaments, school trips, and private gaming nights, which adds to the popularity.
Leeds has Pixel Bar for gamers, which is a gaming bar with bright lights, themed drinks, and high-end gaming setups. You can book your own booth to play with friends or jump into one of their regular esports tournaments. Their themed drinks, named after games like Overwatch or Skyrim, make the place like a personal playground. Pixel Bar is also famous for its quiz nights, cosplay parties, and community feel. It’s one of the top spots in the north for gamers who want to have fun but also compete.
In Glasgow, Geek Retreat is a relaxed, community-first space that doubles as a café, board game lounge, and comic shop. Everyone is welcome here, including families and groups of friends. It hosts Magic: The Gathering nights, Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, and casual card game meetups. And if you like bars with great drink selections, then you will love Super Bario, an arcade bar inspired by Super Mario.
If there is an official meal for gamers worldwide, it is probably going to be pizza. Rudy’s Pizza is regularly ranked among the UK’s best. They have locations in 14 major cities, including London, Manchester, Leeds, to name a few. Menus at each location may vary, so be sure to check out the menu for your current location before heading over there.
This goes for all locations as well; before visiting any of these spots, make sure to check the venue’s website or Instagram first. Some of them fill up quickly during special events or holidays. While some may have changed locations or service offerings. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just looking to explore something new, these spots mix entertainment, food, and fun in a way that only the UK gaming scene can.
The editorial unit
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