Arcades, Gaming Centres, and Esports Venues – Where Across the UK Should Gamers Be Holidaying?
Finding the right holiday destination can be challenging. Not only do you have to think about a variety of factors like budget, travel time, and accommodations, but you also need to consider what type of experience you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous trek through nature, or a cultural immersion in a bustling city, the options can feel a little overwhelming. And that’s why we’re here to make it easier.
For a certain type of people anyway! Over the last few years, a range of arcades, gaming centres, and Esports venues have been popping up around the world, with some of the best operating right here in the UK. For the gaming enthusiasts amongst you, visiting any one of these locations can be a perfect way to narrow down your holiday and make sure you’re going to experience something you love.
These destinations offer a unique twist on traditional holiday spots, combining entertainment, competition, and socialising all in one location, so why not throw the other options – which, let’s be honest, you’ll never be 100% on – out of the window and choose somewhere more gaming-centric?
In terms of where these arcades, gaming centres, and Esports venues actually are, there are many spread across the UK, including famous spots in England, Wales, and Scotland. We’re going to look into a few of them now, giving you an idea of what you’d be in for. Starting with perhaps the most famous…
The Hyper Reality Arcade – London
Being a capital city, London is a little overwhelming, but it’s the perfect spot for an urban holiday, with a range of gorgeous landmarks, attractions, and activities for you to sink your teeth into – including the Hyper Reality Arcade, which is located on Mile End Road in Bethnal Green. Over the last few years, this video arcade has quickly become a hotspot for gaming and technology enthusiasts alike, offering a range of immersive experiences that combine virtual reality with the latest gaming technology.
The Hippodrome Casino – London
If iGaming is more your thing, then perhaps you’d also like to visit the most famous casino in the UK – the Hippodrome Casino in the West End of London. This is perhaps the largest and most iconic casino in the country, with a wide variety of gaming options including table games, poker, and a vast range of slot machines. The casino is also housed in a historic building, once a circus and theatre, adding to its appeal with its unique blend of gaming and history.
If you’re switching from online gaming to land-based casino gambling, however, there are a few things you should keep in mind. For instance, some of the best casino payment methods in 2025 include Skrill, Neteller, and Neosurf, but if you use these eWallets, you’ll need to do your research to ensure they’re accepted at this particular casino. As well as this, it’s also important to note that land-based casinos may require a different approach when it comes to deposits and withdrawals.
The National Esports Performance Centre – Hertfordshire
Leaving London, perhaps one of the most interesting new Esports venues is The National Esports Performance Centre, which is located in the university town of Hatfield. In 2025, this venue has become one of the UK’s premier spaces for Esports training, events, and competitions, and with Hertfordshire being a great holiday destination – offering a blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and attractions such as the St Albans Cathedral and Hatfield House – it’s an excellent spot for both gaming enthusiasts and those looking to explore a gorgeous local culture.
The Player1 Esports Arena – Birmingham
Sticking with the world of Esports for a moment, if you still want to visit a city but want to avoid the hustle and bustle of London, Birmingham could be a great alternative. Known for its vibrant nightlight, green spaces, and, of course, its brilliant gaming venues, this is the perfect option if you want a holiday with the full package.
The gaming venue we’re going to talk about is the Player1 Esports Arena, which hosts a variety of gaming events including tournaments for FIFA, League of Legends, and Rocket League. Opening in 2021, this venue has quickly become one of the most popular spots for Esport players in the UK, offering top-tier facilities and a great, modern space for intense gaming events. So why not book in Birmingham for a weekend and take a look yourself?
NS64 – Edinburgh
Finishing further up north, one of our favourite gaming venues in Scotland has to be the NS64 retro gaming venue, which is located in the heart of Edinburgh. Featuring a wide selection of classic games – including titles from the Nintendo 64 era, such as Super Mario 64, GoldenEye 007, and Streets of Rage 2 – this is a fantastic location for lovers of the golden oldies, as well as holiday-goers who want to experience the magic of this famous city. The only issue is, the venue is so good, you might never want to leave it and actually explore the Edinburgh attractions. But everyone has a different idea when it comes to enjoying their holiday, so the choice is yours!