Upside Down House – Lakeside: The UK's First Inverted Experience
Experience the UK's first upside-down house where gravity is flipped and fun is guaranteed in a vibrant, family-friendly setting at Lakeside.
Located in West Thurrock near Grays, the Upside Down House at Lakeside is the UK’s first inverted house attraction. This unique, two-storey red wine-coloured house offers a playful, gravity-defying experience where visitors walk on the ceiling and interact with creatively themed interiors flipped upside down. It’s a popular spot for families and social media enthusiasts seeking fun, quirky photo opportunities in a lively amusement park setting.
A brief summary to Upside Down House – Lakeside
- W Thurrock Way, Grays, West Thurrock, RM20 2ZP, GB
- +441375374725
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early afternoons to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for unique photo opportunities that play with perspective and gravity.
- Check the house’s theming updates online before your visit for special seasonal or creative designs.
- Combine your visit with shopping or dining at Lakeside Shopping Centre for a full day out.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking and exploring different levels inside the house.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train and Shuttle Bus
Take a train to Chafford Hundred Lakeside station, approximately 10-15 minutes from central London. From the station, a short 10-minute walk or shuttle bus ride brings you to the Upside Down House. Train tickets cost around £5-£10 one way depending on your starting point.
-
Car
Driving to Lakeside Shopping Centre offers convenient access with ample parking nearby. Travel times vary from 30 minutes to 1 hour from London depending on traffic. Parking fees typically range from £5 to £15 for the day.
-
Bus
Several local bus routes serve the Lakeside area, including services from Grays and nearby towns. Bus journeys take 20-40 minutes depending on starting location. Tickets cost approximately £2-£5 one way. Check local timetables for service frequency.
Upside Down House – Lakeside location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Upside Down House – Lakeside
An Unforgettable Gravity-Defying Attraction
The Upside Down House at Lakeside is a distinctive amusement park feature that captivates visitors with its surreal, inverted design. This two-storey house appears to have been turned on its head, with furniture and household items fixed to the ceiling, creating an illusion of walking upside down. The attraction invites guests to explore and physically engage with the space, touching objects within reach and experiencing a playful disorientation that challenges everyday perceptions of gravity and space.Creative Design and Theming
Painted in a striking red wine colour, the house is situated in the external amphitheatre area of the Lakeside Shopping Centre car park. Its interior is thoughtfully themed to enhance the upside-down illusion, featuring everyday household scenes turned topsy-turvy. Each visit promises a fresh experience as the house’s theming changes periodically, reflecting a bold and creative ethos. This dynamic approach ensures the attraction remains vibrant and engaging for repeat visitors.Social Media and Family Appeal
The Upside Down House is a magnet for families, children, and social media users who relish the opportunity to capture quirky, gravity-defying photos and videos. The attraction’s interactive nature encourages playful silliness and creativity, making it a memorable outing for all ages. Visitors often share their best shots on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, where the house’s unique visuals create viral moments and aesthetic content.Location and Atmosphere
Nestled in West Thurrock, the house benefits from its proximity to the bustling Lakeside Shopping Centre, adding to its lively and fun-filled atmosphere. The surrounding amphitheatre setting offers a spacious environment that complements the attraction’s quirky character. Friendly staff and well-maintained facilities contribute to a welcoming experience, making it a favored spot for casual visits and family outings.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Open daily with extended hours during weekdays and weekends, the Upside Down House offers accessibility to a broad audience. While the attraction is designed for easy access, its playful disorientation provides a unique sensory experience. It is suitable for visitors of all ages, including children, seniors, and solo travelers. The house’s size is compact yet immersive, allowing for an intimate encounter with its inverted world.Innovative Entertainment in Essex
As a pioneering attraction in the UK, the Upside Down House adds a creative dimension to Essex’s entertainment landscape. It stands out not only for its architectural novelty but also for its ability to engage visitors in an interactive and imaginative way. The attraction’s success has inspired similar installations internationally, underscoring its role as a trendsetter in experiential amusement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falklands Island Monument
2.7 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Laindon War Memorial
13.7 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Anchor Iron Wharf
19.8 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
19.9 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
Queen's House
20.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Queen's House, a must-see museum and art gallery in Greenwich, London.
Trafalgar Tavern
20.1 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
20.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Gardens in London's historic Greenwich.
Painted Hall
20.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Painted Hall in Greenwich, a Baroque masterpiece showcasing stunning frescoes and rich British naval history, perfect for art lovers.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
20.3 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Cutty Sark Gardens
20.4 km
Explore Cutty Sark Gardens in London for a peaceful retreat filled with stunning river views and rich maritime history, a perfect escape from the city hustle.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
20.4 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
20.4 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cutty Sark
20.4 km
Explore the Cutty Sark, a historic maritime museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing the legacy of the legendary tea clipper and its adventures on the high seas.
1 Greenwich Church St
20.4 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends medieval roots with vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural life in the heart of London’s Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
20.8 km
Explore the Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, a fascinating museum that reveals the hidden history of Cold War Britain and its civil defense efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lakeside Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Discover over 250 shops, dining, and family fun at Lakeside Shopping Centre—West Thurrock’s vibrant retail and leisure hub.
Dartford Crossing (Southbound)
3.0 km
Discover Dartford Crossing, a stunning bridge over the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex, and offering breathtaking views for all visitors.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
4.0 km
A monthly nostalgic dance party for over 30s featuring 80s and 90s classics at Greenhithe’s welcoming Royal British Legion.
Belhus Woods Country Park
4.4 km
Explore ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes, and historic landscapes in this accessible South Essex country park rich with wildlife and heritage.
Bluewater Shopping Centre
5.3 km
Kent’s premier shopping and leisure destination with over 300 stores, diverse dining, and unique entertainment in a stunning natural setting.
Tilbury Fort
7.2 km
Explore Tilbury Fort, a stunning 16th-century riverside fortress guarding London with star-shaped bastions, rich history, and scenic Thames views.
National Trust - Rainham Hall
7.5 km
Explore Rainham Hall, a stunning 1729 Georgian merchant’s house blending history, community gardens, and immersive exhibitions on London’s eastern edge.
Barnards Miniature Railway
10.2 km
A charming 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway on a working farm near Brentwood, perfect for families and rail enthusiasts on select days from spring to winter.
Coalhouse Fort Park
10.5 km
Explore a Victorian riverside fortress steeped in history, surrounded by tranquil parkland and sweeping Thames views.
Langdon Nature Discovery Park
11.4 km
Explore Essex’s largest inland nature reserve with diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and a welcoming Nature Discovery Centre.
Thorndon Country Park South
11.9 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
12.2 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
Havering Museum Ltd
12.6 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
Thorndon Country Park
12.6 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Langdon Hills Country Park
13.1 km
Expansive woodlands and panoramic views await at Langdon Hills Country Park, a serene outdoor retreat near Stanford-le-Hope.
Essential places to dine
Dukes Head Billericay
16.3 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
16.9 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Alec's Restaurant
18.8 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Sefa Restaurant
19.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
19.8 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Pho Street
20.3 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
20.3 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Goddards at Greenwich
20.4 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
20.4 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
20.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
20.5 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Aspera
20.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
20.8 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Billingsgate Market
20.8 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Hoop at Stock
22.7 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Store
14.8 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
14.8 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Minnie's Boutique
14.9 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
French Quarter
14.9 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Painted hall gift shop
20.2 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Arc Angel Boutique London
20.4 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Joli Vintage Living
20.4 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Rare Books & Curios
20.4 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
20.4 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
20.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handmade crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
5b Greenwich Market
20.4 km
Historic covered market in London’s Greenwich with antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant World Heritage setting.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
20.5 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
20.5 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Made in Greenwich
20.5 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
La Boutique Vintage
20.6 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fête Lounge
8.2 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
Vertigo
9.5 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
Ninety Seven Wine & Cocktail Bar
14.4 km
A stylish Sidcup bar blending expertly crafted cocktails with a warm, inviting atmosphere for memorable evenings.
The Merchant Brentwood
14.9 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
15.8 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
17.4 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
Cristi's Bar
17.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
18.1 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
19.2 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
19.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
19.5 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
19.6 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
19.9 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
20.3 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
Kings Arms
20.3 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Air & Breathe Nightclub
6.6 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
The Loft Basildon
15.0 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
CQ LOUNGE
16.7 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Faces NightClub
18.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
LA Lounge
18.7 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
19.6 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
19.9 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Oliver's Jazz Bar
20.3 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Bunker
21.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
22.2 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
22.3 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
E1
24.2 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Club 701
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Basing House - Shoreditch
25.6 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Hoxton Pony
25.7 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- TikTok-Friendly
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Viral Moments
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly