Las Vegas Arcade Soho: Classic Gaming in the Heart of London
A lively Soho basement arcade offering classic and rhythm games, pool, and air hockey in a vibrant, social setting.
A Compact Hub for Classic and Rhythm Games
Las Vegas Arcade Soho occupies a basement space on Wardour Street, nestled in the bustling Soho district of London. Despite its relatively small size, the arcade boasts a diverse selection of games appealing to both casual visitors and dedicated arcade fans. Highlights include dance machines such as Pump It Up Prime 2, DDR/ITG, Groove Coaster, Jubeat, Technika, and Taiko, alongside classic arcade fighting games like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. Pool tables and air hockey add to the variety, making it a versatile spot for gaming enthusiasts.Atmosphere and Clientele
The arcade is known for its lively and buzzing atmosphere, often frequented by teenagers, young adults, and groups of friends seeking a social gaming experience. The staff are friendly and attentive, contributing to a welcoming environment. While the space is compact, it remains a popular meeting point in central London for those who appreciate arcade culture and retro gaming.Operational Hours and Accessibility
Open every day from 9:00 AM to 1:30 AM, Las Vegas Arcade Soho provides ample opportunity for both daytime visits and late-night entertainment. Located in Soho, it is easily accessible from major London Underground stations such as Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus. The venue accepts cash payments and uses coins or tokens for game credits, which visitors should prepare for in advance as there is no on-site cash machine.Maintenance and Game Condition
The arcade maintains a generally good standard of cleanliness and upkeep, with many machines regularly serviced to ensure smooth operation. However, some visitors have reported occasional issues with certain games being out of order. The staff are quick to assist with any problems, helping to maintain a positive experience despite the arcade’s limited size.Community and Cultural Significance
As one of the few remaining arcades in central London, Las Vegas Arcade Soho holds a special place in the local gaming scene. It preserves the spirit of traditional arcades amid a city increasingly dominated by digital entertainment. Its focus on rhythm and dance games also makes it notable as one of the few venues in Europe to host connected Pump It Up machines, attracting a niche community of rhythm game players.Visitor Experience and Recommendations
Visitors can expect a fun and nostalgic experience, especially if they enjoy classic arcade games and social gaming. The venue is best suited for groups or individuals looking to spend an hour or two playing a variety of games in a lively Soho setting. While it may not be expansive, its charm lies in its curated selection and vibrant atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop for arcade enthusiasts exploring London.Local tips
- Bring cash and coins for game credits, as there is no cash machine on-site.
- Visit during off-peak hours on weekdays for a more relaxed gaming experience.
- Try the dance and rhythm machines, including Pump It Up and DDR, which are among the best in Europe.
- Ask staff for assistance if any machines are not working properly.
A brief summary to Las Vegas Arcade Soho
- Basement, 89, 91 Wardour St, London, W1F 0UB, GB
- +442072872157
- Monday 9 am-1:30 am
- Tuesday 9 am-1:30 am
- Wednesday 9 am-1:30 am
- Thursday 9 am-1:30 am
- Friday 9 am-1:30 am
- Saturday 9 am-1:30 am
- Sunday 9 am-1:30 am
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Oxford Circus or Piccadilly Circus stations. From either station, it is a 10-15 minute walk through Soho’s vibrant streets to reach Wardour Street. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the Soho area, including routes 24, 29, and 176. Bus travel time varies from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. A contactless payment card or Oyster card is required, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to Wardour Street in Soho. Travel times from central London typically range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £8 to £15.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Soho or the West End, walking is an enjoyable option. The terrain is flat but the area can be busy, especially in evenings. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
