Top things to do at The O2 in London

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From sporting events to music concerts to comedy gigs, The O2 has hosted a variety of high profile events. Previously known as the Millennium Dome, The O2 Arena was built in 2000 and is today recognised as one of the best music venues in the UK. But it is not just an arena; it is rather like an entertainment destination in its own right. Don't just take my word for it. Read about the fun things you can do at The O2 and you will agree that it makes for a great day out venue.

The O2 Arena

The O2 Arena hosts a range of events all year round. You can check the events page on The O2 website to see what gigs are planned over the coming months. Some upcoming events include The World Of Hans Zimmer (live symphony orchestra), Capital's Jingle Bell Ball and Rod Stewart Live In Concert. The one I am looking forward to is 'Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic', a skating spectacular featuring over 50 popular Disney characters.

Up at the O2

Up at The O2 experience involves walking over the O2 Arena, enabling you to experience and see London in a completely different way.

The 'Up at the O2' walkway is 52 metres above ground level and about 380 metres long, suspended 2 metres above the surface of the O2 roof. At its steepest point on the way up, the walkway has a slope of 28° and 30° on the way down. The walkway consists of a fabric that is tensile and has a slight bounce. The climb is very achievable and is suitable for ages 9 and up. It makes for a great family outing - very safe, fun and something different.

Read about our experience 'Up at the O2' to decide if this is something you would enjoy.

Watch movies at Cineworld

For film buffs, The O2 has Cineworld - London’s largest cinema with 19 screens. From extreme cinema in 4DX (includes moving seats, effects like wind, scent etc.) to ScreenX (which offers a 270-degree viewing experience) and from Superscreen to a VIP lounge where you can complimentary dining recliner seats, Cineworld at The O2 offers a number of ways to watch your favourite movie.

Hollywood Bowl

With 12 lanes of bowling available along with a Hollywood Diner and a great range of drinks in the bar, Hollywood Bowl is a great place to enjoy a game or two of bowling and share some fun time with your family and friends.

Shopping

Spread over 210,000 sq ft, the Icon Outlet at The O2 is a shopper's paradise. It boasts of brands like Nike, Hotel Chocolat, Aspinal of London, Ted Baker, Cath Kidston, Adidas, Guess, Lindt, Levis and Yankee Candle to name a few. You will find everything from clothing & accessories to health & beauty products and from confectionery & gifts to travel gear. It is one of London’s premium outlet shopping destination with up to 70% off the most popular brands.

Sky Studios

Ever wanted to be a news anchor? Then you should head to the Sky Studios, where you and a friend can enjoy a news reading experience. Sit behind a news desk and read the latest Sky News or Sky Sports headlines! The team at Sky Studios even record your news reading experience and you can then share it with family and friends.

There is even a fully immersive Virtual Reality experience - you can choose from Sky content - sports, movies or arts - and find yourself transported right into the video. A fun experience! And yes, Sky Studios has free entry.

Virtual Reality (VR) Experience

Want more VR experiences? Whether you are a VR fan or have never experienced VR before, you should check out the immersive virtual reality experience from Immotion VR. You can become a deep-sea adventurer or a space explorer or go on a Ghost train - anything is possible in a VR experience. Immotion VR's entertainment area includes 12-stations featuring Thrill Coaster and Undersea Explorer cinema pods with incredible sound and visual effects. Whichever experience you choose, you are sure to have a great time.

Oxygen Free Jumping

Oxygen Free Jumping is as fun as it sounds. Spread over two floors, the venue features professional trampolines, an obstacle course, foam pits, a toddler zone, a dodgeball court and a high ropes course. There is even a cafe with a nice view of the free jumping arena. You can enjoy hot & cold snacks and coffee while watching the activities going on in the trampoline park.

Restaurants & Bars

Whether you want to grab a quick bite before a show at The O2 Arena or enjoy a relaxed meal after your shopping spree, there are a number of places to eat & drink at The O2. You will be spoilt for choice with a range of bars and restaurants like Cabana (Rio street food), Five Guys (for American cuisine), Nando's, Pizza Express, Rodizio Rico (Latin cuisine), Benito's (for Mexican food), Busaba Eathai (for Oriental cuisine), Wasabi, Zizzi, Scarlet Rasoi, Snowflake Luxury Gelato and many more.

So, what do you think? Doesn't The O2 have something for everyone and makes for a great day out venue? Have you been to The O2? What has your experience been like? Tell us via the comments section below.