Can anyone offer suggestions on gaming clubs or stores I should make sure to visit during my trip to London and Belfast next week?

As far as games shops in London go you should try Playin' Games on Museum Street (in front of the British Museum), Orcs Nest on Earlham Street (just off Shaftesbury Avenue and close to Leicester Square) or if you have time to take the trip Leisure Games in North Finchley (www.leisuregames.com).

Not so sure about gaming activities. The Games Club meet near Euston 2-3 times a week (see www.thegamesclub.co.uk) and I think Finchley Games Club meet near Leisure Games on Thursday nights. There's also an irregular board game club that meets most weeks (see www.meetup.com/LondonOnBoard).

Hope that helps...?