Best Bars near The Criterion Theatre

Nestled in the heart of Soho at 22B Great Windmill Street, The Thin White Duke is a unique cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie’s enigmatic alter ego. This intimate venue offers bespoke cocktails crafted by Dav Eames, award-winning dim sum, and artisanal coffee from an all-female roastery. Beyond drinks and dining, it features state-of-the-art recording studios, making it a creative haven for musicians and artists. Its cozy, dimly lit ambiance and artistic decor create a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere for an unforgettable London night out.

The Red Lion, located at 2 Duke of York Street in Mayfair, London, is a historic pub renowned for its rich political heritage and classic Victorian charm. Established on a site with tavern roots dating back to the medieval era, this pub has welcomed British Prime Ministers and literary figures like Charles Dickens. Its proximity to Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament makes it a unique destination for those interested in London's political and cultural history.

Nestled in the heart of Soho at 37 Brewer Street, the Duke of Argyll is a traditional Victorian-style pub renowned for its authentic atmosphere, affordable Samuel Smith’s ales, and friendly service. This cozy, historic corner pub offers a warm, relaxed vibe with stained glass windows, mosaic floors, and a welcoming ambiance that makes it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking classic British pub culture in central London.

All Bar One Leicester Square is a vibrant wine and cocktail bar located in the heart of London's Leicester Square. Known for its stylish interior, extensive drinks menu, and versatile event spaces, it offers a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere ideal for after-work drinks, social gatherings, and private events. With seating for up to 450 guests and a mezzanine for 200, it blends lively energy with relaxed comfort near iconic London landmarks.

Nestled above Gerrard Street in London’s Chinatown, Opium Cocktail Bar offers a unique blend of 1920s Shanghai-inspired speakeasy ambiance with modern indulgence. Spanning three distinct levels, the venue serves expertly crafted cocktails alongside dim sum in an intimate, art-infused setting. Known for its creative drinks, elegant décor, and lively atmosphere, Opium is a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a stylish night out in Soho.

Nestled in the heart of Soho, London, the Duke of Wellington is a vibrant pub and nightlife venue offering a lively mix of traditional British pub culture and modern bar and lounge experiences. Located at 77 Wardour Street, this moderately priced spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse clientele, and a blend of casual drinking and late-night entertainment, making it a staple of Soho’s dynamic social scene.

Village Soho, located at 81 Wardour Street, is a renowned gay bar in London’s Soho district, celebrated for its lively atmosphere, inclusive vibe, and energetic nightlife. Since opening in 1991, it has become a staple of Soho’s LGBTQ+ scene, offering go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a welcoming space for diverse visitors to enjoy music, dancing, and socializing in a safe environment.

Located in the heart of London’s iconic Leicester Square, Hampshire Restaurant and Bar offers a stylish and intimate setting within the Radisson Blu Edwardian Hampshire Hotel. This venue serves contemporary Mexican and Peruvian cuisine, complemented by a curated selection of cocktails, loose teas, and coffee. Its vibrant atmosphere and prime location make it a perfect spot for casual dining, people-watching, and enjoying the buzz of Theatreland.

Located at 54 Old Compton Street in London’s vibrant Soho district, The Admiral Duncan is one of Soho’s oldest and most iconic gay pubs. Established in the 1830s, it has a storied past from its early days as a sailors’ haunt to becoming a beloved LGBTQ+ safe haven. The pub is also known for surviving a tragic 1999 nail bomb attack, which transformed it into a powerful symbol of community resilience and solidarity.

Nestled in the heart of Soho's Chinatown on Lisle Street, Ku Bar stands as one of London's most iconic gay bars. Spanning three levels with a lively upstairs bar, champagne lounge, and pulsating basement club, it offers inclusive vibes, affordable drinks, and entertainment from midday into the early hours. A cornerstone of the LGBT scene for over two decades, it draws diverse crowds for dancing, cocktails, and socializing in a welcoming atmosphere.