Watson's Cocktail Bar: Leicester’s Vegan-Inspired Cocktail Haven
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Watson's Cocktail Bar in Leicester is a stylish and welcoming venue celebrated for its expertly crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent vegan food options. Named in tribute to Donald Watson, founder of veganism, this bar blends quirky charm with refined elegance, making it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a unique, inclusive night out with friendly service and an eclectic vibe.
A brief summary to Watson's Cocktail Bar
- 94 Granby St, Leicester, LE1 1DJ, GB
- +447961768949
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5 pm-12 am
- Friday 5 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Try the signature vegan cocktails, such as the passionfruit-infused Dissorano or the spicy coconut rum blend, for a unique taste experience.
- Visit during midweek evenings for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with excellent music and friendly service.
- Pair your drinks with vegan snacks sourced from the next-door vegan restaurant to complement the cocktail flavors.
- Engage with the staff like Cam, Bamba, or Patricia for personalized drink recommendations and a welcoming experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Watson's Cocktail Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Watson's Cocktail Bar
A Tribute to Vegan Heritage and Craftsmanship
Watson's Cocktail Bar pays homage to Donald Watson, the visionary founder of veganism, reflecting his spirit through its commitment to vegan-friendly offerings and an inclusive atmosphere. This homage is not only symbolic but also tangible in the bar’s menu, which features an impressive array of vegan cocktails and food, often sourced from the adjacent vegan restaurant. The bar’s dedication to quality and innovation in mixology ensures every drink is a crafted masterpiece, blending classic techniques with adventurous flavor combinations.Eclectic Interior and Inviting Ambience
Stepping inside Watson's reveals an enchanting interior that balances stylish sophistication with quirky details. The decor features warm lighting and eclectic touches, including playful elements like joystick-style taps in the restrooms, creating a lively yet cozy environment. The music selection, curated by resident DJs, complements the vibe perfectly, offering upbeat yet unobtrusive tunes that enhance the social experience without overwhelming conversation.Exceptional Service and Community Spirit
The bar is renowned for its warm, knowledgeable staff who take pride in personalizing the experience for each guest. Bartenders like Cam, Bamba, and manager Patricia have become local favorites for their friendly approach and expertise, often going above and beyond to make patrons feel valued. This attentive service fosters a sense of community, making Watson's not just a place to drink but a welcoming social hub.Innovative Vegan Cocktails and Culinary Delights
Watson's cocktail menu is a journey of flavors, featuring inventive combinations such as a passionfruit and pineapple-infused Dissorano, herbal Hendrick's Gin blends, and spicy coconut rum concoctions. The bar also offers non-alcoholic options and pairs drinks with well-presented vegan bar snacks, ensuring a satisfying experience for all dietary preferences. This culinary creativity highlights the bar’s role as a pioneer in Leicester’s vegan and cocktail scenes.Vibrant Nightlife and Cultural Connection
Located centrally on Granby Street, Watson's thrives as a lively venue for midweek gatherings, casual dates, and weekend celebrations. Its reputation as one of Leicester’s best bars is supported by a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, drawn by the quality drinks, music, and atmosphere. Regular events such as open mic nights add to its cultural fabric, making it a dynamic spot that blends entertainment with social engagement.Accessibility and Practical Information
Watson's operates with a schedule catering to evening and night crowds, opening from midday on weekends and from late afternoon on weekdays, closing around midnight or later. Its moderate price range and central location make it accessible for a wide audience, including vegan and non-vegan guests alike. The bar’s commitment to inclusivity extends to its welcoming environment for all visitors, fostering a sense of belonging and enjoyment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
0.4 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
0.8 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
0.9 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Museum Development East Midlands
4.8 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
5.3 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.5 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
19.6 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
27.9 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.5 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
31.9 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
33.9 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Nottingham City of Literature
34.2 km
Explore Nottingham City of Literature, a UNESCO heritage site celebrating the joy of reading and the power of stories in a beautiful park setting.
Wollaton Park Lake
35.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
35.2 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
35.2 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Market
0.4 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
0.4 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
The Clock Tower
0.5 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Veeno
0.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
0.6 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
Highcross
0.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Guildhall Museum
0.7 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
The Newarke Houses Museum
0.8 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Castle
0.9 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
0.9 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Abbey Park
1.6 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey
1.9 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
2.1 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
2.3 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Essential places to dine
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
0.3 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
0.4 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
0.5 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
0.6 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
0.8 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.4 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
3.4 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
6.0 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
10.3 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
0.3 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Nim's Boutique ltd
0.3 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.5 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Just Fair Trade
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
0.6 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Set
0.6 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
St George's Shopping Park
0.7 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Menkind
0.7 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
The Source
0.8 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Prettiez
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Valley Discount Store
1.8 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Watson's Cocktail Bar
0.0 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.2 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Exchange Bar
0.2 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Brick & Beam
0.3 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The King's Head
0.3 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
The Distillery
0.4 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Duffy's Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Firebug
0.4 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Inside No 9
0.4 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
0.4 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Blue Boar
0.5 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Tønne Bar
0.5 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
0.5 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
0.5 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
0.6 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TRUTH Leicester
0.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The Basement
0.3 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Waikiki Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
0.4 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Motto Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Club Republic
0.8 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Fan Club
0.8 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
0.8 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Corah Works
1.0 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The 2Funky Lounge
1.1 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
16.5 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
19.4 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
22.0 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
26.3 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
35.2 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Eclectic
- 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
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly