Best Bars Near Observation Point (London)
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The best bars near Observation Point
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60 bars
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Wine bar4.6★5,621 reviews
Gordon's Wine Bar
Established in 1890, Gordon's Wine Bar is London's oldest wine bar, nestled just off Villiers Street near Embankment. This atmospheric cellar bar, famed for its vaulted candlelit ambiance and oak barrels of sherry and port, offers a rich selection of award-winning wines and artisanal foods. Steeped in history and family tradition, Gordon's is a timeless retreat for wine lovers seeking a unique London experience.
Mon–Sat 11:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Wine bar4.4★4,876 reviews
All Bar One Leicester Square
All Bar One Leicester Square is a vibrant wine and cocktail bar located in the heart of London's Leicester Square. Known for its stylish interior, extensive drinks menu, and versatile event spaces, it offers a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere ideal for after-work drinks, social gatherings, and private events. With seating for up to 450 guests and a mezzanine for 200, it blends lively energy with relaxed comfort near iconic London landmarks.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Wine bar4.3★4,664 reviews
All Bar One Waterloo
All Bar One Waterloo offers a stylish urban retreat on Chicheley Street, blending sophisticated cocktails, tapas-style small plates, and hearty mains in a lively South Bank setting. Perfectly positioned near Waterloo Station and landmarks like the London Eye, it serves as an ideal spot for casual drinks, pre-theatre bites, or group celebrations with its extensive wine list and creative sharers.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Pub4.2★4,704 reviews
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
A historic Westminster pub wedged between Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament, The Red Lion occupies a long‑running tavern site with decorative late‑Victorian interiors, a tall corner façade and a reputation for political company. The Grade II–listed building blends Flemish‑Baroque detailing, etched glass and original bar fittings, offering a characterful, atmospheric stop for a pint or a meal in the heart of government London.
Mon–Sat 11:00–23:00 · Sun 11:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Pub4.4★4,219 reviews
The Old Bank of England
The Old Bank of England is a historic pub located at 194 Fleet Street, London. Housed in the former Law Courts branch of the Bank of England from 1888 to 1975, this Grade II-listed building features an opulent Italianate facade and richly decorated interiors. It offers a unique blend of British history, architecture, and classic pub fare, with remnants of its banking past visible in the vaulted cellars and grand mezzanine. The pub also embraces its legendary connection to the story of Sweeney Todd.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.2★4,231 reviews
Doggett's Coat and Badge
Perched beside Blackfriars Bridge on the Thames, Doggett’s Coat and Badge is a large, characterful Nicholson’s pub with sweeping river views, a multi-level interior and a favoured terrace for sunny afternoons. Housed in a 1970s-era concrete building with a rooftop terrace and private-hire rooms, it pairs classic British pub dishes and real ales with an informal, lively atmosphere that suits solo drinkers, groups and casual dining by the river.
Daily 10:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.1★3,985 reviews
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
Nestled in the iconic County Hall on the South Bank, Slug & Lettuce offers a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant with modern British fare, vibrant brunches, and Thames-side vibes. Perfect for casual lunches, after-work drinks, or lively evenings near Waterloo and the London Eye, it features plush decor, outdoor seating, and deals like 2-for-1 cocktails.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.6★3,423 reviews
Simmons Bar | Soho
Tucked into the vibrant heart of Soho on Bateman Street, Simmons Bar captivates with its retro '90s living room vibe. Kitsch wallpaper, a central fireplace, and quirky disco skull accents create a nostalgic haven. Two floors buzz with energy: a lively ground level bar, an upstairs function room for gatherings, and a 70s-inspired karaoke space complete with disco lights and a retro Smeg fridge. Signature happy hours feature 2-for-£10 cocktails, teapots for £15 serving four, and themed deals like Margarita Mondays. Open late into the night, it serves classic mixes alongside playful inventions in a compact, party-ready setting perfect for Soho nights.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Wine bar4.4★3,566 reviews
All Bar One Covent Garden
Nestled on Henrietta Street in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, All Bar One offers a stylish wine bar experience with a diverse menu of sharing plates, hearty mains, and an extensive selection of wines, cocktails, and beers. Perfect for post-theatre gatherings, after-work drinks, or casual meals, this lively spot blends modern sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere amid London's bustling West End.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Pub4.6★3,216 reviews
The Harp, Covent Garden
Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, The Harp is a celebrated traditional British pub renowned for its exceptional selection of real ales, ciders, and perries. Winner of the prestigious CAMRA National Pub of the Year 2010, this intimate venue offers a warm, historic atmosphere with wooden interiors, a narrow bar adorned with beer mats, and a welcoming vibe cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Mon–Sat 11:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Mr Fogg's Tavern
Tucked away on St Martin's Lane in Covent Garden, Mr Fogg's Tavern transports you to a Victorian gentleman's club brimming with eclectic curiosities and global artifacts. This intimate pub evokes the adventurous spirit of Phileas Fogg, offering inventive cocktails inspired by distant lands, hearty British fare like fish and chips and Sunday roasts, alongside real ales in a dimly lit, treasure-filled space. Open daily from noon, it buzzes with character amid its 19th-century decor of mounted animals, antique maps, and oddities collected from around the world. Perfect for a pre-theatre tipple or cozy evening out, though its petite size means advance reservations are wise. Cocktails hover around £13-15, with punches for sharing.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Old Shades
Tucked on Whitehall near Trafalgar Square, the Old Shades is a Grade II listed pub from 1898 offering classic British ales, hearty pub grub like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and a warm, characterful interior. Perfect for a pint or meal amid Westminster's buzz, with extended hours into the evening.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
Ye Olde Mitre is a historic Grade II listed pub tucked away in a narrow alley at 1 Ely Court, Holborn, London. Dating back to 1546, it was originally built for the servants of the Bishops of Ely and is famed for its connection to Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Christopher Hatton. With its oak-panelled Tudor-style interior, quirky memorabilia, and a legendary cherry tree, this pub offers a unique glimpse into London's rich history and a cozy, atmospheric drinking experience.
Mon–Fri 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Princess Louise
The Princess Louise is a splendidly preserved Victorian pub located at 208 High Holborn, London. Established in 1872 and extensively remodelled in 1891, it boasts one of the finest examples of Victorian pub interiors with ornate Corinthian columns, mosaic floors, etched glass screens, and a grand central island bar. Owned by Samuel Smith’s brewery, it offers a quintessential historic atmosphere with British gastropub fare, making it a must-visit for lovers of heritage and classic London pubs.
Daily 12:00–23:00Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Spice Of Life
Located at 6 Moor Street in the heart of Soho, London, The Spice of Life is a historic pub with origins dating back to the mid-18th century. Renowned for its rich musical heritage, it has hosted legendary artists from Bob Dylan to The Sex Pistols. Today, it combines traditional British pub charm with a vibrant live music scene, a cocktail bar, and new boutique hotel rooms, making it a dynamic cultural hub in one of London’s liveliest neighborhoods.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Bar Soho
Bar Soho is a lively cocktail bar located at 23-25 Old Compton Street in London’s bustling Soho district. Known for its stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, it offers a wide range of well-crafted cocktails at moderate prices. The venue features a cool decor, energetic music, and ample space for dancing, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a vibrant night out in central London.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
Located in the heart of London’s Covent Garden, The Alchemist St Martin's Lane offers a unique blend of creative, theatrical cocktails and contemporary dining in a lively, theatrical setting. Known for its imaginative drinks that smoke, fizz, and pop, this cocktail bar and restaurant provides an energetic atmosphere near iconic theatres, perfect for those seeking a fun night out with inventive beverages and a menu of modern twists on classic dishes.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Blame Gloria - Covent Garden
Blame Gloria Covent Garden is a vibrant underground cocktail bar in the heart of London's West End, channeling 1960s-70s disco glamour with neon lights, retro cocktails, and pulsating music. Housed in a former public loo, this sister venue to Tonight Josephine offers Porn Star Martinis, Flaming Zombies, and bottomless brunches hosted by drag queens, complete with lip-sync battles and dance-offs. Open late with happy hours, it's a lively spot for groups seeking fun vibes, eclectic decor of green-pink hues, flowery velvet booths, and even disco toilets.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Lyaness
Lyaness is a renowned cocktail bar located on London’s South Bank within the Sea Containers hotel. Known for its innovative and scientifically inspired drinks crafted by acclaimed mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana, it offers a stylish, riverside setting with a unique blend of creativity, collaboration, and sustainability in mixology. The bar features an extensive menu of unusual yet delicious cocktails, accompanied by a warm, welcoming atmosphere and views of the Thames.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration is a unique, atmospheric speakeasy cocktail bar nestled in London's Covent Garden. Inspired by the Victorian adventurer Phileas Fogg, this bar offers an immersive journey through global flavors with inventive cocktails, a mechanical mixologist, and vintage decor including a life-sized Victorian train carriage. It combines theatrical flair with premium drinks, making it a standout destination for cocktail lovers and fans of themed experiences.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Understudy
The Understudy is the National Theatre's vibrant riverside craft bar on London's South Bank, offering indoor and outdoor seating, a curated selection of local craft beers, and rotating street food from KERB traders. With stunning Thames views, it's an ideal spot for casual meals, pre- or post-theatre drinks, open late into the night. Enjoy smash burgers, Middle Eastern flatbreads, Mexican tacos, and indie cocktails in this lively hub supporting local makers.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Duke Of Wellington
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.
Mon–Sat 12:00–24:00 · Sun 12:00–23:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Be At One - Russell Street
Be At One Russell Street is a vibrant cocktail bar located in the heart of London’s Covent Garden. Known for its extensive menu of over 100 expertly crafted cocktails, lively atmosphere, and late-night hours, it’s a top destination for celebrations, after-work drinks, and weekend parties. The venue offers unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hour deals, private hire options, and a warm, intimate basement setting ideal for both casual nights out and special events.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
Opium Cocktail Bar in Soho, London, is a multi-level speakeasy-style venue tucked behind a secret jade door on Gerrard Street in Chinatown. It offers an immersive experience blending Chinese-inspired décor with modern mixology, serving expertly crafted cocktails and dim sum across three distinct bars: the Apothecary Bar, the intimate Peony Bar, and the lively Attic & Academy Bar. This upscale cocktail bar is known for its unique ambiance, artistic design, and innovative drinks menu.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, Dirty Martini captivates with its glamorous interiors, oversized chandeliers, and an extensive menu of bespoke martinis and cocktails. This late-night hotspot pulses with energy from thumping bass, DJ sets, and a party atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks, birthdays, or bottomless brunches. Signature experiences include £7 happy hour cocktails, indulgent birdcage food sharers, and cocktail masterclasses amid neon lights and sparkling decor.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Swift Soho
Swift Soho captivates on London's vibrant Old Compton Street with its dual-level allure: a bright upstairs aperitivo bar bathed in pastel blues and marble, transitioning to a dimly lit downstairs haven of dark woods and cosy leather booths. Master mixologists craft classics and innovative cocktails like the Legends series, honouring icons from Hemingway to Snoop Dogg, alongside an extensive whisky selection exceeding 300 varieties. Live jazz and piano enliven weekends, complemented by bar snacks such as olives and chilli rice crackers. Open daily from 3pm, it embodies Soho's electric energy in a refined, welcoming space perfect for intimate evenings or lively gatherings.
Mon–Sat 15:00–24:00 · Sun 15:00–22:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Coach & Horses, Soho
Located at 29 Greek Street in the heart of Soho, London, The Coach & Horses is a Grade II listed pub with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Famous for its association with legendary patrons like Jeffrey Bernard and its long-time landlord Norman Balon, known as 'London’s rudest landlord', this pub has been a cultural hub for writers, artists, and journalists. Since 2012, it has been London’s first fully vegetarian and vegan pub, combining heritage with a modern twist.
Mon–Sat 12:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Punch Tavern
The Punch Tavern, located at 99 Fleet Street in London, is a historic pub famed for its Victorian gin palace interior and deep connections to the satirical magazine 'Punch'. Dating back to the 17th century, this Grade II-listed pub was once a favored haunt of journalists and magazine staff, offering a rich blend of history, ornate design, and a vast gin selection in the heart of London’s former newspaper district.
Mon–Sat 12:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Bar Termini
Bar Termini, located at 7 Old Compton Street in London’s vibrant Soho district, is a renowned cocktail bar that masterfully blends Italian aperitivo culture with modern mixology. Famous for its artisanal Negronis and espresso martinis, this cozy venue offers a warm, elegant atmosphere with attentive service, making it a favorite spot for both early coffee and late-night cocktails in the heart of London’s West End.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
Nestled on Wellington Street in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, Be At One Covent Garden Lyceum is a lively cocktail bar renowned for its extensive menu of over 100 meticulously crafted drinks. This welcoming spot buzzes with energy, offering 2-for-1 happy hours, expert mixology masterclasses, and a party-ready atmosphere perfect for after-work unwinding or celebratory nights out. Housed in a Grade II listed building with a storied past as the Old Bell pub, it blends historic charm with modern cocktail innovation amid London's theater district.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Oriole
Oriole is a celebrated cocktail bar and restaurant in London’s Covent Garden, renowned for its immersive global themes, inventive mixology, and elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Set across two floors, it offers a unique blend of exotic cocktails inspired by world travel, complemented by a refined menu of Latin American fusion small plates. With its tropical-chic decor, live music, and storytelling approach to drinks, Oriole invites guests on a sensory journey through flavours and cultures.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Little Scarlet Door
Tucked away on Greek Street in Soho, The Little Scarlet Door transforms a former flatshare into a whimsical three-floor cocktail bar and restaurant. Step through the iconic scarlet door into an open-plan living room with exposed brick, cozy sofas, and a kitchen bar adorned with art from Soho Revue Gallery. Downstairs, an industrial basement pulses with DJ-led house parties from Wednesday to Saturday, while a heated courtyard offers al fresco sipping. Signature cocktails draw inspiration from a quirky DVD collection, paired with mezze and toasties in this vibrant neighborhood hotspot perfect for date nights and late-night revelry.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Mrs Riot
Mrs Riot is a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Covent Garden, channeling the rebellious spirit of 18th-century actress Kitty Clive. Expect bold cocktails, comfort foods like truffle pizza, live DJs, drag brunches, and karaoke in a technicolor punk-pop setting that pulses with energy and entertainment.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
American Bar
The American Bar at The Savoy is London’s oldest surviving cocktail bar, renowned worldwide for its historic significance and innovative cocktails. Located within the iconic Savoy Hotel, this elegant bar blends classic and contemporary mixology in a sophisticated Art Deco setting. With a smart-casual dress code and a walk-in policy, it offers an unforgettable experience steeped in over a century of cocktail history and legendary clientele.
Mon–Sat 12:00–24:00 · Sun 12:00–22:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Westminster Arms
Tucked away on Storey's Gate in the heart of Westminster, the Westminster Arms is a traditional British pub offering a cozy escape amid London's political landmarks. With its historic wooden interiors, Shepherd Neame ales, and classic pub fare like pies and burgers, it provides a quintessential London drinking and dining experience just steps from Westminster Abbey and Parliament. Open daily for lunch and evenings, it features a division bell that once alerted MPs to parliamentary sessions, blending heritage with lively pub atmosphere in a moderate-priced setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Escapologist Bar
Nestled beneath the bustling streets of Covent Garden, The Escapologist is a unique cocktail bar styled as a modern Victorian men’s club fused with a Masonic lodge aesthetic. Known for its mind-bending cocktails, theatrical brunches, and atmospheric underground spaces, it offers a vibrant yet intimate setting for memorable nights out in London’s Seven Dials.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Thirst Bar Soho
A compact, late‑night cocktail bar and basement club on Greek Street, Thirst Bar Soho pairs cleverly priced cocktails and upbeat DJ nights with leather booths and a buzzy Soho crowd. Upstairs feels airy and sociable by day and early evening; after dark the basement turns into a pulsing dance space with disco lights and booth seating—an easy choice for after‑work drinks, cheap 'stupid hour' cocktails and a lively weekend scene.
Mon–Sat 16:00–3:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Covent Garden Social Club
Hidden beneath the Arts Theatre in Covent Garden, this vibrant two-level venue blends a lively basement cocktail bar with an intimate upstairs piano lounge. Savor award-winning cocktails amid prohibition-era vibes downstairs, then head up for live piano sessions, cabaret, and sing-alongs with West End performers. Open evenings from 5pm, it's a theatrical escape in London's West End, perfect for post-show revelry with classic tunes and energetic crowds. Free membership unlocks the door to this party haven. (512 characters)
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Ku Bar
Nestled in the heart of Soho's Chinatown on Lisle Street, Ku Bar stands as one of London's most iconic gay bars. Spanning three levels with a lively upstairs bar, champagne lounge, and pulsating basement club, it offers inclusive vibes, affordable drinks, and entertainment from midday into the early hours. A cornerstone of the LGBT scene for over two decades, it draws diverse crowds for dancing, cocktails, and socializing in a welcoming atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
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.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Crusting Pipe
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden's Jubilee Market Hall, The Crusting Pipe is a beloved wine bar and restaurant offering classic British fare, an extensive wine list from Davy’s Wine Merchants, and a cosy atmosphere enhanced by occasional live performances in the covered courtyard. Open daily from breakfast through dinner, it serves seasonal dishes alongside fortified wines and ports in quasi-Dickensian interiors with vaulted ceilings and intimate nooks. Ideal for pre-theatre meals, private events or relaxed sipping amid the market buzz.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Coral Room
The Coral Room is a stylish cocktail bar located within the Bloomsbury Hotel in central London. Known for its striking coral-colored interiors, Art Deco influences, and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, it offers an extensive cocktail menu alongside small plates and afternoon tea. The venue features plush velvet seating, bespoke Murano glass chandeliers, and curated artworks, making it a vibrant social hub for drinks, light dining, and special occasions.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
The Chocolate Cocktail Club in London is the UK’s first and only chocolate cocktail bar, located at 72 St John Street. It offers a unique experience combining rich chocolate flavors with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting. Guests can enjoy over 20 chocolate-themed cocktails, including the signature Chocotini, alongside light bites and desserts, making it a must-visit for chocoholics and cocktail lovers alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2.5 hrs
Blind Spot London
Blind Spot London is a stylish, intimate cocktail bar tucked away behind a secret door in the St Martin's Lane Hotel, Covent Garden. Known for its globally inspired cocktails and speakeasy vibe, it offers a seductive atmosphere with candlelit tables, deep red tones, and lounge seating. The bar pairs inventive drinks with Asian-influenced small plates, making it a perfect spot for pre-theatre drinks, romantic evenings, or late-night socializing in central London.
Tue–Wed 17:00–1:00 · Thu–Sat 17:00–2:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Plume Wine Bar
Nestled in Charles Dickens' former publishing offices in Covent Garden, Plume Wine Bar captivates with its two-level charm: a bright rococo-inspired salon upstairs and a dimly lit speakeasy cavern below. Specializing in global sparkling wines excluding Champagne, it offers an atlas-guided selection of crémants, Italian bubbles, English fizz, and rare finds from Japan to Brazil. Pair them with sharing plates like cheese boards, cured meats, parmesan fries, baked camembert, and inventive chips. The intimate setting fosters connection, complete with a unique 'PidgeonMail' note-passing system to strangers.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Black Parrot
Nestled in Bride Court, London, Black Parrot is celebrated as one of the UK’s finest rum bars, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting. Known for its extensive rum collection and knowledgeable bartenders, it provides a unique experience with lively shuffleboard and engaging rum masterclasses, making it a top destination for cocktail enthusiasts and rum aficionados alike.
Tue–Fri 17:00–24:00 · Sat 15:00–23:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Eve Bar Covent Garden
Nestled in the basement beneath Michelin-starred Frog by Adam Handling in Covent Garden, Eve Bar beckons with its motto 'Resist Everything Except Temptation.' This subterranean cocktail haven fuses bold innovation and zero-waste creativity, offering experimental drinks crafted in a state-of-the-art lab alongside indulgent snacks from upstairs. Moody lighting, stained-glass accents, and plush velvet booths create a seductive, theatrical atmosphere perfect for intimate evenings or lively gatherings in London's Theatreland.
Mon–Thu 16:00–24:00 · Fri–Sat 16:00–2:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Black Book
Tucked away in a Soho basement, The Black Book is a sophisticated wine bar founded by master sommeliers Gearoid Devaney and Xavier Rousset. Featuring London's largest by-the-glass wine list via an innovative Coravin cellar, it pairs exceptional vintages with Mediterranean small plates, charcuterie, and sharing dishes in an intimate, club-like atmosphere open late into the night.
Tue–Wed 17:00–24:00 · Thu–Sat 17:00–2:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Beaufort Bar
Nestled within the iconic Savoy Hotel on London’s Strand, the Beaufort Bar is a sophisticated cocktail lounge inspired by its theatrical past. With dramatic black and gold Art Deco interiors, a DJ spinning sultry tunes, and a menu celebrating martinis, champagne, and creative cocktails, it offers an elegant nocturnal escape. Open Thursday to Saturday evenings, it is a magnet for stylish crowds seeking luxury, live entertainment, and expertly crafted drinks in a lavish setting.
Tue–Sat 17:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Primo Bar, London
Nestled within the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel on London's vibrant South Bank, Primo Bar captivates with its stylish cocktail menu, live music performances, and stunning vistas of Big Ben. This contemporary lounge transitions seamlessly from daytime relaxation to evening energy, offering exquisite drinks like the Piña Gin Zing and Bourbon & Amaretto Sour alongside bar bites in a moody, low-lit ambiance. Open daily from noon, it features nightly entertainment in a dedicated lounge, blending 60s chic monochrome decor with dynamic vibes perfect for unwinding or socializing. With premium spirits, draft beers, and sparkling cocktails, Primo delivers a sophisticated yet approachable experience amid iconic landmarks.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Upstairs At Rules
Perched above London’s historic Rules restaurant in Covent Garden, Upstairs At Rules is a refined cocktail bar exuding vintage charm and exclusivity. With its lush rattan furnishings, rich tapestries, and an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a private Edwardian salon, it offers expertly crafted drinks in a setting that invites guests to indulge in a glamorous, timeless experience.
Tue–Sat 12:00–23:30 · Sun 12:00–22:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
Nestled discreetly within BrewDog Waterloo at The Sidings, the Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy is a stylish cocktail bar inspired by 1920s Prohibition-era speakeasies. This intimate venue offers a seductive ambiance with dim lighting, leather booths, and vintage décor, serving expertly crafted cocktails that blend classic elegance with modern twists. Open Wednesday to Saturday evenings, it invites visitors to savor unique drinks in a hidden, sophisticated setting in central London.
Wed–Thu 19:00–1:00 · Fri–Sat 19:00–2:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Henson's Bar and Social
Nestled on Frith Street in Soho's vibrant heart, Henson's Bar and Social offers a refined escape with oak-panelled walls, velvet curtains, and a blazing fireplace. This all-day cocktail haven serves precise classics and inventive signatures like Passion Fruit Negroni and Olive Oil Pisco Sour, alongside wines and light bites in an intimate, clubby atmosphere perfect for pre-theatre drinks or cosy evenings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
26 Leake Street is a dynamic cocktail bar and event venue located in London’s vibrant Waterloo district. Set within a striking industrial-style space adorned with vivid graffiti art, it offers a unique atmosphere blending urban culture with nightlife. The venue features multiple bar stations and hosts diverse events, making it a hotspot for creative gatherings, parties, and cultural showcases in the heart of the city.
Wed–Thu 18:00–24:00 · Fri–Sat 18:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
Perched on the sixth floor of the Royal Festival Hall, the Southbank Centre Members Bar offers a serene retreat with panoramic Thames views. This contemporary wine bar serves drinks and light bites amid expansive glazing and a balcony, blending exclusivity with cultural buzz from the vibrant arts complex below. Ideal for pre-show relaxation or casual socializing in central London.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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.
Wed–Sat 12:00–22:15 · Sun 12:00–20:15Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
A seasonal cocktail bar and pop-up operation known for freshly made, creative drinks and sunny outdoor seating on London’s Southbank; run by the Thirsty Farrier team who specialise in mobile bars and festival pop-ups, it pairs relaxed riverside vibes with a changing seasonal menu and convivial service, making it an easy stop for an afternoon or an evening social drink.
Daily 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Le Champagne Bar
Perched beside the London Eye at Eye Waterloo Pier, Le Champagne Bar is a riverside champagne and wine lounge offering a refined, intimate setting for a pre- or post-ride glass of bubbly and light bites. With panoramic Thames views, propped seating and a calm, polished atmosphere, it's a compact spot for celebratory toasts, watch-the-light moments and people‑watching along the South Bank.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
The Spy Bar
Nestled deep within the historic Old War Office building, The Spy Bar offers an exclusive, clandestine cocktail experience. This subterranean bar, once used by MI5 and MI6 for secret operations, features moody wine-red interiors, a real Aston Martin DB5 embedded in the wall, and a menu inspired by espionage legends and British history. With a no-photography policy enhancing its secretive charm, it’s a sophisticated retreat for cocktail aficionados and James Bond fans alike.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
Nestled within the bustling Southbank Centre Food Market, Honestfolk Cocktail Bar delivers expertly crafted seasonal cocktails and timeless classics from a cozy mobile setup. Overlooking the River Thames, it captures London's vibrant street food scene with refreshing drinks amid sizzling grills and global flavors. Open weekends, it offers a perfect pit stop for market-goers seeking quality libations in a lively, open-air atmosphere. Cocktails feature fresh ingredients, from zesty citrus blends to rich winter eggnogs, paired with the hum of Southbank's cultural energy.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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