Best Bars near Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

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.

Lyaness is a cutting-edge cocktail bar located on London’s South Bank, within the Sea Containers hotel. Renowned for its inventive drinks crafted by mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana, it offers a stylish, welcoming atmosphere with stunning river views. The bar combines scientific precision and artistic creativity, serving unique cocktails made with unusual ingredients and sustainable practices. It’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a blend of innovation and elegance in a vibrant urban setting.

Nestled near Monument station in London, The Cocktail Club offers a vibrant, fun-filled atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails and a lively party vibe. Known for its creative drinks, cozy yet energetic setting, and attentive staff, this cocktail bar is a hotspot for after-work drinks and weekend celebrations. Expect a speakeasy feel with dim lighting, swinging lampshades, and a soundtrack that keeps the energy high well into the night.

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.

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.

Nestled discreetly on Lime Street in London’s financial district, The Bootlegger is a stylish speakeasy bar offering expertly crafted cocktails, a lively live music scene, and an immersive 1920s Prohibition-era atmosphere. Known for its attentive service and intriguing drink menu, this underground venue combines vintage charm with modern mixology, making it a popular after-work and evening destination for cocktail enthusiasts and live music lovers alike.

The Old School Yard is a vibrant retro cocktail bar located at 111 Long Lane, London SE1. Celebrated for its 80s and 90s nostalgia, it features classic arcade games, a private karaoke room, and a lively atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails at reasonable prices. This venue offers a unique blend of fun, music, and socializing, making it a popular spot for groups and celebrations in the London Bridge area.

Demon, Wise & Partners is a renowned basement cocktail bar located at 27a Throgmorton Street in London’s historic financial district. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed atmosphere, this bar offers a stylish retreat beneath the bustle of the City. Housed in a classic setting near iconic landmarks like the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange, it blends traditional charm with contemporary mixology excellence.

The Hung, Drawn & Quartered is a historic pub located at 26-27 Great Tower Street, London, near the Tower of London and Tower Hill execution site. Housed in a Grade II listed building, once a bank and part of Christ’s Hospital school, it offers a unique blend of refined pub classics, fine ales, and a dark historical atmosphere linked to the brutal medieval punishment of high treason. The pub’s evocative name recalls the grim executions that once took place nearby, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and pub lovers alike.

Nestled in a Victorian basement on Holyrood Street near London Bridge, Nine Lives is a stylish cocktail bar renowned for its innovative agave-based drinks and vibrant Mexican-inspired menu. With a cool, intimate atmosphere enhanced by live DJs and upcycled decor, it offers a unique blend of craft cocktails and sharable Mexican dishes in a trendy Bermondsey setting.