Lyaness: London’s Innovative Thameside Cocktail Bar
Innovative cocktails and riverside elegance converge at Lyaness, London’s pioneering South Bank bar by mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana.
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.
A brief summary to Lyaness
- 20 Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PD, GB
- +442037471063
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5 pm-12 am
- Friday 4 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Ask the bartenders about the story behind each cocktail to fully appreciate the creative process and unusual ingredients.
- Visit during early evening on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service.
- Try the small plates like aubergine tacos to complement your drinks and enhance the tasting experience.
- Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the bar is popular and can get busy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Lyaness location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lyaness
A Visionary Mixology Experience on the Thames
Lyaness sits prominently on the South Bank of the River Thames, inside the design-forward Sea Containers London hotel. The bar’s powder-blue interior, accented by a deep green serpentinite bar, creates a lush yet cosy environment that perfectly complements its riverside location. This setting offers guests panoramic views of the Thames, enhancing the sensory pleasure of their visit. The atmosphere balances sophistication with warmth, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy the artistry behind each drink.The Genius of Ryan Chetiyawardana
The bar is the brainchild of Ryan Chetiyawardana, known as Mr Lyan, a pioneer in the cocktail world who blends his background in biology, fine art, and philosophy with culinary expertise. His approach is scientific yet playful, resulting in cocktails that challenge traditional boundaries. Lyaness is his latest venture following acclaimed predecessors like White Lyan and Dandelyan, the latter once named the world’s best bar. This legacy of innovation continues here, with drinks that incorporate fermented ingredients, zero-waste techniques, and unexpected flavor combinations.Innovative and Sustainable Cocktail Crafting
Lyaness’s cocktail menu is a dynamic, yearly-evolving showcase of creativity and collaboration. Drinks like the ‘brainless melon curaçao’ and ‘leather soda’ highlight the bar’s experimental ethos, using processes such as inoculating melons with penicillium or crafting sodas with unusual flavor profiles. The bar’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of fermented camel milk and other locally sourced, eco-conscious ingredients. This dedication earned Lyaness the prestigious Best Cocktail Menu award from the World’s 50 Best Bars and the first-ever 3 PIN rating from the Pinnacle Guide.A Social and Sensory Journey
Ordering a cocktail at Lyaness is as much about the story as the drink itself. Bartenders engage guests by explaining the inspiration and scientific background behind each creation, turning the experience into an interactive narrative. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the craft and encourages patrons to explore flavors they might never have encountered. The bar’s friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to a welcoming vibe, making it a perfect spot for both casual visitors and cocktail connoisseurs.Location and Cultural Context
Nestled between cultural landmarks like Tate Modern and the Southbank Centre, Lyaness benefits from a vibrant neighbourhood rich in art, theatre, and music. This proximity adds to its appeal as a destination for those seeking a sophisticated yet lively night out. The bar’s spacious layout and thoughtful design ensure comfort even on busy nights, while the river views provide a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall ambiance.Complementary Culinary Offerings
Alongside its inventive drinks, Lyaness offers a selection of small plates designed to complement the cocktail menu. These include creative bites such as aubergine tacos and croquettes, which pair well with the bar’s diverse flavor profiles. The food is crafted with the same attention to detail and innovation as the drinks, rounding out the sensory experience for guests.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Community Area
0.1 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.2 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.5 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Hare Pl
0.6 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Ludgate Circus
0.7 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Prince Henry's Room
0.7 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Waterloo Bridge
0.7 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
St Clement Danes Church
0.7 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
The Old Watch House
0.7 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.7 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Queen Anne Statue
0.8 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Temple Bar London
0.8 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bargehouse
0.1 km
Explore Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, a raw industrial space on London’s South Bank, hosting cutting-edge art exhibitions and immersive creative events.
Thames Beach
0.2 km
Discover Thames Beach, a tranquil urban riverside escape with sandy shores, iconic views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London SE1.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.3 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Observation Point
0.3 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline from a vibrant riverside vantage on the South Bank.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.4 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.4 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
Roupell St
0.4 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
The Blackfriar
0.5 km
A Grade II* listed Art Nouveau pub on the site of a medieval Dominican friary, packed with friar-themed carvings, mosaics, and stained glass in the heart of London.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.5 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Tate Modern
0.5 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Two Temple Place
0.5 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
National Theatre
0.5 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Apothecaries' Hall
0.6 km
Historic 17th-century livery hall near St Paul’s, blending rich heritage with elegant event spaces and timeless charm.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.6 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.0 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
The Archduke
0.8 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.8 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
0.8 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.8 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Madison
1.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Bustronome London
1.0 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Troia Southbank
1.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.1 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
OKAN South Bank
1.1 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.1 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.1 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.1 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.1 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Twinings - The Strand
0.7 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.7 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.8 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.9 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
One New Change
1.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.0 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.0 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
London Silver Vaults
1.1 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.1 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lyaness
0.0 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.1 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Understudy
0.5 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.7 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.8 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.9 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.9 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.0 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.0 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
American Bar
1.0 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
1.0 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
1.0 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Plume Wine Bar
1.0 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Cirque Du Soul
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Steel Yard
1.1 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.2 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Heaven
1.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Carwash Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Ministry of Sound
1.3 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Roxy
1.5 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
The Ivy Club
1.6 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.6 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly