Swift Soho
London's premier two-level cocktail bar blending European elegance with British speakeasy charm.
Swift Soho is a sophisticated two-level cocktail bar located on Old Compton Street in London's vibrant Soho district. The ground floor features a bright, aperitivo-style bar with lighter cocktails and wines, while the basement offers a cosy, whisky-focused speakeasy atmosphere with classic, complex drinks. Known for expertly crafted cocktails, attentive service, and live jazz performances on weekends, Swift has earned recognition as one of London's best bars. The venue is ideal for dates, pre-dinner drinks, or intimate evenings with friends.
A brief summary to Swift Soho
- 12 Old Compton St, London, W1D 4TQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-12 am
- Thursday 3 pm-12 am
- Friday 3 pm-12 am
- Saturday 3 pm-12 am
- Sunday 3 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance for the basement level, especially on weekends when live jazz performances draw larger crowds. Walk-ins can usually access the ground floor, but downstairs seating is limited and highly sought after.
- Visit on Saturday or Sunday to experience live jazz or ragtime performances in the basement, which perfectly complements the intimate speakeasy atmosphere and enhances the overall experience.
- Start your evening upstairs with an aperitivo or lighter cocktail, then descend to the basement for more complex, spirit-forward drinks and a deeper dive into the bar's whisky collection.
- Try the Legends menu cocktails for a unique experience that connects each drink to a cultural icon or creative figure, transforming your order into a storytelling moment.
- Allow 2–3 hours for a full experience, particularly if you plan to enjoy multiple cocktails and soak in the atmosphere. Note that tables are typically held for a maximum of 5 minutes if you book online.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Swift Soho location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Swift Soho
A Tale of Two Bars
Swift Soho is a uniquely designed two-level venue that functions as two distinct bars in one location, each with its own character, menu, and atmosphere. The ground floor presents a bright, elegant space inspired by European aperitivo bars and Champagne lounges, featuring pastel blue walls, marble counters, and a striking custom-built back bar with mirrors, glass, and dramatic light boxes. This upstairs space is ideal for casual pre-dinner drinks or post-work cocktails, with a street-facing window overlooking one of Soho's busiest thoroughfares—perfect for people-watching. The basement, by contrast, evokes a classic British pub with dimmed lighting, rich wood panelling, deep blue and brown tones, and intimate leather booths. This lower level creates an atmosphere of escape and timelessness, where guests can suspend reality and immerse themselves in the bar's speakeasy aesthetic.Craftsmanship and Cocktail Philosophy
The bar's philosophy centres on simplicity and replicability: every cocktail is crafted using only a juicer, blender, and hob, with no rotavap or unnecessary equipment required. This approach ensures that drinks are grounded in classic techniques and flavours. Upstairs, the seasonal menu features lighter, more approachable cocktails leaning towards aperitivos and non-alcoholic options, while downstairs offers a more complex, spirit-forward selection that changes annually. The basement's signature Irish Coffee remains a perennial favourite, arriving warm, creamy, and perfectly balanced. Swift's downstairs menu also features the innovative Legends collection, where each cocktail is inspired by cultural icons and creative figures—from Hemingway to Snoop Dogg, Oscar Wilde to Nigella—transforming each drink into an immersive storytelling experience. The bar stocks over 300 whiskies from around the world, reflecting its speciality in whisky-based creations.Atmosphere and Service Excellence
Swift's reputation rests not only on its drinks but on the warmth and professionalism of its team. Staff members are deeply involved in drink creation and take genuine pride in guiding guests toward their ideal cocktail based on personal preference. The service strikes a balance between attentive and unobtrusive, creating an atmosphere that feels both upscale and welcoming. The venue's design enhances this experience: warm glowing cylinder lamps, yellow candles on tables, and clean, elegant glassware with hand-cut ice elevate the visual presentation without overwhelming the space. On weekends, live jazz and ragtime sessions add to the ambience, with pianists or jazz duos performing in the basement to complement the intimate setting.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 12 Old Compton Street in Soho, Swift occupies a prime position on one of the neighbourhood's most vibrant passages, running parallel to Shaftesbury Avenue. The location is easily identifiable by the queue of eager patrons typically waiting outside, particularly during peak hours. Soho itself is a thriving cultural hub packed with theatres, restaurants, exclusive clubs, and bars, making Swift an ideal anchor point for an evening out. The venue's central position means it is accessible from multiple transport links and is within walking distance of Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and numerous other Soho attractions.Recognition and Reputation
Swift Soho has earned significant accolades within the cocktail bar world, including recognition as London's best bar and a high ranking on the world's best bars list. The venue was founded by Bobby Hiddleston and Mia Johansson, who previously worked at the acclaimed cocktail institution Milk & Honey, bringing their expertise and vision to this Soho original. While the founders have since expanded with branches in Borough and Shoreditch, the Soho location remains the flagship venue and continues to set the standard for cocktail excellence in London. The bar's commitment to quality, consistency, and genuine hospitality has made it a destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic, memorable drinking experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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New Loon Fung Restaurant
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Circus
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adults Only
