The Spy Bar at Raffles London: A Secretive Cocktail Sanctuary
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
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.
A brief summary to The Spy Bar
- 57 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2BX, GB
- +442039077500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Photography is prohibited inside The Spy Bar; guests receive a sticker to cover phone cameras upon entry to maintain privacy and atmosphere.
- Reservations are highly recommended as seating is limited to 52 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
- Try the signature Vesper Martini, uniquely crafted with house-made London honey distillate and a bespoke vermouth blend.
- The bar is exclusive to Raffles London guests, so plan your visit accordingly to access this hidden gem.
- Engage with the knowledgeable bartenders who share stories behind the cocktails inspired by espionage legends and British history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Spy Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about The Spy Bar
A Hidden Gem in London's Historic Heart
The Spy Bar is discreetly tucked away in the depths of the Old War Office, now the luxurious Raffles London hotel. This subterranean cocktail bar occupies rooms that once served as high-security vaults for MI5 and MI6, storing false identity papers and mission reports during the 20th century. The bar’s entrance is marked only by a subtle “007” plaque, evoking the secretive aura of the space. Guests are greeted by vintage furnishings reminiscent of wartime Britain, including antique telephones and a Cold War-era desk, setting the tone for an immersive experience steeped in espionage history.Design and Atmosphere: A Blend of History and Modern Sophistication
The interior features rich, wine-red velvet seating, exposed brick walls, and atmospheric low lighting, creating an intimate and cozy environment. The bar’s standout centerpiece is a real Aston Martin DB5, famously associated with James Bond, embedded in the wall behind the bar. The design thoughtfully balances the building’s Edwardian heritage with a modern speakeasy vibe, incorporating exposed piping and industrial elements that recall its secretive past. Photography is strictly forbidden, with guests required to cover their phone cameras, enhancing the exclusive and immersive feel.Cocktails Inspired by Espionage Legends and British Heritage
The Spy Bar’s cocktail menu is a narrative journey through the history of the Old War Office and its famous occupants. Led by bar manager Sotiris Konomi, the menu features 16 signature cocktails and three alcohol-free options, each inspired by figures such as Winston Churchill, James Bond, and Christine Granville, as well as organizations like MI5 and MI6. The iconic Vesper Martini, served shaken not stirred, is given a unique twist with house-made London honey distillate and a bespoke vermouth blend. Other drinks pay homage to Churchill’s famed whisky habits and the clandestine world of spies, served with sophisticated garnishes and clear ice.A Rare Collection and Expert Craftsmanship
Beyond the cocktails, The Spy Bar boasts an impressive vintage collection of rare spirits, including exclusive bottlings of The Macallan and bespoke creations crafted for Raffles. The bartenders employ advanced techniques such as rotary evaporation and centrifugation to preserve the original character of classic drinks while innovating with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The attentive service and storytelling elevate the experience, inviting guests to savor each drink while absorbing the rich tapestry of espionage lore.Exclusive Experience and Privacy
Access to The Spy Bar is exclusive to Raffles London guests, emphasizing privacy and discretion. The bar seats only 52 guests, with intimate booths that encourage quiet conversation and secret rendezvous. The no-camera policy fosters presence and connection, making it a rare sanctuary in a city often dominated by digital distractions. This makes The Spy Bar an ideal spot for a sophisticated nightcap, a romantic date, or a unique gathering steeped in intrigue and history.Legacy of the Old War Office in Every Detail
Every element of The Spy Bar reflects the legacy of its location. From the structural reinforcements added during World War II to the decor inspired by the Cold War era, the bar is a living tribute to the clandestine activities that once took place within these walls. The experience culminates in a sense of stepping back in time, where guests become part of the ongoing story of espionage, secrecy, and elegance that defines this remarkable venue.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.0 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
16-18 Whitehall
0.1 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.1 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Dover House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Admiralty Arch
0.2 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
The Women of World War II
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Guards Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.3 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Nelson's Column
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
10 Downing St
0.3 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
10 Downing Street
0.3 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horse Guards Parade
0.1 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Banqueting House
0.1 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.2 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Grand Building
0.2 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.3 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Embankment Pl
0.3 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Trafalgar Square
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
Charing Cross
0.3 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
Canada House
0.3 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
London by Night Tours
0.3 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.3 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.1 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.2 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.2 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
J Sheekey
0.6 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Rules
0.6 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Clos Maggiore
0.7 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.7 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
OKAN South Bank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.5 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.6 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.6 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.6 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.7 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.
M&M'S London
0.7 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Floral Street
0.7 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Lillywhites
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London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spy Bar
0.0 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
0.1 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.5 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.5 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Le Champagne Bar
0.6 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.6 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.6 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.6 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Westminster Arms
0.6 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Upstairs At Rules
0.6 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.3 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.
TSQ Club
0.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 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.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.6 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
0.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
0.7 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.7 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.
Proud Late
0.7 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.
The Scotch of St James
0.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Cirque Du Soul
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Ivy Club
0.8 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.8 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Business Friendly
