Gordon's Wine Bar: London's Historic Candlelit Cellar

Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.

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Gordon's Wine Bar

Established in 1890, Gordon's Wine Bar is London's oldest wine bar, nestled just off Villiers Street near Embankment. Known for its intimate, candlelit cellar carved from bedrock, it offers an extensive selection of award-winning wines from classic and new world regions, alongside artisanal food boards. The bar’s walls are adorned with historic photographs and newspaper clippings, creating a timeless atmosphere cherished by locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Gordon's Wine Bar

47 Villiers St, London, WC2N 6NE, GB
+442079301408
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 11 am-11 pm
Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
Thursday 11 am-11 pm
Friday 11 am-11 pm
Saturday 11 am-11 pm
Sunday 12 pm-10 pm

Local tips

Arrive early or be prepared to wait, as seating in the intimate cellar is limited and popular, especially on weekends.
Try wines served directly from the barrel, including sherries and ports, for an authentic traditional taste.
Pair your wine with artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards sourced from local producers for a full tasting experience.
Visit the outdoor terrace when weather permits for a relaxed atmosphere and seasonal BBQ offerings.
Explore the historic photographs and newspaper clippings on the walls to appreciate the bar’s rich cultural heritage.

Gordon's Wine Bar location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Gordon's Wine Bar

A Storied Legacy in the Heart of London

Gordon's Wine Bar, established in 1890 by Angus Stafford Gordon, stands as London's oldest wine bar and a living testament to the city's rich drinking culture. Located at 47 Villiers Street, near the bustling Embankment and Charing Cross stations, the bar occupies a historic site once home to notable figures such as Rudyard Kipling and Samuel Pepys. Over the decades, it has remained a family-run establishment, currently owned by Wendy Gordon and managed by her son Simon, preserving a unique heritage that blends tradition with contemporary hospitality.

An Atmosphere Steeped in History and Charm

Descending a narrow staircase, visitors enter a vaulted, candlelit cellar carved from bedrock, where aged oak barrels brim with sherries and ports. The intimate, dimly lit space is lined with faded wooden walls covered in yellowed newspaper clippings and historic photographs, including moments like Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding day. The ambiance is enhanced by flickering candlelight resting in empty wine bottles, creating a warm, almost secretive atmosphere that invites quiet conversation and reflection.

A Curated Selection of Exceptional Wines

Gordon's boasts an extensive, award-winning wine list featuring selections from classic European vineyards to emerging producers in South America, the UK, and beyond. Sherries and ports are served straight from the barrel, offering authentic tastes of tradition. The bar’s knowledgeable staff are passionate guides, ready to recommend pairings and introduce guests to natural, no-alcohol, and magnum-sized options, catering to a wide range of palates.

Artisanal Food to Complement Every Sip

The food menu complements the wine offerings with a variety of artisanal sharing boards, including cheeses sourced from local Sussex makers, charcuterie, smoked trout, and roast beef. Seasonal availability influences the menu, ensuring fresh, high-quality accompaniments that enhance the tasting experience. The terrace, open year-round except Mondays, provides an inviting outdoor space for enjoying warm-weather fare such as BBQs alongside the bar’s signature wines.

Enduring Community and Cultural Significance

More than just a wine bar, Gordon's is a cultural landmark that has witnessed London's evolving social fabric. Its proximity to Theatreland and Trafalgar Square makes it a favored retreat for theatergoers and locals alike. The bar’s long-standing relationships with family-run vineyards and suppliers underscore its commitment to quality and tradition. Despite challenges over the years, including licensing and ownership transitions, Gordon's remains a beloved institution where history and hospitality intertwine.

Unique Visitor Experience in a Timeless Setting

Visitors to Gordon's experience a rare blend of conviviality and history in a setting that feels both cozy and grand. The cellar’s low ceilings and stone walls create an intimate cave-like environment, while the terrace offers a contrasting airy space. The bar’s enduring charm lies in its ability to transport guests back in time while serving contemporary wines and dishes, making every visit a memorable journey through London's vinous heritage.

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