Gordon's Wine Bar: London's Historic Candlelit Sanctuary
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where candlelit cellars, rich history, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable experience.
Established in 1890, Gordon's Wine Bar is London's oldest wine bar, nestled on Villiers Street near Embankment. This atmospheric venue features a vaulted candlelit cellar with aged oak barrels, vintage newspaper clippings, and a rich history linked to literary figures like Rudyard Kipling. Offering an extensive, award-winning wine list and artisanal sharing boards, it remains a beloved spot for intimate drinks, romantic dates, and convivial gatherings.
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
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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 to secure a table, as Gordon's operates on a first-come, first-served basis and can fill quickly, especially on weekends.
- Explore the candlelit cellar for an intimate experience, but mind your head on the low ceilings and stairs.
- Pair your wine with artisanal cheese boards or cold plates sourced from local producers for a true taste of Gordon’s offerings.
- Enjoy the outdoor terrace when weather permits for a relaxed riverside ambiance with seasonal BBQ options.
- Ask the knowledgeable staff for wine recommendations or food pairing advice to enhance your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground Rail
Take the London Underground to Embankment Station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Gordon's Wine Bar. The station is served by the Bakerloo, Northern, Circle, and District lines. Embankment station offers frequent services with fares ranging from £2.50 to £5 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near Villiers Street, including routes 6, 9, 11, and 15. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. A contactless payment or Oyster card is recommended, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central London, walking to Gordon's Wine Bar from Covent Garden or Trafalgar Square takes about 10-15 minutes over mostly flat, paved terrain, suitable for most visitors.
Gordon's Wine Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gordon's Wine Bar
A Storied Heritage in the Heart of London
Gordon's Wine Bar, founded in 1890 by Angus Stafford Gordon, holds the distinction of being the oldest wine bar in London. Located on Villiers Street, the bar occupies a site steeped in history, once home to notable residents including Rudyard Kipling, who lived in the flats above and penned works such as "The Light That Failed." The building itself has evolved over centuries—from a salt warehouse to a rooming house—before becoming the iconic wine bar it is today. The Gordon family has maintained ownership for decades, with Wendy Gordon and her son Simon continuing the family legacy.An Atmosphere of Timeless Charm
Descending into Gordon's is like stepping back into Victorian London. The subterranean cellar is a semi-circular cave carved from bedrock, softly illuminated by candlelight that flickers against the vaulted brick walls. The ambiance is intimate and cozy, with aged oak barrels filled with sherry and port, wooden tables, and wine barrel chairs inviting quiet conversation. The walls are adorned with historic newspaper clippings and photographs, including moments from British history such as Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding day. This unique atmosphere creates a distinctive setting for enjoying wine away from the city's bustle.A Curated Selection of Exceptional Wines and Food
Gordon's boasts an extensive and diverse wine list featuring award-winning selections from classic European regions, South America, the UK, and beyond. Many wines come from family-run vineyards, emphasizing quality and artisanal production. Sherries and ports are served directly from the barrel, enhancing the authentic experience. Complementing the wines is a menu of artisanal sharing boards, including a wide variety of cheeses sourced from Sussex and other local producers, cold plates, and simple sides like olives and freshly baked bread. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to guide guests through pairings and recommendations.A Gathering Place for All Occasions
Whether seeking a quiet glass alone, a romantic evening, or a lively outing with friends and family, Gordon's Wine Bar caters to a broad spectrum of visitors. Its candlelit cellar and historic charm make it a favored spot for intimate dates, while the outdoor terrace offers a relaxed space for al fresco dining with views along the river embankment. The bar has a welcoming, inclusive spirit, with a team that has often been part of the Gordon family for many years, contributing to the warm, familial atmosphere.Connections to London's Cultural Fabric
Beyond its wines and ambiance, Gordon's is intertwined with London's cultural and literary heritage. Its proximity to Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, and Theatreland places it at the crossroads of the city's artistic life. The bar’s history includes ties to theatrical figures and writers, and its location in the historic Kipling House adds a layer of literary significance. The venue’s old-world charm and storied past offer visitors a tangible connection to London’s rich cultural tapestry.Preserving Tradition While Embracing the Present
Despite its venerable age, Gordon's has adapted to modern tastes and demands without losing its unique character. The family ownership ensures continuity, while the wine list and food offerings evolve to include contemporary selections and artisan producers. The bar’s commitment to quality, heritage, and atmosphere makes it a rare gem where history and hospitality blend seamlessly, inviting guests to savor both fine wine and the stories that fill its walls.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eleanor Cross
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A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
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A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
John Adam St & Adam St
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Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.2 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.2 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Henry Fawcett Monument
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A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.3 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
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.
16-18 Whitehall
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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
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.4 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.4 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Admiralty Arch
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Watergate
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Explore York Watergate, a serene historical landmark on the River Thames, rich in maritime heritage and stunning views perfect for tourists.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
0.1 km
A historic and tranquil riverside garden in central London, blending Victorian heritage with peaceful green spaces and cultural memorials.
Charing Cross
0.1 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
Embankment station
0.1 km
Historic and bustling central London Tube station connecting four major lines near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.1 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Embankment Pl
0.1 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Bustronome London
0.1 km
Savor gourmet dining aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while cruising past London’s iconic landmarks in unmatched style and comfort.
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.
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.
Adelphi Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class musicals and rich theatrical history in the elegant Art Deco setting of London’s Adelphi Theatre on the iconic Strand.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.3 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
Vaudeville Theatre
0.3 km
Historic West End theatre with intimate seating, acclaimed productions, and a prime Strand location near London’s cultural landmarks.
Savoy Theatre
0.3 km
Historic West End theatre famed for Gilbert and Sullivan premieres, blending Victorian roots with stunning Art Deco elegance.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
0.3 km
Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
Edith Cavell Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
Essential places to dine
The Northall
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Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
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A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.3 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.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.4 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Chez Antoinette
0.4 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
J Sheekey
0.5 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
wagamama southbank
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Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Balthazar
0.5 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.4 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.4 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.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
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.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.5 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.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.6 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
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.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
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Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
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Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.3 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Old Shades
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Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.3 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.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
American Bar
0.3 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.3 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Beaufort Bar
0.3 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.
The Spy Bar
0.3 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.3 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.
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Blind Spot London
0.4 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.5 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.1 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.
Proud Late
0.4 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.
TSQ Club
0.5 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
0.5 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.5 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 Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Ivy Club
0.6 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Café de Paris
0.7 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Tiger Tiger London
0.7 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.7 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Luxe Club
0.7 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Roxy
0.7 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.
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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
