Callooh Callay, Windsor Travel Guide

4.5 (1258)

Step through the wardrobe to discover Shoreditch’s whimsical cocktail bar blending Alice in Wonderland charm with world-class drinks.

Nestled at 65 Rivington Street in London’s vibrant Shoreditch, Callooh Callay is a quirky, Alice in Wonderland-themed cocktail bar renowned for its inventive drinks and immersive atmosphere. Featuring a Victorian-style front bar and a secret back bar hidden behind a wardrobe door, it offers a unique blend of playful design and expertly crafted cocktails, making it a favored spot for intimate dates and adventurous drinkers alike.

A brief summary to Callooh Callay

65 Rivington St, London, EC2A 3QQ, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 6 pm-1 am
Tuesday 6 pm-1 am
Wednesday 6 pm-1 am
Thursday 6 pm-3 am
Friday 6 pm-3 am
Saturday 6 pm-3 am
Sunday 6 pm-3 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Callooh Callay.

Visit on a weekday evening for a more relaxed atmosphere and easier seating.
Try to experience the secret back bar accessed through the wardrobe door for a unique vibe.
Book ahead for weekends as the front bar gets very busy and seating is limited.
Ask bartenders for personalized cocktail recommendations—they are skilled at tailoring drinks.
Check if the Jubjub Bar is accessible during your visit for a special members-only experience.

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Getting There

London Underground

Take the London Underground to Old Street Station on the Northern Line, about a 10-15 minute walk to Callooh Callay. The station is well connected with frequent services. Walking involves urban streets with some cobblestones; accessible for most. No cost beyond standard Tube fare.
Bus

Bus routes 55 and 243 serve Rivington Street with stops within a 5-minute walk of the bar. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day. This option is economical with a standard London bus fare payable by Oyster or contactless card.
Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you directly at 65 Rivington Street. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect moderate fares typical for central London journeys.
Walking

If staying nearby in Shoreditch or the City, walking is a pleasant option taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is urban with some uneven pavements but generally easy to navigate.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information Boards

Callooh Callay location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Callooh Callay

A Wonderland-Inspired Cocktail Experience

Callooh Callay draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky poem, creating a fantastical setting that transports visitors into a playful, surreal world. The bar’s name itself is a whimsical nonsense phrase, setting the tone for an experience filled with curiosity and charm. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a Victorian-style bar with exposed brick walls, cozy lounge seating, and eclectic décor that blends vintage lighting, gilded mirrors, and quirky furnishings such as a bathtub-turned-sofa.

The Secret Back Bar and Hidden Jubjub Bar

One of Callooh Callay’s signature features is the hidden back bar accessed through a wardrobe door, evoking the feeling of stepping through the looking glass. This intimate space contrasts with the front bar’s lively atmosphere, offering a more secluded environment with a 70s-inspired vibe. Beyond this lies the elusive Jubjub Bar, a members-only area where bartenders experiment with creative concoctions, accessible to those in the know and adding an exclusive layer to the venue’s mystique.

Inventive Cocktails Crafted with Expertise

The cocktail menu at Callooh Callay is a journey of discovery, with seasonal menus presented in imaginative formats like mixtape cassettes. The bartenders are highly skilled and knowledgeable, often tailoring drinks to individual tastes and using unusual ingredients such as Japanese spice mix tagarashi or coconut-infused tequila. Signature cocktails like the Bristol Milk and White Rose showcase a balance of complex flavors without overwhelming alcohol presence, making each sip a refined experience.

Atmosphere and Clientele

The ambiance varies by day and time, with quieter, more relaxed vibes during weekday evenings ideal for dates or post-work drinks, while weekends bring a bustling crowd and energetic DJ sets. The clientele is stylish and discerning, appreciating the bar’s blend of fun and sophistication. The staff’s warmth and attentiveness enhance the welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel valued and at home despite the venue’s theatrical flair.

Complementary Food and Unique Design Elements

While primarily a cocktail bar, Callooh Callay also offers bar snacks that complement its drinks selection, though food availability may vary by day. The interior design is notable for its whimsical touches, including a palm-tree-shaped lamp and swirling monochrome backdrops, which contribute to the venue’s distinctive character. These elements, combined with the playful secret doors and thematic references, create an immersive environment that delights visitors.

Legacy and Local Significance

Operating successfully for over a decade, Callooh Callay has become a staple of the Shoreditch nightlife scene, celebrated for its originality and quality. It embodies East London’s creative spirit, blending theatricality with genuine craftsmanship. Its sustained popularity reflects a commitment to innovation in cocktails and a unique guest experience that continues to draw locals and visitors alike.