London's bar scene is a lively mix of timeless cocktail lounges, stylish rooftop venues, and quirky, themed hideaways that cater to every taste and mood. Whether you're a local searching for your next favorite hangout or a visitor eager to explore the city's vibrant nightlife, this guide showcases London's top drinking experiences.

From expertly crafted cocktails that highlight innovative mixology techniques to diverse wine selections that appeal to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, each bar promises a unique experience. Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftops, where the skyline serves as a stunning backdrop, or immerse yourself in each venue's distinct atmospheres.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual night out with friends, or looking to unwind after a long day, these standout bars provide the perfect setting, blending creativity and tradition to elevate your drinking experience in this dynamic city.

Cheers to unforgettable nights out in London!

Best Cocktail Bars in London

Cocktail Connoisseurs

London’s cocktail scene is internationally renowned, with bars pushing the boundaries of mixology while still respecting the classics. Here are the must-visit spots for any cocktail lover:

Unique Cocktail Experiences

For those seeking a cocktail with flair, London delivers. Lyaness at Sea Containers offers an avant-garde experience, with drinks like the "Infinite Banana" that combine creativity and precision. If you're after quirky fun, Little Nan’s Bar provides an eclectic and whimsical atmosphere with playful drinks. For something more refined, Fitz’s Bar offers a sophisticated setting and a menu where every cocktail feels like a masterpiece. Meanwhile, the tiki-inspired Trailer Happiness in Notting Hill transports you to a tropical paradise with its signature cocktails like the "Dia de Muertos."

Connaught Bar

A classic in Mayfair, Connaught Bar is a blend of Art Deco elegance and modern mixology. Famous for its martini trolley, bartenders craft drinks tableside with precision. The Connaught Martini is a standout, where you can select from a range of house-made bitters to customize your drink. With its luxurious ambiance and top-notch service, Connaught Bar continues to hold its place as one of the best in the world.

Scarfes Bar

At Scarfes Bar, located in the Rosewood Hotel, you’re surrounded by satirical artwork from British artist Gerald Scarfe, providing a playful backdrop for your evening. The cocktail menu takes you on a journey through British history and pop culture, with drinks like "Maggie’s Comeback," referencing Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The bar also boasts an impressive selection of rare whiskies and hosts live jazz performances most evenings.

Bar Termini

In Soho, Bar Termini brings a slice of Italian culture to London. Co-founded by Tony Conigliaro, this small, intimate space is renowned for its perfectly crafted Negronis, which are aged for balance and smoothness. Don’t miss the Espresso Martini, which celebrates Italy’s coffee culture. Be sure to book a table or arrive early, as the bar fills up quickly.

New Ingredients and Techniques

London’s cocktail bars are pioneers in innovation, using new techniques like molecular mixology and AI-assisted cocktail creation. Tayēr + Elementary on Old Street is a prime example, using a rotary evaporator to extract unique flavors for drinks like their "One Sip Martini." Lyaness crafts culinary-inspired cocktails with ingredients that change seasonally, keeping the menu fresh and inventive.

Hidden Gems

London’s central areas boast iconic bars, but hidden gems across the city are well worth the visit. At The Standard in King’s Cross, Sweeties merges retro-futuristic design with creative, one-of-a-kind cocktails. In Covent Garden, the moody, subterranean Eve Bar draws inspiration from the seven deadly sins for its bold cocktail menu. Over in Bethnal Green, Coupette brings a slice of French sophistication to East London, renowned for its remarkable calvados selection and elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Explore these lesser-known spots for a unique drinking experience.

Wine Bars in London

Wine Enthusiasts

For wine lovers, London is just as exciting. Here are some of the best wine bars that offer both quality and variety:

Sager + Wilde

With locations in Hackney and Bethnal Green, Sager + Wilde is at the forefront of London’s modern wine culture. Known for its rotating selection of wines from small producers, this is a great spot for wine newbies and aficionados alike. The industrial-chic Hackney Road location is perfect for a relaxed evening, and their famed grilled cheese sandwich is a must-try with a glass of full-bodied red.

Passione Vino

In Shoreditch, Passione Vino offers an authentic Italian wine experience, specializing in natural and biodynamic Italian wines. With no formal wine list, the staff takes the time to recommend bottles based on your preferences, creating a personal and welcoming experience. Paired with delicious small plates of Italian cheeses and charcuterie, Passione Vino feels more like drinking at a friend’s home than a typical bar.

Wine and Cheese

For those who appreciate pairing their wine with food, Gordon’s Wine Bar (London’s oldest) offers a fantastic selection of cheeses to go with its extensive wine list. The candlelit cellar transports you back in time, offering a cozy yet timeless atmosphere. Meanwhile, Humble Grape, with several locations around the city, focuses on sustainable wines and perfectly paired cheese and charcuterie boards.

Wine Lists and Pairings

Sager + Wilde's Hackney Road branch features an impressive wine list focusing on small producers and unique regions. For an upscale experience, The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy offers exquisite champagne cocktails that are perfect for a celebration. Vermuteria in Coal Drops Yard blends Italian vermouth with a cozy, intimate setting, offering an unforgettable wine experience.

Rooftop Bars in London

Drink with a View

Few things compare to sipping a cocktail while gazing at London’s skyline. Here are the best rooftop bars for breathtaking views:

The Nest

Perched atop the Treehouse Hotel in Marylebone, The Nest offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the London skyline. This treehouse-inspired bar, designed with natural materials, creates a cozy yet elevated atmosphere. The menu reflects the changing seasons, featuring refreshing botanical cocktails in summer and warming hot drinks during winter. Whether day or night, The Nest is perfect for enjoying London’s skyline with a unique twist.

Bussey Rooftop Bar

Situated in the heart of Peckham, Bussey Rooftop Bar boasts laid-back vibes and sweeping panoramic views of London. Its straightforward yet satisfying drinks menu offers a selection of refreshing cocktails, craft beers, and wines, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors, especially at sunset. During the summer months, the bar also hosts outdoor cinema screenings, enhancing the overall experience with an added touch of entertainment.

Seasonal Rooftop Experiences

Many of London's rooftop bars embrace seasonal shifts, offering unique experiences throughout the year. Skylight at Tobacco Dock turns into a winter wonderland, complete with an ice rink, mulled wine, and indulgent fondue, creating a cozy atmosphere. Meanwhile, Radio Rooftop at ME London Hotel shines in summer, hosting vibrant pop-ups with themed decor, outdoor yoga classes, and cocktail masterclasses, providing a chic seasonal escape.

One-Off Bars

Weird and Wonderful Bars

London’s bar scene isn’t just about great cocktails—it’s about unique, memorable experiences. For those seeking something a bit unusual:

Trailer Happiness

Tucked away in Notting Hill, Trailer Happiness is a retro, kitschy tiki bar known for its tropical vibes and rum-based cocktails, all served in fun, quirky vessels. Their standout drink, the "Zombie," is a potent classic that certainly lives up to its name! Though this cozy spot often gets crowded, the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails make it well worth the wait.

Hacha

Located in Dalston, Hacha is London’s first dedicated agaveria, focusing on agave spirits like tequila and mezcal. Their signature drink, the "Mirror Margarita," is a crystal-clear cocktail that appears as pure as water but delivers the full, bold flavor of a perfectly balanced margarita. With its sleek, minimalist décor and expertly crafted drinks, Hacha provides a truly unique and refined drinking experience.

Themed Bars

From time-traveling speakeasies to interactive cocktail adventures, London has plenty of themed bars to offer:

• Cahoots in Soho transports you to 1940s London, complete with a post-war underground station theme.
• The Bletchley in Chelsea turns cocktail-making into a WWII code-breaking experience.
• The Cauldron is perfect for Harry Potter fans, offering magical cocktails made with wands and potions.

Immersive Experiences

For an immersive night out, check out these venues:

• Four Quarters South in Peckham blends retro arcade games with cocktails.
• Trailer Happiness creates a tropical atmosphere that will whisk you away to a tiki paradise.
• Black Rock offers a dark, atmospheric whisky bar experience, complete with a tree that serves whisky straight from its branches.

Bars with Food and Drink Pairings

Foodies

Some of London’s best bars offer an equally impressive food menu to complement their drinks:

Bar Américain

Located in the Zédel building in Piccadilly, Bar Américain serves cocktails with an elegant Art Deco twist. While their Old Fashioned is a standout, their elevated bar snacks, like truffled nuts and gougères, are perfect accompaniments. For a full meal, you can order French classics from the adjacent Brasserie Zédel, making this the ideal spot for both drinks and dining.

The Coral Room

In Bloomsbury’s The Coral Room, indulge in a glass of exquisite English sparkling wine from their impressive selection, featuring some of the finest local producers. They also offer a contemporary twist on traditional afternoon tea, beautifully presented with delectable sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a variety of pastries, making it a truly luxurious treat for a delightful afternoon out.

Culinary Cocktails

Bars like Artesian and Nightjar are elevating cocktails to an art form with drinks that resemble gourmet dishes. Each creation features edible garnishes, flavored air, and intricate presentations that engage all the senses. With innovative combinations and unexpected flavors, these cocktails are perfect for adventurous drinkers looking to embark on a unique tasting journey that transforms the drinking experience.

Bars with Live Music and Entertainment

Music Lovers

Many of London’s bars offer live music, creating a lively atmosphere to enjoy your drinks:

Swift

With locations in Soho and Shoreditch, Swift has quickly become a favorite hotspot for its enchanting live jazz performances in the cozy downstairs bar, paired perfectly with an exceptional selection of whisky cocktails. The warm, relaxed, and sophisticated vibe creates an inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for both jazz enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike, ensuring a memorable night out.

Nightjar

Nightjar is an iconic speakeasy-style bar renowned for its vibrant live music, especially jazz and blues, perfectly complemented by its imaginative cocktails. The bar’s dimly lit atmosphere, adorned with vintage decor, transports you back in time, creating a truly immersive experience that captivates the senses. Booking ahead is essential, as this popular spot fills up quickly, ensuring a lively night out.

London Bars to Suit Every Taste

Whether you're seeking world-class cocktails, breathtaking panoramic rooftop views, or a quirky-themed experience, London has a bar tailored just for you. The city is a vibrant tapestry of drinking establishments, each offering something unique. From classic cocktail bars to innovative speakeasies and laid-back pubs, there’s no shortage of options.

With endless opportunities to explore new flavors, captivating settings, and diverse styles, London’s bar scene invites you to raise a glass and immerse yourself in its rich and dynamic culture. So gather your friends, embark on a bar-hopping adventure, and discover the many hidden gems the city has to offer!