16 Best Bars in London 2025: Cocktails, Pubs & Nightlife

London ranks among the world’s top destinations for exceptional drinking experiences. The city offers everything from intimate cocktail lounges to grand hotel bars.

The bar scene features historic establishments that have served drinks for centuries. Innovative venues push the boundaries of mixology and atmosphere.

This curated list of 16 outstanding bars highlights the best across London’s diverse neighbourhoods, from the creative energy of Shoreditch to the refined elegance of Mayfair. Each venue stands out with expertly crafted cocktails, unique atmospheres, or exceptional service.

1) The Little Scarlet Door

The Little Scarlet Door feels like stepping into a friend’s flat party. Located on Greek Street in Soho, this cocktail bar recreates the atmosphere of a shared house.

The venue serves shareable cocktails and quality food in spaces designed to feel like home. The NYC loft-inspired interiors create a warm, homely vibe that sets it apart from typical London bars.

Each room has its own character and encourages exploration. The house party concept encourages social mixing and works well in practice.

Guests can book a single table or hire the entire flat for private events. The bar offers silly games to enhance the fun atmosphere.

The Little Scarlet Door won the London Lifestyle Awards for Best New Hospitality Business in 2023. They also run The Little Violet Door on Kingly Street, which hosts weekly kitchen parties.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (1,817 reviews)
📍Location: 12-13 Greek St, London W1D 4DL
📞Contact: +44 20 4513 2429
🌐Website: Visit Website

2) American Bar

The American Bar is London’s longest surviving cocktail bar and holds legendary status in mixology. Located within The Savoy hotel, this Art Deco gem has served cocktails since 1893.

Famous patrons like Winston Churchill and Ernest Hemingway have enjoyed drinks here. Legendary bartenders such as Harry Craddock and Ada ‘Coley’ Coleman shaped its history.

The menu, called Liquid Moments, features classics with modern twists and vintage creations. Each drink tells a story, reflecting the rich history of the bar.

A live jazz pianist plays every night, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The American Bar operates on a walk-in basis, with limited reservations for parties of two.

It opens Monday to Saturday from noon until midnight, and Sundays from noon to 10pm. The dress code is smart casual.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,033 reviews)
📍Location: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7420 2111
🌐Website: Visit Website

3) Cahoots Underground

Cahoots Underground transforms a disused Tube station into one of London’s most unique drinking experiences. The vintage speakeasy captures the spirit of 1940s London with authentic period details.

The cocktail menu features creative drinks and traditional afternoon tea. Staff wear period costumes and stay in character throughout the evening.

Live music takes place every Thursday from 8pm to 11:30pm. The underground setting provides excellent acoustics for intimate performances.

Located in Carnaby’s Kingly Court, the venue serves as both a cocktail bar and event space. The themed environment attracts locals and tourists looking for something different.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (4,769 reviews)
📍Location: 13 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW
📞Contact: +44 20 7352 6200
🌐Website: Visit Website

4) Lyaness

Lyaness is one of London’s most innovative cocktail destinations, led by Ryan Chetiyawardana, also known as Mr Lyan. The bar made history as the first-ever 3 PIN bar awarded by The Pinnacle Guide.

The menu focuses on ingredients rather than traditional drinks. Bartenders craft bespoke cocktails based on guests’ flavour preferences, using experimental ingredients.

Located on the South Bank with Thames views, the space features electric blue design and green marble from the former Dandelyan bar. The setting combines comfort with contemporary style.

The bar welcomes guests aged 18 and over from 5pm, though younger hotel guests can visit with adults. Walk-ins are welcome, and bookings are available for those who plan ahead.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (2,153 reviews)
📍Location: 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
📞Contact: +44 20 3747 1063
🌐Website: Visit Website

5) Swift Soho

Swift Soho delivers serious cocktail craftsmanship in the heart of Old Compton Street. The bar spans two floors, with the downstairs area offering mirrored walls and leather booths for an intimate feel.

The menu features creative seasonal specials and refined classics. Their whisky selection is impressive, appealing to spirits enthusiasts.

Bartenders show genuine expertise in their craft. The reservation system for the downstairs bar accepts bookings only on the hour, while the upstairs area remains walk-in only.

Swift Soho is part of a small group with locations in Borough and Shoreditch. The Soho location captures the neighbourhood’s vibrant energy and maintains the brand’s commitment to quality cocktails.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,671 reviews)
📍Location: 12 Old Compton St, London W1D 4TQ, United Kingdom
🌐 Website: Visit Website

6) The Escapologist – Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden

The Escapologist sits beneath the streets of Seven Dials like a Victorian secret society headquarters. The basement bar combines dark wood panelling with quirky artwork at every turn.

The cocktail menu puts creative twists on classic drinks. Bartenders craft each cocktail with theatrical flair that matches the underground setting.

The venue has several areas with leather booths and cosy seating. Groups can book private spaces for parties or special events.

The bar stays open late and hosts underground parties for guests seeking something different. Their “secret society” loyalty programme offers free cocktails and birthday treats.

The Covent Garden location is easy to reach after dinner or theatre shows.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (1,365 reviews)
📍Location: 35 Earlham St, Seven Dials, London WC2H 9LD
📞Contact: +44 20 3637 6040
🌐 Website: Visit Website

7) Bar Termini

This tiny cocktail bar on Old Compton Street feels like an authentic Italian café. Exposed brick walls and intimate banquettes create a cozy atmosphere.

Bar Termini excels at both coffee and cocktails, making it perfect for any time of day. Their negronis stand out, representing classic Italian cocktail tradition.

The espresso matches what you’d find in a Roman bar. The charcuterie selection pairs well with drinks, offering quality Italian meats and cheeses.

The attentive and knowledgeable service enhances the experience. Walk-ins are welcome, though the small space fills up quickly.

Bottled drinks are available for takeaway if you can’t find a seat.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1446 reviews)
📍Location: 7 Old Compton St, London W1D 5JE, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7860 945018
🌐Website: Visit Website

8) The Cocktail Trading Co. | Shoreditch

The Cocktail Trading Co. stands on Bethnal Green Road, where expert cocktail craft meets a relaxed neighbourhood feel. Three seasoned bartenders opened the bar to give back to the industry and run a welcoming venue.

The space feels both trendy and approachable. The team creates classic cocktails and inventive new drinks, always paying attention to detail.

Service feels genuine, not overly formal. The owners work shifts with their staff and run the bar as a cooperative, which creates an engaged atmosphere.

The drinks menu features familiar favourites and creative options. The bar opens at 5pm on weekdays and 2pm at weekends, making it ideal for after-work drinks or weekend gatherings.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,301 reviews)
📍Location: 68 Bethnal Grn Rd, London E1 6GQ
🌐Website: Visit Website

9) The Connaught

The Connaught Bar sits in the heart of Mayfair like a hidden gem. Stepping inside feels like entering a 1920s art piece, with platinum silver leaf walls and Cubist-inspired design.

The bar has earned a spot as the world’s 5th best bar in 2023. Mixologists create both innovative cocktails and perfect classic martinis behind the sleek grey bar.

The atmosphere buzzes with sophisticated conversation over candlelit tables. The space blends style and substance effortlessly, with textured walls and huge mirrors creating an intimate yet grand setting.

Light bar snacks and evening canapés pair well with the drinks. The bar doesn’t take reservations, so arriving early helps secure a spot.

Open Monday to Saturday from 4pm until 1am, the venue shifts from relaxed afternoons to vibrant evenings.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,144 reviews)
📍Location: 16 Carlos Pl, London W1K 2AL
📞Contact: +44 20 7314 3419
🌐Website: Visit Website

10) Happiness Forgets

This small basement cocktail bar in Hoxton Square proves that good things come in small packages. The dimly lit space creates an intimate atmosphere, like a hidden secret beneath East London’s busy streets.

Skilled mixologists craft exceptional cocktails with precision. Their motto, “Great Cocktails, No Wallies,” sets a relaxed yet serious tone.

The basement setting adds to the speakeasy charm, but the venue fills up quickly due to its size. Arrive early or book ahead to secure a spot, as the bar opens at 5pm daily and accepts reservations.

The cocktail menu highlights quality over quantity, with each drink made from premium ingredients. The low-key vibe draws locals and visitors who enjoy well-made drinks without pretence.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,004 reviews)
📍Location: 8-9 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU
📞Contact: +44 20 7613 0325
🌐Website: Visit Website

11) Upstairs At Rules

Upstairs At Rules sits above London’s oldest restaurant on Maiden Lane. The cocktail bar occupies the upper floor of the historic Rules, which has welcomed guests for over 200 years.

The space keeps the Victorian charm of its downstairs neighbour while offering a more intimate setting. Dark wood panelling and period details create an atmosphere that feels authentically London.

The cocktail menu features classic drinks made with quality ingredients. Bartenders know their craft and create cocktails that match the historic surroundings.

The bar draws theatre-goers from Covent Garden and locals seeking a proper drink. Attentive service makes it a good choice for both casual drinks and special occasions.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (162 reviews)
📍Location: 34-35 Maiden Ln, London WC2E 7LB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7836 5314
🌐Website: Visit Website

12) The Nickel Bar

The Nickel Bar brings classic American style to London’s financial district. Located inside The Ned Hotel, this polished bar serves drinks and food from morning until late.

The space features a marble-topped corner bar, high leather chairs, and relaxed banquette seating with velvet stools. Guests can order American staples like burgers and lobster rolls along with classic cocktails in stylish glassware.

The bar offers a wide range of American whiskeys and seasonal signature cocktails. Popular choices include Manhattans, Boulevardiers, and Americanos for different tastes.

Live music energizes the space with performances on The Nickel Stage. Jazz trios, blues acts, and new artists on Mondays create a lively atmosphere.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (955 reviews)
📍Location: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ
📞Contact: +44 20 3828 2000
🌐Website: Visit Website

13) Claridge’s Bar

The art deco-inspired interior at Claridge’s Bar creates a timeless, elegant feel. David Collins Studio designed the space with rich materials and soft lighting that makes every visit special.

The drinks menu features rare champagnes and sought-after spirits, served neat or mixed into expertly crafted cocktails. The selection includes bottles that collectors would appreciate.

Bar bites pair with the premium drinks, but the focus stays on the beverages. Knowledgeable staff provide attentive service and know the extensive collection well.

Children can enter only if they’re hotel guests with adults, and only until 6pm. Photography isn’t allowed to protect guest privacy.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (399 reviews)
📍Location: Brook St, London W1K 4HR, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7629 8860
🌐Website: Visit Website

14) Scarfes Bar

Scarfes Bar, inside the Rosewood Hotel on High Holborn, feels like a traditional gentleman’s club. The space centres around a roaring fireplace with wood panelling and artwork by caricaturist Gerald Scarfe on the walls.

The cocktail menu features creative drinks with unique stories behind each one. Bartenders serve inventive cocktails, classic options, and an impressive whisky selection, along with light bites.

Live music fills the bar most evenings, with performances Monday to Saturday from 8pm to midnight. Sunday sessions run from 7pm to 11pm, creating a sophisticated mood with music and expertly made drinks.

Scarfes Bar ranks number 37 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024. The bar opens daily from 5pm until late, making it a great spot for evening drinks in central London.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,424 reviews)
📍Location: Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN
📞Contact: +44 20 3747 8670
🌐Website: Visit Website

15) Library Bar

The Library Bar feels like a private gentleman’s club with leather-bound books, oil paintings, and Regency armchairs. You’ll find it in The Lanesborough hotel near Hyde Park Corner.

Both hotel guests and locals from Knightsbridge and Belgravia visit this cocktail destination. The bar showcases an impressive “liquid museum” of spirits, including cognacs from the 1770s and rare whiskies like The Balvenie 50.

Bar Manager Mickael Perron leads a team of award-winning mixologists. They prepare spectacular cocktails alongside classic drinks.

Regular events add to the appeal. Martini Sundays feature pianist Kwaku, while Live Nights with The Balvenie happen on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The bar also serves its own Lanesborough London Dry Gin. This gin uses botanicals inspired by the nearby Royal Gardens.

The atmosphere blends classic elegance with contemporary energy. Condé Nast Traveller has recognized it as the perfect spot for British cocktails.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (332 reviews)
📍Location: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA
📞Contact: +44 20 7259 5599
🌐Website: Visit Website

16) Stables Bar

Stables Bar sits inside The Milestone Hotel on Kensington Court. It occupies a space that once served as actual stables.

The bar features dark wood panelling and green leather banquettes. These elements create an intimate atmosphere.

Bar Manager Angelo crafts creative cocktails. Executive Chef Daniel Putz turns traditional bar food into shareable small plates.

The drinks menu includes inventive cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits. The venue also features a high-ceilinged conservatory area filled with natural light.

Paintings from Belgian sporting artist Elie Lambert decorate the walls. Sophisticated leather and tartan furnishings complete the look.

Next to the main bar, The Hideaway offers a candlelit setting for private gatherings. This wood-panelled room provides an exclusive space for intimate dining or events.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (770 reviews)
📍Location: 1-3 Kensington Ct, London W8 5DL
📞Contact: +44 20 7917 1000
🌐Website: Visit Website

Navigating London’s Bar Scene

London’s bar scene covers distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere and drink styles. The city’s transport links make bar hopping easy in areas like Soho and Shoreditch.

Popular Neighbourhoods for Bars

Soho is the heart of London’s drinking culture. The area offers everything from historic pubs to modern cocktail lounges.

Old Compton Street and nearby roads buzz with activity late into the night. Shoreditch attracts younger crowds with industrial-chic bars and creative cocktails.

Brick Lane and the surrounding streets offer eclectic venues with unique themes. Covent Garden provides upmarket options perfect for special occasions.

Many bars here feature elegant interiors and premium spirits. King’s Cross has become a hotspot for innovative bars after recent redevelopment.

Sleek venues and converted warehouse spaces now fill the area. Coal Drops Yard hosts several notable drinking spots.

Bermondsey features craft beer havens and independent bars. The neighbourhood’s industrial heritage creates atmospheric venues focused on local ingredients and artisanal spirits.

Types of Bars You’ll Find

Cocktail bars dominate London’s scene. Skilled mixologists create innovative drinks using premium spirits and fresh ingredients.

Many of these bars specialise in certain spirits or cocktail styles. Wine bars offer selections from around the world, with natural and organic options gaining popularity.

These venues usually serve small plates alongside their wine lists. Speakeasies hide behind unmarked doors or inside other establishments.

These secret venues recreate prohibition-era vibes with classic cocktails and intimate settings. Rooftop bars provide city views and fill up quickly in summer, so booking ahead is wise.

Traditional pubs anchor many neighbourhoods. They serve classic British ales and spirits in historic settings.

Getting Around the City

The Underground connects all major bar districts efficiently. Most venues sit within walking distance of Tube stations.

Services run until about 12:30 AM on weeknights and all night on weekends. Night Tube operates on select lines Friday and Saturday nights.

This service covers key bar areas, including Central, Northern, and Piccadilly lines. Black cabs and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt offer door-to-door transport between venues.

These services remain reliable, even on busy weekends. Walking works well within neighbourhoods like Soho or Covent Garden.

Many of London’s best bars cluster together, making short walks between them practical and enjoyable.

What to Expect at London’s Top Bars

London’s best bars offer unique drink menus created by skilled mixologists. Dress codes range from smart casual to formal, and atmospheres vary from intimate speakeasies to lively rooftops.

Visitors should expect premium pricing and may need to book in advance at popular venues.

Signature Cocktails and Drink Menus

Top London bars feature innovative cocktail menus that change seasonally. Bartenders use local ingredients and sustainable practices.

Many venues offer house specialties alongside classic cocktails. Popular choices include expertly made martinis, craft gin and tonics, and creative twists on traditional recipes.

Premium spirits fill the back bars, including extensive whisky collections, artisanal gins, and rare liqueurs. Wine lists often feature natural wines and champagnes.

Many bars also serve craft beers from local breweries. Pricing reflects the quality, with cocktails usually costing £12-18 and premium pours reaching £25 or more.

Some venues serve bar snacks or small plates to complement drinks.

Dress Codes and Entry Requirements

Dress codes differ across London’s top bars. Mayfair hotel bars generally require smart casual or formal attire.

Shoreditch and East London venues tend to be more relaxed but still expect appropriate dress. Most prestigious bars use reservation systems.

Walk-ins can face long waits, especially on weekends. Entry requirements may include age checks and guest list policies.

Some speakeasies require passwords or special entry steps. Certain venues set minimum spend requirements, especially for table bookings.

Groups may need to book private areas in advance.

Atmosphere and Ambience

London’s top bars offer atmospheres to suit different preferences. Intimate speakeasies feature dim lighting, leather banquettes, and jazz music.

Rooftop bars deliver city views with modern décor and upbeat music. Hotel bars keep an elegant, sophisticated vibe with live piano or soft background music.

Noise levels vary. Some bars encourage conversation in quieter settings, while others create lively party atmospheres.

Service standards stay high across top venues. Experienced bartenders recommend drinks and explain how they prepare them.

Peak times usually run from Thursday to Saturday evenings. Visiting earlier often means better service and a quieter environment.

Conclusion

London’s bar scene offers something for every taste and budget. From Soho’s historic pubs to Shoreditch’s modern cocktail lounges, the city provides countless venues for memorable nights out.

Whether you’re seeking a post-work drink or planning a weekend celebration, these 16 establishments represent the finest drinking spots in the capital. Each venue brings its own character and specialties to London’s nightlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions

London’s bar scene covers many districts, each with its own atmosphere and experiences. Popular areas include Soho for cocktail bars, Shoreditch for trendy spots, and the West End for upscale venues.

What part of London has the best bars?

Soho stands out as London’s top bar district. The area offers many cocktail bars, wine bars, and speakeasies close together.

Shoreditch attracts visitors with its creative cocktail scene and unique venues. The neighbourhood features experimental and trendy bars.

The West End offers upscale drinking establishments and hotel bars, catering to those seeking elegant settings and premium service.

What area has the best nightlife in London?

Soho leads London’s nightlife with its concentration of bars, clubs, and late-night venues. The district stays lively into the early hours.

Shoreditch provides alternative nightlife with indie bars and underground clubs. The area draws younger crowds looking for unique experiences.

Camden offers live music venues, traditional pubs, and bars. Nightlife here centers around music and entertainment.

What is the most iconic pub in London?

The George Inn in Southwark is London’s most famous historic pub. This 17th-century coaching inn features traditional galleried architecture.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese in Fleet Street is known as a former haunt of Charles Dickens. The pub dates back to 1667.

The French House in Soho became a gathering place for artists and writers. It served as the unofficial headquarters of the French Resistance during World War II.

What is the only pub in London with a Michelin star?

The Hand and Flowers holds Michelin stars, but it is in Marlow, not London. No traditional pub in London currently has a Michelin star.

Several gastropubs in London receive recognition for excellent food. These focus on elevated pub cuisine without Michelin status.

High-end restaurants with bar areas hold Michelin stars across London, but these differ from traditional pubs in style and service.

Where do celebrities party in London?

Chiltern Firehouse attracts A-list celebrities with its exclusive atmosphere and top service. The venue maintains strict privacy policies.

Annabel’s in Mayfair is a private members’ club frequented by celebrities and wealthy guests. Membership is highly selective.

CORE by Clare Smyth and similar upscale venues draw celebrity diners. These places offer discretion and exceptional experiences.

What is the hottest club in London?

XOYO consistently ranks among London’s top electronic music venues.
The club features multiple rooms and hosts international DJs.

Ministry of Sound remains a legendary destination for house and electronic music.
This venue has kept its reputation for decades.

Fabric attracts clubbers with its world-class sound system and underground atmosphere.
The club offers three rooms with different music styles.

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