The best cocktail bars in London for casual outings. Every pick is curated for the right vibe — share the list and decide together.
30 places to explore
12th Knot is a contemporary seafood restaurant located on London's South Bank at Sea Containers. It offers a stylish dining experience with a focus on sustainable, seasonal seafood dishes inspired by British and European coastal cuisine, accompanied by a curated selection of wines and cocktails.
20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD, UK
Mon: Closed; Tue–Wed: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Thu–Sat: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM; Sun: Closed
Vibrant Soho Cocktails and Lively Atmosphere Await
Archer Street is a vibrant cocktail bar located in the heart of Soho, London. Known for its lively atmosphere and talented singing staff, it offers a unique experience with a wide range of creative cocktails. The venue is popular for private events and themed nights, attracting a diverse crowd.
3-4 Archer Street, Soho, London W1D 7AP
Mon–Wed 16:00–00:00; Thu–Sat 16:00–01:00; Sun 16:00–23:00
Delightful Drinks and Playful Ball Pit Fun!
Ballie Ballerson is a vibrant bar located in Shoreditch, London, known for its unique ball pit experience. Guests can enjoy a playful atmosphere with a wide selection of cocktails and food. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a fun night out.
97-113 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3BS
Mon–Wed 16:30–23:00; Thu 16:30–00:00; Fri 16:30–02:00; Sat 12:00–02:00; Sun 12:00–23:00
Art Deco elegance in Soho
Bar Américain is an elegant cocktail bar located in the heart of Soho, London. Known for its Art Deco style and classic cocktails, it offers a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for pre-theatre drinks or a night out with friends.
20 Sherwood Street, London W1F 7ED
Mon–Thu 12:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 12:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–22:30
Barts London is a cocktail bar located in Chelsea Cloisters, renowned for its creatively crafted cocktails and elegant ambiance. It offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying innovative drinks with friends or on a date, featuring a stylish interior and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
Chelsea Cloisters, Sloane Ave, London SW3 3DW, UK
Mon–Tue: Closed; Wed: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM; Thu: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Fri–Sat: 5:00 PM – 2:30 AM; Sun: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Elegant Drinks Inspired by Winston Churchill's Legacy
The Churchill Bar & Terrace offers a sophisticated setting inspired by Sir Winston Churchill. Located in the Hyatt Regency London, it features a heated outdoor terrace and a menu of classic and contemporary cocktails, wines, and spirits. The venue is renowned for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service.
30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
Mon–Sun 12:00–23:00
Authentic Mediterranean Mezze, Grilled to Perfection
Counters is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Soho, London, offering mezze cooked over an open-fire grill. The venue features a hidden listening bar, 'Under the Counter', known for its exceptional cocktails and live DJ sets on weekends. It draws culinary influences from Turkey, Greece, and the Levant.
15 Kingly Street, London W1B 5PS
Mon–Thu 12:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 12:00–01:00; Sun 12:00–22:00
Craft Cocktails and Electric Vibes Await You
Duo London is a vibrant cocktail bar and nightclub located in Camden. Known for its Instagrammable interiors and lively atmosphere, it offers a range of creative cocktails and hosts themed events and brunches. The venue is popular for private parties and corporate events, providing a unique and memorable experience.
20 Inverness Street, Camden, London NW1 7HJ
Mon–Thu 17:00–00:00; Fri 17:00–01:00; Sat 12:00–01:00; Sun 12:00–00:00
Step Back in Time at This Hidden Speakeasy
Evans and Peel Pharmacy is a speakeasy bar in Chiswick, styled as a 1920s pharmacy. Guests must ring a buzzer and provide a 'medical condition' to enter. Inside, the bar features vintage apothecary decor and serves prohibition-era cocktails.
42 Devonshire Road, Chiswick, London W4 2HD
Tue–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–00:00; Sun 17:00–22:00
Cozy Craft Cocktails in Brixton's Heart
Fanny's Bar, located in Brixton's vibrant Market Row, offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on craft cocktails and natural wines. Known for its eclectic decor and friendly service, it's a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a relaxed evening.
Unit 3, Market Row, Brixton, London SW9 8LB
Mon–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri 17:00–00:00; Sat 12:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–22:30
Revitalize Your Spirits with Medicinal Cocktails
First Aid Box is a cocktail bar located in Herne Hill, London. Known for its innovative and medicinal-themed cocktails, the venue offers a unique drinking experience. The bar's decor and menu are inspired by medical paraphernalia, creating an intriguing atmosphere for patrons.
119 Dulwich Road, London SE24 0NG
Mon–Wed 17:00–23:00; Thu–Sat 17:00–00:00; Sun 17:00–22:00
Rooftop bar with stunning views
Forza Wine is a rooftop bar in Peckham offering stunning views of London. Known for its Italian-inspired small plates and a curated selection of wines, it provides a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The venue is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a drink with a view.
133A Rye Lane, London SE15 4BQ
Mon–Fri 17:00–23:00; Sat–Sun 12:00–23:00
Eclectic cocktails in cozy Peckham bar
Funkidory is a cozy neighborhood bar in Peckham, offering a relaxed atmosphere with an eclectic selection of cocktails and natural wines. Known for its warm hospitality, it provides a perfect spot for both casual drinks and intimate gatherings.
42 Peckham Rye, London SE15 4JR
Wed–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–00:00; Sun 15:00–22:00
Crafted Cocktails in a Cozy Basement Retreat
Happiness Forgets is an intimate basement cocktail bar located in Hoxton Square, known for its expertly crafted drinks and relaxed neighbourhood vibe. With a discreet entrance and low-lit setting, it offers a cosy atmosphere where patrons can enjoy great cocktails without pretension.
8–9 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU
Mon–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–00:00; Sun 17:00–22:30
Vibrant Mexican Flavors in Soho's Heart
La Bodega Negra is a vibrant Mexican restaurant and bar in Soho, London. Known for its unique entrance through a sex-shop-style doorway, it offers a lively atmosphere with street-inspired Mexican dishes, alongside an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal.
9 Old Compton Street, Soho, London W1D 5JF
Mon–Wed 17:00–00:00; Thu 17:00–01:00; Fri–Sat 12:00–01:00; Sun 12:00–23:00
Innovative cocktails in Crouch End
Little Mercies is a vibrant cocktail bar in Crouch End, known for its innovative drinks and relaxed atmosphere. The bar offers a creative menu featuring both classic and contemporary cocktails, crafted with precision and flair. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
20 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, London N8 9DE
Mon–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri 17:00–00:00; Sat 12:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–22:30
Sky-High Sips with Stunning Hackney Views
NTs Bar is a vibrant rooftop bar located in Hackney, offering a lively atmosphere with panoramic views of the city. Known for its eclectic mix of music and events, NTs Bar serves a variety of cocktails and craft beers, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
207-211 Morning Lane, London E9 6LG
Mon–Thu 17:00–00:00; Fri 17:00–02:00; Sat 12:00–02:00; Sun 12:00–00:00
Indulge in Artful Cocktails and Cozy Vibes
Original Sin is a stylish cocktail bar located in Stoke Newington, offering a cozy atmosphere with a range of expertly crafted cocktails. Known for its intimate setting and friendly service, it provides a perfect spot for both casual drinks and special occasions.
129 Stoke Newington High Street, London N16 0PH
Mon–Thu 17:00–00:00; Fri 17:00–01:00; Sat 16:00–01:00; Sun 16:00–23:30
Exotic Cocktails Crafted in a Hidden Gem
Oriole is an award-winning cocktail bar located in Smithfield Market, London. Known for its exotic decor and innovative drinks menu, it offers a unique experience with live music performances. The venue is renowned for its adventurous cocktails inspired by global flavors, providing a vibrant atmosphere for cocktail enthusiasts.
76 East Poultry Avenue, London EC1A 9PT
Mon–Wed 17:00–00:00; Thu 17:00–01:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–02:00; Sun 17:00–00:00
Owl & Monkey is a stylish cocktail bar located in South Kensington, London. It offers a sophisticated selection of creatively crafted cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting, perfect for a relaxed evening out. The bar features a refined ambiance ideal for socializing, date nights, and casual gatherings.
21-23 Harrington Gardens, South Kensington, London SW7 4JS, UK
Mon–Sat: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sun: 5:00 – 11:00 PM
Modern Mediterranean Flavors in Queen's Park
Paloma is a vibrant eatery located in the heart of Queen's Park, offering a modern twist on Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its warm ambiance and eclectic menu, Paloma provides a delightful dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
1 Lonsdale Road, London, NW6 6RA
Tue–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–16:00
Eclectic bar with diverse music
Ridley Road Market Bar is a vibrant and eclectic bar located in Dalston, known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and diverse music selection. The venue often hosts DJ nights and live music events, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
49 Ridley Road, Dalston, London E8 2NP
Tue–Thu 17:00–00:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–02:00; Sun 17:00–00:00
Craft Cocktails and Culinary Delights Await You
Shrub and Shutter is a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant located in Brixton. Known for its creative cocktails and seasonal menu, it offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The venue features a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
336 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London SW9 8QH
Tue–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri 17:00–00:00; Sat 12:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–22:00
Mexican-inspired cocktails in Covent Garden
Side Hustle is a vibrant bar located in the heart of Covent Garden at NoMad London. It offers a unique blend of Mexican-inspired cocktails and small plates in a lively, social atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
NoMad London, 28 Bow Street, London WC2E 7AW
Mon–Thu 12:00–00:00; Fri–Sat 12:00–01:00; Sun 12:00–23:00
Bangkok street food in Soho
Speedboat Bar offers a vibrant dining experience inspired by the bustling streets of Bangkok. Located in Soho, it serves up a menu filled with bold Thai flavors, complemented by an energetic atmosphere and eclectic decor.
30 Rupert Street, Soho, London W1D 6DL
Mon–Thu 12:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 12:00–00:00; Sun 12:00–22:00
Art deco elegance and innovative cocktails
The Connaught Bar, located in the heart of Mayfair, is renowned for its art deco elegance and innovative cocktails. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a blend of classic and contemporary design, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL
Mon–Sat 16:00–01:00; Sun 16:00–00:00
Quirky Flatshare Vibes with Creative Cocktails
The Little Blue Door is a vibrant bar and restaurant in Fulham, styled as a quirky flatshare. Known for its eclectic decor and lively atmosphere, it offers a range of cocktails and comfort food. The venue hosts themed nights and brunches, making it a popular spot for social gatherings.
871-873 Fulham Road, London SW6 5HP
Mon–Wed 17:00–00:00; Thu 17:00–01:00; Fri 17:00–02:00; Sat 12:00–02:00; Sun 12:00–23:00
The Lost Estate is an innovative cocktail bar in London known for its experiential approach to mixology, offering inventive drinks in a stylish and immersive setting. It provides a unique cocktail experience blending craftsmanship with creativity in a trendy atmosphere.
9 Beaumont Ave, London W14 9LP, UK
Mon–Sun: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
Whimsical Cocktails in a Playful Wonderland
Toy Shop Bar, located in Putney, offers a playful and vibrant atmosphere with a variety of creative cocktails and a lively events calendar. Known for its colorful decor and unique drink presentations, it is a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a fun night out.
32 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SQ
Mon–Wed 16:00–00:00; Thu 16:00–01:00; Fri 16:00–02:00; Sat 12:00–02:00; Sun 12:00–00:00
Cozy cocktails and Japanese snacks
Yuki Bar is a cozy, intimate venue in Clapton offering a curated selection of cocktails and Japanese-inspired snacks. Known for its warm ambiance and friendly service, it's a popular spot for locals seeking a relaxed evening out.
129 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 0NP
Mon–Thu 17:00–23:00; Fri–Sat 17:00–01:00; Sun 17:00–22:00
Create a shared checklist and decide together. Swipe on places, see what you both love, and stop the endless “where should we go?” debate.
