From the Saatchi Gallery to the Victoria & Albert Museum, London is home to some of the world's most renowned museums and galleries . But if you enjoy your Tuner and Constable with a nice cold beer or delicious cocktail, you're out of luck; these museums and galleries don't always have what you want. Here's a list of recommended bars close to London's best museums and galleries that can help quench your thirst on a hot summer day.
Last updated on 25th October 2022
Housed within the National Theatre, this fun and friendly South Bank bar gives you access to range of iconic London museums. Walking distance from the National Portrait Gallery, The London Dungeons and the London Aquarium, it's a great place to refuel between outings.
Searching for bars as a post-museum treat? Amelie's Wine House is a fabulous shout. Located in Central London, the venue has a wide range of fine wine, alongside nibbles such as green olives, roasted cashews and much more.
Moments from the British Museum, Steak & Lobster is a charming spot that serves up a hit list of fish and meat dishes. Refuel after wandering around the museum with a tasty selection of steaks, salads, and rolls, which are perfect washed down with one of the bar's fun cocktails.
The London Cocktail Club uses biker jacket themed couches and thick black leather to bring an America biker image to the trendy streets of Shoreditch. Covered in urban art, this bar offers a fantastic spot for visitors of the nearby Brick Lane Gallery to satisfy their artistic fix. Most notably, this bar boasts an enthralling cocktail list, including the infamous 'Smokey Barrel' cocktail, which always leaves visitors stunned by the use of a smokey gun to visually bring the drink to life.
Just a 10-minute walk from the British Museum, The Lady Ottoline is a must if you're looking for a place to eat in Bloomsbury. The gorgeous pub is haven for gastro eats and craft ales, alongside a very impressive wine list to help you refuel after a day of sightseeing.
Located just seconds from The British Museum, this charming British restaurant is the perfect spot to rest up after a day of culture-tripping. What's more, you'll find some top quality wine from the cellar downstairs.
After a day of checking out the city's finest museums, be sure to check out 28-50 Wine Workshop & Kitchen in South Kensington. Whether you fancy exploring its delightful drinks menu or sinking your teeth into its European grub, this eatery is bound to hit the spot.
If you're hunting for plush places near the best museums, NYX Eat, Drink & Play is a real stunner. Situated super central in Holborn, the venue boasts quirky interiors and artwork, alongside cracking cocktails and food - think charred squid and nacho platters.
Just a stone's throw from the British Museum, this charming hotel, restaurant and drinking spot offers some of the best bars near London's cultural gems. From tasty bistro dining on the terrace, to quirky cocktails in their Leopard Bar, it's got everything you need for a very cultured afternoon in London.
Hidden away in the basement of a Soho building, Bourne and Hollingsworth combines tradition with a perfect amount of peculiarity to offer its visitors a wonderful experience. The bar is only a short walk from the British Museum and recently launched a new cocktail menu, full of extravagant concoctions at the reasonable price of £7.50. Be warned, time will fly once you're nestled down in an armchair with your favourite drink.
