Building the invisible boundary between Farringdon and Old Street, Clerkenwell may well be wedged between and served by some serious office space, but that doesn't stop it being a hot destination to grab a few after work drinks and cocktails. From humble boozers and casual eateries, to luxe cocktail spaces, check out our recommendations for the best Clerkenwell bars.
Hidden beneath Clerkenwell favourite L'angolo, Downstairs at 180 is where the neighbourhood's creative streak really comes out to play.
This intimate basement bar blends vintage interiors with a modern cocktail sensibility, offering a warmly lit retreat from the busier streets above. Swing by on a Monday or Friday to catch live jazz from some of London's most exciting musicians, or drop in any other night for expert drinks and a soundtrack steeped in groove.
60 minute masterclass - 2 Cocktails (£35PP) and 1 other offer
A cool gastropub on Great Sutton Street, The Slaughtered Lamb attracts a trendy crowd from all over London. The stylish space features reclaimed wooden floors, plush velvet booths and quirky neon signs - and there's even a separate room downstairs that's dedicated to live music, where you're likely to discover some emerging new talent.
The bar is serving a wide selection of local and international craft beers, and there's a tasty food menu up for grabs as well. Think double smash burgers, chicken schnitzel, cider-battered fish 'n' chips and more.
If you're looking for somewhere cosy to enjoy a tipple or two in Clerkenwell, then make a trip to The Crown Tavern. Home to a bevy of craft beers, ales, spirits and wines, as well as tasty food and an outdoor terrace, this one's a bit of a winner.
Clerkenwell & Social is the place to be for top-notch handmade pizzas and fancy cocktails, all located in the heart of St John's Square. With room for 250 partygoers, this joint celebrates the area's literary past. Swing by this cool central London spot and take your time enjoying budget-friendly pizzas with flavours like salami, marinara, and pesto, alongside some killer cocktails mixed with homemade bitters and syrups such as I See Lychee and Love Is A Smoke.
For bars in Clerkenwell, look no further than a trip to piano and jazz spot Fidelio Cafe. Think tucking into tasty plates from their all-day menu, or heading to to cosy basement lounge. Plus, there's private hire options available for those who want to host something special.
Once you discover The Rabbit Hole, you'll be back time and time again. Bringing unique interiors and slick speakeasy vibes, this pretty parlour is a wonderland of classic, inventive and creative cocktails, with over 140 different types to be guzzled.
Perfect for anything from a romantic date night to an elegant wedding venue, Fare Restaurant and Bar is a truly gorgeous location. As for the menu, expect a Mediterranean affair with a huge selection of small plates and indulgent mains.
Looking for watering holes? Boasting a menu of meatball gratin, confit duck legs and other Czech dishes, PIVO is a brilliant bar in Clerkenwell. Along with delish grub, you can enjoy sipping on craft beer, all of which comes from small breweries in Prague.
Fancy a few casual ones after work? Then it's off to one of the best sports bars in Clerkenwell for you. Not only boasting quirky and modern interiors, 1920s Bar is a fun and laidback spot that not only provides the drinks, but also provides the pool tables to boot.
The Exmouth Arms is an atmospheric bar in Clerkenwell, among the market and revellers pub crawling on a lazy Sunday. It's the ideal spot for a pint if you're looking for some of the best selections of craft beer in the capital. Not only is its bar well-stocked, but its interiors are pretty (think exposed brick walls, green tiles and warm lighting) and its food offering is droolworthy. On the menu, expect pork and leek sausages drizzled in onion gravy, smash burgers and steak sandwiches in toasted ciabatta rolls.
The Street Easy is a relaxed Exmouth Market bar that's got everything you need for drinks in the area. Expect to pair wine, beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages with a range of indulgent burgers, small plates or sharing platters.
Found on a quiet corner close to Exmouth Market, The Queen's Head is a hidden gem that promises a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The stylish interior features dark wooden furnishings, sage walls and golden lighting, with a long bar running throughout the room.
Sip refreshing pints with your pals, or check out their burger menu if you're hungry - think smashed beef patties topped with spicy relish, chipotle chicken or a dirty vegan burger.
The Clerkenwell Tavern has been holding it down in Farringdon since 1876, and it's the perfect place to grab a bite, sip on some cold brews, or groove at their happening basement cocktail shindigs. Nestled on the edge of a top-notch street food market, this place serves up organic wines, craft beers, and a menu featuring everything from smoked salmon sammies to Kale Caesar bowls and housemade tiramisu.
If you're on the hunt for watering holes in London, check out The Clerk And Well for a lush pub with plush seating. The pretty venue boasts a menu filled with excellent bar snacks and delicious cocktails – we mean jalapeno margaritas and spiced pineapple mojitos.
