Buckingham Palace is a sight to see in the city, whether you're a keen tourist or not, and given its close proximity to Charing Cross, always a buzz with traditional pubs and top drinking spots where happy hours certainly don't go a miss. If you're looking for somewhere to drink after you're done visiting the golden gates? Check out our recommendation for the best bars and pubs close to Buckingham Palace.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 16th January 2026
With Leicester Square only a quick 15 from Buckingham Palace, it's an easy win when it comes to grabbing a drink before you tuck in to sight seeing. For something a little elevated? Leicester Square Kitchen celebrate both Japanese and Mexican cuisine combined, with classic cocktails and margaritas on the menu.
Champagne Charlies is the epitome of what it means to drink in a traditional English pub. Don't let the bubbly name fool you, these ye olde style tavern celebrates all things ale and beer, with a food menu geared to British pub grub.
Flight Club Victoria is a fairground-themed paradise of souped-up darts and slushie cocktails. Found within walking distance of King Charles' gaf, this cool bar is all about sharing experiences (and pizza) with all your pals.
Walking distance from both Victoria station and the Palace, Bbar is a South African drinking and dining celebration. By day, it's a smart spot for express pasta lunches, set menu dining and indulgent afternoon teas, from traditional and fish and chips versions to cocktail-paired and bottomless prosecco sittings.
By evening, it shifts into a lively cocktail bar with DJ sets, live mix sessions and a 60-strong cocktail list (with weekday happy hour bringing £7 cocktails into play). You'll also find paint-and-sip events, signature cocktail tastings, gin and biltong pairings, and cheese toasties with wine and Champagne safaris here.
Looking for the best restaurant near Buckingham Palace that combines style, substance, and sustainability? Enter Timmy Green. This chic Victoria-based venue serves up a bold and innovative menu built on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. From juicy burgers to colourful plant-based plates, it caters to all appetites with flair.
It's a perfect pre- or post-palace pitstop, offering a calm oasis just moments from the city buzz. The space itself is effortlessly cool - lush with greenery and minimalist charm - making it an ideal setting for a casual brunch, elegant dinner, or a relaxed drink at the bar
All Bar One is here for drinks as close to Charing Cross as you can get. A quick walk down the station steps and less than 5 minutes nearby, it's a popular spot for commuters, and those looking to grab a cocktail before they see some of the local sights, including Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace.
A stroll from Buckingham Palace takes you into this affluent neighbourhood, where the Mayfair Lounge and Grill is waiting on the first floor of The Cavendish Hotel London. Not only can you expect the finest wines and afternoon tea, but also plenty of classic British dishes.
Located in the heart of Victoria is the fabulous, bright and eccentric BAM Karaoke Box, which also happens to be Europe's largest venue of its kind, equipped with 22 individually designed rooms for you and your mates to pick up a mic in and sing your hearts out. Think animal print furnishings, neon signage and glossy gold fixtures that ooze as much elegance as the food. Thanks to consultant culinary director and renowned chef Sabrina Gidda, you can devour European cuisine and modern French plates sent straight to your room, alongside Champagne, of course.
Directly on the Strand and around a 15 minute walk to the golden gates of Buckingham Palace, The Coal Hole is all about bringing you an authentic traditional pub experience. Found in a Grade II listed building with all of the historic quirks on its side, this is a humble boozer with real London character.
Could anything be more fitting before or after a trip to the Buckingham Palace than a trip for cocktails in a Victorian courtyard? We think not. With grandeur on its side, TH @ 51 Restaurant & Bar is an epic drinks experience in the Royal Borough of London.
