Bars In Central London

In a city packed with drinking spots, Experimental Cocktail Club stands out for its attention to detail, from its design to its drinks. Located in the heart of Chinatown, the bar has been reimagined with interiors that blend Parisian influence and local heritage, featuring braided wood, mirrored finishes and plush seating in deep, moody tones.

The cocktail programme is extensive, covering everything from vintage pours like a 1970s Negroni to house signatures such as the coffee-laced Noguchi or the tequila-based Sundowner Society. 

Simmons always promises a memorable night out in Central London. Head down to this eccentric spot and you'll be greeted by a charming space, decked out with an assortment of quirky ornamentation - it probably looks a bit like your nana's house. But unlike her gaff, Simmons boasts an awesome late night atmosphere with tasty tipples and great music. 

Looking for pretty watering holes in Holborn? LOCKES is a grand shout if you're on the hunt for boozers with plush interiors. In addition, the drinks are top-notch from classic pina coladas to mezcal margaritas and other killer cocktails.

A gangster's tequila paradise, the London Cocktail Club in Oxford Circus is inspired by downtown LA. The venue is covered in graffiti, depicting gun-toting clown figures and cityscapres, whilst the staff wear bandanas and lumberjack shirts buttoned to the top. If you're a little further east, their Mansion House venue is ready and waiting.

One of the most unique bars in the city, The Bar At Temple is found on board a boat, located close to Temple tube station. Expect casual interiors with simple wooden furnishings and white walls, promising a laid-back environment for a few pints.

You can sample a wide range of draught beers, wines and spirits from the bar, alongside tasty plates like buttermilk chicken burgers or nachos.

You'll find Ottie's Salon inside Bertrand's Townhouse in Bloomsbury, providing an intimate cocktail bar experience all day long. The cosy venue is filled with plush seating, bold red walls and lots of quirky decorations, even providing a cigar garden experience on their private terrace.

By night, expect a speakeasy vibe and regular live jazz performances. Sip delicious cocktails or fine wines from their menu, paired with plates like mini wagyu beef sliders, wild mushroom ravioli and British cheese or charcuterie boards.

If there was a contest for "most central pub in the whole of London", it wouldn't even be close. The Admiralty lies 50 metres from the plaque that marks the city's centre point, within easy strolling distance of Big Ben, Downing Street and just a stone's throw from Nelson's Column. Head here after a long day exploring central London; The Admiralty specialises in beautifully made, melt-in-the-mouth pies and a crisp pint of Fuller's ale.

Hidden beneath The Newman, Gambit Bar is an elegant speakeasy with a lot going for it. Drawing inspiration from the Vorticist movement and London's historic drinking haunts, the space features opulent decor and striking chandeliers.

The Listing Bar is a Central London spot where an all-day menu of food and a delish cocktail list collide. You'll be washing down the likes of Biscoff French toast brunches, poke bowls, burgers and small plates with boozy concoctions in no time.

Planning a karaoke brunch with your squad or thinking about hiring the whole venue? Lucky Voice in Soho, Holborn, Liverpool Street and Waterloo has got you covered to make your party extra special. You'll have a blast with two hours of non-stop singing in your private pod, complete with disco balls and room service at the push of a Thirsty button. And when hunger strikes, they've got a menu filled with pizza and other tasty treats to keep you fuelled.

If you're hunting for bars around Central London, you're in luck with NYX Hotel London Holborn & Sabine Holborn. The bar's quirky artwork is based on pop culture, music and fashion while its menu is equally as enticing. Choose between plenty of mezcal choices while munching on a nacho sharing platter.

Located round the corner from St Paul's is Core; a fun-loving, fresh hangout where you can eat, drink and dance your way through to the early hours. Sup on one of their truly unique cocktails, enjoy an expertly made coffee or craft beer and survey a strong menu filled with lighter snacks and wholesome feasts alike. Available to hire at the weekends, Core is perfect for celebrating that special occasion.

Based just seconds from the water's edge, Mulberry Bush is a trusty gastropub popular with locals and visitors alike. Comfortably kitted out with inviting sofas and a selection of bookable private spaces, you can expect a lineup of stellar beers alongside a rotating guest ales list from this popular Young's pub.

A hidden gem amongst the often crazed and crowded bars of Central London, Soho's Arts Theatre Club serves as a romantic relaxation destination with a little extra vintage flair. With luscious seats, sips, and sounds, this member-only speakeasy will knock the socks off of any date in true Prohibition-era grandeur.

Not only does Quaglino's put on a incredible array of European inspired cuisines mixed with Middle Eastern flavours, but it's host to one of the City's most opulent bars. Stocked with all manner of potent liquors, the talented bartenders will see you through your spirit cravings with their list of crafty concoctions so all you need to do is perch at the art-deco styled bar and take in the decadent surroundings. 

Looking for a bar in central? You won't be disappointed with Covent Garden's Tequila Mockingbird. Head on down to this underground haunt for a watermelon and strawberry martini or for a much-loved Aperol spritz. They also offer a top-notch happy hour too.

Central London pubs don't get much better than The Oxford Market, a lovely little boozer near Oxford Street. Not only is there cool, colourful interiors for a quirky yet laid-back vibe, but also a menu of burgers or the chance to catch live music on Thursday and Friday nights.

While Central London is packed with historic pubs and sleek basement lounges, The Beach Bar at The Montague on the Gardens provides a breath of fresh, tropical air that is completely unique to the area. Located in the beautiful neighbourhood of Bloomsbury, this award-winning seasonal pop-up proves you don't have to travel to the coast to experience a true beachside retreat.

The venue features real golden sand, tropical palms, and an instantly relaxing holiday vibe. It's the perfect central anchor spot for after-work drinks, casual group meetups, or an upscale evening of summer cocktails and live BBQ dining. It is one of the most distinctive drinking destinations in the heart of the city, available only for a limited time each summer.

Mayfair bars don't get much better than Clémence, a wine and Champagne-packed spot that oozes French flair. Think old school, Parisian-inspired interiors coupled with plenty of bottles, cocktails from France, cheese boards and more.

If you're looking for fun bars in Soho, head on over to Rupert Street, the LGBTQ+ friendly space that's perfect for enjoying cocktails with mates and dates. Whether you fancy a classic margarita or a salted caramel old fashioned, you can also enjoy stylish decor and a spot of people watching.

Overflowing with beautiful cocktails and majestic French wines, Baranis brings a dash of Provencal opulence to Chancery Lane. A hideaway of intimate booths and seductive vibes, head round for dinner and drinks and have a few games of indoor boules at the UK's only indoor Petanque court.

Escape to the slice of Latin-inspired heaven sitting right in the heart of London, Vinoteca Farringdon. This Central London bar and restaurant serves up a selection of 300 fine wines and a menu full of fresh breads, cheeses, meats perfectly reminiscent of the sunny coasts of the Spanish Mediterranean.

Long Bar at Sanderson Hotel is in the heart of the West End, where there's a summer garden, unique cocktail list and extensive drinks menu up for grabs. Our favourite concoctions here include the likes of apple pie syrup, cardamom bitters and more.

All Bar One is a classic London spot, and perfect for a stop after shopping. Head to the classic venue to try European plates such as salt and pepper calamari, and patatas bravas, along with delicious cocktails and wine.

Central London is lively, stunning and quite frankly - thirsty work. Just a stone's throw from Oxford Circus, Be At One Wimpole Street offers a fun retreat from the busiest street in London, serving up spectacular cocktails with buckets of enthusiasm. Good for a cheeky tipple after work and an ideal spot for welcoming in the good times over the weekend, Be At One Wimpole Street is one of the best bars in Central London. 

Serving as Fitzrovia's shrine to mixology, The London Cocktail Exchange is a go-to for inventive sips any time of the year. With everything from outdoor tables to a moody underground drinking den, you can never use the weather as an excuse not to visit. 

The expect bartenders are passionate about their craft, and it shows through the meticulously curated themed menus. With mixes that resemble the classics, to blends that are way beyond your imagination, you're guaranteed to find a drink you love. Examples include the Kool-Aid Sidecar, cherry-based New York Sour and the Key Lime Cobbler with coconut sherbet. And when you're hungry – you can order Italian snacks in the form of mini arancini and pizza-style flatbreads.  

Either head to the Wild Heart Restaurant and Bar or the Roof Terrace for some great drinks in a relaxed but sophisticated environment. Perfect for everything from a private party to a late night tipple in Soho.

Opium is a great Central London speakeasy style bar. Discretely hidden in Chinatown, they deliver seasonal Oriental themed cocktails - using ingredients sourced locally. This cool and quirky Central London cocktail bar is perfect for unique and interesting cocktails, in a beautifully decadent setting. 

From the futuristic blue bar through to the golden tones throughout, May Fair Bar is a smart cocktail spot moments from Green Park. The stylish space is part of the May Fair Hotel and puts twists on classic options, including the likes of a Mayfair Mojito, which comes with a smooth hint of vanilla.

Toting gorgeous Parisian-style interiors, this pretty Soho pub is not to be missed. Pop along to The Sun & Thirteen Cantons to enjoy a glass of vino in the glamorous boozer or a refreshing ale or beer in its alfresco area. And if you get hungry? Expect vegan eats from Tendril.

Holborn's The Fable is a central London bar brimming with character. With an inventive, innovative and enchanting decor running through the venue, the creative menu and cocktail list is equally as quirky. There's a selection of tasty grub and really delectable cocktails and wines to sample, and with a whole host of functions like regular cookery classes, mixology masterclasses and late night supper clubs, there's every reason to swing by no what what time of day you are in town.

No matter what you want from your Central London night out, The Albany can provide it. The corner spot in Fitzrovia is split between an upstairs, traditional pub which serves seasonal dishes, while downstairs a basement bar puts on DJ nights and live music.

In terms of value for money, few are in the same league as Zebrano. Stop in during their daily happy hours for some discounted drinks, or there's a menu of international treats if you're peckish, and a thriving party atmosphere a little later on.

Operating across a vast historic plot, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery brings expansive drinking and dining layouts to central London. The venue boasts open-air courtyard bars, intimate indoor seating, and elevated drinking spots within a single footprint.

You can enjoy small-batch beers crafted on-site, seasonal stouts, and a thoughtful food program ranging from grilled meats to fresh seafood. It offers a rare sense of spaciousness without sacrificing central accessibility.

In the heart of Central London, yet worlds away from the bustle, Downstairs at 180 is a low-key gem tucked underneath Italian restaurant L'angolo.

The mood is cosy, the lighting golden, and the playlist a love letter to jazz culture. Twice a week, the space fills with live music, from mellow standards to expressive improvisation, while the bar team keeps the cocktails thoughtful and tightly crafted. If you're seeking a central spot that feels like a secret, this basement lounge is the one to know.

For a bar in Central London with a unique twist, head to Nordic Bar which celebrates all food, drink and party vibes hailing from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Just a stone's throw from Oxford Street, this party bar boasts ping pong tables, shot wheels and fun DJs spinning the freshest tunes until the early hours of the morning.

An effortlessly cool space offering a unique concept near Oxford Circus, The Studio is a must see. Guests slot in to cosy black booths and sip away at Vetel One vodka cocktails, before heading over to explore the inbuilt recording studio. Once inside you'll find DJ decks and karaoke facilities, and you're free to work your magic to the adoring crowd in attendance. DJ sounding a bit… flat? No worries, just take off your Skullcandy headphones and have a chat with your pals instead.

Be At One ticks all the boxes for a feel-good party venue. Cracking on with daily happy hours from 4.30pm, the atmosphere builds early as the crowd polish off a couple of Aperol Spritz and Bangkok Garden Party cocktails. Bartenders are impossibly friendly, the atmosphere is intimate and the dance floor soon gathers momentum, with guilty pleasure party tunes playing until 3am.

Whether you're in Covent Garden or Oxford Street, head to Arcade Food Hall for your fill of great food and drink. This place is home to multiple different kitchens selling top-notch food, alongside a well-stocked bar.

Tuck into everything from Thai sharing dishes to smash burgers and North Indian curries. Plus, they host a range of fun events here too.

Whetting Londoners' whistles like no other, Soho Residence is a beaut three-floor haunt on the corner of Wardour Street. Head over to relax in the gin parlour, knock back tasty tipples in their botanical cocktail bar or party like there's no tomorrow on their festival-style floor.

Named after the world's first celebrated bartender, Cato brings mixology mastery to Covent Garden. Its 14-drink menu is carefully curated by colour.

Expect curious combinations like whisky and organic beeswax, gin and chamomile, and vodka with a blend of British cheeses. If you only drink one signature serve, make it the Medlar + Mushroom - a beautiful blend of brandy, wild calvados, vermouth, fermented mushrooms and smoked Cornish tea.

Perched high above Central London, the 1864 Rooftop Bar is a haven for sky chasers and cocktail lovers alike. Whether you're soaking up a golden sunset or admiring the city lights, every moment feels like a postcard coming to life.

With a menu that balances sophistication and comfort, you'll find it hard to decide between their expertly crafted cocktails and the drool-worthy grazing boards. Trust us, the toughest decision you'll make all evening is whether to stay for just one more. Spoiler: You will.

Based on the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London, The Escapologist is simply a fascinating place to grab a drink in Covent Garden. It takes the form of a 'modern-day Victorian men's club / Masonic Lodge', and is based on the exploits of the infamous Baron. Beautifully designed, serving fun yet refined cocktails and cheese-drenched pizzas, The Escapologist is a cracking themed bar perfect for after-work drinks and late-night parties alike.

Situated just off Leicester Square, Joshua's Tavern is one of our Central favourites. Head inside, where you'll be met with a hand-painted mural of the gin-loving Reynolds, alongside over 57 variations on tap. Hungry? Chow down on a selection of gastro eats.

Looking for a sophisticated spot for a cocktail or two? Get on down to Thirteen. 

This award-winning bar is best known around these parts for its signature serves and Japanese-inspired small plates. As you wet your whistle with the Lady Stardust and Rocknroller, you can tuck into gyoza, poke bowls and crispy chicken inside out rolls.

Close to several landmarks like Monument, Sky Garden and more, The Alchemist is a sultry cocktail bar that serves up some seriously creative concoctions. Their drinks come smoking, bubbling and even changing colour, and they've even got the UK's first permanent Negroni Bar by Campari on-site.

They've also got an extensive menu of international dishes to choose from, including tempura prawn lollipops, lobster mac 'n' cheese and coconut tofu curry. Plus, their Icons Brunch promises three cocktails and a brunch plate for £40, or bottomless drinks for £10 extra.

Dip below the arches of Charing Cross to stumble across this snug wine bar with bags of charm. Filled out with all sorts of antiques and quirky knick-knacks, Champagne Charlie's also features a choice of intimate dining rooms ready for up to 45 diners. British classics are on the menu, and there's a rich range of wines to cater for all tastes.

Located in the ever-trendy Soho, Disrepute is a 60s-style bar that's fuelling your nights out with a touch of hedonism. Feel like one of the cool cats of the era as you sip from a carefully curated menu of cocktails and shimmy your hips to wild jazz.

When you're in central London and need a place to grab a drink, Bat & Ball in Covent Garden or Stratford is your go-to spot. Offering a fantastic mix of craft beers, signature cocktails, and an extensive wine list, you'll always find something to enjoy.

The vibe here is lively yet laid-back, perfect for sipping a drink while challenging your mates to a game of ping pong or kicking back and watching live sports on big screens. A great choice for drinks and entertainment in the heart of the West End.

Munich Cricket Club brings the best of Bavaria to the heart of London. We're talking live oompah brass bands, München biers by the stein and long, loud, communal bierkeller tables.

Whether you make for a bench in Westminster, Canary Wharf or Tower Hill, you can pour your own beers while you tuck into German classics. We're talking weinerschnitzel, foot-long bratwurst, pretzels and currywurst.

Tucked away just off Shepherd's Market, Sem's of Mayfair is a central London bar you'd happily detour for. Open all day, it works just as well for morning coffees and informal meetings as it does for cocktails and live music later on.

The atmosphere is calm and luxurious, with attentive service and a menu of small plates, sandwiches and classic comfort food. Come evening, the mood shifts subtly as live music fills the space, turning this daytime hideaway into a refined nighttime retreat. 

From the team that brought you The Piano Works, The House of Song presents Studio 88. Two piano vocalists and accompanying musicians take to the stage to play songs that are requested by you, the audience. Enjoy usherette served California Cones that offer a fresh take on social dining along with a creative selection of cocktails including their very own Autograph collection.

If you're hunting for a cocktail destination with character, look no further than The White Haus. With three floors of cosy ski-lodge-inspired décor, playful cuckoo clocks, and vintage cable cars, it has a style all its own.

Their cocktail menu is designed to surprise, from classic concoctions to inventive twists that showcase seasonal ingredients. It's the kind of bar where you can linger from morning coffee through evening drinks, making it a versatile stop for after-work cocktails, weekend catch-ups or a pre-dinner tipple in the city.

Close to Piccadilly Tube, and a stone throw away from the bustling streets of Oxford Circus, the Be At One Soho is fantastically placed for Central London clubs and bars. Start off your night here and pick whether to stay with the wild crowd on at this party bar all night, or head to Leicester Square for the cool London nightclubs and bars there.

Hop off the tube at Leicester Square and make your way to the high-energy entertainment bar that is Albert's Schloss Soho. Decked out with wooden panelling and stacked log fires, the space is reminiscent of a cosy Alpine retreat with way more party vibes. Here you can tuck into Bavarian fare suck as gooey fondue and scrumptious schnitzels as well as bier imported from across the world. 

In the bustling cultural hub of Central London, you'll stumble upon this hedonistic haunt promising a good night. Bourne & Hollingsworth Bar is noticeable from the onset, thanks to an 'oil painting' cast upon its exterior of people enjoying a life of leisure. Head on down into its basement to uncover DJs playing until late, along with red booths, intimately lit tables and a bespoke cocktail menu featuring tea-infused gin. 

Perched above Mayfair, Stanley's is one of the capital's more refined rooftop bars. Open from late morning to night, it's perfect for everything from pre-theatre cocktails to evening drinks over the skyline.

Try the Stanley's Martini with cocoa-nib-infused Grey Goose vodka or a Watermelon Paloma alongside chargrilled tiger prawns or a Neal's Yard aged cheddar toastie - simple, elevated bites that match the relaxed luxury of the space.

For haunts in Central London, head to Purgatory Bar on Cambridge Street. This gorgeous venue is whipping up a range of bespoke concoctions, from coffee-laced bevvies to a theatrical Fallen Angel made up of dragon fruit vodka, Aperol lemon and mango.

Cocktail bars in central London don't get much better than this Japanese-inspired speakeasy in Chinatown. Head under Yatay restaurant and you'll uncover this cool spot, which is styled to resemble a recording studio, while fronting sake-laced concoctions.

Just steps away from the National Gallery, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Circus is All Bar One Leicester Square. If you're looking for a fun bar in Central London, serving up British pub food classics, cocktails and wine, you've found the right place.

Looking for a bar in Soho where the drinks are delicious and the energy is on high? Then it looks as though Lucky Voice could be your guide. One of the best karaoke bars in the city thanks to their unrivalled private booths, waitress service and gleaming playlist, grab the mic and belt one out at this unique London bar. 

If you're looking for a place to drink in Leicester Square, make sure to check out The Three Lanterns. This bustling spot is perfect for sipping a range of lip-smacking cocktails or beers, plus you'll never have to miss a match again, as it screens sports throughout the week.

Make Thirst your watering hole for an after-work tipple or night out and you won't regret it. This glamourous venue is spread over two floors, with a bright and airy bar upstairs, perfect for people watching with a cosmopolitan in hand, and a dark and intimate basement bar downstairs. Head there if you're looking to dance the night away to the hottest tuns, spun by top DJs, or are keen to get cosy in a leather booth. 

Situated on Drury Lane, Cecilia's Wine House is a Covent Garden gem worth visiting. Not only does this glorious drinking den flaunt pretty interiors, including exposed brick walls and sultry corners, but it also has a range of bevvies up for grabs and a top-notch food menu.

Hit this hot spot in Soho for a bit of late night decadence. Gobble down a delicious dessert plate and taste some of the best cocktail concoctions around in a speakeasy bar with the plushest of leather armchairs, polished wooden surfaces and a Parisian lick to the interior that will have you chilled out and indulged.

If you're looking for a beautiful bar for craft beer sipping in Central London, German Kraft Brewery in Mayfair is a firm choice. Housed within a grand old church, this quirky bar is a haven for speciality brews and international dishes with a sun-soaked roof terrace for summer. 

At Reverend J W Simpson, a basement bar in Fitzrovia, the venue holds much of its original decor - with retro tiles, stripped-back wallpaper and the like. Head here for adventurous and classic cocktails, many of which are made using foraged ingredients and obscure spirits.

If you're keen to catch a bit of stand-up as well as enjoy a cocktail or two, Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London is for you. Just off Thames Path, this buzzing bar hosts an array of events throughout the week, as well as whipping up classic tipples for £11.95 a pop. And if you're hungry? There's an on-site pizza truck that'll do just the job. 

If you're looking for a bar in Soho with serious style, Old Compton Brasserie delivers. Nestled on the iconic Old Compton Street, this trendy spot boasts a bar menu packed with inventive cocktails and top-notch spirits.

Whether you're sipping their signature Soho Spritz or savouring a smoky Old Compton Negroni, the drinks here are as bold as the neighbourhood itself. The brasserie's industrial-chic interiors and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for casual after-work drinks, date nights, or catching up with friends. 

Taking inspiration from Richard Mason's love story 'A World of Suzie Wong', Lucy Wong is a Central 1950s-themed bar worth visiting. On top of the beautiful Hong Kong-esque interiors and courtyard space, there's also a mouthwatering Chinese menu and bespoke drinks.

Looking for an intimate date night bar right in the heart of Soho? Then head to Bar Lina, tucked away underneath the popular Lina Stores deli. You'll be charmed by the black marble bar, mirrored walls and sultry red furnishings, all illuminated by low lighting.

The stylish aperitivo bar whips up all sorts of creative cocktails, including a wide variety of spritzes and negronis. And if you're hungry, there are delicious Italian bar snacks up for grabs too.

Nestled away in the iconic Old War Office building, Kioku Sake Bar ticks every beautifully bougie box. With low and inviting lighting, Japanese listening bar vibes and sleek wooden finishes, it serves up a heavy side of cool with its traditional tipples.

Here you can choose your own soundtrack as you work your way through one of London's largest bespoke collections of sake. Inventive cocktails are the order of the day too, with a drinks list packing in the likes of Shiso Gimlets with Roku gin and sudachi lime and Kinoko Old Fashioneds infused with mushroom distillate and Hibiki Harmony whisky.

With walls adorned with bespoke art pieces and a cocktail list screaming for you to indulge, Eve is a luxurious hideaway off the streets of Covent Garden. Come for the theatrical cocktails, stay for the live music and atmosphere.

Classy cocktails, a cool setting and a suggestive atmosphere, Salvatore at Playboy is quite the experience. Ran by Salvatore Calabrese, one of the finest mixologists in the world, it still maintains the classic Playboy Club charm of waitresses in traditional uniforms and fluffy tails, but in a new and modern setting. 

In search of a standout bar in Central London? MUSE is a must-visit. Nestled within the historic walls of RSA House, just off The Strand and minutes from Embankment, this chic cocktail bar is known for its elegant atmosphere and innovative drinks.

Expect locally sourced ingredients, low-waste techniques, and expert bartending. Whether you're popping in after work or enjoying a quiet evening out, MUSE promises style, substance, and unforgettable cocktails.

Oriole is a Covent Garden bar oozing speakeasy vibes. They've got live music every night of the week, as well as a tasty selection of plates like beef tartare, smoked cauliflower and mushrooms with huitlacoche and egg yolk. The drinks are pretty special here too, with Insta-worthy cocktails like the Calypso made with rum and sherry.

For glitz, glamour and grandeur with your next tipple, get down to The Guards Bar & Lounge at Raffles Hotel. It's got an entrance at the official gateway to Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards, and everything about the place is most certainly fit for a king. 

To say it has a drinks list is something of an understatement. Take a look through and you'll find showstopping Signature Slings and curated cocktail tastings, alongside chess and whiskey experiences, and cognac and caviar pairings.