Cool And Quirky Bars In London

• Location: 51 Lavender Gardens, Clapham, SW11 1JW
• Price: ££
• Best for: themed events, cocktails, and pure chaos
• Why we recommend: The Thieves is what happens when a traditional pub goes rogue with games, and the result is brilliant

This newly renovated venue embraces quirkiness at every turn, with immersive parties, themed brunches, and a gaming arcade upstairs that's built purely for fun.

The décor nods to its Victorian roots while adding neon, texture, and theatrical flair. You'll go for the games, stay for the live entertainment, and end up booking your next visit before the night's even over. Simply put: it's the quirkiest adult playground in London.

Everyone has a little competitive spirit in them whether they like to tell you that or not, so why not put it to the test at one of London's coolest board game bars. A quick walk from Waterloo, with a second venue in Hackney, Draughts is celebrating both brains and drinks combined with their unique location. 

Inspired by the Wild West, this immersive cocktail bar is one of a kind. Try your hand at card games and solve clues, in the heart of East London. Make sure you've smuggled in your choice of tipple which expert bartenders use to create personalised cocktails based on your own choices and tastes.

Hexmoor invites you to a night of magical mischief and immersive storytelling in the world's first wizarding prison bar. Upon entry, you'll be issued your official inmate jumpsuit and locked up with a cast of dark wizards who aren't afraid to bend the rules of magic. With live actors guiding the narrative and opportunities to interact, uncover secrets, and plan your escape, this is a theatrical experience like no other.

Your magical instincts will be put to the test in this spellbinding setting. Tickets are available in three tiers: for £49.50, you'll receive three magical cocktails; for £57.50, you'll enjoy four; or for £77.50, you'll get four cocktails and a custom-made wand, hand-delivered to you by Willbott's Wand Shop as part of the immersive experience.

Prepare to don an orange jumpsuit as you become an inmate at these immersive cocktail bars in central and east London. Inspired by America's infamous prison and the Hollywood movies surrounding it, Alcotraz creates tailored cocktails based on your liquor and tastes - just make sure the warden doesn't catch you.

A sultry basement bar underneath Hyde London City, Blac Lacquer can be found in St Paul's. This is inspired by Japanese listening bars, boasting an impressive collection of vinyl and a state-of-the-art sound system.

This is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the City, promising an intimate atmosphere. As for the interiors, think dark decor, warm lighting and comfortable booth seating.

The curious creativity of Cato is on full display across its carefully curated drinks list. Spanning 14 cocktails categorised by colour, its signature serves pack in the likes of caramelised chicken broth, foraged woodruff and rose wine.

Drinks come with an added side of theatre downstairs in The Study. From its wraparound bar, you can watch the creative cocktail lab in full flow.

For those seeking a bar with personality and pizzazz, Hux Bar is the ultimate cool and quirky destination. This Kensington venue invites you to escape into a fantastical, hedonistic world filled with lush décor, rich colours, and an unapologetic vibe that's anything but ordinary.

The cocktail menu here doesn't just serve drinks - it serves artistry, with original concoctions that surprise and delight. Add to that the vibrant live music scene, and you've got a place that's not just a bar but an experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor looking for something off the beaten path, Hux is a spot that's sure to spark conversation and inspire repeat visits.

Ping pong bars are all the rage in London right now, and few do it better than Bounce. A buzzing underground spot made for eating, drinking and playing ping-pong late into the night, the tables here can fit up to 20, and the table service policy means you won't have to ditch your area when ordering in the delicious pizza, burgers, small bites and cocktails.

Powering up in London Bridge is one unique bar concept from the minds behind Flight Club. Electric Shuffle is a unique technological spin on the classic pastime, with cocktails and boozy brunches at the heart of their sites in King's Cross and Canary Wharf.

Draped with wicker masks, brass icons and even featuring giant maypoles (Maypole Dancing actively encouraged), Hand of Glory boasts an interior design to behold. Grab one of their rotating 'deadly ciders', sample some home-infused gin and gorge on a plate of fresh, lovingly prepared pub grub.

Lil' Nashville brings honky tonk right to the heart of London. Along with its Southern hospitality, this place packs in plenty of ways to keep you entertained.

We're talking BBQ, line dancing, live music and plenty more at its Big Nash Bash. To fuel you up for all the fun, there's creative cocktails, brilliant beers and top notch liquor up for grabs.

This quirky bar in West London is set to be flat party central outside of your own flat, with fantastic drinks, the coolest vibes, and even delicious, international food for you to tuck into. Expect mischievous mayhem when you visit. And in Soho? The Little Scarlet Door is calling.

This quirky bar near Earl's Court is inspired by Prohibition and tucked away behind a hidden door at Evans & Peel Detective Agency. Head inside to be greeted by cocktails shaken up from bootlegged liquor and plenty of live music, including jazz, swing and blues.

If you want more than just drinks from your night out, Rocket Room would like a word. In the heart of Leicester Square, it packs in all kinds of fun and games.

You can try your hand at axe throwing, interactive darts, shuffleboard, and beer or prosecco pong. There's plenty to keep you refreshed along the way too, from ice cold pints to signature cocktails and top notch spirits.

Taking residence in Victorian listed basement, The Piano Works is the revival of the loud and vibrant live music bars, where you can dance and party to the sound of a 6 piece band playing your song requests. Taking on a vintage style speakeasy, this House of Song is one of the best hidden gems London has to offer.

At The Alchemist across London in places like Shoreditch, Covent Garden and Canary Wharf, drinks are more than just beverages - they're experiences. Whether it's the smoky drama of the Mad Hatter's Tea Party or the visual delight of The Crystal Skull, the bar's creative concoctions are as much a feast for the eyes as for the taste buds.

Add to that an industrial-inspired interior and a buzzing atmosphere, and you've got the recipe for a night of unforgettable escapades in London's trendiest neighbourhoods.

Hop Kingdom is a unique venue in Southwark that acts as a skate park, bar and live music venue. Whether you're looking to book a birthday party, gig, exhibition bands, photo shoots, or anything else that springs to mind, the space is adaptable to any and all occasions. 

The Bourne and Hollingsworth Buildings is a quaint bar in North London, based just a short stroll from Angel tube station. With a sleek bar serving all the signature cocktails that have made the B&H name famous over the years, the venue's idyllic greenhouse and airy cafe offer prime spots to unwind in with mates. Soak up all the vintage and carefree vibes at this quirky bar in London. 

Playing host to a range of eating outlets it can be tricky deciding what to chow down on at this quirky Paddington eatery. From burgers and wings to pizza and wonton soup, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Set over three epic floors, Trapeze brings circus glamour to Shoreditch. Famed for its lively parties and big energy, it brings high flying performers to the stage every weekend. 

With resident DJs spinning the best house, hip hop and R&B downstairs, there's a spot here for you however you like to party. To keep you refreshed along the way, there's a creative cocktail list and simple but tasty dishes served straight from the kitchen.

Gravity Wandsworth is really upping the quirky bar scene in the city. Touting an epic range of immersive games, including E-karting, AR Digital Darts and street golf, you can expect to get competitive with pals, all while quaffing tasty concoctions. 

The third venue of its kind, Old Street Records brings cutting-edge live music to the masses in the heart of Shoreditch. Head along on any given night and expect to see EP launches, live DJs and new bands taking the stage, with cocktails and authentic Italian pizzas also well worth checking out.

Hidden within the historic vaults of the National Portrait Gallery, Larry's is a sleek restaurant bar brought to you by the Daisy Green collection. This intimate basement bar was once used for coal storage, and now features exposed brick walls lined with over 100 portraits.

As well as a cracking selection of cocktails and wines, these guys are cooking up a brilliant all-day menu. Think blueberry buttermilk pancakes, smoked salmon royale, miso-roasted aubergine and so much more.

Searching for swish places for your next girls' night out? Boasting quirky interiors, plush seating and pretty lighting, NYX Hotel London Holborn & Sabine Holborn is a superb spot. Enjoy munching on charred squid and nacho platters while choosing from over 20 different mezcals.

For a high-end cocktail experience like no other, visit Purgatory Bar in Victoria. The award-winning haunt features Antoni Gaudi-inspired interiors and stonework, plus a pretty outdoor terrace with heaters when nights begin to cool. You'll find it hard to choose from such an extensive selection of creative tipples catching your eye, from the Fallen Angel to its signature old fashioned, served in a crustal dome and filler with cherrywood smoke.

Situated on Rathbone Place, Lucy Wong boasts quirky interiors and bespoke creations. Make your way into this lounge, where you'll be transported to a Hong Kong-inspired atmosphere, where you can indulge in a wide selection of Chinese cuisine. Better yet, there are also live DJs.

Using cutting edge technology, Puttshack has taken mini golf to the next level. Head to this quirky activity bar in Shepherds Bush and prepare to get your golf on with cocktails, craft beer and an international menu to keep you fuelled.

Zoku is one of the most quirky bars in Soho, fronting interiors inspired by a record studio and a live DJ with unique sounds to match. As for drinks? You'll be sipping through Japanese cocktails and sake-laced drinks in no time.

Looking for somewhere with some of the best views of London? Sky Garden Bars offer up just that, promising jaw-dropping scenes and plenty of tasty tipples. Better yet, their range of spaces, including sky pods and terraces, mean any group can be catered for.

A quirky, adults-only activity bar that's perfect for big kids who like a competitive night out, Fairgame in Canary Wharf and St Paul's reimagines fairground games in the best way. This unique and immersive experience offers activities like shoot the clown and whac-a-mole, in a creative twist on the old classics. 

Their innovative wristband technology logs your scores for you, keeping track of the overall leaderboard for ultimate bragging rights. After you've had your fill of gaming, grab creative cocktails from the bar, paired with scrumptious street food from Rudy's Pizza, Taco Collective or Burger & Beyond.

When you need cool and quirky Covent Garden bars, there's only one place to head: Stereo. This secret spot is hidden underneath the market, featuring live music, DJs 'til late, mouthwatering food and killer cocktails to boot.

The Natural Philosopher keeps you guessing from the moment you walk through the door - if you can find it. Tucked away behind The MacSmith's repair shop in Bethnal Green, this speakeasy is all mood lighting, rich leather seats and old school artwork.

The drinks list is just as intriguing. As well as an ever-evolving curation of whiskies, you can get your lips around classic cocktails, fine wines and craft beers.

Opium is a great London speakeasy-style cocktail bar. The bar team deliver themed cocktails, in a discrete and decadent setting. Widely considered one of London's best bars, Opium is a cool and quirky London spot hidden among the bustling streets of Chinatown.

Searching for something a little different? Then check out Supermax in King's Cross. With a vermouth-led cocktail list, a bar design that celebrates 1970s Milan with indulgent and bold touches of neon, leather and terrazzo, and live music. This spot is not one to be missed.

A Scandinavian themed sports and party spot near Oxford Street, Nordic Bar invites you to unleash your inner Viking. Open until the early hours, there's plenty here to keep you entertained whenever you stop by. 

We're talking retro arcade games, interactive darts, beer pong and the legendary shot wheel. There's just as much to keep you refreshed while you play - from Swedish meatballs to Nordic beers, wines and cocktails.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bat, how I wonder what you're at. Borrowing its name from the Mad Hatter's poem, Little Bat is a quirky neighbourhood cocktail bar featuring plenty of Wonderland-themed influences. Expect a playful and imaginative ambience complemented by superb cocktails at Callooh Callay's sister site.

For a bar with personality, The White Haus delivers across every floor. Its three-level layout, cosy corners, and playful décor - including cuckoo clocks and cable cars - creates a space that's relaxed, fun, and full of character.

The cocktails are carefully curated to surprise even the most seasoned drinkers, and the menu of elevated pub classics keeps the food just as exciting. It's ideal for after-work drinks, casual weekends, or small private gatherings that need a bit of extra flair.

From neon artwork to cushy green sofas, fresh flowers and marble fireplaces, every corner of The Little Orange Door oozes style. Head to the quirky Clapham Common spot for boozy brunches and late night dinner parties.

Killer cocktails, a cracking bar team and a thriving locations across London.Yep, The Cocktail Club is good to go for a memorable night out in London. Come in, get comfy on the couches and work your way to the bottom of an expertly mixed drink. 

One-hundred-and-eiiiiighty! Flight Club breaths a new lease of life into the UK's favourite pub game, welcoming you into their beautifully designed oches to play interactive games. Throw in some real-time scoring (there's not a chalk board in sight) and a dash of competitive spirit and you've got hours of unadulterated fun at one of the most unique bars in London.

Hidden below ground level and coated in Parisian chic, this is the perfect hangout for you and your trendiest of friends. Nestle into plush leather armchairs and admire your sophisticated surroundings as you taste cocktails mixed by the gods and nosh on inventive desserts at Basement Sate.

Based on the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London, The Escapologist is part Victorian men's club, part Masonic Lodge; a totally unique drinking den based on the shady exploits of the infamous Baron. Head this way for sharing cocktails and cheese-drenched pizzas in one of the most eye-catching basement bars in town.

A hidden treasure marrying inventive cocktails with an eclectic music programme, you don't go forgetting a trip to Apples & Pears in a hurry. The venue's radiant atmosphere makes it perfect for date night or stopping by after work, and with a medley of live acoustic acts and animated DJ nights, we challenge you not to find yourself tapping those toes deep into the night.

Searching for something different in the city? London Bridge Rooftop is the ultimate location for after-work drinks, thanks to its incredible sky-high views of The Shard. Not only can you expect live DJs playing the best in disco, house and garage, but also delicious gourmet burgers and brilliant bottomless brunches.

But that's not all, as this joint also has an unbeatable happy hour - think £6 Aperol spritzes and £7 margaritas.

Hijingo is the place where bingo meets a Tokyo-inspired dystopian bar. With live entertainment, stadium-grade lighting, and high-energy music, this isn't your average bar experience.

Whether you're grabbing a drink at the Lucky Cat Bar or diving into the immersive bingo adventure, it's an unforgettable fusion of quirky vibes and fun, perfect for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Boasting a DJ booth tucked inside of a vintage piano, cocktails served out of the finest of China, and luxurious seating arrangements, The Arts Theatre Club is certainly in the upper echelon of cool and quirky bars in London. This members-only Soho speakeasy acts as the perfect, Prohibition-era getaway amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Molly Mc's is the definition of a cool and quirky London bar, a place where Irish singing sessions meet karaoke rooms, Thai street food and one of the most unusual bottomless brunches in the city. Hidden just minutes from Waterloo Station, it offers themed private singing rooms (each with its own retro aesthetic), a lively bar area, weekly music events and an outdoor terrace for summer sipping.

But what really gives it bragging rights is the food and drink: Thai comfort dishes, the iconic spice bag, and a bottomless brunch that swaps the usual fizz for unlimited Guinness and Helles lager, alongside prosecco, house wine and spicy margaritas. 

Gigi's is an eccentric London DJ bar, live music venue and restaurant in the heart of Hoxton Square. Shoreditch clubbing, dining and drinking can all be enjoyed in this bar's bold and beautiful interiors making it one of the best London late night bars without a doubt.

Luxury Parisienne brand BAM Karaoke Box comes to London earning the title of 'largest karaoke venue in Europe', thanks to a whopping 10,000 square foot of space and 22 private rooms to hire. Not only can you hire a pretty in pink room to sing your heart out in, but also order French-inspired food to your own space. After all that fun? Grab drinks at two opulent cocktail bars, dance to DJs and check out the live music stage too. It's all going on here.

Right on the banks of Thames, Kingston's Sonny's Riverside is the ultimate bar with a view. Whether you're up on the roof or soaking up some sun on the terrace, you can gaze across the water with your perfectly poured pint or creative cocktail.

By day, it's perfect for long and leisurely lunches. By night, the atmosphere builds with live music and DJs. Feeling peckish? No problem. Tuck into small plates, sharers and perfectly baked pizzas to fuel up your dancing feet.

If you're in the market for something a little different then head East to Signature Brew Blackhorse Road. The working brewery and taproom is the perfect place to try a selection of craft ales, with live music and tasty street food on offer too.

Europe's biggest Mexican food and drink festival is returning to Richmond after seven sell-out festivals in just three years. The Tacover Taco Tequila Festival will see up to 40 traders battle it out for awards like Best Margarita and Best Taqueria. 

Expect roaming luchadores, folk dancers, mariachi music, free tequila and all kinds of challenges, from tortilla slapping to hot taco eating. Tickets to this epic day of Mexican amusement start from just £1.10 for kids and £8.80 for adults.

Silk Stockings brings the ambience of late night New York to London. We're talking pool table, hip hop soundtrack, art deco décor, low lighting and neon signs.

Pitch up in its leather booths and you can lose some hours to ice-cold martinis, zippy margaritas and plenty more classic concoctions with a twist. Need some sustenance with your spirits? Small plates are served on Fridays and Saturdays to see to that.

Rhum Tavern is London's go-to for quirky, cinematic bar experiences, styled as a pirate ship and filled with maritime touches.

Signature drinks like the dangerous-smooth The Sparrow or the nostalgic, dessert-like Truffle Shuffle show the playful, adventurous side of the bar - perfect for anyone who likes a cocktail with story and personality.

The Bavarian bier palace Albert's Schloss can be found in London's dazzling West End, bringing Alpine chic and a wunderbar drinks list to town. Inside you'll find everything from burning log fires to wooden decking reminiscent of a cosy lodge, as well as an array of mouthwatering food, like gooey fondue and bratwurst sausages. Check out this haunt's incredible entertainment lineup and enjoy some of its signature tipples, such as the Chuckleberry Forest Spritz, made with Absolut Wild Berri and apple juice.

Giving it some serious welly in the quirky department is hidden Peckham gem, The Four Quarters. A stand out name on the bars with games scene, not only do they provide top entertainment in the shape of retro games, consoles and arcade machines, there's American bites, cocktails and a secret speakeasy bar in the basement. 

Step off the cobbled streets of East London and into this multi-award-winning cocktail bar permeated by a wonderfully eccentric vibe. Expect punchy cocktails and an eclectic crowd, as well as a hidden bar that you'll find if you venture upstairs.

Inspired by party animal Josephine Bonaparte, Tonight Josephine is a kitsch and fun bar. Our top choice for a girls night out in London, this Instagrammable spot boasts a cracking cocktail menu, as well as neon signs, glittery cocktails and celebrity mugshots.

So much more than your average bar, this quirky spot in Tottenham houses a full roller skating rink for when you're looking to get a little active on your next night out. Round up your mates and prepare for diner bites and a skating sesh at this cool North London space.

Back in the 60s this Kingly Court venue was known as The Pinstripe Club, and today Disrepute maintains this old-school glamour while serving up deliciously modern cocktails. Take a seat on one of their plush velvet sofas to enjoy a drink or two, surrounded by gold decor and listening to jazz music. And if you swing by during their aperitivo hour, which runs from 4 until 6pm Sunday to Thursday, you can enjoy cocktails for just £9.

Wacky interiors, pretty cocktails and party tunes are all on the menu at Blame Gloria, a cool South London bar and late-night spot. Whether you fancy some happy hour drinks or a wild night of dancing with mates, this Clapham den is ready and waiting to play ball.

Situated in Fitzrovia, Monopoly Lifesized is a grand shout if you love the board game. You'll get stuck into escape room-style challenges, figure out how to get out of jail and even build your own houses at this immersive experience. Plus, you can head to the restaurant after for post-game grub and themed drinks.

Spread across two floors, Bobby Fitzpatrick is a quirky 70s den of vintage wallpaper, kitsch sofas and signed photographs. There's board games and a quirky cocktail list inspired by Fitzpatrick's great loves, as well as brunch and American deep dish pizzas. 

For a quirky bar fronting a glowing ball pit, bottomless brunch and retro-inspired cocktails, Ballie Ballerson Shoreditch is one hot spot. Whether you head on over with your gal pals or on a date with a different, this is the place to cut loose.

Step behind the curtain and into one of London's coolest hidden bars, Backstage Soho. A blend of speakeasy-style charm, bold design, and immersive entertainment, this quirky spot offers everything from theatrical cocktails to nightly West End performances. E

xpect eccentric drinks like the Black Tequila (an espresso martini gone rogue) and unique bites from Michelin-featured Thai kitchen Long Chim. Cool? Absolutely. Quirky? Undeniably.

The Exhibit is Balham's all-in-one social destination. Come for a majestic cocktail or get stuck in at the dinner table, and don't forget they love a big party come Friday Night. There's comedy at the weekends, life drawing classes, art exhibitions and the chance to catch a film in London's smallest independent cinema space.

Undoubtedly one of London's most quirkiest watering holes, The Last Tuesday Society pairs taxidermy and unusual decor with a menu of absinthe and classy cocktails. Head East where the Hackney haunt will show you something a little different.

Can't decide on your next drinking destination? Discover one of the best bars in London with a view. A quirky rooftop stunner in Peckham, Bussey fronts an excellent selection of cocktails, alongside sumptuous pizza – think five cheese, caprese and plant-based slices.

With seven floors themed around an old school home, House Party delivers a different kind of night out. You can mingle in The Kitchen to secret DJs sets, sneak off to the Teenagers Room for retro gaming or head up to The Parents Bedroom to jump on the bed and belt out karaoke.

Up on the roof, there's views over the city and space for beer pong and BBQs. Wherever you end up, expect retro touches, themed decor and drinks served in iconic red cups.

Step into a time machine at Bunga 90, the bar which transports you back to the 1990s. This whacky destination can be found in Covent Garden, sporting a retro VHS shop front and a glitching PEPSI Time Machine that lead way to a colourful interior packed full of nostalgia.

You can expect everything from a karaoke machine to arcade games and a UV-lit bathroom rave. Their cocktails are just as creative, with glasses shaped like Nokia brick phones or Britney Spears. there are 20-inch pizzas on offer too, as well as a brilliant bottomless brunch on Saturdays.

An immersive cocktail bar in Southwark, Cahoots Postal office is a whimsical experience set in a 1940s post office. You'll be transported back to the past with swing music, ration books, vintage mail carts and more, accessible via the life-sized postbox entrance.

This place features the world-first pneumatic cocktail delivery system, sending drinks whizzing across the room in air-powered tubes. Sip themed tipples like the Ginger Rogers or a Suspicious Cargo, paired with scrumptious light bites. Not in the area? They also have a venue in Soho hidden in an underground tube station.

One of the world's most famous bars and winners of multiple awards, Nightjar in Shoreditch and Soho really live up to the legendary name. Think secret speakeasy vibes, super cool jazz and all the quirky cocktails you could possibly sip.

After a quirky bar to add to your list? Oriole in Covent Garden offers small plates and refreshing cocktails in a sophisticated speakeasy setting. You can expect live piano music every single night here, while snacking on the likes of seabass ceviche or Italian beef tartare. As for drinks, choose from bourbon-based sips like the Acadia or fruity blends such as a Calypso, made with clarified banana juice.

Injecting a little pizzazz into Theatreland's cocktail scene is TSQ Playhouse. Not only is this venue offering up throwback interiors, including plush seating and karaoke rooms, but there are also tasty bevvies up for grabs. With themes from an enchanted forest to aquaria.