Cool And Quirky Bars In London

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.

Throw it back to 1920s Havana and join the fun-loving crew at the notorious Burlock as they churn out rum cocktails in a quirky London setting for the party hardy. Located just moments from Oxford Street, this is one for a fun night out in the West End.

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. 

Sister site to the mighty Nightjar speakeasy, Oriole is a sumptuous space of global influence and exotic design in Smithfield Market. Come for luscious cocktails made up of tastes and flavours from all corners of the globe, equally tasty bites to eat and a live music schedule which spans everything from Cuban Son to West Coast African blues.

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.

With four venues across the city, there's no better NYC-inspired spot to find yourself in than Dirty Bones. From a slick range of delcious American comfort eats, to quirky cocktails to wash them down with, there's a great time guaranteed at any one of these fun London bars.

One of Chelsea's most sought after bar experiences, hidden away in the Chelsea Funhouse you'll find The Bletchley - a fully-immersive cocktail bar and a World War Two-inspired escape room. And if that doesn't take your fancy? There's also a stunning journey-inspired restaurant and late-night cocktail lounge paying homage to all things espresso martini.

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.

We Londoners think we've seen everything, but then a bar like Black Rock comes around and puts an 18ft, 185-year-old oak tree trunk in the middle of the bar and we're shocked all over again. The tree trunk acts as an interactive cocktail ageing system, that you can use on their over 250 bottles of different whiskies on display for your pleasure.

What happens when you combine delicious MEATliquor burgers with great cocktails, 12 bowling alleys and an ice skating rink? QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl is what. Head west for a fun day our complete with great food and activities.

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. 

Found right around the corner from Tower Bridge, Simmons brings affordable drinks to their small but perfectly formed cocktail bar. Featuring quirky decorations (there's an enormous dinosaur's head, for crying out loud) and a friendly ambience, make sure you're in between 4 and 9pm on weekdays if you want to take full advantage of their famous happy hour discounts.

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.

Prohibition parties... There's plenty going round, but only a select few come out firing on all cylinders like the Candlelight Club. They'll keep details hush-hush for as long as possible, but we're allowed to tell you that there will be bespoke cocktails, vintage DJs and live jazz bands summoning up the spirit of the 20s long into the night.

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.

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. 

Winterland's events are bringing you some of the best boozy experiences, including a fabulous cocktail and gin bar at their alpine ski party. Or opt for a endless drinks and brunch option, complete with a live DJ.

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.

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

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.

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.

Aeronaut's quirk comes in the form of the amazing circus performances they showcase. Hosting a whole host of entertainment including swing dancing classes, live music sets, DJs and themed brunches, Aeronaut definitely satisfies that quest for something cool and quirky in Acton. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

Swingers is a bar like no other, bringing two 9-hole crazy golf courses, alongside three street food vendors, five cocktail bars and a two-storey clubhouse all for you to hang out in. From date nights to activities with mates, you won't go bored here.

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.

A speakeasy cocktail bar hidden away under The Breakfast Club's London Bridge venue, Call Me Mr Lucky is a cool and quirky spot fronting kitsch and eclectic interiors, alongside fun-filled drinks that include drag fruit margaritas and 'tia Mamma Mia' on the menu.

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.

Searching for something different in the city? Head to London Bridge's rooftop for lovely views of The Shard and a cracking good time. Munch on Spanish cuisines from The Black Pig with White Pearls all while tipping back beer and listening to Latin tunes.

BYOC Camden is not your average cocktail den; for starters it has an amazing 1920s theme, complete with vintage blackjack tables and roulette, and secondly, you are expected to bring your own bottle of spirit for bartenders to whip into masterpieces.

Cirque brings all of the fun of the circus to Old Street. A kooky little space filled with Rubix cube stools, zebra taxidermy and dangling airplane models, there's a lot of charm and character. It's worth timing your visit to fit with happy hour, where cocktails are just 2 for £10.

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.

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 London Bridge and Canary Wharf.

There are multi-sensory drinking experiences, and then there is Purl. A speakeasy-style drinking den located in the heart of Marylebone, the venue's pioneering approach to their cocktails involves utilising aroma, fogs, foams and liquid nitrogen to bring each and every drink to life. Just remember the password for entry (Hair Of The Dog).

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.

Upgrade your regular ol' trip to the boozer with London Bar Bus. This quirky activity will have you touring the stunning city and all of the iconic landmarks, all while sipping on bespoke bevvies on a gorgeous rooftop space. It doesn't get more unique than this.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

East London is home to the capital's cool and quirky bars, but it is yet to have one dedicated to the creation of The Gibson. That was, until now, as expert mixologists have been experimenting with the Edwardian recipe to create a cocktail list perfect for the dark, intimate and extravagant Clerkenwell venue.  

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.

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. 

Fronting quirky pink interiors, alongside a list of cocktails inspired by pop culture, Peachy Queen Putney is just the place to head to. You'll be sipping on the likes of the 'watermelon sugar high' and 'Bohemian raspberry' in this gorgeous space.

Peckham Levels' quirkiest bar is Near & Far, a kitsch retro haven with an import/export theme. Come inside and you'll enjoy cocktails and bar snacks created with both locally sourced ingredients and exotic imports, and you can enjoy all this while soaking up the panoramic views of London.

There's more than a hint of West London suave about this basement bolthole. It's found beneath the Arbitrager, offering a relaxed yet refined atmosphere to the city's after-work crowd. Cross this one off your 'must-visit' list and you'll soon be enjoying a daring and innovative list of signature drinks in one of the hot-to-trot basement bars in London.

The Four Thieves in Battersea has everything you need for a trip to the boozer. From more than 70 gins, a microbrewery on site and enough craft beer to keep you drinking the week's woes away, the fun doesn't stop there. Head upstairs for an incredible games room, filled with car racing, ping pong and virtual reality.

The Alchemist have quickly built up a reputation for being one of the UK's most exciting bars, serving unique creations from the heart of Old Street that fizz, change colour and come to life right before your eyes. Head to East London this summer to experience the theatrics for yourself.

Add a little quirky into your life with London Cocktail Week 2022. This top-notch event will not only be showing off the most unique boozers in the city, but each of these fabulous venues will be offering £7 signature sips too. Sign us up.

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

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.

Head north where this fun tiki bar whips up some of the finest cocktails on Upper Street. Most come laced with bespoke rum and fresh ingredients, but if you're looking to kick things up a notch then head to their upstairs Rum Club and try your hand at mixing your own rum.

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.

This charismatic Angel hangout features a quirky train-carriage theme that takes you on a journey calling at great food central and innovative cocktails parkway. A plethora of shadowy foliage adds to the atmosphere and the friendly bar staff/train conductors make this a venue you won't go forgetting any time soon.

Megaro is charming and characterful cocktail bar, sitting below the bustling streets of King's Cross. The venue's expert mixologists have really let their creative side shine, curating a menu of signature creations and spirit infusion. If that wasn't enticing enough, the cinema-style seating and portraits add a bit of quirk. 

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.

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.