London is full to the brim with cool nightlife destinations; so trying to choose where to go sometimes can be rather daunting. To make it all a bit easier, we have whittled down what we think are some of the coolest bars in London town, so next time you are looking for a great place to go you won't feel like you're stepping into the unknown, unless of course the unknown is what you're after.
Borrowing its name from the Mad Hatter's poem, Little Bat is a quirky neighbourhood cocktail bar with subtle Wonderland-themed influences. Brought to us by the guys behind the multi award-winning Callooh Callay team. Promising banging drinks, cosy vibes and attentive service from the talented bar team, this is a must-try if you're looking for somewhere special close to Islington's Upper Street.
If you're looking for a cool underground bar, then check out Supermax. This King's Cross haunt is serving vermouth-based cocktails in a gorgeous space adorned with 1970s-inspired interiors including touches of neon, leather and terrazzo.
If the makings of a cool London bar comprise of industrial and stripped back interiors, lashings of independent art, a unique roster of craft beers and a top selection of wood-fired pizzas, then we think Heist Bank in Paddington may just have what it takes.
From suburbs and the affluent youth to beaming parks and charming pubs, Battersea has plenty going for it. But the biggest perk? Well that would have to be Be At One. From unique cocktails and affordable mixes to a late night atmosphere, nothing's stopping one of the best cocktail joints south of the river.
Ask any given Londoner their favourite cocktail bar in town and The Cocktail Club would be right up there, we're sure of it. We're not surprised either, with their hideouts serving up their quirky mixture of classic and contemporary cocktails. Check out locations in Canary Wharf and beyond.
Suburban Wimbledon, it may not strike you as the location to find some of the coolest bars in London, but you'd be wrong to think so. Join the trendy, neon clad The Fire Stables as they not only boast hipster innards, their menu is craft beer and patty prowess combined.
Head south of the river to find a gorgeous cocktail bar and restaurant called The Last Talisman. Expect creative cocktails and tasty Asian-inspired small plates to match.
What do you get if you throw an oche, some heavy drinking and a bar in either Shoreditch, Bloomsbury, Victoria or Islington? You get Flight Club. (DUH). If you're unfamiliar with this turn of phrase it's quite simple the latest social gaming bar in London. This is the dawn of darts, come along so you won't get left behind. Oche oche oche, oi oi oi!
Elusive, renowned and hidden beneath Casita on Ravey Street, once you've found it, you'll know, A secret Shoreditch bar, Found is a haven for some of the best mixology in the city where skilled bartenders concoct quite the collection of drinks for you. Decked out with cosy interiors, low lighting and an intimate feel, Found is quite the retreat. If you can find it...
With a bold design that fuses Victorian detail with modern flair, it's a feast for the eyes and a magnet for good times.
There's a Balans menu to match (think globally inspired dishes with flair), a packed calendar of immersive events, and an arcade upstairs that's pure escapism. Cool? Absolutely.
If you're after a drastically different bar experience, and a wonderfully weird evening guaranteed; look no further! Upstairs, you'll find yourself immersed in a parallel universe stuffed with fossils, skeletons, art and oddity. Following the fascination for taxidermy, two headed creatures scuttle about in glass cages and birds flutter their wings. Downstairs, a place of equal wonder exists - a basement bar offering all sorts of baroque cocktails.
With the happiest of happy hours, plenty of punchy concoctions to work your way through, and a crowd of the most approachable partygoers in the capital, how could Simmons Soho being anything other than a super cool cocktail spot? Head down to discover a cute space that dons all sorts of awesome ornamentation (including a super nintendo!). Spend the night drinking and dancing until the early morn.
The swankiest of interiors, all dressed up in Parisian chic, these polished woods and plush leather armchairs will envelop you in an olden day gentleman's study. Soak in the sophistication with a tasty tipple and a delicious dessert plate, created by top chef Dorian Picard and mixologist pro Blyly Tran, famous for his involvement in Prescription Cocktail Club.
Burlock is one of the best places to drink rum cocktails and feast on authentic Cuban and Caribbean food in London. You'll find more than 200 types of the spirit lining the shelves, available to enjoy as part of a beautifully crafted cocktail or as a shot. There's a cavernous party atmosphere to this Marylebone hangout which almost certainly has a lot to do with the unique happy hour which runs from open until close.
If there's one place to drink in London that's undeniably stamped with cool, it's the Bermondsey Arts Club where you'll find a former public conveniences turned into a space of art deco design and bespoke style. Churning out unique and creative cocktails by nature, this bar takes on some 1930s-esque character to accompany your supping.
With a boat load of character, it's fair to say that 'cool' is the only word to describe this East London bar. Wonderfully combining the harsh, airy feel of a Victorian warehouse with the suave and opulence vibes of a bustling piano bar. Alongside their range of compelling cocktails and spirits, guests will be able to sample a number of culinary treats, including a succulent steak or a mouth-watering chilli dog.
Sneak through a cigar shop and uncover this Latino-laden den of fast rhythms, sassy hips and live musical musings. Embargo Republica is an island of Cuban cool, raucous partying and rummy-licious cocktail craft with over 20 bottles of the stuff lining the bar. Salsa, rumba and shimmy onto the dancefloor of this Chelsea joint where South American stylings seduce you into the night.
This Shoreditch venue is definitely one of the coolest to rock up in recent times, further adding to the area's riveting nightlife scene. Trapeze is a circus themed venue, split between a cocktail bar and basement club, with great nights on each night and some incredible drink and food offerings on, you won't be disappointed.
Kitted out with vintage music memorabilia and all kinds of rock 'n' roll knick-knacks, Venn Street Records is a hub for alternative nightlife in Clapham. There's regular live bands taking the stage, cocktails to the tune of AC/Daiquiri and #CheapDate deals where you can get 2 drinks and 2 pizzas for just £15 between Sunday and Wednesday evenings.
Brazilian beach bar meets cool London bloc party club - Floripa is definitely one of Shoreditch's coolest bars. Hosting live bands and DJs playing everything from Drum and Bass to Funk, rock n roll, jazz and the latest classics, Floripa's legendary parties haven't gone unnoticed amongst the partygoers of London.
Archer Street is a cocktail lounge in London's southern soho with a stylish, sophisticated vibe. It has a cool basement bar, Piste, with plenty of sofas to lounge on and secluded alcoves to get lost in. Archer Street heats up on the weekends with live DJ's providing you with some classic tunes to dance along to. Cosy, yet with an "exclusive" feel to it, this cool cocktail bar is not one to miss out on if your looking for a delicious drink in equally delicious surroundings.
The clue is in the name. Long bar is a staggering 80 foot long, and belongs to the Sanderson Hotel in London. Unlike a lot of glamorous well known hotel bars, anyone can visit at any time. There is a beautiful outdoor area which complements the chic interior of the Long Bar perfectly, making it a worthy pick on our cool London bars list.
Sip cocktails on chaise longues, party to live music and cosy up in an intimate corner come date night as The Lucky Pig in Fitzrovia throws open its doors. The vintage-themed bar is a secret basement bar hidden moments from Oxford Circus and well worth digging out.
SAMA Bankside is a cool and contemporary London bar perfect for everything from after work drinks to a business meeting. Offering two bars and a great selection of alcohol on both, they offer the 'private member's club feel without the membership.'
Only moments from London Fields, Mare Street Market is a cool all-day spot. From the plant-covered interiors, through to the terrace, and delicious pizza menu, the venue is ticking all our boxes.
One of the coolest new bars on the London cocktail scene, this great little basement offering from the teams behind Blixen and Three Sheets brings you not just a range of delightfully interesting cocktails but also a stunning setting in which to enjoy them.
When it comes to cool and quirky bars in London, Vagabond nails the menus and decor in one fell swoop. Head to their Battersea location where fairy lighting and charming interiors are matched with British seasonal small plates and a vast selection of wine.
An urban oasis just a stone's throw away from the river Thames, Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden is the perfect spot to soak up some rays whilst tucking into a feast on international street food and thirst-quenching sips. Open from 11:30am, it's popular with hungry lunchtime patrons and post-work drinkers alike.
One of the coolest hotel bars in London, this gorgeous Bloomsbury offering brings stunning interiors and sensational sips. Head over for a luxury offering of clever cocktails and fine wines, best enjoyed in their alfresco garden.
60 minute masterclass - 2 Cocktails (£35PP) and 1 other offer
Black Horse in Fitzrovia is definitely one of London's coolest spots. Enjoy their relaxed pub downstairs, perfect for after-work drinks, or head to the speakeasy bar upstairs for a couple of classic cocktails.
Showcasing artwork based on pop culture, fashion and music, NYX Hotel London Holborn & Sabine Holborn is quite the stylish space. Along with cracking cocktails and quirky interiors, their menu is equally as tantalising. Enjoy munching on small plates of charred squid and king prawn curries.
Retaining many of its original features, Reverend J W Simpson offers a shabby-chic watering hole beneath Fitzrovia. While surrounded by torn wallpaper and retro tiles, tip back cocktails you won't find anywhere else, concocted with foraged ingredients and unique spirits.
One of the coolest London bars is, without a doubt, Rake's. This stunning spot combines original features with striking decor and lavish styling, creating a unique experience. Whether you want Saturday bottomless brunches or cocktails washing down international small plates, this is the place to head to.
Found under three railway arches, boasting cavernous, bare-brick walls, warm pendant lighting and teal accents, Brewhouse & Kitchen Hoxton really is pretty stylish. Head over for pints brewed onsite, lip-smacking grub, tasting experiences and even the chance to make your own beer.
Signature Brew Haggerston is the brand's OG taproom, a place where comedy, live music and quizzes await alongside their lineup of amazing beers. These pints are extra special too, as they're often collabs with bands ranging from Alt-J to Enter Shikari. Better yet, there's a Walthamstow location too.
A vinyl soundtrack, Shoreditch location and rotating craft beer? If that sounds like your idea of cool, then 26 Curtain Road sounds like your kind of thing. This stylish yet cosy space also promises wine and premium spirits, alongside late-night weekend opening.
This cool new bar and kitchen takes inspiration from the vibrant nature of New York City. The 411 serves stacked, juicy burgers alongside American style pizza, with brunch options like eggs Benedict and smoked salmon bagels available on weekends.
The Escapologist is a quirky bar that can be found in the heart of Covent Garden boasting eclectic decor and nodding to the vibe of a modern-day Victorian men's club. It comes complete with glitter table tops and hidden rooms and is a great place to enjoy a bottomless brunch or have a raucous party. On the menu, you'll find a selection of tempting cocktails like the gin-based London Lady and a super refreshing Aperol spritz, as well as signature sips like Mr Tea, made with Earl Grey-infused martini rosso.
Supercute is bursting with energy and creativity. This lively spot celebrates all things fun and Afro-Latino, with DJ sets, delightful Peruvian coffee, and fruity cocktails made from fresh Brixton market goodies.
Join the party on Thursdays for an explosion of Latino culture, complete with live music, percussions, and amazing dancers. Then, gear up for Friday night - it's time to bust out your flares and hit the dance floor at a sleazy disco. Indulge in honest burgers and sip on fabulous drinks starting at only £5 (seriously, what a steal). Choose from mango margaritas, raspberry vanilla daiquiris, and watermelon martinis.
Sister venue to Ministry of Sound, The Ministry is found in a nearby Borough location, inside a former Victorian printworks. This members' club and event space still has an industrial feel with striking features like exposed brickwork and original floors, with a cool bar making its home here.
For drinks, you'll find riffs on classic cocktails, like a Champagne-filled version of sex on the beach and an espresso martini made from a brandy and Guinness reduction. But that's not all, since you'll find extensive wine and spirit lists too.
The Alchemist in Shoreditch, Covent Garden and beyond turns mixology into a performance, with cocktails like the smoky Lightbulb Moment and the effervescent Colour Changing One stealing the show.
Inside, the space is a blend of urban sophistication and theatrical flair, making it a favourite for anyone looking to elevate their night out. Pair the drinks with globally inspired dishes, and you've got a venue that's as innovative as it is inviting.
If coolness had a physical form, it would be embodied by Hux Bar. This Kensington venue exudes effortless style and a vibrant, electric atmosphere that draws a trendy crowd from all over London.
The cocktail menu is both inventive and rooted in classic techniques, offering something new for seasoned drinkers and curious newcomers alike. The bar's dedication to showcasing fresh live music talent adds an extra layer of excitement, making it a hot spot for those who want to combine great drinks, amazing sounds, and a buzzing social scene all in one place. Hux Bar is truly where cool Londoners come to play.
A trendy neighbourhood bar in Bethnal Green, it doesn't get much cooler than The Sun Tavern. Their dark interior takes inspiration from New York, featuring rustic decor, low lighting and exposed brickwork that dates all the way back to the 1850s.
As well as a cracking cocktail menu featuring some unique ingredients, this place boasts the largest collection or Irish whiskey in London. They also host regular live music and DJ sessions, and there's a tasty small plates menu if you're hungry.
Looking for a London bar that's cool without trying too hard? Sinners Social Club in Covent Garden delivers an effortlessly edgy, dive bar experience where music, games, and strong drinks collide.
The soundtrack is a heady mix of glam rock, new wave, and alternative hip hop - think Bowie rubbing shoulders with Biggie - setting the tone for a night that's loud, unpredictable, and unapologetically fun. Foodies can refuel on Byron's legendary burgers and loaded fries, served up fresh to your table to soak up the night's sins.
London's only working cider house, Umbrella Cider House can be found underneath the railway arches in Bethnal Green, acting as a taproom for their brewery next door. Expect laid-back, minimal interiors, with a small courtyard area for alfresco drinks.
Their popular cider and alcoholic ginger beer is available at the bar, as well as affordable cocktails. You can play pool or darts for free, and they also regularly host comedy, open mic nights and pub quizzes.
If you're a fan of great drinks and even better tunes, head to Under The Counter in Soho. This trendy basement bar is found below sister restaurant The Counter, acting as a late-night listening space where DJs play a rich, immersive soundtrack to your evening.
Created by mixologist João Silva and chef Kemal Demirasal, this place has a lot to offer on the food and drink front. Expect a varied list of wines and spirits, alongside Turkish-inspired small plates like white crab orzo or sirloin steak.
Head to Canada Water to discover Corner Corner, a multi-purpose space that's designed to bring people together. Expect spacious interiors and a relaxed outdoor area, as well as a regular lineup of events and live music.
Their bar is serving up local beers, cool cocktails and top quality coffee, and their selection of street food vendors has been chosen by KERB. Tuck into the likes of glazed short rib sharers, crispy chicken burgers, halloumi fries and much more.
Behind The MacSmith's repair shop in Bethnal Gree, The Natural Philosopher is all mood lighting, rich leather seats and old school speakeasy vibes. The drinks list is just as intriguing.
There's an ever-evolving collection of 24 whiskies, served neat, on the rocks or all mixed up in a highball glass. If hard liquor's not your thing, craft beers, fine wines and classic cocktails give you plenty more reasons to stick around.
Nine Lives' ethos is as cool as their aesthetics, with a contemporary bar draped in greenery and bamboo and a philosophy of zero waste. While their 'Loop' Cocktails are ethical, their partying is still notorious, with music being as much a priority as their drinks.
One of the coolest bars in North London, Doña Bar is the place for live music, cabaret, comedy and much more. Head to the plush speakeasy for everything from mezcal and to classic cocktails in a pink-hued setting.
The brainchild of South London's favourite son, Stormzy, House Party is an epic slice of nostalgia spread across seven floors. With each themed around a room in an old school house, you can dance in The Kitchen to secret DJs sets or sneak off to The Teenagers Room for an N64 gaming sesh.
Up on the roof, you can dive into beer pong and tuck into 18-inch pizzas overlooking the city. Whatever place you choose to party, there's epic signature cocktails, like the Dark & Stormzy, retro decor and drinks served in iconic red cups.
