Address: 129 City Road, Shoreditch,London, EC1V 1JB

It would be impossible to create this list without mentioning the award-winning Nightjar in Shoreditch and Carnaby, which has made it onto The World's 50 Best Bars list countless times. Candle-lit tables, experimental (and extremely creative) drinks and a genuine speakeasy feel come as standard here, once again hidden behind a subtle wooden door just shy of Old Street roundabout. Not only are serves a form of entertainment here, with each drink in its own special glass or decanter, but they also host live music from 9pm every night, with a heavy focus on jazz - perfect for some romance.

Address: 4 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1F 9RS

Disrepute has an iconic cocktail reputation in the city, and makes this list for its drinks, interiors and history combined. Hidden away in Kingly Court, the Soho basement has lived one hell of a life, including as the setting for the Profumo Scandal in the 60s. Known for its elite service, this is a space where the sixties and modernity combine, with each space a new experience, with a soundtrack of jazz to boost the setting.

Address: 12, Old Compton Street, W1D 4TQ

Created by the successful group behind Nightjar, Swift is a cocktail bar that's forever changed the way we think of a 'quick drink' between events. You can often find live piano music here, and alongside their creative concoctions there's a whisky library with a great choice of both premium and affordable drams. This spot has made the World's 50 Best Bars list seven years in a row, as well as placing seventh on the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, thanks to an expert team of mixologists serving classic and inventive cocktails to its guests in Soho, Shoreditch and Borough.

Address: 11 Mare St, London E8 4RP

Looking for an experimental cocktail bar in London? Favouring the intense and the opulent; The Absinthe Parlour At The Last Tuesday Society are all about celebrating the strange - created by absinthe enthusiasts Allison Crawbuck and Rhys Everett in 2016. In terms of cocktails, this means heady flavours like bitters, chocolate and orange peel. Head downstairs, as the basement bar is a fabulously shadowy hang out in which to enjoy some hedonistic treasures.

Address: 108 Essex Rd, London N1 8LX

Awarded fourth best new international cocktail bar in the Spirited Awards 2019 and number 11 in the Top 50 cocktail bars for the same year, Homeboy has made its mark on North London's cocktail scene, providing the patrons of Islington with Irish hospitality (and food) with cocktails set across three core pillars. Set across Irish whiskey, contemporary drinks and modern classics, Homeboy give all guests a taste not only of the Emerald Isle, but of their skill set. We recommend the Shamrock Shake and Frozen Irish Coffee, showstoppers every time.

Address: 14-18 Handyside St, London N1C 4DN

Hidden underneath Happy Face Pizza in King's Cross, Supermax is an intimate bar specialising in vermouth-based cocktails. The venue design reflects 1970s Milan, featuring leather seating, neon lights and old-school speakers, with regular live sessions from the DJs at sister bar Spiritland. If you visit before 7pm then you can enjoy their aperitivo hour with £7 cocktails, including refreshing Aperol spritzes or fruity blends like the strawberry and basil martini.

Address: 27a, Throgmorton Street, London, EC2N 2AN

Demon, Wise & Partners have been setting the standard for cocktails in the City of London for quite some time now. A seating-only cocktail bar hidden beneath The Arbitrager, close to Bank, their menu is thoughtful and bespoke, with two of their signature cocktails regularly changed once 100 serves of each have been made. When you're not exploring the extravagant cocktail menu (with time for the classics) there's absinthe on the menu, served 19th century style.

Address: 65, Rivington Street, London, EC2A 3AY

A favourite on the East London scene, Callooh Callay has been churning out award-winning drinks for more than 10 years - including their nostalgic Pokemon-themed menu. Split into two, the venue has chilled 70s-style seating downstairs, while upstairs the secret JubJub room awaits. Named in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars three times, coming 38th in 2024, and the International's World's Best Bars four times, this spot has received some pretty high praise and continues to keep the back streets of Shoreditch on the map. 

Address: 54 Islington Park St, London N1 1QL

On the hunt for quirky cocktail bars in London? Offering bold and imaginative cocktails, cosy date night vibes and some of the friendliest service in town, Little Bat is an absolute must if you're looking for something special around Angel's Upper Street. A venture brought to London from the same team at Callooh Callay, expect Alice in Wonderland themed quirks and chilled out vibes from this welcoming neighbourhood haunt.

Address: 8 Broadwick St, London W1F 8HN

Heralded for their sweet treats, not only is Basement Sate the front runner for desserts in the city, their cocktails are a smash hit too. From their bespoke, speakeasy inspired setting to their hand-made concoctions like the tequila-based El Diablo or a Twinkle with vodka and elderflower, this Soho venue is not to be missed. Fancy having a go yourself? You can take part in cocktail masterclasses here too.

Address: Grosvenor Sq, London W1K 6JP

Step back in to the 1920s with this secretive spot inside the London Marriott Hotel on Grosvenor Square. Inspired by the Bentley Boys (a wealthy handful of young men known for racing their luxury cars and living nearby), The Luggage Room is a homage to each racer, celebrating the famous group throughout the bar. The cocktail menu is equally a reflection of timeless drinks and flavours, spanning across decades. We recommend the 'Corn N Oil' , complete with El Dorado 12-year.

Locations: Liverpool Street, Oxford Circus, Old Street, Shoreditch, Canary Wharf, and more.

The story of The Cocktail Club stars back in 2008, when JJ Goodman and James “Hoppy” Hopkins, decided to take what cash they had and electrify London's cocktail scene. Having worked in the industry for years, they took their combined knowledge to open their first site in Covent Garden. Years on, the duo have built an empire, having won awards from the links of London Lifestyle, Time Out, and us here at DesignMyNight. Their energy knows no bound, and each bar is a celebration of late night drinking culture. Join them for the impressive drinks menu, but expect so stick around for the energy, and the party. 

Address: 49 Hackney Road, London E2 7NX

Set in Shoreditch, Looking Glass Cocktail Club is not all it seems. Step in for stripped back interiors (think exposed brick, bare bulbs, and rickety tables), along with a classic cocktail list, then look even harder to find their secret room which hosts a regular line-up of cabaret and burlesque nights. Our pick of drinks? The Tin Man Tipple - a smoky mix of tequila and Hay liquor.

Address: 12-16, Artillery Lane, Shoreditch, E1 7LS

Super secret and only accessible through a fridge door (no, really) if you want to visit the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town's basement cocktail bar, you're going to have to ask nicely. Head to The Breakfast Club in Spitafields for a bite to eat beforehand, before finding the fridge and gaining access. Once inside? You'll be greeted with an almost Canadian lodge-style experience, where plank-covered walls and deer taxidermy are shared alongside menus of signature drinks and house favourite. Our suggestion to you? Try the Vanilla Kiss with apricot jam for the perfect aperitif. 

Address: 321 Kingsland Rd, London E8 4DL

Styled as a cosy cafe during the day and a bustling cocktail bar at night, Map Maison is a characterful, colourful spot that's always adapting and changing itself to suit the demands of East London's cocktail drinkers. What this spot excels at, however, is Japanese whisky - of which they have London's largest collection (with imports from Finland, Taiwan and New Zealand), all considered and included as part of their cocktail menu. What's more, you can join in with drinks tastings, masterclasses, afternoon teas and bottomless brunches here.

Address: 127, Hackney Road, London E2 8GY

Cocktail bars don't get quirkier than this. Hidden behind shutters is a secret prison, where bribery and contraband rule, Alcotraz is one hell of a drinking experience. You'll have to smuggle your favourite liquor past the guards and get into the hands of one of the other inmates, who can mix you up something grand and totally bespoke to your group thanks to your unique choice of spirits. But don't, under any circumstances, get caught.

Address: 28-30, Houndsditch, London EC3A 7DB

The illusive Moonshine Saloon is popping up for a few days a week to bring you a rootin' tootin' good time. This immersive experience is found in Houndsditch, where you will be part of the theatrical fun as you smuggle in booze and try to avoid the Sheriff. The talented mixologists will whip up bespoke cocktails for your group using your secret spirits, so every drink is unique. Discover their secret bar for a night of cowboys, cocktails and Sheriffs breathing down your neck - starting from just £36.50 per person.

Address: 144-145, Upper Street, London N1 1QY

Laki Kane, found on Upper Street in Islington, is a cocktail bar that aims to whisk you far away from the big smoke. One of the most tropical places to drink in the whole of the city, not only are there theatrical nights and regular burlesque dancers to keep things fiery, their cocktail menu matches the overseas energy of the interiors promising bubbling drinks and international flavours. Sticking around? Try their rum masterclass too.

Address: 1-8 Russell Sq, London WC1B 5BE

Fitz's in Russell Square is a truly unique drinking den that boasts an old school glamour unmatched by any other bar in the city, thanks to scalloped velvet seating, dark panelled walls, ostrich feathers and a traditional fireplace. From its lavish furnishings to the expertly-curated menu of high-end cocktails, including the immersive Theory of Colour menu that features never-seen before concoctions to match your personality, it's a perfect date night or celebratory location.

Address: 423 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 0AN

This slinky French hideaway in Bethnal Green was recently named as one of the world's best bars, so you know they've got plenty of tricks up their sleeves when it comes to cocktail creation. An evening here will consist of sipping elegant concoctions, paired perfectly with enticing cheeses and charcuterie, and there's also a sister bar in Soho, too. Black truffle negroni anyone?

Address: 310c, Earls Court Road, London, SW5 9BA

Step back through decades with Evans & Peel Detective Agency as this timeless cocktail bar promises a truly authentic Prohibition-style drinking experience. Bootlegged liquor is shaken and stirred to give guests a taste of the 1920s, while jazz, swing and blues is played by a live band every night to add to the overall look and feel of the place. One of the most unique parts about this place is its menu, with each drink paired to a bootlegger, moonshiner or crook of days gone by.

Address: The Waldorf, Aldwych, London WC2B 4DD

One of the best cocktail bars in London's West End, found inside the Waldorf in Covent Garden, The Wild Monkey is a top-notch shout for date nights and group outings alike. This pretty pop-up bar from Monkey 47 slings out the most divine drinks - think botanical gin tipples and premium Champagne served in a stunning aesthetic. their interiors are centered around tropical decor, from hanging plants to vibrant blue bar stools and floral displays.

Address: 13 Cambridge Street, Pimlico, SW1V 4PR

When it comes to theatrical drinks, Purgatory Bar is at the top of our list. From the award-winning company, No Escape London, this lovely spot touts glorious Antoni Gaudi-inspired decor, alongside a gorgeous outdoor space for alfresco antics. Thirsty? Try out the beautifully presented drinks, including a dragon fruit-infused Fallen Angel or the red wine and Disaronno Devour Sour. And if you're after 2 for 1 cocktails, then head here during their happy hours that run all day Monday and Sunday or from 4 'til 6pm on other weekdays, and even between 1 and 3pm every Saturday.

Address: 12-13 Greek Street, W1D 4DL

You can always rely on Soho's The Little Scarlet Door for fun vibes and bespoke concoctions. Head inside for metropolitan vibes, inspired by New York's iconic loft apartments (as seen with chic sofas, flower pots and industrial touches), alongside a drinks list to die for. Think movie-themed drinks or sharing cocktails in funky mixing bowls, here or at their sister venues The Little Blue Door (Fulham), The Little Orange Door (Clapham), The Little Violet Door (Carnaby) and The Little Yellow Door (Notting Hill). Our favourite part about The Little Scarlet Door? You can get £5 picantes from Monday to Thursday if you head in before 6pm. 

Address: 23 Slingsby Place, London WC2E 9AB

A speakeasy-style bar with an air of sophistication, Oriole is a top choice for cocktails and Latin American-inspired small plates, located in Covent Garden. Expect tasty dishes like ceviche, Italian steak tartare and sweetbread while listening to live piano music and sipping on beautifully presented drinks like the grapefruit-flavoured Acadia, or the vodka and aloe vera wine-baed La Culebra.

Address: 78 Great Eastern Street, London, EC2A 3JL

temper is already well known on the London foodie scene for its open fire meat and barbecue classes, but what does their trendy bar bring to the table? Not only is the temper Shoreditch Bar a wall to wall experience of chill drink and 'unpretentious service'. They pride themselves on smoky cocktails with a mezcal first approach to mixes. Stick around in one of their sweeping butter yellow booths to enjoy 80s and 90s music with a dash of hip hop on the side.

Address: 33-34 Rathbone Place, London W1T 1JN

Lucy Wong brings a touch of Cantonese glamour to its Fitzrovia basement cocktail bar, inspired by 'A World of Suzie Wong' by Richard Mason. Touches of dusty pink and traditional Chinese tapestries bring the luxury of the 1950s to life when inside, set alongside a cocktail menu celebrating Asian spirits, created by award-winning mixologist Dré Masso. Visit Lucy Wong from 5 to 7pm and enjoy two-for-one cocktails like the gin and lychee concoction Crouching Tiger. 

Address: 42 Peckham Rye, London, SE15 4JR

Some bars claim to have neighbourhood vibes, run by neighbourhood owners, but with Peckham cocktail spot Funkidory, that couldn't be more true. Opened in 2018 and ran by couple Sergio and Anna, these Peckham locals took what they knew of the industry and applied it all to a place of their own. Not only is their cocktail menu a celebration of their knowledge, with classics and unique drinks available, their 'urban lounge' style bar has a playlist of funky hits to match its name, perfect for those with a leaning towards soul music and great drinks. 

Address: 50 Berners Street, London W1T 3NG

In need of a cocktail bar in Central London? Long Bar is located within the iconic Sanderson Hotel, bringing you a range of ingredient-focused cocktails that make for a luxury experience. The likes of apple pie syrup, pineapple and almond soda or rhubarb bitters are whipped up into the delicious drinks here. And on Saturday nights? You'll find a resident DJ hitting the decks.

Address: 57, Sutherland Road, E17 6BH

Hailed as the UK's first dedicated brandy house, Burnt Faith Brandy House in Walthamstow is whipping up takes on classic cocktails using its very own distilled spirit, tucked away on an industrial estate (with the brandy making done on ther ground floor below). Our recommendation? Try the vestry apple sour with a kick and a sazerac using Devil's Botany absinthe. Brandy espresso martini? Yep, they have one of those too. 

Address: 325 Kingsland Road, London E8 4DL

Brought to you by the team behind MAP Maison, La Bibliotheque is up there when it comes to the best cocktail bars in the capital, with its creative menu 'The Journey', crafted by Melissa Frangi. She uses rational Japanese spirits like sake and umeshu to concoct refined tipples like Okinawa, made with cacao ethique gin and black tea. This stylish spot blends modern luxury with a down-to-earth East London charm, with sultry grey interiors and marble-topped tables.

Address: 50, Dean Street, London W1D 5BQ

One of the lovers of quirky fun, Mr Fogg's Treasure Hunt is a cocktail bar experience with a difference - because you won't just be sat in a bar on this immersive adventure. You'll be able to enjoy 80 minutes of outdoor adventuring across Soho, solving clues and mysteries, before heading back for your reward: two Bombay Sapphire concoctions each, included in your £65 ticket.

Address: 3rd Floor, Bishopsgate Plaza, London EC2M 4JX

Situated right among the City of London, Silverleaf is slinging out deluxe drinks until 2am seven nights a week. Think sultry black interiors, hidden bar areas and a cracking selection of spirits, with concoctions like watermelon sake and Roku gin with olive oil on the menu. This spot is also home to Alba, a hidden bar and tasting room with an intimate feel, offering whisky and cocktail tastings.

Address: 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD

Stunning Southbank bar Lyaness was created by the multi-award-winning Ryan Chetiyawardana, found in the Sea Containers London hotel. It made The World's 50 Best Bars list in 2018, and again just two years after their reopening in 2019. Their cocktail menu displays a passion for the weird and wonderful, using innovative ingredients for a focus on flavour. You'll drink the likes of the Chestnut Rubble, made with beeswax and the (Im)perfect Martini, featuring Grass Amazake among a range of bespoke tipples. Sip these kooky concoctions in a plush blue velvet booth, or at the opulent green marble bar.

Address: 177 Portobello Road, London W11 2DY

This sultry spot is situated in a Portobello Road basement, and is one of the best bars in London for cocktails. The tropical blends here have a heavy rum focus, with twists on the classics like a passionfruit daquiri or the Espresso Martiki. While you sip, listen to 90s soul and hip hop in the dark, botanical surrounds. What's more, they offer rum masterclasses here as well.

Address: 17 Kingsland Road, London E2 8AA

Looking for a rooftop cocktail bar in London? TT Liquor is a popular spot in Shoreditch, serving concoctions made from only the finest spirits, complete with their own liquor shop upon entry. You can take part in cocktail masterclasses here too, as well as tasting sessions or even private cinema experiences. And if the sky-high terrace with rooftop views isn't your thing (let's talk about that), they've got an intimate cellar bar too.

Address: 214 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3TQ

Two One Four is a secret speakeasy found beneath the iconic pasta restaurant Flour & Grape. Expect low lighting, industrial decor and leather stools at the bar, where you'll find a collection of over 100 gins, alongside Italian bar snacks from the kitchen upstairs. Gin lovers benefit from a selection of flight experiences here, with a signature menu of cocktails promising twists on the classics. What's more, you can nab £7 cocktails during their aperitivi hour every day from 5 'til 6pm - a real rare find among top London cocktail bars.

Address: 17 The Pavement, London SW4 0HY

Looking for cool cocktail bars in London? Check out Common Late, a vintage apothecary bar concocting bespoke craft and classic cocktails that are sure to tantalise your tastebuds. The perfect spot for a night out with friends, head over to indulge in quality cocktails like the French 75 and a Toast 2 Tiramisu and enjoy the view. This one's only open on weekends though, so be quick securing your spot.

Been looking to explore more of the capital's best bars? Luckily for you, there are more than 200 of them taking part in London Cocktail Week 2024. This 11-day event sees the very best hand-picked hotspots dishing out signature cocktails for just £8 each, as well as a number of special menus. Head on curated cocktail tours laid out in a handy guide book, which comes with your £20 wristband. There are other fun experiences to get stuck into as well, from immersive pop-ups to venue takeovers - all aiming to support the vibrant hospitality industry in London.

Address: 489 Hackney Road, London E2 9ED

The Natural Philosopher is a unique bar for many reasons, one of which is the fact it uses foraged ingredients from East London and beyond to create its innovative sips. Founded and co-owned by award-winning bartender Josh Powell, it's a cool space adorned with wrap-around vines and vintage paintings, making it a cool and quirky date spot too. On the Forager's Journal menu, you can expect to sip the likes of a Hackney Hellbound, made with horseradish, among other innovative concoctions. 

Address: One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel, 100 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JQ

Brought to you by the award-winning Mr Lyan and team, Seed Library can be found in the basement of One Hundred Shoreditch. This late-night bar promises live DJs, sultry interiors and a world-class cocktail list, earning it 30th place on the list of the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for 2024. They put unique twists on classic cocktails here, to be enjoyed on their cosy leather sofas or at a bar stool - where you can watch the talented mixologists get to work.

Address: 87 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JZ

Viajante87 is a Notting Hill favourite, with an intimate drinking space that's perfect for date nights or pre-dinner drinks. Whether you're coming for a quiet midweek visit or to catch their resident DJs playing Latin and house tunes on the weekend, you can enjoy expertly crafted concoctions in their dimly lit venue. Go for a classic like spicy margaritas or a pisco sour, or mix it up with their signature blends such as the Sultana Sidecar or an El Rancho Highball.

Address: 34-35 Southampton Street, London WC2E 7HG

Eve has enough delicious cocktails to tempt, well, Eve in the Garden of Eden. A bar built on the ideas of indulgence and hedonism, come here for theatrical cocktails served in luxurious surroundings, and if you're peckish - it's part of the award-winning Frog. They've got a detailed menu offering drinks to suit every taste, from the elegant Smoke and Honey to a nostalgic Jammy Dodger.

Address: 510b Kingsland Road, London E8 4AE

Award-winning neighbourhood bar Three Sheets is ready to transport you to cocktail heaven with a mind-blowing menu of crafted sips – to be enjoyed in their stripped-back, intimate Dalston drinker's den which touts exposed brick walls and a laid-back atmosphere. Highlights include the American Coffee, made from maple butter whisky, and the dirty martini containing olive oil and sea salt. This swish spot is owned by Manchester-born cocktail experts the Venning brothers, who've honed their mixology skills at Conigliaro's 69 Colebrooke Row and Manchester's Crazy Pedro's.

Address: 20 Broadway Parade, London N8 9DE

From the brains behind the award-winning cocktail bar Three Sheets, Little Mercies has a lot to live up to. Keeping the interiors simple so the drinks get to shine, their impressive menu features a wide range of concoctions below £12. Expect classics like the margarita and an espresso martini, alongside bold blends like the kiwi gimlet and a Snickers old fashioned. They also have some incredible sharing plates from crab toast to a cheese burger crumpet. 

Address: 7 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 5JE

Serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, this cocktail gem is bringing Italian flair to Soho's Compton Street, one drink at a time. Fronting four house negronis and a collection of expertly crafted cocktails, all priced at £14, there's plenty sips to keep you busy. Whether you're in the mood for a marsala martini, peach bellini or a bloody Mary made from horseradish vodka, it's only right to pair it with authentic Italian cheese and ham, served up by staff in old-school bar uniforms. Top tip? They sell glassware and china too, if you want to take a piece of your experience home. 

Address: 8 Holyrood Street, London SE1 2EL

With sustainability at the forefront, Nine Lives is dedicated to providing a space for ethical drinking that's also super stylish and unique. From second-hand furniture to an on-site herb garden and compost system, this bar is doing its bit for the planet while whipping up some incredible drinks. Expect cocktails of the tropical variety, such as margaritas, a Russian spring punch and the Crossfire Hurricane – paired with Mexican grub straight from the taco truck. 

Address: 343 Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9RA

Bethnal Green's original neighbourhood cocktail bar Satan's Whiskers offers a unique drinking experience, complete with taxidermy decor, hip hop tracks and an ever-changing drinks menu championing top-quality ingredients, promising something new every time. Past favourites have included the luminous Midori Sour, the banana-flavoured German Whip and the multi-coloured American Beauty. 

Address: 14 Denman St, London W1D 7HJ

Prepare to be seduced by brooding basement cocktail bar SOMA – bringing Indian-inspired drinks and speakeasy vibes to Soho, tucked away beneath hailed Indian restaurant, Kricket. From private sofa nooks to a 25-seater stainless steel bar, this intimate spot has an air of exclusivity and romance. Make your way through the reimagined classics on the cocktail menu, featuring a rum blend with blueberry yoghurt and a green mango whisky number. Good to know? They have a 3am licence. 

Address: 152 Old Street, London EC1V 9BW

This innovative bar has turned an Old Street post office into a trendy watering hole, taking inspiration from Scandinavian and Japanese minimalism in its decor. The experimental cocktail list changes daily here, so you're always in for a pleasant surprise when you visit. This venue is split into two different areas, with classic concoctions found in Tayer and more modern blends making up the Elementary menu.

Address: 16 Carlos Place, London W1K 2AL

Though it's a little pricier, the iconic Connaught Bar in Mayfair is well worth a visit - having made the top of The World's 50 Best Bars list in 2020. Found in the famous hotel, this Cubist-inspired drinking den screams decadence, from its shimmering silver walls to the Champagne cocktails. Having recently won best hotel bar in the Tatler Travel Guide, amongst many other achievements, this sophisticated venue has it all.

Address: 378 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA

Located in Dalston, Hacha is a much-loved neighbourhood bar with a rotating list of 25 different agave spirits on offer, flaunting laidback surrounds like white tiled walls and rustic wooden furniture. Try out the mirror margarita which is entirely see-through, while tucking into mouthwatering Mexican small plates. Recently named the 34th best bar in the UK, this spot is well worth the trip.

Address: 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN

This luxury Holborn spot boasts marble walls, cosy velvet armchairs and a roaring fireplaces, as well as shelves filled with countless antique books. As the name suggests, this spot is inspired by artist Gerald Scarfe, whose artwork decorates the walls. The carefully curated cocktails range from the campari, rhubarb and hibiscus blend Higher Power to the mezcal-focused El Bandito.

Address: The Savoy, Strand, Covent Garden, London WC2R 0EU

Head to The Savoy for some seriously stunning cocktails at one of London's most famous hotels. Beaufort Bar just oozes old glamour, with Art Deco-inspired black and gold interiors and one of the most extensive Champagne collections around. Expect classic concoctions like highballs and negronis, with some signature sips available too. Our favourite? The Good Fortune, which blends pink grapefruit and elderflower with mandarin gin.

Address: 58-59 Poland Street, London W1F 7NS

Yo have to look a little bit harder for some of London's best cocktail bars, and this one is well worth it. Hidden above Jason Atherton's Social Eating House, secret bar The Blind Pig is a Soho favourite found behind the door to an opticians. The New York-inspired aesthetic and expertly crafted drinks create a speakeasy vibe, with quirky cocktails like the popcorn-flavoured Silver Screen and the Dill Or No Dill on offer, as well as classics such as an espresso martini. 

Address: The Savoy, The Strand, London WC2R 0EZ

Found within the famous Savoy hotel, iconic London cocktail bar the American Bar has been around since 1898, earning its place as one of the world's best known cocktail bars. Expect stellar service, live piano music and 1920s decor, maintaining he roaring twenties attitude towards bars, with classic drinks recipes coming from The Savoy Cocktail Book - written by head bartender Harry Craddock in the 1930s.

Address: 29A Wentworth Street, London E1 7TB

Tucked away on Brick Lane, Discount Suit Company doesn't look like much from the outside. But once you enter what looks like an abandoned clothing shop, you will find New York-inspired interiors, a bustling atmosphere and delicious drinks like the mezcal-based Drugstore Cowboy or a Wigan Casino which combines gin, green chartreuse and passionfruit. And if you're searching for cheap cocktail bars in London, tipples start from just £10 here.

Address: 55 Brook Street, London W1K 4HR

If you're looking for some of the most luxury cocktail bars London has to offer, The Fumoir has got to be on your list. This old-school spot is found inside Claridge's, having been a favourite for relaxed drinks in laidback surrounds since 1929. Think glamourous decor of marble-topped wooden bars, red velvet armchairs and William Klein portraits lining the walls, with an extensive list of cocktails to enjoy on your visit. We'd recommend the signature Songbird for a fruity kick of pineapple and lime, though they've got all the classics like a margarita or an old fashioned too.

Address: 28 Bow Street, London WC2E 7AW

You'll find Side Hustle inside Covent Garden's NoMad Hotel - the historic Grade II-listed building which was once Bow Street Magistrates' Court. The stylish bar and restaurant is located in its former police station, so if you like your drinks with a side of history then this is just the place for you. The Latin American theme at this spot puts an agave twist on the cocktail menu, ideal for margarita fans, with a list of classics alongside signature serves - from the Pink Elephant that blends tequila and Aperol to a spirit-forward Churros Milk Punch.

Address: 8-9 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU

Sitting pretty on Hoxton Square, Happiness Forgets is an intimate basement space that seats a maximum of only 50 people at a time. The sultry space oozes date night vibes, with its marble-topped tables and cosy corners to relax in. They change up the cocktail menu on a regular basis, so you can always find something new and exciting here, with quirky-named concoctions like the Harry Palmer or a Killer Queen making it onto the list. And while you drink? Expect a mellow mix of jazz, pop, RnB and soul music in the background.

Address: 10 Argyle Street, London WC1H 8EG

One of the best cocktail bars in London with a view, Sweeties can be found on the 10th floor of classy hotel The Standard in King's Cross. The main attraction of this high-end spot is its floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city's skyline - particularly beautiful after dark, which is when the bar really comes alive. Step into 1970s Hollywood glamour when you enter, with mirrored tables, leather banquettes and velvet sofas to relax in. And when it comes to drinks, their peach liqueur and Veuve Clicquot Champagne blend Be Mine steals the show.

Address: 36 Hanway Street, London W1T 1UP

Placing an impressive 15th in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for 2024, Murder Inc is quite the sought-after spot. The Fitzrovia venue is inspired by the gangster-led underworld of 1940s America, filled with neon signs and exposed brick walls in a basement space. Their experienced bar team are whipping up gorgeous sips for just £12 each, with a menu that changes constantly. But if you get the chance to try it, we recommend the Florida Man - made with rum, strawberry and coconut soda.

Address: The Langham, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA

We don't have to tell you how good Artesian is, as their long list of awards will do it for you. They came 37th in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for 2024, as well as having won 'World's Best Bar' multiple times from Drinks International and 50 Best Bars. Located at The Langham on Regent Street, they're constantly switching up their approach to mixology with a series of concept-based menus. Their current offering 'Alter Ego' promises flavours like coffee, melon, lychee and so much more across 16 bespoke drinks, led by head bartender Giulia Cuccurullo.

Address: 52 Stratton Street, London W1J 8LN

Coming 11th in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars list this year, Kwānt is a gorgeous venue in Mayfair that takes its inspiration from 1940s Casablanca. Think bamboo ceilings, leafy green plants and tiled floors - the perfect escape from the busy city. They specialise in vintage cocktails such as the bar's namesake Kwānt - served with Roku gin and elderflower liqueur, with a menu that changes all the time. And if you're hungry, you can also dig into their seven-course tasting menu for £120 each.

This unique Haggerston venue literally has three shapes for its name, inspired by the 1920s German art movement Bauhaus that celebrated minimalism and function over form. Their stripped-back interiors feature primary colours and simple wooden furnishings, and their selection of 12 cocktails is made up of just 20 bottles behind the bar - each chosen via blind taste test by their bar team. Well-known bartender Remy Savage and his business partner Paul Lougrat dreamed up this quirky venue, after their success at award-winning London cocktail bar Artesian.