Best Bars In London To Visit In 2026

• Location: 428 Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 4AA
• Price: ££
• Best for: affordable cocktails
• Why we recommend: this bar is a simple but effective choice for cocktails, and who doesn't love an £8 martini?

Serving £8 martinis all day, every day, this Dalston haunt slings out soul food and all sorts of fun cocktails in simplistic surrounds. Ellie's is a trendy, no-frills space that offers both chilled afternoon drinks and late-night dancing, with a 2am closing time on weekends.

It has gained a significant amount of fame recently, as Charli XCX and George Daniel hosted their wedding party here, so it's got the seal of approval from London's biggest party girl.

• Location: 193 Hackney Road, Hoxton, E2 8JL
• Price: ££
• Best for: affordable wines
• Why we recommend: you can find all the wines you could hope for at this classy but affordable bar

This Hackney Road destination boasts an extensive selection of wines available by the glass, for a fraction of the price charged by top city restaurants. But if you're after something a little more fancy, there's a premium wine list on offer too.

This trendy spot changes up the menu daily, with cold snacks and their ever-popular grilled cheeses on offer if you get peckish. As for the interiors, expect exposed brick walls, low lighting and historical features that date back to when this place was once the British Lion Pub.

• Location: 31 Duke Street, Marylebone, W1U 1LG
• Price: ££
• Best for: rum lovers
• Why we recommend: we can't get enough of the Caribbean vibes here, from the exotic interiors to the huge collection of rums

The rum-obsessed can find safe haven at Burlock, hidden just off Oxford Street. They've got one of the biggest rum selections in the city at over 200 different types, served as they are or in the form of classic cocktails - available on a two-for-one basis during their happy hour.

Their Caribbean menus, lively bottomless brunches and party atmosphere make them one of the most exciting stops for a drink in the city, complete with tropical decor. Hungry? They're also cooking up the likes of golden chicken bites, crispy cauliflower and mac 'n' cheese.

• Location: 12 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 4TQ
• Price: ££
• Best for: aperitivo-style drinking
• Why we recommend: with two floors to spread out across, Swift has the feel of a relaxed European bar, combined with the elegance of the West End

Iconic and renowned for its dossier of awards across the globe (including #41 in the World's Best Bars), Swift is the perfect example of what makes London's cocktail scene so impressive. Whether you're stopping off for a Sgroppino before the theatre, or enjoying a night of drinking wine with friends, this place provides European aperitivo vibes across two floors.

One of the best bars in Soho, with sister sites in Borough and Shoreditch, experience ground breaking flavours here in a luxe but welcoming setting from well versed owners Bobby and Mia.

• Location: 65 Rivington Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 3AY
• Price: ££
• Best for: inventive cocktails in a hidden space
• Why we recommend: from the pistachio and coffee highball to a brine and citrus martini, these guys have really shaken up the classics

Named in the Top 50 Cocktail Bars three times and the International's World's Best Bars on four occasions, Callooh Callay is a quirky, cocktail favourite, where talented bartenders mix up some of the most imaginative concoctions in London, having done so since opening in 2008. Their menu is divided into different sections, each one offering various twists on a classic.

Tucked away behind a wardrobe in Shoreditch, with plush furniture, decadent colours and moody lighting, this bar packs a punchy atmosphere with plenty of areas to mooch around. Extend your visit by jumping on the tube and visiting their Chelsea site too.

• Location: 87 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3JZ
• Price: £££
• Best for: Latin American fare
• Why we recommend: everything that this bar does is infused with flavour, from the spicy cocktails to the moreish small plates

Taking its inspiration from Latin America, Viajante87 is a stunning cocktail bar flaunting dark, sultry interiors and plush booths for relaxing with a drink or two. Tucked away down a staircase in Notting Hill, this intimate is perfect for date nights, serving quirky twists on classic cocktails and flavourful small plates.

We'd recommend trying the rich Mole Manhattan, featuring fig and sesame, or the Aji Mama for something a little more spicy. On the food front, it has to be the Baja shrimp tacos.

• Location: Arches 14-15, Deptford, SE8 4BX
• Price: ££
• Best for: quirky cocktails in your nan's kitchen
• Why we recommend: they don't come much quirkier than this. From shrines to Pat Butcher to cocktails served in teapots, the fun never stops here

A bar we can't help but love in London has got to be Little Nan's in Deptford Market Yard, set up by beloved grandson Tristan. This multi-award-winning venue tucked away in bricked arches is known for its fun and flirty cocktails served in teapots, boozy brunches, tasty afternoon teas and in-your-face decor.

They showcase a love of all things Pat Butcher (see her present throughout the kitsch space), with plenty of nostalgic charm to the venue. You can even hire out Grandad's shed for private parties with up to 90 guests.

• Location: 15-16 Gerrard Street, Soho, W1D 6JE
• Price: £££
• Best for: clandestine cocktails
• Why we recommend: this is the ultimate hidden bar, full of sultry Soho energy and Asian-inspired cocktails - paired nicely with dim sum

This hidden gem is a chic cocktail bar and dim sum parlour in the heart of Chinatown, known for being one of the first secret spots in the city for a drink. If you're lucky enough to find the inconspicuous green door, tucked between lanterns and restaurants on Gerrard Street, then you'll be able to experience three floors of delicious Asian cocktails and food.

With a cool, trendy following, this 1920s bar is sure to impress, especially with the merit of being one of the top 50 cocktail bars in the city. And as it's run by experienced bar moguls Dre Masso and Eric Yu, it's clear they know what they're doing.

• Location: 96 Rodney Road, Elephant and Castle, SE17 1BG
• Price: ££
• Best for: unique wines
• Why we recommend: from Poland to Texas, you'll find wines from some pretty unusual regions at this trendy South London haunt

If you're in the mood for premium sips at one of the best wine bars in London, none do it quite like Diogenes The Dog. This is both a bar and bottle shop, focusing on up-and-coming regions.

With a dynamic wine list and options from global winemakers, they not only have a far reaching menu, their pretty interiors, cheese plates and service are high-end with a comfortable feel. Even more impressive, this independent bar has won awards for the venue itself and their shop.

• Location: 10th Floor, 22 - 25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX
• Price: ££
• Best for: pretty rooftops
• Why we recommend: the views here are great, and their versatile rooftop space is ideal for all weathers

Aviary is yet another hit from the ETM group, only this time they've gone sky-high. A truly gorgeous rooftop spot, found on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel, Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is hospitality excellence with a view, serving from breakfast through to dinner. 

Making it to this bars list is easy for a destination like Aviary, thanks to not only their ability to pack a rooftop come summer, their drinks menu flits between signature cocktails and spirits, to international wines for those who prefer theirs by the glass.

• Location: 12-13 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 4DL
• Price: ££
• Best for: house party vibes
• Why we recommend: we feel like we're partying in a house share at this Soho hotspot, and who doesn't love a £5 picante?

With notoriety already gained thanks to Fulham sister bar The Little Blue Door, alongside The Little Orange Door and The Little Yellow Door, The Little Scarlet Door brings a sexy edge to Soho. It's designed like a flat share, complete with furniture and a cool basement dancefloor, as well as an outdoor terrace.

With interiors that scream maximalism, a quirky cocktail menu and fame gained in none other than Tatler magazine, this venue makes no apologies for its slick, metropolitan edge. And thanks to the £5 picantes during happy hour, this is also one of the best bars in London for cheap drinks.

• Location: 113-117 Farringdon Road, EC1R 3BX
• Price: ££
• Best for: live piano music
• Why we recommend: the entertainment goes on all week here, so if it's live piano music that you're after then give them your requests

The Piano Works is a warehouse space of jazz-inspired jubilance where the piano takes centre stage and the entertainment comes from requests made by yours truly. Set in a Victorian listed building, this place is a fusion of industrial underground and classic music.

Sit down, stand up, sing, dance and drink at this place, where they offer a weekly lineup of performances and brilliant bottomless brunches on the weekends. Not in the area? Check out their West End venue instead.

• Location: 16-22 Great Russell Street, WC1B 3NN
• Price: £££
• Best for: stylish 1920s energy
• Why we recommend: for all-day dining and cocktails that you won't forget, this chic bar is not to be missed

An elegant salon bar inspired by the 1920s, The Coral Room is a vibrant location in the heart of Bloomsbury. Not only do they have a pretty garden area, but the venue itself is decked out with plants and artwork by Luke Edward Hall, designed as a whole by the acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio.

For everything from cocktails to afternoon tea, this beautiful spot has got you covered. Or if you're swinging by a little earlier in the day, they also serve tasty brunch dishes like shakshuka with whipped green yoghurt or nduja and fried eggs on sourdough.

• Location: 145 Tilbury Road, Leyton, E10 6RE
• Price: ££
• Best for: 170s americana vibes
• Why we recommend: we love the exotic cocktails on offer here, and the atmosphere always feels welcoming

If tropical cocktails are your thing, then head to Leyton Calling. This hidden paradise is tucked away in the archways of Leyton Midland Station, boasting a 1970s americana theme that features wooden furniture, rope displays across the ceiling and lots of warm, glowing lights.

There are a huge variety of cocktails on offer, all with an exotic theme. From the citrus-flavoured Lei-ton Calling to a Juan Margarita, there's a lot to choose from here.

• Location: 100 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6JQ
• Price: £££
• Best for: award-winning cocktails
• Why we recommend: we love everything that Mr Lyan does, and this is one of the top places to find his inventive drinks

Created by the award-winning Mr Lyan and his talented team, Seed Library is situated in the basement of One Hundred Shoreditch. The cocktail menu here takes it back to basics, choosing heritage ingredients to create twists on classic concoctions.

And as for the venue itself, think retro interiors and a laidback vibe - from the low lighting to the cosy armchairs. Plus, they host live DJs on a regular basis.

• Location: 133, Unit B3.1 Bussey Building, Copeland Road, Peckham, SE15 3SN
• Price: ££
• Best for: sunny rooftop sips
• Why we recommend: this place is a real go-to in South London, and we can't get enough of alfresco drinks here during the summer months

Our list of impressive London bars wouldn't be complete without a Peckham rooftop favourite. This gorgeous bar above the town and high street nearby fronts sky-high views, botanical décor perfect for the city's summer season, and beautiful cocktails that match nicely with a hot summer day.

Plus, their pizzas range from truffle ricotta and mushroom to spicy nduja and margherita slices, if you need to pair drinks with a bit of food. Always sensible.

• Location: 35 The Piazza, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BE
• Price: ££
• Best for: late-night drinks
• Why we recommend: you can find New York-inspired nights out in the heart of London here, and their 3am closing time makes it a great choice for after the theatre

One of the best bars in central London, Stereo is the secret destination hidden underneath Covent Garden market. Not only will you get a slick space to kick back in, but also live music on stage every evening, DJs 'til late and the cocktails to match.

As for food, nibble on small plates such as halloumi wedges and black truffle gnocchi, or tuck into mains like burgers, nachos and more.

• Location: 4 Kingly Court, Soho, W1B 5PW
• Price: £££
• Best for: inventive drinks
• Why we recommend: this place has hosted some pretty big names over the years, promising a secretive luxury for its visitors

A bar for celebrities, stars, politicians and now you. Disrepute has a cheeky history dating all the way back to the sixties, reflected by their decor, but it delivers on everything you want right now in the heart of Soho - from their fabulous cocktails to a sophisticated interior and the perfect atmosphere.

Expect a jazz soundtrack and an array of elegant concoctions, as well as an extensive wine list. Head down for classy drinks, deluxe velvet interiors and a vibe like no other... if you can find the front door that is.

• Location: 108 Essex Road, Islington, N1 8LX
• Price: ££
• Best for: Guinness fans
• Why we recommend: the warm Irish hospitality always makes us feel at home, and they pour one of the best pints of Guinness in the city

A real north London gem, Homeboy is the Essex Road bar bringing a slice of Ireland to the city. One of the best London bars to make sure is added to your list, these guys have been rated fourth best new international cocktail bar by the Spirited Awards, as well as 11th in the Top 50 UK Cocktail Bars.

Whether you're a lover of all things whiskey, can't resist a decent pint of draught Guinness or fancy trying out some traditional bites, this is the place for it.

• Location: 26 Osborn Street, Aldgate, E1 6TD
• Price: ££
• Best for: inventive drinks
• Why we recommend: if quirky cocktails are your thing, there's an extensive menu of them to sample at this lively East London bar

Looking for the best bars in London with music? Seek out this hidden gem in the East End and you'll immediately reap your rewards. Apples & Pears serves up fantastic and innovative cocktails in an energetic setting, evoking an infectious atmosphere that rivals some of the city's top Prohibition plots.

Some of our top choices include the Raspresso Martini or a Cococabana, with wood-fired pizzas available to pre-order. The eclectic programme of live performers also ensures that there's always something to keep your toes tapping. 

• Location: 350-354 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9NQ
• Price: ££
• Best for: live music and pizza
• Why we recommend: their varied lineup of live music means that we never get bored here, and on the weekend the dancefloor comes alive

After live music, pizza and cocktails in Shoreditch? Old Street Records makes its mark as one of London's top bars with a cutting-edge approach to entertainment across two floors.

Take in EP launches, new bands and established acts alike in a record-store setting, or make for the intimate basement below where jazz nights and DJ sessions are usually held. And the best part? They've got venues in Monument, Battersea and Clapham as well.

• Location: 310c Earls Court Road, SW5 9BA
• Price: ££
• Best for: an immersive, 1920s experience
• Why we recommend: we really feel like we've been transported back to the 1920s here, from the secretive speakeasy atmosphere to the bootleg cocktails

If you're looking for something a little different from your London bar, Prohibition-style speakeasy Evans & Peel Detective Agency has got your back. Head behind the hidden door to find this secret spot, where a private detective will let you into their secret space.

You'll be rewarded with American bar snacks and plenty of cocktails that were first whipped up from bootlegged liquor. Topping it all off? They host live jazz, swing and blues performances from Thursday to Saturday each week.

• Location: 54 Islington Park Street, Angel, N1 1PX
• Price: ££
• Best for: master mixology
• Why we recommend: we can't get enough of the unique ingredients on this cocktail list, both high-end and fun

Brought to you by the same minds that own Shoreditch secret spot Callooh Callay, Little Bat are all about bringing premium drinks to Highbury and Islington.

A staple with cocktails in the front and a dining room at the back, their master mixologists are putting together high-end blends in darling vintage coupes, with ingredients spanning from beetroot and dill to cherry brandy. Signature concoctions? Expect these to set you back a reasonable £13.

• Location: 11 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 4RP
• Price: ££
• Best for: trying unique spirits
• Why we recommend: you won't find a more curious selection of spirits than behind this bar, particularly good if you like your drinks strong

Found in the heart of Hackney, The Last Tuesday Society is a cocktail bar for lovers of all things weird and wonderful, with collector Viktor Wynd at the helm. The quirky interiors are dotted with Instagrammable decor (think plush seating and taxidermy), and they've won several wards over the years too.

Not only have they got the UK's most extensive list of premium quality, traditional absinthes, but there are also a variety of unusual cocktail pairings. To soak up the booze, grab a grilled cheese or salted pretzels.

• Location: 20 Fenchurch Street, 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF
• Price: £££
• Best for: panoramic views of London
• Why we recommend: the views here are unbeatable, with 360-degree panoramas of the entire city, and it's a sophisticated spot for rooftop drinks too

For the best bars in London with a view, look no further than the iconic Sky Garden, where you can enjoy a refreshing beer or G&T overlooking the city. Fronting sky pods, gardens and terraces all catering to large groups, this is the perfect place to head to with a lot of mates or for a work night out.

Their floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that you'll have a vantage point over every part of London, and their live music nights mean there's plenty of entertainment inside too. And if you're hungry, they've got several restaurants on-site as well.

• Location: 57 Sutherland Road, Walthamstow, E17 6BH
• Price: ££
• Best for: brandy fans
• Why we recommend: their very own brandy is served at the bar, and there are an array of cocktails on offer too

Head to Walthamstow for an example of how it's not just the city centre dominating the scene at Burnt Faith Brandy House -  first dedicated brandy distillery in the UK. If you love a warehouse feel, this is for you, thanks to their pared-back interiors and cool industrial touches.

Take a seat at the welcomed addition to Sutherland Road and try one of the many classic cocktails with a twist, like the aged negroni or vestry apple sour, using its own brand spirit.

• Location: 33- 34 Rathbone Place, Fitzrovia, W1T 1JN
• Price: ££
• Best for: Hong Kong-inspired food and drink
• Why we recommend: you'll get a taste of 1950s Hong Kong across their menu and interiors, and it's one of the city's prettiest bars too

With a 1950s theme and Hong Kong-inspired interiors, Lucy Wong exploded onto the bar market in London, bringing with it excitement and Asian glamour. An underground spot in Fitzrovia inspired by a Richard Mason love story entitled 'A World Of Suzie Wong', Lucy Wong is a late-night romantic ode to drinking in the city, with tapestries and lanterns in abundance.

The drinks menu is a modern take, while the Chinese food menu is a blend of new and old combined. Think Ube Coladas or a Yangtze Margarita, paired with the likes of Cantonese roast duck, king prawn dumplings and crispy tofu with ginger.

• Location: 423 Bethnal Green Road, E2 0AN
• Price: ££
• Best for: date night
• Why we recommend: there's a romantic atmosphere in this venue, perfect for enjoying classic drinks with your other half

If you're all for award-winning drinks, the French-inspired Coupette are serving them up - with a particular penchant for Calvados. A humble and romantic spot in Bethnal Green and Soho, this is a venue not only made for date nights, but for those looking to try concoctions with real flair in the city.

Favouring the art of simplicity, alongside sustainable ingredients, they're a true example of what makes a classic cocktail bar in London. And if you want something to eat too, there are charcuterie boards, sandwiches and small plates on offer too.

• Location: 273 West End Lane, West Hampstead, NW6 1QS
• Price: ££
• Best for: retro cocktails and pizza
• Why we recommend: we love the selection of fun cocktails here that are both classy and affordable, striking the perfect balance on any night out

Few of the city's best bars take you back in time quite like Bobby Fitzpatrick in West Hampstead. Enter through the front doors to a celebration of retro prints, a piano, throwback furniture and 70s vibes, with a cocktail menu inspired by Caribbean island hopping.

Some of our favourite concoctions include the Coffee With Michelle and a Rosemary Haze. There's also a reasonably priced pizza menu to soak up all the fun, complete with toppings like lamb merguez and four cheeses.

• Location: 14 Handyside Street, King's Cross, N1C 4DN
• Price: ££
• Best for: 1970s Italian vibes
• Why we recommend: this chic spot offers style across both the old-school interiors and cool cocktail menu, and it's great for music-lovers too

On the hunt for trendy bars in London? With a vermouth-led menu created by the Spiritland team, Supermax is something or a rarity in the city, complete with a killer soundtrack.

Hidden below Happy Face Pizza, this venue celebrates all things Italian culture - not only in its love of vermouth, but interiors that sing of 1970s Milan, with a playlist dedicated to Italo pop. On weekdays? Visit for their aperitivo hour where cocktails start from as little as £9 until 7pm.

• Location: Fishermans Walk, Canary Wharf, E14 4DH
• Price: ££
• Best for: fairground fun
• Why we recommend: there are hours of entertainment to be found at this adult playground, and we love the competitive element of their interactive scoreboard

From Roll-A-Ball Derby to Shoot the Clown and Whac-A-Mole, Fairgame in Canary Wharf is a funfair-themed bar worth getting stuck into (especially for when your inner big kid is desperate for a bit of entertainment). You'll get to play innovative games in an adults-only setting, filled with nostalgia and colourful decor.

Their cutting-edge wristband technology means that your scores are automatically logged, and you can even keep track of the leaderboard. Topping it all off? Creative cocktails and tasty street food from vendors like Rudy's Pizza or Burger & Beyond. plus, they've got a second venue in St Paul's.

• Location: across London
• Price: ££
• Best for: social darts
• Why we recommend: this is our top pick for activity bars, adding some spice to your night with electronic dart boards and quirky cocktails aplenty

Are you a fan of darts and cocktails? Flight Club has breathed a completely fresh lease of life into this age-old classic of a pub game, welcoming you to their super-stylish oches to play interactive games with live scoring and lots of impressive technology.

Bring your squad along to their Shoreditch, Victoria, Islington or Bloomsbury venues for lots of competitive socialising. plus, be sure to check out their weekend brunch socials with prosecco and unlimited pizza.

• Location: 133 Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST
• Price: ££
• Best for: wine with a view
• Why we recommend: the rooftop views are gorgeous, and they've got some of the best wines around for you to try

Situated on Rye Lane in Peckham, Forza Wine is a popular Italian restaurant with both a stunning bar and a sun-soaked rooftop terrace that provides great views and lots of greenery.

This venue serves up handpicked bottles courtesy of importer Les Caves de Pyrene, as well as refreshing cocktails like the garibaldi or a frozen negroni, and you can even nab tasty small plates which include burrata topped with artichokes or cauliflower fritti with aioli.

• Location: 343 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9RA
• Price: ££
• Best for: cocktails and hip hop playlists
• Why we recommend: we love the welcoming, neighbourhood feel to this place, and the soundtrack adds a real buzz

This neighbourhood cocktail bar can be found in Bethnal Green, slinging out salted pineapple highballs, whiskey-heavy Orkney Clippers and the citrus and ginger flavoured Devil's Share. As for the interiors, expect quirky neon signs and taxidermy on the walls.

The cocktail menu changes daily, and all their ingredients have been sourced with care. Plus, there'll be a hip hop soundtrack to your evening.

• Location: 20 Broadwick Street, Soho, W1F 8HT
• Price: £££
• Best for: amazing views of Soho
• Why we recommend: we love the quirky theme to their cocktails, and the wraparound terrace is a brilliant choice for summertime drinks

An opulent rooftop bar found above the Broadwick Street hotel, Flute Bar promises stunning views of Soho from its wraparound, landscaped outdoor terrace. The venue takes its name from a flute maker who lived here during the 19th century, and there's a lot of history to this place.

The decadent interiors feature an onyx-topped central bar, mirrored ceilings and animal print upholstery. On the drinks menu? A regularly changing list of cocktails that are themed around films shot in Soho, such as the Sid and Nancy or an About Time.

• Location: 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB
• Price: £££
• Best for: 1920s vibes and live jazz
• Why we recommend: this bar has won multiple awards, and for good reason - their cocktails are some of the city's very best

It's true - the term 'legend' is banded around way too much, but not in the case of Nightjar. Perfecting an irresistible set-up of innovative and beautiful drinks tied in with a dazzling programme of live music, this wonderful bar in Shoreditch and Soho remains highly placed in the World's 50 Best Bars list - making it without a doubt one of the best cocktail bars in London.

The interiors are inspired by 1920s speakeasies, with candlelit tables, dark decor and jazz sessions to set the mood. Their creative tipples are divided into Old School, Mid-Century and Modern categories, so you can go on a real journey through their menu.

• Location: The Bar Below, HIDE, 85 Piccadilly, Mayfair, W1J 7NB
• Price: ££
• Best for: rare spirits and show-stopping signature serves
• Why we recommend: serious cocktail making techniques in chic and sophisticated surroundings

With moody lighting, warm warm and gleaming copper, The Bar Below is super sophisticated even by Mayfair's standards. Underneath HIDE on Piccadilly, it serves up drinks designed to sip and savour. 

We're talking bespoke whisky flights, over 6,000 bottles of wine and all kinds of rare spirits. The cocktail list is just as serious, with signature concoctions created by clarifications, infusions, centrifuge and sous‑vide.

• Location: 378 Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 4AA
• Price: ££
• Best for: agave-based drinks
• Why we recommend: whatever style pof agave spirits you're into, it can be found at Hacha, and we love the quirky music-based menu

This intimate London bar from founder Deano Moncrieffe is one of Dalston's best, specialising in tequila, mezcal and all things agave, with over 25 spirit bottles bringing the flavours of Mexico's agave plant to life.

Found in Kingsland Road, all of their cocktails on the menu are paired with a song to capture the drink's vibe. Be sure to try the totally clear and utterly see-through Mirror Margarita, in addition to a number of tantalising Mexican small plates.

• Location: 92 Stoke Newington High Street, N16 7NY
• Price: ££
• Best for: pretty pink interiors
• Why we recommend: they've got an unbeatable choice of mezcal to enjoy, and the decor is an Instagrammer's dream

If you're a true lover of mezcal, there's a bar in Stoke Newington that is celebrating it in abundance. Run by Thea Cumming and Lucie Massey, Dona Bar is a celebration of community, empowering feminine energy, creativity, and of course, the smokiest of serves.

If you're not tempted by the drinks? We'd be surprised, but you should also go for the pink decor, which adds an Instagram-worthy twist to the experience. What's more, they serve scrumptious plates like Korean barbecue short ribs, crispy tofu bites and loaded fries.

• Location: 20 Upper Ground, Southbank, SE1 9PD
• Price: £££
• Best for: Mr Lyan fans
• Why we recommend: this is the original spot for trying Mr Lyan's excellent concoctions, and it's a stunning setting too

Located in the iconic Sea Containers is Lyaness, the flagship bar from the multi-award-winning Ryan Chetiyawardana. It's a stunning, sleek spot with baby blue walls, plush velvet sofas and a statement dark marbled bar. Each table is decorated with individual lamps which make for an intimate affair come evening, paired with draw-dropping views of St Paul's.

The drinks menu features weird and wonderful ingredients to make up bespoke tipples such as the Palm Tree Daisy, made with Oyster Honey and tropical wine, plus the Chestnut Rabble featuring beeswax. 

• Location: 20 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, N8 9DE
• Price: ££
• Best for: world-class cocktails
• Why we recommend: some of the best names in the game have teamed up to create this venue, resulting in seriously impressive cocktails

If you find yourself in Crouch End looking for a fantastic place to drink, then be sure to check out Little Mercies. This spot was created by Alan Sherwood of Scout and Peg in collaboration with Max and Noel Venning of Three Sheets (also on this list) and Bar Three, bringing you creative cocktails, tasty bar snacks and boozy brunches on the weekend.

Expect everything from tequila-infused Peach Tea to cold brew coffee, surrounded by exposed brick walls and sleek black furnishings.

• Location: 7 Denmark Street, Soho, WC2H 8LZ
• Price: ££
• Best for: whisky lovers
• Why we recommend: you'll find one of the largest whisky collections in the whole city here, and their cocktails are not to be missed either

Housed in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed townhouse, Dram is a three-storey venue that acts as a modern bar, boutique whisky shop and covered terrace area all in one. There's even a basement tasting lab designed for learning more about whisky, as well as a private pool room with a cocktail vending machine.

Expect a mix of bold and industrial design, with concrete surfaces, vibrant neon lights and exposed brick walls. They're just as experimental with their drinks menu, which features an impressive range of more than 350 whiskies, alongside creative cocktails aplenty.

• Location: 1 Westgate Street, London Fields, E8 3RL
• Price: ££
• Best for: dinner and drinks followed by DJs and dancing
• Why we recommend: with a painstakingly picked playlist, dreamy dishes and paired wines, Bambi is a fun-packed one-stop-shop

A buzzing new arrival on the East London bar scene, Bambi is the latest venture from James Dye, the mind behind Frank's Café and The Camberwell Arms. A music-focused spot, it packs in a custom high‑fidelity sound system, wall‑to‑wall vinyl and a rotating list of resident DJs curated by Charlie Dark MBE.

If you're feeling peckish, there's all kinds of incredible plates to pick from. Think seabass ceviche, cauliflower cheese arancini, Thai short-rib and peri peri prawns.

• Location: 510b Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 4AE
• Price: ££
• Best for: pared-back surrounds and cocktails
• Why we recommend: this place has won several awards for good reason - it's sleek, welcoming and serves excellent cocktails

No top bars in London list is complete without a showing from Three Sheets. Created in 2016 by Venning brothers Noel and Max, this is an especially industry-forward location, known for its ties to the scene, complete with a list of awards under their belt, including a standing at number 7 on the top 50 cocktail bars.

Their expertise knows no bounds, and while the bar space itself is relatively stark and bare, it complements a complex cocktail menu of clean drinks, including a must-try French 75. 

• Location: 9 Christopher Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 2BS
• Price: ££
• Best for: whisky fans
• Why we recommend: with such a huge collection of whisky on offer, you can spend countless nights sampling their spirits

This Shoreditch venue has firmly established itself as one of the country's leading bars for whisky, with over 300 bottles to choose from and a talented bar team to help you choose your tipple. The dark, brooding venue perfectly compliments these sultry sips, or why not head to the more relaxed Black Rock Tavern upstairs?

They host events like Tuesday night tastings, where a different distillery showcases their drinks each week. You can sample their small plates too, from mushroom arancini to baked chorizo and oysters.

• Location: 16 Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL
• Price: ££££
• Best for: fancy hotel bar drinking
• Why we recommend: this is one of the classiest bars in the whole city, and we love having martinis brought to the table

The Connaught Bar brings silver service to the cocktail world, and can be found in the heart of luxury hotel, The Connaught. Promising a truly opulent experience, with some of the chic-est cocktails in the business, the team at The Connaught Bar aim to elevate your London bar experience, having seen themselves on many an award-winning list.

These guys were crowned number one by 50 Best Bars in 2021, as well as 5th in 2023. Order a martini, and they aim to please, wheeling a trolley to your table for comfortable serves.

• Location: 2 Deptford High Street, Deptford, SE8 4AF
• Price: ££
• Best for: laid-back vibes and high-quality cocktails 
• Why we recommend: with DJ booths, disco balls and cosy corners, this place blends ambient energy with chic sophistication

If you're always on the hunt for killer tunes, delicious drinks and the chance to bust a move, Jazu is about to become your favourite spot. Informal and intimate, it's all custom speakers, disco balls and shelves stacked with vinyl. 

While the DJ sets the mood, you can get to grips with the drinks - and between the classics and the signatures, there's a lot to try. Think mezcal mules, agave martinis, spiced apple old fashioneds and smoked palomas.

• Location: 252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN
• Price: ££
• Best for: drinks surrounded by art
• Why we recommend: the decor here is truly gorgeous, adding a classy, vintage feel to your evening drinks

Stylish and seductive, Scarfes Bar is situated in Holborn. This destination is decked out in artwork from the well-known Gerald Scarfe, pairing perfectly with low-hanging lights and colourful furnishings, in addition to shelves filled with over 1,000 antique books hand-picked by a Portobello antique dealer.

As for the drinks, the talented team are whipping up creative cocktails to suit every palate, with regular live music to keep you entertained as you sip.

• Location: 152 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9BW
• Price: ££
• Best for: daily changing cocktails
• Why we recommend: we always feel relaxed in this laid-back spot, and the cocktails are always inventive and fun

Created by well-known bartenders Kratena and Berg, Tayer + Elementary is an innovative spot on Old Street that blends Scandinavian simplicity and Japanese minimalism to create a chilled out vibe. Tayer promises an experimental drinks list, while Elementary is a great shout for coffee and breakfast.

With an innovative cocktail list that changes daily, alongside classics like a highball, there's something for everyone here.

• Location: 7 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 5JE
• Price: ££
• Best for: negronis
• Why we recommend: their signature negronis are a must-try, and this is also a great pick for coffee fans earlier in the day

Bringing a hit of Italian culture to the streets of Soho, Bar Termini is a must for all things coffee and cocktails. They're open from 10am for your morning caffeine hit, and later on there are all sorts of classic cocktails to enjoy.

Dreamt up by Tony Congiliaro, the expert mixologist behind the stylish 69 Colebrooke Row, you can expect signature negronis, plenty of prosecco and meat or cheese sharing boards.

• Location: 411 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 1HY
• Price: ££
• Best for: personalised drinks
• Why we recommend: this is a secretive spot for music and cocktails, and they'll create your ideal drink every time

Behind This Wall is a secret spot in Hackney, found down a narrow staircase on Mare Street. This Lo-Fi bar is a paradise for music-lovers, thanks to a Tannoy Gold sound system and minimalist decor that encourages you to really focus on the tunes.

There is no menu here, the bartenders will work with you to provide your perfect drink. And if hunger strikes, you can order Yard Sale pizzas to the bar.

• Location: 45 Hackney Road, Hackney, E2 8NA
• Price: ££
• Best for: strong classics and adventurous signature serves 
• Why we recommend: in a Grade II-listed building, Equal Parts adds rustic charm to your precision-crafted cocktails 

A firm fixture of the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, Equal Parts serves up vinyl soundtracks and sophisticated vibes with its signature serves. With reclaimed lighting, exposed plaster and plenty of rustic charm, it's the go-to spot for everything from birthday celebrations and dates to post-work drinks and nightcaps. 

As well as classic short cocktails, the menu packs in plenty from the experimental end of the spectrum. Think olive-oil-washed vodka martinis with sherry and distilled tomato water, raw chilli palomas packing in real scotch bonnet and Irish coffee slushies.

• Location: 7-9 Slingsby Place, Covent Garden, WC2E 9AB
• Price: £££
• Best for: speakeasy cocktails
• Why we recommend: these guys are the masters of cocktails and small plates, perfect for a classy catch up with friends

Starting as a speakeasy-style pop-up before laying down its roots in Covent Garden, Oriole promises sophisticated sips in a swanky space. Think cocktails made with Roku gin, Maker's Mark bourbon and so much more, alongside tasty small plates such as sea bass ceviche, smoked cauliflower with salsa, and beef tartare.

Even better, there's live piano music on the cards every single night here, so you can enjoy vodka and agave nectar-based La Culbera or Sanshin Old Fashioned with some entertainment. 

• Location: 9 - 10 Stable Street, King's Cross, N1C 4AB
• Price: ££
• Best for: listening bar lovers
• Why we recommend: listening bars are a fun concept that adds some ambiance to your evening, and we love the clarified cocktails at Spiritland too

Found at Coal Drops Yard in King's Cross, Spiritland is a vibrant bar and cafe serving everything from coffee to cocktails. Known as a listening cafe, you can enjoy great music from their sound system as you drink, with live DJs and musicians in the evenings and on weekends.

Their creative drinks range from a clarified Matcha and Yuzu to a blueberry and rooibos negroni. Hungry? They're also cooking up the likes of sardine bruschetta, grilled mortadella sandwiches and crispy potatoes with smoked chilli.

• Location: The Savoy, Strand, Covent Garden, WC2R 0EU
• Price: £££
• Best for: sophisticated sips in a high-class setting 
• Why we recommend: this truly is one of London's most elegant bars, creating a timeless charm through both its interiors and the historic cocktail menu

One of the classiest bars in the country, if not the world, the American Bar is located within iconic hotel The Savoy. It has been around since 1898, and their style reflects the golden age of cocktails in the 1920s - think art deco fittings, gold chairs and a timeless elegance to the decor.

To this day, their mixologists follow The Savoy Cocktail Book, written by head bartender Harry Craddock in the 1930s. You can expect classics with a twist, which has secured them multiple awards over the years. Plus, you'll find a live pianist playing every single day.