Home to some of London's best museums (think Science, V&A and Natural History), landmarks and shopping districts, it's no surprise that this sought-after, affluent area also has a great drinking scene. Whether you want a fun night painting the High Street red, or relaxed drinks in one of the many swanky craft beer establishments, these Kensington bars have something for you.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 14th November 2025
Up there as one of the best bars in South Kensington, The Queen's Arms is a fantastic, chilled-out spot to relax with a few drinks, from craft beers to wicked wines. And if you fancy a bite to eat? There's a menu of British classics to dive into.
Sleek decor, fine wines and premium steaks... this bar and kitchen is knocking it out the park when it comes to drinking and dining in Kensington. Nestled along Old Brompton Road, The Duke of Clarence is a fail-safe option for an evening with friends.
Take a liquid tour through London's notorious past with a trip to Hereford Arms. Nowadays you'll find a cosy pub serving up classic grub and cold pints, but back in the day it used to be known as the infamous drinking spot of Jack the Ripper.
Looking for the best places to drink in Kensington? The Franklin Hotel will transport you to the 1920s with its elegant interiors, featuring plush velvet seating and Venetian mirrors. Head along to the swish space to indulge in sophisticated cocktails or Champagne.
The Owl & Monkey is without a doubt one of the best bars in South Kensington. Make your way over to this intimate haunt for plush seating, vibrant wallpaper and low lighting, not to mention some seriously stellar cocktails and bar snacks.
Set in a gorgeous old dining room, Scoff & Banter is a quintessentially British restaurant and bar near the Natural History Museum. Alongside hearty plates of comfort food, they also offer up an impressive menu of wines and quirky cocktails, including watermelon mules and pisco eldersours.
Located in the elegant Royal Borough of Kensington, Hux Bar is a brilliant gem that effortlessly blends sophistication with an exciting edge. Step inside and be transported to a world of dreamlike decadence, where every detail from the lush interiors to the beautifully crafted cocktails has been designed to impress.
Whether you're stopping by for a casual evening drink or a full night out, Hux offers a refined yet vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a romantic date. The bar's curated wine list and innovative cocktails elevate the experience, making it a standout among Kensington's finest.
Thursdays at Paloma Chelsea are all about getting ahead of the weekend without waiting for Friday. The Thursday Edit offers a curated midweek escape with smooth beats, elevated cocktails, and a relaxed-but-stylish crowd. Tickets start from just £11, making it an easy way to slide into the weekend early.
It's low-key enough to keep things sophisticated but lively enough to get your night started with a buzz. Think soft lighting, sleek interiors, and music that sets the perfect tone.
Head to The Gore Hotel, where Bar 190 offers an intimate atmosphere for drinking and dining, with ornate ceilings, wooden panelling and plush seating. Here, you'll find a delicious lineup of expertly crafted cocktails alongside burgers, pasta and more.
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from Kensington High Street is The Builders Arms, a traditional pub in West London. Along with vibrant furnishings and an outdoor terrace, you'll find a bar stocked with craft brews and artisanal spirits.
Located opposite Hyde Park and Kensington Palace, The Milestone Hotel and Residences is a gorgeous bar and place to stay fronting individually designed rooms. The Stables Bar is the perfect place for a drink, lined with dark wooden panelling and oozing sophistication, with paintings from Belgian sporting artist Elie Lambert on the walls. The drinks menu includes creative signatures like a Wasabi Martini or a vodka and dragon fruit-based Society Of Expectation, as well as a large selection of wine.
Looking for a luxurious drinking and dining experience in London? Sophisticated, decadent, and oh-so-delicious, K Bar At The Kensington offers everything you could ever want from a lavish restaurant experience. Their reflections cocktail menu is the real showstopper, promising a stunning presentation as fabulous as the cocktails themselves. Serving 16 unique concoctions inspired by different eras, countries, cultures, and customs, the drinks include masterpieces like the Koh I Noor, Babylon, and Shibuya.
Following a philosophy of 'too much of a good thing is a good thing', Balans Soho Society is bringing debauchery and a big dose of fun to Kensington's drinking scene. Expect a cheeky atmosphere, strong cocktails and a raucous evening.
Glamarama Green, nestled near the Natural History and V&A Museums in South Kensington, is the ultimate spot for an Aussie brunch after a day of sightseeing. Inspired by Sydney's Tamarama Beach and the Victoria & Albert Museum, the stylish space boasts an outdoor terrace and a collection of 25 striking portraits of fashion icons by illustrator Rose Blake.
Feast on Daisy Green's renowned sweetcorn fritters or award-winning banana bread filled with fresh berries and mascarpone cream, paired with margaritas, spicy mandarin sours, and blueberry, lemon, and elderflower spritzes. Just a short walk from both the Design Museum and Kensington High Street, you'll also find the sister location, Holland Park Cafe by Daisy Green, offering a similar laid-back vibe.
Aubaine is an intimate haunt designed for all your dinner party needs. Combining Parisian charm with classic interiors and a menu packed with delectable dishes, this French gem also has a number of wines, Champagne and classic cocktails available.
If it's an EVE night, it's a good; scratch that, it's a great night. Every Friday, immerse yourself in the upbeat rhythm of the resident DJ's fire beats while downing a couple of salty margaritas or low-intervention wines. There's something for everyone.
