Bars Near Waterloo

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 20th July 2026

With sleek rooftops, dynamic cocktail bars and glorious riverside steakhouses, it's no wonder more and more people are considering Waterloo a great place to go out and enjoy themselves. Check out our recommendations for the best bars in Waterloo to discover where they are.

There are plenty of great places to take off the load after the working week, or spend your weekend drinking and eating with friends. Whatever the weather, find our top picks below.

Best Waterloo Bars: Drinks Near The Station




The Refinery, Bankside

Reef, Beef and Bubbles!

With an open-plan kitchen, alfresco terrace, and industrial sophistication, The Refinery on Southwark Street packs a punch. Boasting an innovative menu that's all about organic ingredients and class tipples featuring cocktails like the Arabian Nights and the Moon Mule, this spot is perfect for catching up with the fam or work pals.

The King's Arms

Situated on Roupell Street, The King's Arms is a homely pub boasting rustic interiors like wooden beams and vintage posters. The charming spot has won Pub of the year multiple times, probably thanks to the eight pumps of real ale and a rotating selection of guest beers.

You'll find delicious Thai eats on their menu, thanks to Kanchana's Kitchen. Expect everything from butterfly prawns to mixed vegetable stir fry or massaman curry here.

Molly Mc's

Tucked away under the railway arches, Jack's Bar is a hidden gem that features a spacious outdoor terrace, plus a stylish bar and dining area. Expect exposed brick walls, industrial-looking ceilings and long wooden tables, where you can enjoy a cracking selection of beers and cocktails.

They host live music here on a regular basis, and it's the perfect place to party. If you're feeling peckish, Thai street food vendor Johnny Rice is serving up everything from sesame chicken wings to tofu stir fry seven days a week.

Lucky Voice Waterloo

Happy Hour and 7 other offers

Inject a little fun into your night out with Lucky Voice, the newest venue under the karaoke brand's belt. This snazzy spot boasts eight private rooms where you can your friends can sing your heart out all night long, with a 2:30am closing time from Wednesday to Saturday. They've got thousands of songs to choose from, alongside a stylish bar filled with neon lights and leather booths, serving all kinds of creative cocktails.

The Chaplin Bar in Marlin Hotel Waterloo

2 for 1 cocktails

Looking for a place for a pint without straying from the city? You've found it at the Chaplin Bar. All parquet floors, warm lighting and stylish finishes, it's perfect for post-work drinks, date nights and long catchups over cocktails.

Expect all kinds of signature serves, fine fizz and a wine list specially selected by the in-house sommelière. Need a little nibble while you're here? There's hearty pastas, curries and sticky wings to see to that.

BrewDog Waterloo

Situated in the new station, BrewDog Waterloo is a first-class bar ideal for sinking bevvies with pals. Make your way in and you'll be met with industrial-style interiors, a cool bowling alley alongside a menu touting American-inspired plates or lip-smacking concoctions. Topping it off? 1920s-style speakeasy from award-winning bartender Rich Woods, Lost Property Office, is hidden away inside too.

The Understudy

15% student discount, all day every day and 1 other offer

Craft beer lovers and street food fanatics welcome to The Understudy - your new favourite South Bank hangout. With a carefully curated menu of drinks from brands like Black Lines Cocktails, East London Liquor Co., and Gipsy Hill Brewing, this lively spot takes your sipping experience up a notch.

But that's not all - KERB's street food lineup brings a rotating selection of top traders, currently featuring Meltdown's indulgent burgers, Sen Noods' steaming bowls of ramen, and Sireli's Middle Eastern wraps. 

Wellington Waterloo

Just a short walk from many of London's most famous attractions, Wellington Waterloo is the hotel and pub that's ideal for a pitstop or as a place to rest your head. The boozer serves up delicious British grub, as well as all kinds of brilliant beers on tap.

Waterloo Sky Bar

Tucked away above the city, Waterloo Sky Bar is one of Waterloo's best-kept secrets - a stylish rooftop bar offering a calm, upscale vibe just minutes from the South Bank and Old Vic.

Inside, you'll find sleek lounge seating and a warm, wood-decked terrace outside, perfect for sunset views over London. The bar specialises in Mediterranean-inspired tapas and cocktails, making it ideal for a pre-theatre bite, date night, or quiet drinks with friends. With attentive service and breathtaking views, it's a standout option for those seeking something a little more refined in the Waterloo bar scene.

Auberge

Complimentary glass of prosecco and 4 other offers

Situated on Sandell Street, Auberge is a French-inspired bistro and bar in Waterloo worth visiting if you're on the hunt for yummy European eats. Whether you're popping in for a few drinks on the rooftop terrace or for the fillet of salmon with potato gratin and creamed spinach, this venue has it all. Head over to sip craft beers and international wines while taking in stunning vistas across London courtesy of their pretty rooftop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best bars near Waterloo Station?

Waterloo is home to a diverse mix of venues, including rooftop bars like Circe's Waterloo, riverside destinations such as Skylon and Founders Arms, lively cocktail spots and traditional pubs.

What types of bars can I find in Waterloo?

The area offers everything from classic pubs and gastropubs to cocktail bars, rooftop venues, wine bars, karaoke bars and riverside restaurants with drinks menus.

Is Waterloo a good area for nightlife?

Yes. Waterloo combines convenient transport links with a wide range of drinking venues, entertainment bars and late-night spots, making it a popular destination for socialising.

Which Waterloo bars serve food?

Many bars in Waterloo offer extensive food menus, including The Steam Engine, Skylon, The Refinery, Founders Arms and The Duke of Sussex.