The West End is one of the busiest and most vibrant districts in the world. The variety of shopping, eating, drinking and clubbing options (along with its world famous theatres) have been amongst the best and most diverse in the world for decades and new exciting sites continue to open throughout the year. So, amongst all of the possibilities, where are the best places for tipple? Here are a few West End bars we think deserve a visit.
A vibrant Soho destination that brings bold, Latin energy to London, La Familia is a two-storey venue full of fun. Expect a unique mix of reclaimed textures and modern designs, with plenty of cosy corners to kick back in.
They've got a trendy basement bar that serves killer cocktails, promising regular DJ sets. But if you head upstairs, the taqueria is whipping up tasty bites like cactus tacos, quesadillas and churros, paired with premium tequila.
Packed with artistry and atmosphere, Permission Lounge is a boutiquey bar, tucked away in The Hippodrome Casino. All soft lighting and velvet drapes, it's perfect for an afterwork tipple, decadent date night or a sophisticated cocktail or two.
There's plenty here to keep you entertained away from its long and luscious drinks list. Evening's start with live acoustic instrumentals before giving way to ultra-refined and rhythmic DJ sets.
West End hotel bars don't get much better than Long Bar at the Sanderson. Here, you can expect to find a range of ingredient-led cocktails, which feature the likes of cardamom bitters, pineapple and almond soda or apple pie syrup. Yup, it's a unique bunch.
Inspired by the golden age of travel, Aviator bar at Hush is bringing fancy '60s vibes to drinking in the West End. The spot is full of velvet furniture, neon signs and a talented array of bartenders to knock you up one of their award-winning drinks.
Perfect for hen parties, bottomless brunches or just a night out with your friends, Lucky Voice Soho promises non-stop fun until 3am. This well-known karaoke brand has been serving the city since 2007, with plenty of private booths that boast disco balls, high-tech sound systems and mood lighting, with over 12,000 songs to choose from. You can order drinks straight to your booth so you don't have to miss a second of the action, as well as tasty pizzas topped with jalapenos or pepperoni.
A top choice of Charing Cross West End bars, All Bar One is your go-to for cocktails, bottomless brunches and small plates alike. Choose between signature rum punch sharers, banana peel rum-based concoctions and classics across a huge list of drinks. Otherwise, check out the Picton Place location at the other end of theatreland.
Located in the heart of Leicester Square, The Empire Casino has plenty to get stuck into. Head to one of its bars, whether it be the VIP terrace bar Icon or the renowned Carlsberg sports bar, there's sure to be something for whatever your needs.
A cool venue that moves effortlessly from day to night, Arcade Food Hall can be found in Covent Garden, with a second site on Oxford Street. It's home to a wide range of chef-led kitchens as well as a bar serving delicious cocktails, with plenty of seating space to relax with your friends.
Enjoy everything from Manna smash burgers to Gracey's pizzas and steaks from Solis, accompanied by all sorts of creative drinks. Plus, they host live music, sports screenings and other fun events.
International food, killer drinks and a welcoming atmosphere makes Zebrano's a great shout for those heading out for cocktails in the West End. Happy hour deals and food that comes from all corners of the globe are sweet perks, and there's some singing and dancing to be had in the club area later.
Not only is Cabana the place to go for a delicious array of Brazil's most famous cocktails (including Frozen Caipirinhas), they also serve up a variety of delicious Brazilian street food dishes, such as their delicious marinated skewers cooked on their custom-made grill.
When it comes to quirky bars in the West End, Swingers is a location with that lil' something something extra. Notorious for its unique crazy golf course, head on over for cocktails and competitive antics in the heart of the city.
The latest addition to the Dovetail group, Dovetail Bra at Empire Casino is is rooftop haunt that overlooks the vibrant Leicester Square below. Perfect for a quick drink before seeing a show, or late-night sips until 3am, this sultry spot promises cosy corners to relax in and an outdoor terrace to boot.
You'll find live DJs here on a regular basis, and their talented bartenders also offer cocktail masterclasses. What's more, you can hire the space out for up to 80 guests.
With fire pits, stacks of logs, and pretty twinkling lights, Albert's Schloss Soho might look like a plain ol' Alpine cabin, but don't be fooled; it's a happening spot with live entertainment every night and delicious Bavarian food on rotation. This vibrant bar always delivers a good time and serves up a fantastic selection of beers from Germany, Belgium, and beyond. Head down to grab some gooey fondues with your pals and sip on tasty cocktails like coconut and raspberry martinis.
Situated just moments from the historic West End theatre district, the brewery's collection of bars provides a refined alternative to standard central London pubs. Old Brewer's Yard offers open-air drinking framed by historic brickwork, serving exclusive experimental pours alongside the classic stout.
Inside, each level houses tailored bar environments designed around flavour exploration. You can order limited-run test brews paired with light bites, making it ideal for pre-theatre drinks or late-evening catch-ups.
The West End isn't short of brilliant bars showcasing all manner of tipples. But if you want a place that exudes a slick ambience, shakes up killer cocktails and even has live jazz and soul music on throughout the week? The Dilly should be your go-to.
Kitty Hawk Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled within Page 8 Hotel, invites you to experience London's West End from a whole new perspective at its stunning eatery. Immerse yourself in the luxurious ambience, adorned with golden lighting and burnt orange accents, while taking in the breathtaking views, tipple in hand. You'll find a drinks list sporting an array of classics, everything from negronis to espresso martinis, as well as an extensive wine list and signature sips like the bourbon-based Balsam, featuring caramel popcorn.
Opium is Soho's secret cocktail bar and dim sum parlour. Located in the heart of China town and hidden behind a nondescript green door, this place is decked out with oriental-style decor and mismatched antique furnishings. Both the drinks and food menu reflects seasonally changing ingredients, with an eclectic dim sum selection including lobster and mushroom with truffle.
Bringing the vibes every night over in the West End, Bar Rumba is not to be missed. Pop along to one of its raucous club nights (where hip hop and RnB rule the roost), salsa classes and open mic nights, or even just head in for a delicious cocktail with your mates.
Thirst Bar, modestly tucked away in the less hectic Tottenham Court Road side of the West End, is a fun and independently owned cocktail bar in the heart of Soho. In its 10th year, the late night cocktail bar is split over two floors with a cocktail bar on each. Al fresco drinking on the ground floor and a snug VIP booth area provides the drinker with a number of varying environments to choose from.
Dovetail Bar can be found close to several theatres, hidden away above a restaurant. This intimate haunt provides the perfect escape from the bustling streets below, whether you're beginning the night here or stopping by for a post-theatre drink. Expect quirky twists on classic cocktails, like the piña colada with Dulce de leche and sweet sherry or a clarified rum and coke, served in relaxing, stylish surrounds.
Looking for a West End bar that escapes the usual chaotic crowds? Make your way to Coppa Club on Marylebone High Street. Boasting gorgeous golden and turquoise interiors anchored by sleek leather stools and ambient lights, it sets a welcoming tone for a night out.
Whether you're snagging an alfresco spot on the leafy terrace or pulling up a seat at the main bar, the cocktail menu delivers on all fronts. Pair their stone-baked pizzas and fresh pastas with signature sips like the Hibiscus & Rose Delight or a refreshing seasonal spritz.
If you're looking for bars in the West End to kickstart the party, The Cocktail Club Shaftesbury Avenue is just the place. They're serving up killer vibes, the quirkiest concoctions and bespoke tattoo artwork.
Perched in St James', Quaglino's is a space of truly decadent drinking and dining dressed in opulent interiors, sweeping staircases and bartenders with showmanship. This restaurant bar knows no boundaries when it comes to indulgent and luxuriant partying at its best. Think theatrical, think exquisite mixology and think late licence come the weekends.
Despite the plethora of West End Bars to chose from, Blame Gloria stands out as one of the best. If you are in the Covent Garden / West End Area, want a lively drinking vibe all week long, want to be served by attentive and always unpretentious bartenders, love a blend of exciting music and expertly made cocktails, Blame Gloria may just be the place for you.
Looking out onto New Street Square with all its gracious greenery, The Refinery New Street Square boasts one of the best outdoor spaces of any bar in the West End. Plonk yourself down at a table and get ready for some outdoor sessioning! Work your way through the extensive (yet affordable) selection of cocktails and beers with your boozing buddies.
When it comes down to bars in the West End, O'Neill's Wardour Street is a real winner. This fabulous venue offers up crackin' quiz nights, sports screenings across the HD TVs and live music sets, making it a great stop-off for some fun in the city.
Located underneath the arches at Charing Cross Theatre, The Players Bar is the West End's original piano bar. Dating back 35 years, this place hosts live piano sessions from 10pm until 2am.
Wednesdays promise a musical theatre singalong, full of West End and Broadway tunes. Even better? They've got a huge selection of affordable drinks on offer.
Searching for gorgeous boozers in Holborn? Great for first dates and catch-ups with pals, LOCKES is a grand shout. You'll get to enjoy everything from espresso martinis to pina coladas and mezcal margaritas, alongside slices of pizza.
Top off your trip to the West End with a quirky bar that serves up unique cocktails and DJs in its cool space. The Little Scarlet Door's entrance is marked only by the smattering of red along Greek Street, with New York loft-style interiors and an Andy Warhol-themed vault waiting inside.
Looking for a cool spot to head to before or after a show? Or just fancy a bit of brunch? Whatever the occasion, Larry's is a sleek basement bar that can fit the bill, decked out in rustic brick walls and plush booth seating This intimate space was formerly a coal shed, dating back to 1896.
Open seven days a week, this charming destination serves killer cocktails and a wide variety of wines. They also offer an all-day menu that ranges from brunch plates to the likes of miso-roasted aubergine and yuzu gin salmon, and their pre-theatre offering includes three courses for £30.
Tucked away under NIJŪ in Mayfair, Nipperkin is a snug, low‑lit lounge that channels the 1950s listening bars of Japan. Think warm woods, rich upholstery and carefully curated shelves of bottles, books and vinyl.
Its calling card is undoubtedly the micro‑seasonal menu. Award-winning bartender, Angelos Bafas, combines hyper‑local British produce with Japanese spirits and sake to create inventive signature cocktails like Foraged Mushrooms & Ginger, Roasted Chestnuts & Miso, Scottish Kelp & Amazake and Pickled Cucumbers & Wasabi.
Tucked beneath HIDE on Piccadilly, The Bar Below makes its mark in Mayfair with a work-of-art of a drinks list. We're talking bespoke whiskey flights, over 6,000 bottles from the Hedonism Wines collection and a world of rare spirits.
The cocktails are just as attention-grabbing, with signature serves created via clarification, infusion, centrifuge and sous‑vide. With reclaimed whisky‑cask staves subtly dividing the space, there's all kinds of cosy corner to sip, savour and enjoy.
