Best Cocktail Bars In London

• Location: 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB
• Why we recommend: Nightjar pairs award-winning, experimental cocktails with jazz-led entertainment for the ultimate date night vibes
• Recommended cocktail: the zombie (£15) here is barrel-aged and boozy as they come - without being overpowering. Our Lead Editor, Lauren Cole, thinks it's perfect for that extra slice of Nightjar theatre, as the wooden cup comes topped with a sponge cake that's set alight at the table
• Customer review: 'Spent 8 days in London and Paris, and this might be the coolest place we visited. Loved everything about it, including the band.'

It would be impossible to create this list without us 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. I think it's a classic take on a cocktail space, while still breaking plenty of norms.

• Location: 4 Kingly Court, Carnaby W1F 9RS
• Why we recommend: a hidden basement bar near Carnaby Street with a scandalous past, Disrepute's speakeasy vibes add to their extensive cocktail list
• Recommended cocktail: Slumber Party (£16), a warm rum-led concoction we can't help but love
• Customer review: 'Fabulous hidden gem in the heart of Soho. Debonair atmosphere with attentive and knowledgeable staff serving a great selection of cocktails on and off the menu.'

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. It's a must-visit in London for those of you in the Carnaby area, and the interiors are a true celebration of throwback chic.

• Location: 12, Old Compton Street, Soho W1D 4TQ
• Why we recommend: the original Swift, this Soho branch of the famous cocktail bar has won multiple awards and is a must-visit
• Recommended cocktail: the Irish Coffee is a true favourite of our Marketing Manager, Leighanne, and is quite the steal at only £11, complete with Irish whiskey and cream
• Customer review: 'The service and the drinks were really good here, we were in the downstairs bar and it exceeded my expectations. There was a guy playing piano and singing and the whole feel was almost Gatsby vibes, we really enjoyed it. We will definitely be back for more cocktails. Thank you Swift.'
  

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 placed sixth 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.

• Location: 14-18 Handyside Street, King's Cross N1C 4DN
• Why we recommend: a music-forward secret cocktail bar hidden beneath a pizza restaurant, Supermax lives up to its quirky reputation
• Recommended cocktail: Kiera Chapman, our Junior Editor, recommends the Maxcalita (£14) for a cherry twist on the classic mezcalita - a cocktail that's torched at the table and complete with added wood chips for extra smokiness
• Customer review: 'We had a great experience at Supermax on Wednesday night. We regularly host mid week socials for our private member's club in London and are always looking for interesting venues. We are so glad to have stumbled upon this hidden gem. Cleverly tucked away inside a pizza restaurant, Supermax is a beautiful and vibrant cocktail bar with a wonderful atmosphere and delicious cocktail selection. Our hosts for the evening, Dom and Candela, were friendly and attentive with impressive drinks knowledge.'

Hidden underneath Happy Face Pizza in King's Cross, Supermax is an intimate cocktail bar specialising in vermouth-based cocktails. The venue is very, very cool and its design reflects 1970s Milan, featuring leather seating, neon lights and old-school speakers, with regular live sessions from the DJs at sister bar Spiritland. So if you're in to 'listening bars', this might be the one for you.

If you visit before 7pm then you can enjoy their aperitivo hour with £9 cocktails, including refreshing Aperol spritzes or fruity blends like the strawberry and basil martini.

• Location: 11 Mare Street, Cambridge Heath E8 4RP
• Why we recommend: dedicated to the intense flavours of absinthe and unusual spirits you'll rarely find elsewhere, this truly unique cocktail bar has a taxidermy and knickknack-filled look to match its drinks list
• Recommended cocktail: we recommend going all in and trying the London Absintini (£13) IT's an upfront drink, served with a lemon twist or olive, and white vermouth.
• Customer review: 'An amazing place. Glad I had the classic absinthe in the cocktail bar before descending into the museum and the owner's subconscious. Lots of chuckles. Witty inscriptions of displays well worth taking the time to read. I left very happy and inspired.'
  

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. This bar isn't just a celebration of drinks however, it's an ode to the weird and wonderful, with a museum in the basement home to some unusual treasures, including a cat mermaid...

In terms of cocktails, they're absinthe-forward, meaning that you can expect heady flavours like bitters, chocolate and orange peel. And yes, every cocktail includes absinthe as one of the main ingredients.

• Location: 23 Slingsby Place, Covent Garden WC2E 9AB
• Why we recommend: from the team behind Swift and Nightjar, Oriole made a much-anticipated return to London's cocktail bar scene and continues to provide Latin American-inspired cocktails, small plates and entertainment to a cult following 
• Recommended cocktail: Jungle Bird (£16) has a dash of Champagne to keep it fresh, but is still punchy with tequila and Aperol
• Customer review: 'We love this place. Food is 10/10 (seabass ceviche and the veal were bursting with flavour). Cocktails are so tasty that you would forget they're alcoholic (until the following morning). And the atmosphere is an absolute vibe, with the live music. Second time at Oriole, obviously we will be back.' 

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, and always a go-to if you're looking to take someone to a top London cocktail bar, and genuinely impress them.

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-based La Culebra.

• Location: 108 Essex Rd, Islington N1 8LX
• Summary: Irish cocktail bar that specialises in whiskey.
• Recommended cocktail: Head of Brand & B2C at DesignMyNight, Katie Kirwan, says, 'I always - and I mean, always - order a Grasshopper when I am at Homeboy. I can't find anywhere else in London that does them as well. It's creamy, minty and to be honest, I've ordered so many I've forgotten the actual price of them.
• Customer review: 'All of us had a great time - typically warm hospitality and the live music was very good. The £12 Special is a double-edged sword - very tempting and great value, but can lead to a fuzzy head the next morning.' 
  

Awarded fourth best new international cocktail bar in the Spirited Awards 2019 and number 11 in the UK's 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.

• Location: 65 Rivington Street, Shoreditch EC2A 3AY
• Why we recommend: a cool cocktail bar whose past menus have been inspired by Pokémon, McDonald's and more - with a thesaurus cocktail menu currently on the agenda - Callooh Callay is always full of surprises
• Recommended cocktail: Callooh Callay break their menu up nicely, into 'Daisy', 'Sour', 'Tiki', 'Old Fashioned', 'Spirtz', 'Negroni', 'Martini', 'Highballs' , 'Fizz' and 'Spritz', so it's hard to go wrong as long as you know what kind of cocktails you like. Nevertheless recommend the pistachio and coffee highball (£13) for a unique take on this trending nut
• Customer review: 'It was absolutely perfect. We tried so many cocktails and mocktails and they were each so wonderful and complex. The service was impeccable too. Will be returning again and again.'
  

A favourite and longstanding cocktail on the East London scene, Callooh Callay has been churning out award-winning drinks for more than 10 years. Split into two, the venue has chilled 70s-style seating downstairs, while upstairs the secret JubJub room awaits (promising a bit more secret glamour). 

Named in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars five times, coming 48th in 2025, 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 - with a Chelsea location to boot. Oh, and the name, incase you were wondering? A reference to a Lewis Carroll poem about joy.

• Location: 54 Islington Park Street, Islington N1 1QL
• Why we recommend: from the team behind the award-winning Callooh Callay, Little Bat is a neighbourhood cocktail bar inspired by Alice in Wonderland offering both unique cocktails and twists on classics
• Recommended cocktail: we're always going to recommend a signature cocktail here, and for us, it's the Flutter By (£13.50) of tequila, strawberry aperitif, elderflower liqueur, rosé wine and vermouth lemon
• Customer review: 'Fabulous service and delicious cocktails. We've started coming regularly with our dog who's welcomed and looked after by the staff just as much as we are. It's the warmth and attention of the staff here that will keep us coming back.'

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 Islington. A venture brought to London from the same team at Callooh Callay, expect Alice in Wonderland-themed quirks dotted throughout the bar, which has plenty of whimsy, but class to it.

They're dog-friendly, and a genuine local spot, so expect conversations between friends, over a cocktail menu that promises some unique flavours, but a proper take on the classics.

• Location: 8 Broadwick Street, Soho W1F 8HN
• Why we recommend: although the cocktails are top-drawer, it's the fact that Basement Sate pairs its homemade cocktails with homemade desserts that makes it such a unique bar - one for those with a sweet tooth
• Recommended cocktail: if you want to see how they really handle their sugar, Katie Kirwan recommends Made In Ecuador (£13), which comes complete with cocoa-infused gin
• Customer review: 'I took my niece to Basement Sate for her birthday. Loved the idea of desserts and cocktails, the decor was great, cosy, elegant and not too contrived. The desserts were the best ever tasted, don't go there for just cocktails as the desserts match brilliantly.'
  

Heralded for their sweet treats, not only is Basement Sate the best London cocktail bar for anyone with a sweet tooth and the front runner for desserts in the city, but their drinks are a known accompaniment to their pastries, cakes and sugar-themed menu.

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.

• Locations: Liverpool Street, Oxford Circus, Old Street, Shoreditch, Canary Wharf, and more.
• Why we recommend: each with their own theme spanning from Star Wars to circus and Hollywood glamour, The Cocktail Club offers a unique experience at every venue. Although the spirit is the same: easy-drinking cocktails, bold bartenders and lots of fun
• Recommended cocktail: their Sgroppino Passione (£14) is a twist on the Italian dessert cocktail made by pouring Prosecco over sorbet, featuring Damoiseau passionfruit and mango Agricole rum, citrus and vanilla syrup
• Customer review: 'Came here with a couple of friends to try out the happy hour promotions and we were not disappointed! Drinks came out super fast thanks to Ollie and Jack, and they tasted fantastic. Music was spot on too. Even though it was a Wednesday, it felt like the weekend with these guys! I really recommend getting the Reggae Rum Punch! They know what they're doing!'

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 likes 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. 

• Location: 49 Hackney Road, Shoreditch E2 7NX
• Why we recommend: split into Le Boudoir and secret space called Room Through The Looking Glass, which hosts burlesque and cabaret nights, this cocktail bar is unique as they come and an easy addition to our list of the best London cocktail bars
• Recommended cocktail: a little bit smoky and a little bit sweet, Fluffy's Rosita (£13) gets our vote
• Customer review: 'Amazing venue - would highly recommend. Cocktails by Francesco and the team are incredible. Also brilliant food pairings/snacks to be enjoyed in their comfy setting. Would recommend going early and trying their aperitivo menu, which is delicious.'
  

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), then look even harder to find their secret room which hosts a regular line-up of cabaret and burlesque nights.

They've got a long list of classic cocktails, as well as some fun signatures. Our pick of drinks? The Tin Man Tipple - a smoky mix of tequila and Hay liquor.

• Location: 423 Bethnal Green Road, Bethnal Green E2 0AN
• Why we recommend: consistently recognised among the world's top 50 bars, Coupette is unapologetically London in spirit but inspired by France - for a unique yet friendly feel to a neighbourhood cocktail bar
• Recommended cocktail: to honour a bar named Coupette, we feel like you should order a drink in one, so try the Jack Rose. With grenadine and calvados, it's a sharp and upright drink
• Customer review: 'Super cute bar, great date spot. Staff are always welcoming and friendly and cocktails are always delicious and creative. Book, as it's usually full.'

This French cocktail bar 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. It's dark and moody, but in all the right ways, with candlelight helping you navigate around the room after dark.

• Location: 310c, Earls Court Road, Earl's Court SW5 9BA
• Why we recommend: a Prohibition-inspired bar with a cheeky, immersive entrance experience, Evans & Peel Detective Agency takes secret cocktail bar vibes up a notch. Expect live jazz and drinks inspired by famous names liked to the bootlegging trade of bygone eras
• Recommended cocktail: our favourite is named after Al Capone (£14.50). Think a cocktail of E&P Vodka, umeshu plum sake, homemade melon cordial, homemade Aperol and strawberry foam, and fresh lemon juice 
• Customer review: 'It was a surprise for my partner's birthday, and he loved it. The detectives were very professional and solved our case. The drinks while we waited for the detectives to do their work were delicious. The live music was excellent.
  

Step back through decades with Evans & Peel Detective Agency as this timeless cocktail bar promises a truly authentic Prohibition-style drinking experience. What's good to know about this place, is that access is a little different, and getting inside might not be as easy as it first seems...

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.

• Location: The Waldorf, Aldwych, Covent Garden WC2B 4DD
• Why we recommend: a West End hotel bar from the team behind Monkey 47 Gin, this cocktail bar goes wild with the tropical theme across its decor and cocktails
• Recommended cocktail: The namesake Wild Monkey is a must-order if you like your drinks tart. It's bright green and made with sour Skittles and tequila - quite the mix

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.

• Location: 13 Cambridge Street, Pimlico, SW1V 4PR
• Why we recommend: if you're the kind of person who needs a stiff drink after the stress of an escape room, Purgatory Bar is just the ticket - pairing immersive adventures with top-class cocktails for afterwards
• Recommended cocktail: you can't go wrong with a classic, and Purgatory Bar's old fashioned (£12) shows you can do one well while still taking it up a notch. We love that it's served in a crystal dome filled with cherrywood smoke, and the price is reasonable too

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.

• Location: 12-13 Greek Street, Soho W1D 4DL
• Why we recommend: Sister bar to Little Blue, Little Yellow and family, but with the benefit of a central location rather than neighbourhood, Little Scarlett Door is primed for NYC house party vibes
• Recommended cocktail: Anyone who's anyone knows that picantes are only £5 from Monday to Thursday until 6pm here, and from experience, we'd say they're a hot little number - a great start to any evening.
• Customer review: 'Great bar with a cool vibe. Staff are friendly and efficient. We sat at the bar and when we arrived there was no waiting - barstools were ready and cocktails arrived almost immediately.'
  

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. It's pretty, it's mostly pink, and it's definitely a great time for a group of girls, and guys alike. In our opinion.

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).

• Location: 33-34 Rathbone Place, Fitzrovia W1T 1JN
• Why we recommend: inspired by 1950s Hong Kong and 'A World of Suzie Wong' by Richard Mason, Lucy Wong combines dimly lit speakeasy vibes with a cocktail menu that champions Asian spirits
• Recommended cocktail: go for the Shi-So-Sour (£14.50) if you like sweet but tart cocktails, blending Toki whisky with rhubarb bitters for a lip-smacking experience
• Customer review: 'We came here yesterday for work celebratory drinks, and we are very glad we did. It was a lovely evening with some great, tasty, and unique cocktails. The happy hour was also a fantastic bonus. Make sure you come to Lucy Wong if you are looking for a great, chill atmosphere, quality cocktails, friendly staff, and tasty nibbles. Thanks LW.'

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 red and maroon, alongside traditional Chinese tapestries, bring the luxury of the 1950s to life when inside. The cocktail menu celebrates Asian spirits and was 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. 

• Location: 50 Berners Street, Fitzrovia W1T 3NG
• Why we recommend: unrivalled service befitting the setting draws us back to Long Bar at Sanderson time and time again, where ingredient-led cocktails are served alongside equally tasty bar snacks and small plates
• Recommended cocktail: lean in to something luxury with The Revival (£17). We love the use of Thai basil for a fresh sip, plus the clarified tomato cordial is a creative touch
• Customer review: 'A great option if you're looking for something special for a drink. Excellent drinks menu and excellent decor.'

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. We're talking staff on the door, a warm welcome when you arrive, and unrivalled service. Plus, those iconic seats at the bar, with almost pop-art like eyes.

The signature cocktails are spirited, with high-quality spirits, including Grey Goose and Hennesy XO (a nod to their strong whisky menu), but the true perk comes in the food accompaniments, with a small but approachable menu of prawn brioche rolls and padron peppers, both a recommended side to a strong drink.

• Location: 57 Sutherland Road, Walthamstow E17 6BH
• Why we recommend: there aren't many brandy-focussed cocktail bars around, so Burnt Faith is one in a million already. Found on Blackhorse Road Beer Mile (but not focussed on beer), it's also the first dedicated brandy distillery in the UK too, so we can guarantee that drinks are a great representation to the spirit
• Recommended cocktail: we think it's quite obvious, but the Brandy Espresso Martini is a must-try
• Customer review: 'Enjoyed the cocktails with a brandy twist. The Black Cactus BBQ was really excellent.'
  

Hailed as the UK's first dedicated brandy house, Burnt Faith Brandy House in Walthamstow is whipping up inventive takes on classic cocktails using its very own distilled spirit, tucked away on an industrial estate (with the brandy making done on the ground floor below). They're very proud of their creative take, and especially of their signature cocktail, a 'Burnt Negroni'.

Rumour has it, you'll also get a free brandy on arrival for a pre-booked table, but don't hold us to it, unless we're right. 

• Location: 17 The Pavement, Clapham SW4 0HY
• Why we recommend: a relative newcomer and somewhat of a hidden gem, Common Late is the chilled-out, candle-lit cocktail spot that Clapham has been craving. Each cocktail here is crafted with care using homemade ingredients - perfect for a neighbourhood date night
• Recommended cocktail: Sweet tooths amongst you will want to try the Tiramisu Tipple (£11), which can also be served decaf, with demerara rum, coffee liqueuer and creme de cacao.
• Customer review: 'Perfect for catching up with friends or for dates. A great range of aesthetic cocktails and mocktails - v Insta-worthy. My new favourite cocktail bar in Clapham and so close to Clapham Common tube.'

Common Late is a top London cocktail bar that you've definitely been overlooking. Hidden amongst the bustle of Clapham's old town, this spot is lit by candlelight come the evening, and housed in a vintage apothecary bar. They're fans of the classics, and you'll comfortably be able to order the cocktail you're most used to, done well. 

This one's only open on weekends though, so be quick securing your spot.

• Location: One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel, 100 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JQ
• Why we recommend: Mr Lyan and his team are favourites of ours, always offering a quality experience - and Seed Library is no exception. A late night favourite, a cocktail session here is complimented by live DJs
• Recommended cocktail: we really have love for the Pink + Green Daiquiri (£15). It's only 3 ingredients but you're getting 3 year old rum, nitro-ripened grapes and lime in a really smart, straight-up way
• Customer review: 'Seed Library is a very elegant venue in Shoreditch. I really liked the design and style of the bar, even their business cards look cool. The service was great - attentive enough but not overly so.'

Brought to you by the award-winning Mr Lyan and team, Seed Library can be found in the basement of One Hundred Shoreditch (arguably one of the most sought after hotels in the city). This late-night bar promises live DJs, slick 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. Their focus is on all things 'stripped back', so don't expect overcomplicated flavours here, but honest mixes for people who like their drinks as is. We'd also go as far to say that if you like mid-century interiors, you'd love it here.

• Location: 87 Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill W11 3JZ
• Why we recommend: coming 17th in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, Viajante87 is a force to be reckoned with offering a taste of Latin America - reflecting the venue name's meaning of 'traveller' in Spanish. We recommend for drinking your way through Mexico, Argentina, Peru and more
• Recommended Cocktail: a well-made classic always goes down a treat, and the spicy margarita (£16) here hits the mark

Viajante87 is a Notting Hill favourite, with an intimate drinking space that we think is pretty perfect for date nights or pre-dinner drinks. Whether you're going to them 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 with plenty of ease.

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.

• Location: 32 Goodge Street, Fitzrovia W1T 2QT
• Why we recommend: inspired by a former occupant and filled with original walls, tiles, and room dividers, this cocktail bar is a favourite of ours for its shabby retro-chic vibes that we're sure the good Reverend would approve of
• Recommended cocktail: the mixologists here are known for being incredibly attentive and making personal recommendations from the menu based on your likes and dislikes - nothing is too much trouble - but if you ask us, Pomala (£15) gets an extra seal of approval. Turning pomelo (the largest citrus fruit) and thyme into a homemade liqueur and mixing with tequila, saline, lime acid, pink grapefruit soda and Tajín? A revelation
• Customer review: 'The perfect secret cocktail bar in the heart of Fitzrovia, we had such a wonderful evening here. The cocktails are great - interesting, inventive, and delicious - and the attentiveness and knowledge of the owner made it that much more of an experience.'

A bar with a story as rich as its cocktails, Reverend JW Simpson is a Fitzrovia treasure where history, mystery, and mixology collide. Tucked away in a basement, this quirky cocktail bar still bears the remnants of its former life as an apartment, with its original walls, tiles, and room dividers left untouched.

But the real star? The cocktails. Crafted with foraged and forgotten ingredients, the menu revives spirits like mead, sherry, and horchata, giving them a new lease on life. 

• Location: Above Assembly Hotel, 31 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0LS
• Why we recommend: a rooftop cocktail bar in London, Miradora prides itself on being a dedicated tequileria for all your blue agave spirit needs - and those views of the West End aren't half bad either
• Recommended cocktail: our pick would be the Mezcal Mist (£16), perfectly balancing Koch Mezcal, Luxardo Amaretto, lime and ginger Beer
• Customer review: 'They have a great range of tequila-based cocktails - the tequila espresso martini was a standout. The masa chicken was really good, great texture, and the watermelon salad was fresh and balanced the meal perfectly. Will definitely be back.'

Looking for a stunning spot for date night, group outings or just for yourself? Then check out Miradora Rooftop Restaurant Tequileria, a gorgeous cocktail bar perched above Charing Cross Road. Promising amazing views of the West End, this stylish space has got all sorts of cocktails to try out.

Their drinks menu largely focuses on tequila, whipping up sips like the Mezcal Mist or a Lychee Sunset. There's plenty of tasty food on the menu too, from ancho chilli tomahawk steaks to Baja fish tacos.

• Location: 16-22 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury WC1B 3NN
• Why we recommend: found inside the hotel of the same name, The Bloomsbury Club Bar serves an Ancient Egypt-inspired menu inspired by Tutankhamun and the proximity of the British Museum; a sophisticated spot with a magical feel
• Recommended cocktail: we'd make sure you order the Kheper (£17); it's whisky and golden syrup, with cloves, so you've got spices and sweetness combined

Found inside the iconic Bloomsbury Hotel, The Bloomsbury Club Bar is a cosy, magical bar that's decked out in gorgeous foliage wrapped in fairy lights, as well as comfy sofas and exposed brick walls. You can enjoy 12 delicious concoctions on their Ancient Egypt-inspired menu - we recommend the Se Shen for a light, floral drink.

They also serve scrumptious bar snacks like truffle fries and gorgonzola arancini, and you can catch live jazz performances for free every Wednesday and Saturday night.

• Location: Kimpton Fitzroy, 1-8 Russell Square, Bloomsbury WC1B 5BE
• Why we recommend: Fitz's bar is an immersive experience through cocktails, inspired by the relationship between colour and taste, and the setting is nothing short of true luxury - ideal if you're looking to impress
• Recommended cocktail: the menu is really interactive here and well thought-out to help guide your choice, but if you want a direct recommendation from us, we love the Lucky 4' (£20). A reflection of the abundance of nature, luck and wealth, it has brandy, whisky, bourbon, green cordial and 'herbal air'
• Customer review: 'We recently visited this charming hotel bar in Russell Square and was thoroughly impressed. The cocktail selection was delightful, showcasing unique flavors. Antonio provided exceptional service, making the experience even more enjoyable.'
  

Fitz's in Russell Square is a truly unique cocktail bar 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. It's a hotel bar in the heart of the historic Kimpton, but it feels like a celebration all of its own. It genuinely feels like stepping back in time.

From its lavish furnishings to the expertly-curated menu of high-end cocktails, including the immersive Spectrum menu that features a never-before-seen take on cocktails - celebrating how some people can taste colour.

• Location: 42 Peckham Rye, Peckham SE15 4JR
• Why we recommend: a cool neighbourhood cocktail bar that's friendly as they come, this place is a true independent from a local couple that's music-led to book, thanks to Sergio and Anna's love of vinyl
• Recommended cocktail: we think it's small bars like Funkidory leading the way for creative cocktails in London, so that's why we recommend you try their Banaperol spritz (£12). Where else in the city is infusing banana with Aperol? We think these are a first.
• Customer review: 'Great cocktails. Underrated bar in Peckham.'

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. The vinyl covers on the wall are also a continue nod to their love of great music in bar spaces.

• Location: 52 Stratton Street, Mayfair W1J 8LN
• Why we recommend: a highly anticipated reopening a few years ago, Kwānt continues to live up to its reputation. And with drinks from the former head bartender at The Savoy's American Bar, Erik Lorincz, are we surprised? Going heavy on the mini cocktails trend, this cocktail bar also offers a five-course omakase tasting menu featuring smaller drinks of the bartender's choice, each accompanied by a bite-size snack
• Recommended cocktail: their martini twisted with Cocchi and parsnip

Coming 31st 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.

• Location: 510b Kingsland Road, Dalston E8 4AE
• Why we recommend: a neighbourhood bar serving unique drinks; it's simple inside, but in a way that we found chic and places even more focus on the cocktail menu
• Recommended cocktail: the picante (£13.50). It has just the right amount of heat with the ancho, and the pineapple keeps things fresh

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.

• Location: 20 Broadway Parade, Crouch End N8 9DE
• Why we recommend: a neighbourhood bar from a team who already had experience winning awards with Dalston's Three Sheets, Little Mercies offers surprisingly affordable cocktails and sharing plates to whet your whistle too
• Recommended cocktail: it's not just the alliteration that makes us recommend Pear + Pisco (£11) - a simple yet delicious muddle of El Gobernador pisco, pear, shiso and egg white

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. 

• Location: 20 Upper Ground, Southbank SE1 9PD
• Why we recommend: awarded three pins in the Pinnacle Guide (the cocktail bar version of the Michelin Guide), this place is a highly rated as it gets, and is the flagship of Ryan Chetiyawardana (the famous Mr Lyan)
• Recommended cocktail: our very own resident Mr Lyan fan, Kiera Chapman, says that the Hitchhiker's Negroni (£19) here restored her faith in negronis; a stunning twist made up of Patron Silver, 'reverse time-travel flower vermouth' and Campari

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.

• Location: 232 Kingsland Road, Haggerston E2 8AX
• Why we recommend: celebrating German art movement Bauhaus with its logo and name, as well as its simple and colourful interiors, A Bar With Shapes For A Name is quirky as they come. The backing of Remy Savage and Paul Lougrat (of Artesian fame) seals the deal
• Recommended cocktail: the final shortlist of 12 cocktails here has been chosen via blind taste test by the bar team, meaning you know each and every one has top mixologists' seal of approval. If we had to pick one, though, it'd be バター割り(batā-wari), a rich and unusual blend of whiskey, palo santo, butter and golden syrup

Where to get the best cocktail in London? We'd encourage you to consider A Bar With Shapes For A Name, as it's known for its particularly unusual drinks.

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 cocktail bar Artesian.

• Location: 8 Holyrood Street, Bermondsey SE1 2EL
• Why we recommend: we love Nine Lives' no waste policy, where any organic by-products are used in compost for their herb and vegetable garden. Lending tropical vibes to a Victorian basement makes the vibes impeccable too - with tropical cocktails to match the theme, too
• Recommended cocktail: has to be the signature Sweet&Chilli (£14), juicy and fragrant with Picante Don Julio Blanco tequila, watermelon, habanero, lemon and soda water

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. 

• Location: 34-35 Southampton Street, London WC2E 7HG
• Why we recommend: forming part of an eco-system that also serves Frog by Adam Handling, this tempting bar is also low-waste. Parts of ingredients that aren't used within the main Frog menu make up the snacks and smaller dishes at Eve, with anything left over from that then forming the basis of their cocktails - neat, huh?

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.

• Location: 343 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9RA
• Why we recommend: awarded the best cocktail bar in London and number one spot overall by the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars 2025, Satan's Whiskers' cocktails are as devilishly good as its name suggests. The cocktail specials here change every few days, and the primary focus here is doing a brilliant job of the classics

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. 

• Location: 378 Kingsland Road, Dalston E8 4AA
• Why we recommend: another choice in Dalston and with a second location in Bermondsey as well, Hacha still stands out from the cocktail crowd thanks to its focus on agave spirits (tequila, mezcal and more) and the accompanying Mexican small plates from Tigre Tacos
• Recommended cocktail: the paloma (£12) here was named the world's best in the Top 500 Bars just a few years ago, and we'd say that's a pretty fair summary of this delicious 1800 Tequila, Okinawa liqueur, aguafresca, and grapefruit soda mix

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.

• Location: 14 Denman Street, Soho W1D 7HJ
• Why we recommend: from the team behind Kricket comes this speakeasy-like cocktail bar with drinks inspired by India, with the original in Soho and a second location in Canary Wharf. We especially love the late-night vibes that come from 3am closing on Fridays and Saturdays in Soho
• Recommended cocktail: the chaat margarita, featuring Tapatio Blanco, Mezcal Verde, chaat masala, gooseberry and kumquat

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. 

• Location: 152 Old Street, Shoreditch EC1V 9BW
• Why we recommend: full Japandi vibes summarise the interiors and feel of Tayer + Elementary. The bar portion of this multi-use space is split into two parts depending on your vibe; Tayer for an experimental cocktail menu that's never the same two days running, and Elementary for small plates and draught cocktails served from a bespoke tap system

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. Tayer + Elementary has earned its stripes too, as the highest placing bar in the country on the World's 50 Best Bars list 2025 - coming in fourth.

• Location: 16 Carlos Place, Mayfair W1K 2AL
• Why we recommend: not many places have come in first place in the World's 50 Best Bars list but Connaught takes that crown in its stride. Still offering exemplary service befitting its setting within the famous hotel of the same name, it's a great example of true luxury
• Recommended cocktail: our pick always has to be something from the iconic martini trolley here

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 2021 and still placing in 13th today. 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.

• Location: 252 High Holborn, Holborn WC1V 7EN
• Why we recommend: we think a trip of Scarfes Bar feels like stepping back in time, thanks to its high-class members' club feel, cosy fire, and bookshelves laden with 1,000 antique treasures. Gerald Scarfe himself has even dubbed this place 'a private art gallery where people will be able to have a drink and relax.'
• Recommended cocktail: you can't go wrong with a cocktail named after the bar, which Scarfeland (£20) proves with its mix of Grey Goose, baked bread with fortified blueberries, and White Verjus

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. And when this place was awarded No.37 in The World's 50 Best Bars 2025, you know it's going to be good.

• Location: The Savoy, Strand, Covent Garden WC2R 0EU
• Why we recommend: from the moment you step inside Beaufort Bar, you can tell that drama and elegance in equal measure is the name of the game. Luckily, the cocktails also live up to the setting's art deco glamour, focusing on cocktails that create and flavours and aromas of the Champagne region - complementing the bar's Champagne and fine wine lists
• Recommended cocktail: with a mantra of 'More Bubbles, Less Life Troubles', we just had to choose something from the cocktails and highballs section at Beaufort Bar. The High Society Fizz (£23) really embodies this bar, a Hepple gin-based muddle with herby, floral and sweet flavours from Cocchi Americano, fir, and chamomile and coriander soda

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.

• Location: 1 St James' Market, Piccadilly Circus SW1Y 4QQ
• Why we recommend: hold the phone; all cocktail at The Blind Pig are £9 (£7.50 for mocktails), which is pretty rare these days - especially in a central location. This bar offers some of the most affordable cocktails on our list, without compromising on atmosphere or flavour
• Recommended cocktail: with an unusual take on matcha - a far cry from the usual pairing with sweet as can be berry flavours - the Peter Pan-inspired Flight To Never (£9) is our must-try. It's pairing the green tea powder with Glenmorangie 12 yrs Single Malt Scotch and shiso (a herb in the mint family)

You 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 Sael London, secret bar The Blind Pig is a West End favourite and not likely to break the bank either.

The New York-inspired aesthetic and expertly crafted drinks create a speakeasy vibe, with quirky cocktails inspired by our favourite stories and novels. Think the Paddington-inspired Orange Jam Bearer, Alice In Wonderland-esque Velvet Caterpillar and more, all for only £9 a time.

• Location: The Savoy, Strand, Covent Garden WC2R 0EZ
• Why we recommend: a historic hotel bar and piano lounge, American Bar is a world-renowned institution - perfect for those wanting to up their game when it comes to fancy cocktails
• Recommended cocktail: the bianco negroni (£22). Because it's a classic, like the bar itself, and contains an ice cube with American Bar's name printed on; a proper, grown-up drink

Found within the famous Savoy hotel, the American Bar has been around since way back in 1898, earning its place as one of the world's best-known cocktail bars. Fun fact? It's one of London's longest running cocktail bars, too.

Expect truly top rate 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.

• Location: 29A Wentworth Street, London E1 7TB
• Why we recommend: tucked away in a former suit tailor's store room, Discount Suit Company is a cool hidden bar with affordable prices; £10 per cocktail, or £35 for a cocktail pitcher serving four
• Recommended cocktail: served long, Purple Noise (£10) contains Teeling small batch whiskey, fig, Amaro Montenegro, blackberry and bay leaf squash and Club soda

Tucked away on Brick Lane, Discount Suit Company is unassuming 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 the best cheap cocktail bars in London, cocktails here are just £10 each or they offer a sharing option that serves four for just £35 - a bargain per person. If you're in Dalston instead, then sister bar Parasol is a great shout too, for cocktails soundtracked by 1980s NYC disco.

• Location: 55 Brook Street, London W1K 4HR
• Why we recommend: an elegant hotel bar
• Recommended cocktail: the signature Songbird for a fruity kick of pineapple and lime, though they do classics - like a margarita or an old fashioned - very well too 

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. 

• Location: 28 Bow Street, London WC2E 7AW
• Why we recommend: a Latin-American themed cocktail bar that has an agave spirit-heavy cocktail list, Side Hustle serves stellar cocktails that match their fun mid-century leaning interiors
• Recommended cocktail: you'd be a bit silly not to order Michelada (£11). We love it for its refreshing take (thanks to its use of sour beer) and affordability, complete with white miso and Scotch bonnet pepper

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. We love the mid-century style interiors as well, so make sure you take a picture of those too, as they're to be talked about.

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.

• Location: 8-9 Hoxton Square, Shoreditch N1 6NU
• Why we recommend: with an exclusive feel due to its smaller size but not hint of pretentiousness, Happiness Forgets is an atmospheric basement cocktail bar playing 'rare grooves' while you sip your cocktails. We love their motto, 'Great Cocktails, No Wallies.'

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.

• Location: 10 Argyle Street, Bloomsbury WC1H 8EG
• Why we recommend: throwback appeal is something that's been on the up-and-up in recent years, and this 70s-inspired cocktail bar has it in droves. Gather your troupe and embrace the retro, while enjoying amazing views to boot
• Recommended cocktail: if you want something that feels like a grown-up blend of pina colada and a pornstar martini, then Too Cute (£13) is a great mix of gin, lemon, coconut and passion berry

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. We'd suggest going early for their 'Sweet Deal' every Wednesday, with cocktails on 2-4-1 from 6-7pm.

• Location: 36 Hanway Street, Fitzrovia W1T 1UP
• Why we recommend: a gangster-inspired spot with all of the glam and none of the rough-and-tumble, Murder Inc is a slick basement space that makes it into the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars year after year
• Recommended cocktail: we love Murder Inc's tongue-in-cheek nature, which is perfectly summed up by Bangers & Smash (£13.50). The menu says this 'tastes like being poked in the cheek with a sausage' and, no, we're not sure what that means either - but we do know the cocktail is bloomin' good

Placing an impressive 24th in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for 2025, Murder Inc is quite the sought-after cocktail destination in London. 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. It's a throwback, but it's a bit modern too, and not afraid to be a bit tongue in cheek. 

Their experienced bar team are whipping up experienced drinks, but at a good price, for just £12 each, with a menu that changes constantly. There's some food too, which is mostly nachos and olives, but both of those make an excellent cocktail accompaniment.

• Location: The Langham, Regent Street, Marylebone W1B 1JA
• Why we recommend: another hotel cocktail bar that's been making waves for years, Artesian is four-time winner of world's best bar - led by Giulia Cuccurullo
• Recommended cocktail: Coffee (£24) on their Alter Ego menu is definitely for the adventurous; it's a great take on an espresso martini that includes mezcal for a more smoky flavour.

We don't have to tell you how good Artesian is, as their long list of awards will do it for you. They've 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.

• Location: 109-113 Queen's Gate, South Kensington SW7 5LR
• Why we recommend: oozing sophistication, The K Bar is all about choice, artisan spirits for handcrafted cocktails and the fine wine to match, with a timeless, luxury look to suit special occasions
• Recommended cocktail: currently, we'd grab something from their Hidden Gems menu, inspired by rare gemstones and the Cartier exhibition at the nearby V&A Museum. The Émeraude (emerald, £18) is the perfectly refreshing concoction of Gunpowder Irish gin, pandan, citrus and soda

Found in one of West London's most opulent neighbourhoods, K Bar at The Kensington is a timelessly sophisticated drinking den. From the plush velvet bar stools to the elegant chandeliers, this place just oozes luxury - and the drinks are equally decadent.

The cocktail menu has been carefully curated by Bar Manager Ben Manchester, formerly of Hotel du Vin Brighton. Their unique signature tipples include a cheddar and wasabi-flavoured Koh I Noor and the Apgar, topped with popping candy, and there are bar snacks available too.

• Location: Unit 205, 18 Stoney Street, London Bridge SE1 9AD
• Why we recommend: inspired by 1940s post offices and yet also home to an uber-modern pneumatic cocktail delivery system, Cahoots Postal Office is a quirky spot that feels both vintage and new
• Recommended cocktail: our favourite cocktail here is Marilyn Monroe, made with gin, black raspberry liqueur, pomegranate and saffron

One of the most unique drinking experiences in London, Cahoots Postal Office can be found in Southwark. Hidden behind a life-sized post box entrance, this whimsical spot is inspired by 1940s post offices, featuring vintage decor to make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

The most impressive part of this experience has to be the world-first pneumatic cocktail delivery system, which whizzes your drinks to you via air tubes. 

• Location: 480 Kingsland Road, Dalston E8 4AE
• Why we recommend: this uber-cool spot feels retro and is design-led, inspired by the changing colours of the sky. It's perfect for fuss-free drinks, as the team here focus on flavour and a harmonious feel from their cocktails rather than any theatrical presentation - letting each brightly coloured concoction speak for itself. The garden for outdoor drinks, complete with a pergola, is a lovely touch too
• Recommended cocktail: grab the Jalapeno for a kick of chilli, honey and tequila - we think it hits the mark for the perfect balance 

A celebrated bar group that first made waves in Shanghai - including a flagship bar that's acclaimed for design innovation - Bar Lotus is a cool, stripped-back cocktail spot with interior colours inspired by both the setting sun and its namesake flower. The understated feel continues with the drinks, which while vibrant in colour, are crafted with harmony and balance in mind, prioritising flavour over any over-the-top presentation.

And boy, do the drinks deliver. Making the most of East Asian influences and flavours, cocktails here regularly feature ingredients like yuzu, salted plum, ube and shiso. You can even take them into the garden space to sip on as well.