Best Whisky Bars in London

"Too much of anything is bad. Too much of good whisky is barely enough." Mark Twain

Discover the difference between Scotch and Bourbon, malt and grain whiskies, blended, single malt and cask strength whiskies at these notorious London whisky bars. From the secret, discreet and romantic to the established and the historical, we're bringing you delicious drams left right and centre in our guide to the best whisky spots in the city.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 20th March 2024




Hokus Pokus

For a cool underground bar at The Megaro Hotel in King's Cross, check out the alchemy-inspired Hokus Pokus. Head mixologist Greg Chudzio is whipping up over 30 potion-style cocktails, from a Wagyu-washed Bourbon to the Hibiscus Tequila Sours, to be enjoyed surrounded by vintage utensils, chemistry tools and quirky artwork.

Nancy Spains

If you're searching for a whisky bar in London with a bit of character, you'll find heaps of it oozing out the dark wooden walls of Nancy Spains in Shoreditch. This Irish rebel of a pub has got a Prohibition-style speakeasy feel mixed with the charm of a local boozer, as well as a mighty, authentic selection of the good stuff, with an exclusive menu dedicated in its honour. Come for Jameson Highballs at £6 a pop and stay when you discover its signature cocktails like a honey-flavoured espresso martini and the nutty Gangs of New York.

Old Tom's Bar

Tucked away in the heart of Leadenhall Market, Old Tom's is a hidden gem of a bar serving a first-rate collection of whiskies in an atmospheric setting. With wall tiles dating back to the 19th century and lots of tasty cheese and charcuterie boards to soak up all that booze, swing by after work and pick out your favourite from 17 whisky brands ideal for a casual nightcap or indulging on a school night.

Blue Bar At The Berkeley

Blue Bar At The Berkley offers an extensive range of whiskey, so if you're a fan of the spirit then you need to add the slinky spot to your must-visit list. With dark blue and silver moody interiors from David Collins and tucked-away seating areas to cosy up in, it offers a sophisticated setting to peruse a menu featuring an array of single-malt Scottish whiskies, as well as blended and Japanese. 

Blues Kitchen Camden

The Blues Kitchen, one of the most famous whisky and blues bars in London, is renowned for Bourbons and Tennessee whiskies. The Blues Kitchen's staff will be on hand to find the right companion for you and your blues. They offer an affordable whisky experience, with the benefit of a bourbon club subscription, which rewards The Blues Kitchen elders by being firsts to sample all the different varieties on offer.

Black Rock

When looking for somewhere to sip on whisky, you need the cool setting appropriate for the drink. Cue Black Rock, a contemporary and minimalist drinking space with enough quirks to keep you coming back for more. Most will be drawn by the 250 bottles of whisky displayed in their 'library', others for the 18ft, 185-year-old oak tree trunk that acts as an interactive cocktail ageing system in the centre of the room.

Bull In A China Shop

Just opposite the Tea Building in Shoreditch, and an easy walk from the overground station, Bull In A China Shop is known to be a London favourite for whisky. With over 100 Japanese and Scotch whiskies to choose from, whether you like them neat or in a highball, Bull In A China Shop's intimate setting of only 50 seats makes for a great stop to enjoy flavours from across the world.