Trailer Happiness
Telling the tale of a tiki daydream, Trailer Happiness is a wonderland of far-flung island vibes without the clichés. Tucked away in the depths of Portobello Road, this bar sees regulars clamour for a taste of rum-fuelled fun.
If there's one thing our capital city is proud of, it's the copious amount of unique and cool places to drink, and the pure breadth of venues means whittling it down to the cream of the crop. But, luckily for you, we've managed to do just that. So, for drinking dens galore, historical boozers and some of the most world's finest mixology, check out our guide to the top 10 places to drink in London.
Last updated on 1st August 2023
Telling the tale of a tiki daydream, Trailer Happiness is a wonderland of far-flung island vibes without the clichés. Tucked away in the depths of Portobello Road, this bar sees regulars clamour for a taste of rum-fuelled fun.
Sky Garden is the multi-floor sensation found atop the Walkie-Talkie that's renowned for being one of the best bars in London with a view. Whether you fancy sipping cocktails in an idyllic garden or tucking into fine dining fare in a private pod, you're covered here.
Nestled in the beating heart of Chinatown, Opium is a parlour of oriental pastiche where you'll discover creative cocktails mingling with sumptuous dim sum. Incorporating the flavours and spices of East Asia, every drink here is individual and crafted with careful design.
As the name suggests, Circus embodies the quirky flair that usually comes with a big top, but with an elevated twist. The Covent Garden hangout is famed equally for its signature cocktails, Pan-Asian menu and attention-grabbing entertainment. One of the best bars in Central London? It's definitely up there.
If you're looking for the best bars for young adults in London, Funkidory (and its sister site Mami Funki) should be on your hit list. The Peckham watering hole is loved by locals for its delightfully creative signature cocktails, although you can enjoy a classic here too.
Situated in Shoreditch, Callooh Callay is a must-visit drinking den. This quirky bolthole showcases its eccentricity all the way from the decor (which includes a hidden bar behind a wardrobe) to the unique Pokemon-inspired cocktail menu.
When it comes to the best rooftop bars in London, Pergola Paddington is a hot contender. Sat under a canopy of dangling foliage and fairy lights, lap up the cracking vistas, as well as sip cocktails, beers and wine while a DJ thumps out timeless hits.
A globally recognised drinking destination, Nightjar is as exclusive and discerning as they come. The cocktails here are the stuff of legend, incorporating all manner of quirky garnishes and trinkets to create concoctions that are almost too beautiful to drink (we said almost). Not in Shoreditch? Head to its Carnaby site.
Arguably one of the best cocktail bars in London, The Last Tuesday Society is a low-lit, late-night drinking den decked out with taxidermy animals and vintage collectibles. Flaunting traditional absinthes, this place promises a thrilling night quite like no other.
Each and every one of Swift's bars (found in Soho, Borough and Shoreditch) is as sexy as the last. Get ready for elegant interiors and a strong drinks list that features expertly crafted cocktails, international wines and hair-raising whiskies.