Secret Bars In The UK

Acclaimed cocktail cave Hidden Rooms is in a world of its own, with a space that makes you feel far away from the outside world. Retreat to this subterranean den, situated in the basement of a grade II-listed neo-classical building, for a taste adventure that also happens to be a boozy one; they've been getting creative with cocktails since they first opened in 2009, with a menu that features sips like a colourless, clarified espresso martini... 

The lounge hosts live music events, along with club nights and themed events including a NYE disco party. 

This London bar likes to keep a low profile, but if you fancy chasing it down, just keep an eye out for the jade door in Chinatown. Behind it, you'll find Opium, which echoes the illicit vibe of smoking dens from 1920s Shanghai, serving up experimental cocktails and delectable dim sum.

Nestled in the heart of Bath, The Bootlegger brings the spirit of the Roaring Twenties to life with a menu of meticulously crafted cocktails and an ambience that oozes vintage charm.

From smooth jazz to foot-stomping rock 'n' roll, the live music sets the tone for an unforgettable night of indulgence. With a stellar selection of spirits, wines, beers, and a food menu designed to delight, this speakeasy is a must-visit for those looking to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. This season's cocktail offering includes six limited-edition summer drinks, from a Malibu Coconut Mojito to the Honey and Ginger Penicillin, available until 11pm daily for just £9.50 each.

For an evening so fun it feels illegal, head over to Alcotraz on Brighton's seafront. At this basement bar, you and your mates will be instructed by a notorious gang to smuggle in booze. The result? Bespoke cocktails made from whatever contraband you managed to sneak past the guards.

Located in the basement of renowned Japanese-Scandinavian restaurant Sticks'n'Sushi, Nanajuni is an intimate cocktail bar offering up artisinal sips in a dramatic setting. From the lighting to the contemporary furnishings and seasonal drinks menu, everything is curated to cultivate and emotive response from guests. 

Examples of mixes include a tropical vodka blend topped with lemon salt and Thick Fog Descends, which contains rum, apricot brandy, white tea, coconut and matcha foam – with the whole menu taking inspiration from Japan's calendar of 72 micro-seasons. They also host an oma-sake experience, where inventive bites are thoughtfully paired with a sake pairing by a sommelier. 

Secreted away in Kings Cross is Keystone Crescent, a sexy hideaway with an excellent drinks list. Swing by from Wednesday to Sunday to soak up a range of classic cocktails done justice, from whiskey sours to espresso martinis.

Accessed via a nondescript door in an unassuming alleyway, The Brig is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. While a part of Merchant House, the cubbyhole is technically a standalone bar - possibly the smallest in London.

Speak in Code is clandestine cocktail bar tucked away in Manchester's city centre. Catering for those on a plant-based diet, everything on the menu is vegan-friendly, from the cocktails to the food. Tuck in as you listen to lo-fi beats at one of the top secret UK bars.

If you're on the hunt for a secret bar in Nottingham, check out Coco Tang in Bridlesmith Gate. The hidden underground bar pushes the limits of cocktails, using bespoke liquors, botanical infusions and cold pressed juices.

A far cry from your average nightclub, The Berkeley Suite in Glasgow is a swish, speakeasy-themed bar disguised as an old pawn shop. Despite the plush interiors, the venue is laid-back, with live music and top quality DJs playing most weekends.

Hidden away just above Salt Dog Slim's in Liverpool, 81LTD is available by appointment only. To book your table, you'll have to text them with the date of your booking and how many it's for, and they'll send you a secret code that you'll need to use as a password to get in.

Nothing says secret bar more than a hideout that's accessed via an old school telephone box. Pop through and you'll discover Moorfield's Ex-Directory, a swanky underground bar in Liverpool that boasts an eclectic selection of unusual cocktails.

Nestled beneath a vintage barbershop in London, The Gobspy mirrors the sophisticated debauchery of the Roaring Twenties. The speakeasy bar in London boasts delectable cocktails and plush seating, as well as brilliant live music on the weekends.

On first impression, The Washhouse in Manchester just looks like your average laundrette, with machines, baskets of laundry - the lot. But head through the door in the corner and you'll find one of the best speakeasy bars in the UK, complete with leather-clad booths and smoking cocktails.