Drink Spots London: Where to Find Great Drinks Right Now
If you’re looking for a place to unwind with a drink in London, you’ve got plenty of choices. The city mixes historic pubs with modern cocktail lounges, so you can pick whatever mood you’re in. Below you’ll find practical tips, a few must‑visit spots, and some hidden gems that locals love.
First, think about the vibe you want. Do you prefer a bustling bar with live music, a quiet corner for a glass of wine, or a rooftop spot with a view? Knowing this helps you narrow down the neighborhoods. Shoreditch is great for trendy cocktail bars, while Covent Garden offers classic pubs that have been around for centuries. If you’re after a nightcap after a late show, look toward Soho or Mayfair for places that stay open past midnight.
Classic Bars You Can’t Miss
London’s classic bars are a good starting point because they’re easy to find and usually have a reliable drink menu. The "American Bar" at the Savoy serves timeless cocktails in an elegant setting, and the prices reflect the reputation. For a more relaxed feel, head to "The Churchill Arms" in Kensington – a pub full of flowers that serves solid pints and a few decent ales. "The Spaniards" in Soho is another favorite, known for its friendly staff and solid gin selection.
If you like a bit of history with your drink, try "The George Inn" near London Bridge. It dates back to the 17th century and still has the original wooden beams. The ambiance alone makes the beer taste better. These spots are also great for meeting locals, so you can ask for recommendations on the spot.
Secret Spots for Adventure
For something off the beaten path, London hides a ton of speakeasy‑style bars that you won’t find on a standard map. "The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town" is accessed through a fridge door inside a sushi restaurant in Bethnal Green. Once inside, you’ll get a cozy vibe and inventive cocktails. "Nightjar" in Shoreditch looks like an old-fashioned bar from the 1920s, but the drinks are modern and surprising.
If you’re willing to walk a bit, check out "The Vault" in the City of London. The entrance is a plain door on a quiet side street, and inside you’ll find a dimly lit space with a great whiskey list. Another hidden gem is "The Blind Pig" near St. Paul’s; the menu changes weekly, so you’ll always get something fresh.
Late‑night drinkers should note that not every place stays open past midnight. Bars in Soho, especially around Carnaby Street, usually close at 2 am, giving you plenty of time after a theater show or concert. For a truly 24‑hour experience, head to "Bar Italia" in Soho – it’s a simple coffee shop that also serves drinks all night.
Budget‑friendly options are scattered throughout the city. “The Market Tavern” in Southwark offers cheap pints and a relaxed vibe, while “The Unicorn” in Camden provides good value for cocktails during happy hour. Happy hour typically runs from 5 pm to 7 pm, so you can snag a drink for half price before heading out for the night.
When you pick a drink spot, pay attention to the crowd and the service. A friendly bartender can suggest a perfect drink you never tried. Don’t be shy – ask for the bartender’s special or a local favorite. That’s often how you discover the best hidden drinks.
In short, London’s drink spots cover everything from historic pubs to secret cocktail labs. Choose a neighborhood that matches your mood, try a classic bar for reliability, and venture into a speakeasy for a unique experience. Whatever you pick, you’ll find a place that fits your taste and makes your night in London memorable.
