London is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with countless pubs and bars offering everything from traditional ales to craft cocktails. Whether you’re after a cozy historic pub, a trendy rooftop bar, or an experimental cocktail experience, London has it all. Here’s a guide to the best pubs and bars in the city, catering to every vibe and occasion.
1. Historic Pubs with Character
London’s history comes alive in its historic pubs, where you can enjoy a pint in centuries-old surroundings.
- The George Inn (Southwark): Dating back to the 17th century, this National Trust-owned pub is one of London’s last galleried inns, serving a range of ales and hearty pub food.
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street): This legendary pub has been around since 1667 and has hosted literary greats like Charles Dickens. Its labyrinthine interior and cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit.
- The Mayflower (Rotherhithe): Nestled along the Thames, this pub offers stunning riverside views and a rich maritime history.
- The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead): A charming countryside-style pub with roaring fireplaces, dating back to 1585.
- The Lamb and Flag (Covent Garden): Known as “The Bucket of Blood” in its earlier days, this pub is steeped in history and serves traditional ales in a cozy setting.
Tip: Pair your drink with classic pub fare like bangers and mash or a ploughman’s lunch.
2. Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
For breathtaking views of the London skyline, head to one of the city’s many rooftop bars.
- Sky Garden (City of London): A lush indoor garden with panoramic views, offering cocktails and small plates. Best of all, entry is free with a reservation.
- Aqua Spirit (Soho): Located near Oxford Circus, this rooftop bar is perfect for cocktails with a view of the buzzing city below.
- Radio Rooftop (Strand): A glamorous spot overlooking the Thames, offering views of iconic landmarks like The Shard and the London Eye.
- Frank’s Cafe (Peckham): A laid-back rooftop bar offering affordable drinks and stunning sunset views of London’s skyline.
- Seabird (Southwark): This rooftop bar combines a fantastic oyster selection with views of the city from its luxurious terrace.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a prime spot, especially during sunset.
3. Trendy Bars for Craft Cocktails
London’s cocktail scene is innovative and ever-evolving, with talented mixologists crafting unique drinks.
- Nightjar (Shoreditch): A speakeasy-style bar known for its inventive cocktails and live jazz performances.
- Swift (Soho): A chic two-floor bar offering both classic and contemporary cocktails in an elegant setting.
- Callooh Callay (Shoreditch): A quirky bar with a playful menu and hidden rooms for an adventurous drinking experience.
- The Connaught Bar (Mayfair): Regularly ranked among the world’s best bars, this sophisticated spot is known for its martini trolley.
- Lyaness (South Bank): From the award-winning team behind Dandelyan, this bar offers imaginative drinks with a focus on unique ingredients.
Tip: Many of these bars require reservations, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
4. Classic Pubs with Live Entertainment
Combine your drinks with live music or comedy at these iconic venues.
- The Dublin Castle (Camden): A legendary pub that has hosted bands like Madness and Blur. It’s a hub for live music enthusiasts.
- The Troubadour (Earl’s Court): A historic venue that has seen performances by Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix, now offering live music and poetry nights.
- The Half Moon (Putney): A historic live music venue with a great selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.
- The Bedford (Balham): Known for its live comedy and music nights, this pub offers a vibrant and creative setting.
- Ain’t Nothin’ But (Soho): A small but mighty bar dedicated to live blues performances and great whiskey.
Tip: Check their schedules online to catch a live act or comedy night during your visit.
5. Unique and Themed Bars
For something a little different, try one of London’s themed bars.
- Cahoots (Soho): A 1940s Underground-themed bar serving vintage-inspired cocktails in a quirky, nostalgic setting.
- ABQ London (Hackney): A Breaking Bad-themed bar where you can “cook” your own cocktails in a retro RV.
- The Alchemist (Various Locations): Known for its theatrical, science-inspired cocktails that smoke, bubble, and fizz.
- Mr. Fogg’s Residence (Mayfair): Step into the world of Phileas Fogg with Victorian-inspired decor and a cocktail menu to match.
- Ballie Ballerson (Shoreditch): A fun and playful bar with a giant ball pit for adults alongside creative cocktails.
Tip: Themed bars often have dress codes or ticketed entry, so check their websites for details.
Conclusion
London’s pubs and bars offer an eclectic mix of history, innovation, and entertainment, catering to every kind of night out. Whether you’re sipping a classic pint in a centuries-old pub, enjoying rooftop cocktails with a view, or dancing to live music, the city’s vibrant drinking scene is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, grab your friends and explore the best of London’s nightlife!
