Have you been exploring the city in search of the ideal cocktail bar or pub? I’ve gathered recommendations from friends and locals, then visited each place myself to ensure they’re fantastic spots. Here’s my curated list of the best bars in London.
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Top Bars in London
Exploring the vibrant bar scene in London is an adventure, as each venue offers a unique atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a chance to mingle with diverse crowds. With an overwhelming number of options, it can be challenging to find the perfect spot that matches your mood or occasion. To simplify your search, we consulted our local experts and employees to curate this definitive list of must-visit bars.
Viajante87
€€€ | Great Cocktails | Upscale Atmosphere | Experiential Drink Menu
Stepping into Viajante87 felt like entering a vibrant world of flavors and stories. Each cocktail on the menu was a journey, crafted from ingredients sourced during the team’s recent travels across Latin America. The menu is organized into categories that let you enjoy classic favorites or take a more adventurous path. Categories include “Be Comfortable,” “Be Curious” and “Be Courageous,” with each grouping becoming more experiential as you go.
Viajante (which translates to “traveller” in Spanish) truly lives up to its name, offering a new experience with each visit. It’s a place where every drink tells a story, inviting you to travel the world one cocktail at a time. The coolest part about this bar is that the menu changes seasonally based on the team’s latest travels.
Address: 87 Notting Hill Gate
Los Mochis
€€€ | Rooftop Bar | Mexican Japanese Fushion | St. Paul’s Cathedral
Los Mochis is the perfect rooftop retreat with stunning views of the iconic skyline and St. Paul’s Cathedral. This stylish venue has several unique rooms, each offering a different view of the city below. You can start your morning with nutritious breakfast options like acai bowls, or unwind at the bar, which serves a varied menu from breakfast through dinner. You’ll definitely want to sample several items from their menu featuring a blend of Mexican and Japanese cuisines, including everything from fresh sushi to creative tacos. They also have an extensive wine selection including international labels that pair beautifully with the bold flavors of each dish. Whether you’re enjoying the Agaveria cocktail bar or soaking in the sunset on the terrace, Los Mochis is an essential stop during your London visit.
Address: 100 Liverpool St.
Daly’s Wine Bar
€ | Wine Bar | Cocktails | Warm Atmosphere
Daly’s is a long-established wine bar that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With an extensive selection of international wines, refreshing beer, and expertly crafted cocktails, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The laid-back vibe, complemented by soft music in the background, also makes Daly’s a perfect place to relax and catch up with friends. If you’re planning on a night of bar hopping, this is a great place to grab an aperitivo before heading to your next stop.
Address: 210 Strand, Temple
Want to add some food to your bar crawl? Check out our list of the best food tours in London.
Tamesis Dock
€ | Outdoor Space | Thames | Live Music | Floating Barge
Tamesis is a laidback bar housed in a converted 1930s Dutch barge, permanently moored on the Thames. This is the spot to be if you’re looking for a locals bar. Tamesis offers a selection of cocktails, beer and bar food, and frequently features live music downstairs, which makes for a fun night with friends. Tamesis is known for its friendly character, making it an ideal place to unwind. With ample indoor and outdoor space, it’s perfect for a fun night out or a relaxed afternoon by the water.
Address: Albert Embankment
The Horniman at Hays
€€ | Pub | Hearty Meals | Riverside Terrace
Housed in a former tea warehouse,The Horniman at Hays is a nice place to stop if you’ve just crossed tower bridge and are heading to the borough market. With a large variety of beer on tap and expertly crafted cocktails, you’ll find plenty of options to quench your thirst. Enjoy classic pub fare like fish and chips and meat pies, perfect for a hearty meal. The riverside terrace offers a lovely spot to relax and take in the views. Whether you’re looking for a quick rest or a leisurely meal, this pub is a great place to stop.
Address: Unit 26, Hay’s Galleria
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The Oxford Market
€ € | Cocktails | Outdoor Seating
I stumbled upon this bar by chance, and it turned out to be the perfect spot. The outdoor area was buzzing with people enjoying everything from wine to beer to cocktails. Inside was just as lively. They have heat lamps outside, which are essential for the London weather. With mostly standing room, it’s a fantastic place to mingle with locals and fellow visitors. However, if you’re looking for food, the menu is primarily fried bar snacks, so it might not be the best choice.
Address: 11-13 Market Pl
Waxy O’Connor’s
€ | Pub | Sports Bar | Live Music | Bar Food
Waxy O’Connor’s is the ultimate hangout spot.This roomy and relaxed pub is perfect for kicking back with friends. They also regularly feature live music and have tasty bar food, so there’s always something happening here. You can catch your favorite sports events on the big screen, making this a fantastic place to grab a beer with friends. But what really sets this place apart is its unique layout. It has four distinct bars spread across the building, each with its own vibe and personality. The bar even features a confessional, so you can casually confess your sins to anyone who will listen during a night on the town.
Address: 14-16 Rupert St
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Sky Lounge Shangri La
€€€ | Rooftop Bar | Great Views | Cocktails | The Shard
If you’re looking for a great way to soak in stunning views of London, the Sky Lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel in The Shard is a delightful choice. The sweeping vistas of the city are nothing short of spectacular. And what’s better than relaxing with a cocktail while taking in the breathtaking skyline? This venue offers a fantastic alternative to the top of The Shard, which usually charges £25 for entry. With a cocktail included in your visit, you can enjoy both the drink and the scenery without stretching your budget.
The drink menu boasts a selection of signature cocktails that feature unique flavor combinations made from fresh ingredients, alongside classics like the Martini and Mojito for those who prefer traditional options. Seasonal cocktails highlight fresh fruits and herbs, giving them a local flair. Additionally, the menu offers beautifully crafted mocktails for those who opt for non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring a flavorful experience for everyone.
Address: 28 London Bridge St
The King Arms
€€ | Pub | Busy | Classic English Menu
Tucked away on a mostly quiet street, The Kings Arms comes alive during golden hour, being absolutely packed from Thursday to Saturday. Originally named the Three Jolly Butchers when it was built in 1742, this pub offers a taste of tradition with a classic English menu. One heavily featured menu item is the hearty steak and ale pie that perfectly captures the essence of Mayfair, turning every bite into a delightful historical experience. Overall, The Kings Arms is a charming spot to unwind and enjoy some quintessential British fare.
Address: 2 Shepherd Market
Carnaby Street
€ € | Busy | Trendy | Shopping | Cocktails
Stroll down Carnaby Street at 5 p.m. on a Thursday, and you’ll find the energy buzzing as the city gears up for the weekend. With Friday being “work remote” day in London, Thursdays are prime for soaking up that golden hour bar scene. The area is a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife, making it perfect for a post-work outing.
You’ll discover plenty of classic pubs for those who appreciate a traditional vibe, while just a street over, the Violet Door offers a unique atmosphere for a more intimate experience. It’s also only a few blocks up from the Oxford Market. It’s a fantastic “stand outside” bar with heat lamps to keep you cozy as the sun sets. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively pub or a chic cocktail spot, this corner of London has something for everyone.
Address: Carnaby Street
Where to Stay in London
Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.
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