Looking for somewhere different to drink? We’ve put together a list of the best bars in Central London – from quirky, to sophisticated, you’ll be able to find a bar for any occasion!
With great transport connections to the rest of London and beyond, Central London is an ideal spot to go for a drink at a bar. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to head after work, or a weekend treat, Central London has a bar for any occasion.
Looking for a swanky cocktail bar to impress a date? How about somewhere to amp up some friendly rivalry with friends? We’ve put together a list of our favourite bars across Central London, so you’ll be prepared next time you’re looking.
Looking for drinks with a competitive twist? Head on down to Swingers’ City venue, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails alongside a round of mini golf.
With a range of gourmet street food available, there’s plenty to choose from – pizza, burgers, tacos and sweet treats – there’s something for everyone. The Cocktail Set and The Sunday Set provide you with bottomless cocktail options, including signature tipples and menu classics – the perfect accompaniment to exceptional food and competition.
While you’re welcome to visit just to enjoy the bar, we’d recommend checking out the mini golf course too! Putting around the courses is the perfect way to round off a day out with friends with a little bit of healthy competition!
Home to a number of food and drink vendors, Mercato Mayfair is situated inside an old church, so you can sip on delicious drinks surrounded by grand interiors.
The versatile setting allows you to sip on your drinks inside the grand atmosphere of the church, head to the roof terrace to enjoy nicer weather (as nice as London weather can be), or head down to the underground crypt bar for more intimate surroundings.
Try the German Kraft Brewery beers found at the bars inside the venue, and brewed at the onsite micro brewery.
With interiors inspired by downtown LA, The Cocktail Club at Oxford Circus is an underground escape from London life. The interiors are gritty with a plush edge; neon signage and vintage leather armchairs decorate the club, reflecting the edge of downtown LA while remaining an excitement-fuelled space to enjoy a night out.
Happy hour runs across every day of the week, during which you can select two drinks for £12.
Visit on Saturdays for an unforgettable R&B bottomless brunch experience, or book a cocktail masterclass to learn how to recreate your favourite drinks. A unique bar in London that has a price point that is impossible to beat in central London.
Located in Mayfair, The Starman pays homage to David Bowie. So named as it is situated on the street where the Ziggy Stardust album cover was shot, but the Bowie inspiration doesn’t stop at the name alone.
As well as serving food (including a Sunday roast), you can sample Bowie inspired cocktails such as the Rebel Rebel Rum Punch, the Blackstar Boulevardier, or the Pinestar Martini.
Time Out has rated The Escapologist as one of London’s coolest bars, and we can see why!
The Escapologist is so named due to Baron Von Took fleeing to London in 1898 shrouded in scandal after erratic behaviour landed him with a death sentence. His final wish was to have a drink in Covent Garden, which was famed for its brew houses. This turned out to be a ruse, and Took escaped.
The Escapologist is inspired by the secret societies in London during the late Victorian period, with Victorian inspired interiors juxtaposed with neon decor and twists on classic cocktails. A must visit bar in central London with a great atmosphere and unique theme.
If you’ve ever visited a bar and been disappointed that they only serve cocktails containing booze you don’t like, BYOC is the ultimate tonic (pardon the pun!).
As the name suggests, you are encouraged to bring your own booze to Carter Lane. Here, the expert bartenders will create specially tailored cocktails to suit your tastes.
BYOC places a lot of emphasis on the experience being unforgettable, so you can be sure the staff and interiors are all tailored to ensure you have a good time. Just be aware you’ll need to book your spot ahead of time, so the bar staff can prepare.
If rum is your tipple of choice, Burlock bar is the one for you! The 1930s Havana style rum bar stocks over 200 varieties of rum, which are available to mix with their homemade mixers.
One Thursday a month, the bar is taken over by famous industry rum brands with tasting opportunities, signature cocktails, and music provided by an in-house DJ. Being located near Oxford street, this quirky hidden bar is the ultimate rum destination.
With its dark wooden interiors and Parisian style, Basement Sate is a cosy choice for those looking for drinks in Soho. Specialising in desserts, you can tuck into something sweet alongside your cocktails. It’s the perfect intimate setting, with low lighting and incense wafting through the air.
What makes this spot even more special is the “secret entrance” – a nondescript entrance guarded by a doorman is the only hint that something else lies beneath. With great drinks, desserts and music, what else do you need for a good time
Flagship bar of award winning mixologist, Mr Lyan, Lyaness is based in Sea Containers on Southbank. Tales of Cocktail Spirited Award has awarded Lyaness the title of “World’s Best Bar”, and we can see why!
Driven by the creativity of the team of mixologists, using unusual ingredients with the aim to surprise and delight patrons. They often team up with well-known spirit and mixer brands to put on events celebrating new recipes on the menu or the concept of trying something different.
With fabulous views across the River Thames, it’s a great spot to sit and soak in the sights, while enjoying truly unique drinks that you’ll be unlikely to find elsewhere. Located within the iconic sea containers by the south bank, you are guaranteed great drinks, food and views!
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