All-Time Best
Connaught Bar
Connaught Bar
Consistently ranked among the world's best bars, the Connaught Bar offers an elegant Art Deco setting with impeccable martini service from a signature trolley. Head bartender Agostino Perrone creates bespoke cocktails tailored to each guest.
Highlights
- World's Best Bar 2020, 2021, 2022
- Signature martini trolley
- Art Deco elegance
Artesian
Artesian
Located at The Langham hotel, Artesian has been named World's Best Bar multiple times. The opulent setting features stunning chandeliers and plush seating, while the cocktail menu pushes creative boundaries with theatrical presentations.
Highlights
- World's Best Bar 2012-2015
- Theatrical cocktails
- Opulent Victorian setting
Swift
Swift
A sophisticated two-floor bar in Soho. The upstairs serves aperitivo-style drinks in a bright, airy space, while the downstairs whiskey bar offers an intimate atmosphere with an exceptional spirits collection of over 500 whiskies.
Highlights
- Two distinct bars
- 500+ whiskies downstairs
- Perfect for dates
Satan's Whiskers
Satan's Whiskers
A no-frills Bethnal Green cocktail bar that focuses purely on the drinks. No menus here - tell the bartenders what you like and they'll craft something perfect. A beloved neighborhood gem with unpretentious vibes.
Highlights
- No menu concept
- Bespoke cocktails
- Local favorite
Nightjar
Nightjar
A 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Shoreditch featuring live jazz and blues every night. The elaborate cocktails are presented with theatrical flair, and reservations are essential for this intimate venue.
Highlights
- Live jazz nightly
- Prohibition-era style
- Theatrical cocktails
The American Bar at The Savoy
The American Bar at The Savoy
One of the world's oldest surviving cocktail bars, The American Bar has been serving drinks since 1893. The birthplace of numerous classic cocktails, it maintains its Jazz Age glamour with live piano music nightly.
Highlights
- Since 1893
- World's Best Bar 2017
- Live piano music
Happiness Forgets
Happiness Forgets
Tucked away in a Hoxton basement, this intimate cocktail bar focuses on simple, well-crafted drinks without pretension. No standing room, reservations recommended, and a cozy atmosphere that encourages conversation.
Highlights
- Basement speakeasy
- World's 50 Best Bars
- Intimate seating only
Bar Termini
Bar Termini
Inspired by Italian railway station bars, this tiny Soho spot serves perfect Negronis, exceptional espresso, and Italian amaro in a standing-room atmosphere. Multiple locations now, but the original remains iconic.
Highlights
- Perfect Negronis
- Italian railway bar concept
- Exceptional espresso
Scout
Scout
A sustainably-focused cocktail bar in Hackney using innovative techniques and locally sourced ingredients. The team creates remarkable drinks from overlooked ingredients, reducing waste while delivering exceptional flavor.
Highlights
- Sustainability focus
- World's 50 Best Bars
- Zero-waste cocktails
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
Rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, this historic pub was frequented by Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Dr. Samuel Johnson. Multiple atmospheric rooms with low ceilings and centuries of character.
Highlights
- Built 1667
- Literary history
- Multiple cozy rooms
Frequently Asked Questions
Most London pubs open from 11am-11pm Monday to Saturday, and 12pm-10:30pm on Sundays. Many central London bars stay open later, typically until midnight or 1am. Late-night bars and clubs can stay open until 3am or later with appropriate licenses. Always check individual venues for specific hours.
Tipping at bars in London is not expected but appreciated. At pubs, you might offer to buy the bartender a drink ('and one for yourself'). At cocktail bars and hotel bars, a 10-15% tip is welcomed for table service. There's no obligation to tip when ordering at the bar.
The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. You may be asked for ID if you look under 25 (Challenge 25 policy). Acceptable ID includes passport, UK driving license, or PASS-accredited proof of age card. Some venues are 21+ after certain hours.
Pubs (public houses) are traditional British drinking establishments, often historic, serving beer, ales, and simple food in a casual atmosphere. Bars are typically more modern, may focus on cocktails or wine, and often have a more contemporary design. Gastro-pubs bridge the gap with elevated food alongside traditional drinks.
Cocktails in London range from £10-12 at neighborhood bars to £18-25+ at luxury hotel bars like The Connaught. Many bars offer happy hour deals (typically 5-7pm) with discounted drinks. Pubs offer better value, with pints ranging from £5-7. The City and West End tend to be pricier than East London venues.