London is never short of quirky cocktail spots. From extravagant rooftops to speakeasy bars, finding the best cocktail bars in London can be a challenge even for locals! Enter London Cocktail Week…
From the 3rd to the 13th October 2024, discover the most exciting way to explore London’s rich bar scene. Described as a ‘celebration of cocktail culture’, London Cocktail Week’s 10-day, city-wide festival brings immersive cocktail pop-ups, one-off dining experiences and (most importantly) an array of specially curated Signature Cocktails to London’s coolest bars.
But how does London Cocktail Week work?
How it works…
Taking place in the cocktail capital and partnering with the best bars in London, all you need to do to join the cocktail celebrations is grab your London Cocktail Week 2024 wristband! All wristband holders will have exclusive access to each bar’s Signature Cocktail. A specially curated beverage, unique to every participating bar across the festival and all priced at £8! Simply ask the bar staff for their London Cocktail Week Signature.
And that’s not all. Throughout the 10-day event, there will be hundreds of bespoke cocktail events and experiences to discover, from mind-blowing cocktail-making classes, indulgent cocktail pop-ups and even an underground party or two.
But where will your cocktail crawl take you? We’ve collated the ULTIMATE guide to the 2024 London Cocktail Week bar list. Make the most of London’s luscious cocktail scene this October and read on to uncover our top picks.
Central London
1. Opium Cocktail Bar & Dim Sum Parlour – Blink and you’ll miss this intimate cocktail (and dim sum) paradise. Nestled behind a jade-painted door in the heart of Chinatown, you’ll find the award-winning Opium. Home to not one but three Shanghai-inspired secret bars, Opium’s array of gorgeous oriental-influenced cocktails has even earned them a spot on the Top50CocktailBars list. But for the best seat in the house, check out the exquisite Peony bartender table.
2. The George – If a traditional London pub is more your speed for a cosy pint, head to The George for a proper English pub experience. This 18th Century, Grade II listed pub has been at the centre of the capital’s historic political, social and cultural movements while serving up tasty grub to locals and tourists alike. Live sports, great Guinness and splendid cocktails have made The George a popular central London spot in recent years.
3. Burlock Rum Room – Attention rum lovers! Don’t forget to add Burlock Rum Room to your next London bar crawl. At Burlock, indulge in succulent light bites, live reggae music and an iconic menu of lush rum-based cocktails. Secret bar enthusiasts will love discovering this hidden Havana-inspired basement bar with a menu of over 200 rum varieties. But don’t forget to check out our top cocktail pick. Unique to the Burlock Rum Room, the Burlock Barrel features an exotic blend of rums, juices, and spices, all served in a barrel (of course).
4. Booking Office 1869 – Created with European decadence and charm in mind, Booking Office 1869 is a majestic 19th-century-inspired bar with an intimate atmosphere throughout. Located within the historic 150-year-old building of St Pancras Station, Booking Office 1869 bridges busy London with romantic Europe. Known for refining the classics with an elegant yet contemporary take on mixology, be sure to check out ‘RoofGarden’ during your visit. Rediscover London’s city skyline within a botanical oasis of greenery, with vibrant resident DJs every Friday and Saturday night.
Stay nearby
Calling all secret bar enthusiasts! Discover our favourite hidden bars across London here.
East London
View this post on Instagram
7. Sabine Rooftop Bar – Looking for a stunning garden oasis bar hidden in plain sight? Sabine Rooftop Bar in the City of London delivers just that. With spectacular views of the capital’s famous landmarks, including the Shard and St. Paul’s Cathedral, this heated outdoor terrace bar offers an array of splendid signature cocktails and light bites. Check out the Skyline Margarita and Sabine’s Kiss or cocktail classics including the sweet Bramble and Moscow Mule. You won’t be disappointed with Sabine’s cocktail spread.
8. Coupette – Coupette’s classic French elegance blended with London’s buzzy nightlife atmosphere will have you shouting ‘Oui, oui!’. This edgy London cocktail bar and friendly neighbourhood local serves an expansive collection of cocktails, wines, and Calvados, a delectable Normandy-produced brandy consisting of apples or pears. As one of the few bars in London serving this French delicacy, expand your French cuisine palate at Coupette.
9. The Absinthe Parlour at The Last Tuesday Society – Looking for a weird and wonderful spot in London? The Absinthe Parlour at The Last Tuesday Society combines cocktails and curiosities like you’ve never seen before. Located in The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, this north London cocktail bar has become a Bethnal Green hidden gem. With embellished velvet seating, candle-lit corners and a passionate bar team, you might even discover a one-of-a-kind cocktail creation during your visit. Off-menu cocktail requests are always welcome!
10. Nightjar – Nightjar in Shoreditch is a hidden gem that’s perfect for those who love a bit of mystery and intrigue. Tucked away with a discreet and very missable entrance, this speakeasy-style bar transports you to a different era with intimate lighting and live music covering all genres from blues, swing and jazz. Discover expert cocktails crafted, using high-quality ingredients and unique flavour combinations!
Stay nearby
West London
View this post on Instagram
11. Publiq. – This modern twist on the classic London public house has become a local gem in the heart of South Kensington. Publiq. is a sophisticated restaurant and cocktail bar specialising in seasonal dishes and cocktails using solely sustainable produce. With a focus on being responsible for inspiring their local community, Publiq. has become a firm favourite for locals and tourists alike, serving up skillfully crafted cocktails using carefully selected ingredients.
12. – Viajante87 – Viajante87, meaning ‘traveller’ in Spanish, is a vibrant cocktail bar in West London that celebrates the diverse flavours and cultures of Latin America. Inspired by their team’s journeys, Viajante87’s menu changes seasonally to showcase unique ingredients sourced from recent adventures. From Mexico to Argentina and Peru to Brazil, each cocktail is a reflection of the rich heritage and traditions encountered.
13. The Broadcaster – The Broadcaster in White City is a multi-level venue offering a variety of modern experiences. On the ground floor, you’ll find a relaxing pub and restaurant, but the Broadcaster’s real highlight is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. Every Thursday night, the rooftop transforms with lively DJ sets!
14. AMARO BAR – AMARO BAR is a stylish and inviting cocktail bar in London that offers a modern twist on classic cocktail favourites. With a focus on quality ingredients and innovative techniques, their menu features a delightful array of handcrafted drinks. To complement your cocktail, AMARO BAR also serves a selection of small plates that are perfect for sharing. Eager to learn the art of mixology? Check out their expert cocktail-making classes!
Stay nearby
North London
13. Doña – Jazzy tunes, dreamy rose lighting and a delish Mezcal-inspired cocktail menu. Make your next night out with your amigos one to remember at Doña. Nestled in Stoke Newington, Doña has become a firm London favourite for Mexican cuisine lovers. Doña radiates a passion for superior Mezcal creations, gorgeous tacos by Tigre Tacos and empowering femininity and friendship. With a carefully designed Mezcal menu to explore, dive into Doña’s rich energy and love for all things Mexico.
14. Little Bat – Little Bat is your classic neighbourhood bar designed with the style of traditional libraries in mind. In this cosy and restful Islington bar spot, pop in for their signature cocktails, or book ahead to experience a superb mixologist masterclass. Little Bat’s expertly-led cocktail-making classes are fantastic for groups and couples looking for a night out with a twist.
15. 🔶🟥🔵 A Bar With Shapes for a Name – Yes, the name is quite literally a yellow triangle, red square and blue circle! This cocktail bar brings modernism and minimalism together in this interior design paradise. With crisp, elegantly balanced drinks served throughout, this quirky London cocktail bar has become a firm favourite for couples and groups looking for an unparalleled atmosphere.
16. Homeboy Bar – Homeboy Bar is a modern Irish bar in London that offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its home-cooked grub and quirkily named cocktails, including the Shamrock Shake and Corrib Collins, this spot is perfect for a casual night out. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a creative beverage, Homeboy has something to satisfy your cravings.
Stay nearby
South London
17. Funkidory – Bring the funk back into your next night out! Funkidory is a snug cocktail and natural wine bar inspired by a love of hip-hop, funk and soul music. In addition, Funkidory couples a passion for music with a fondness for the local community and hospitality, making this Peckham spot perfect for music and cocktail lovers looking for a laid-back night surrounded by uplifting tunes. As well as a bar and café, Funkidory also boasts an expansive vinyl record and bottle shop to traverse.
18. Two Spoons – Neighbourhood café by day and cosy bar by night, Two Spoons has become a Peckham favourite since its 2016 opening. Perfect for a quick morning coffee stop and after-work cocktail or two, enjoy a late night at Two Spoons. In this living-room-style bar, try the signature SE23 Negroni with Little Bird Gin, Artemis British Vermouth and Dispense British Amaro. Or maybe the floral, One Tree Hill featuring gin, Italicus Bergamot Rosolio, camomile & lavender syrup, lemon juice and Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic.
19. Hacha – Another strong contender from the Top50CocktailBars list and winner of the UK Specialist Bar of the Year 2022 & 2023, Hacha is a dynamic south London cocktail bar serving up authentic Central American dishes and faithful Mexican cocktails. This chic paradise of Mexican culture and fresh pastel aesthetics will be sure to please your taste buds as you dine on an ever-changing list of Agave Spirits and tantalising tacos. What’s better than one authentic Mexican bar? Two! Hacha’s two locations can be found in Dalston and Brixton.
20. The Last Talisman – This funky Asian-inspired bar on Bermondsey Street is the perfect late-night spot serving up delicious locally brewed pints and signature cocktails that are 2-for-1 during happy hour. The Last Talisman is a beloved London spot and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sign up for one of their interactive cocktail masterclasses. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, The Last Talisman is a must-visit for any cocktail lover.
Stay nearby
