Hidden away in secret corners of central London are some of the most glamorous bars you'll ever find. These 1920s inspired venues are brimming with the romantic and luxurious ambience of the jazz age, brought to life by the delicious and inventive cocktail creations, lavish vintage decor and classical American jazz music. Making the perfect retreat for after work drinks, intimate celebrations, or a special date, all sorts of drinkers will delight in the unique experience of the 1920s bars in London. Here is a list of our favourite venues that will definitely make a good impression.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 29th October 2024
Feel like you're in the Great Gatsby at The Franklin Hotel, a stylish 1920s-themed Champagne bar in Kensington. Designed by Anouska Hempel, it boasts marble tables, velvet seating and Venetian mirrors, making it a swish space to indulge on a cocktail or glass of bubbles.
For a breezy and bright tribute to the 1920s, Burlock in Marylebone has it all. Based on the Prohibition-era bars in Havana, this spot is serious about their rum cocktails and delicious nibbles.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the glamour of 1920s Berlin at Engel Bar, a hidden treasure within London's Royal Exchange. The moment you enter, you'll be captivated by the Art Deco charm, stunning arches, and plush seating with courtyard views.
This elegant spot offers tempting bites like frites, oysters, and German charcuterie. Don't miss signature cocktails like the Skandal, made with Rémy Martin 1738, or the indulgent Trüffel-Martini.
You'll uncover Prohibition-style bar Evans & Peel Detective Agency hidden away behind a secret door. Find it and you'll be lucky enough to settle down for a drink in this gorgeous speakeasy, with plenty of American bar snacks and cocktails inspired by bootlegged liquor to try too.
Discover the lavish vintage cocktail bar that is the Luggage Room; a converted luggage room at the grand five star hotel, The London Marriott in Mayfair. This hidden treasure is effortlessly stylish and is a real competitor for the title as one of London's most glamorous 1920s-inspired cocktail bars. Guests will be greeted with a visually stunning display of fine liquor, handmade wine cabinets, marble decor and period pieces, as well as the eye catching huge block of ice carved for each individual drink.
A discreet venue nestled between two cafes in Shoreditch and with a Soho sister venue, the Nightjar bar is one of London's best 1920s themed bars and a fantastic alternative to flashy nightclubs and busy bars. The 1920s New York inspired setting is a cosy and stylish retreat for drinkers to relax and catch up over delicious tin cup cocktails, a tasty selection of nibbles and romantic candlelit tables. As well as a magical atmosphere, the Nightjar's other specialty is the live music.
@ The Candlelight Club on Various dates from Tuesday 31st December 2024
Whisk yourself back to the glamorous speakeasy era, where you'll be able to soak up the 1920s-style atmosphere with pals. Situated in Central London (the location is top secret), this Gatsby-inspired venue has a plethora of live entertainment, dinner and cocktails up for grabs.
Stepping into Hoxley and Porter is like stepping back in time... via a luxury train carriage. With tropical plants, printed wallpaper and a mixture of wicker and leather seats Hoxley and Porter has a touch of the exotic about it. Decadent and evoking 1920's glamour, Hoxley and Porter serve modern British food made with fresh ingredients alongside an eccentric drinks list using unusual and exotic ingredients such as grapefruit and chilli.
One of London's most opulent supper club experiences and renowned for their thematic commitment, The Candlelight Club are a dashing of 1920s excess harking back to the Golden Age glamour of America's most notorious decade. Dust off your flapper dressers, don your dapper chaps and discover a world of bespoke tipples and period partying.
When it comes to creating a fun, quirky atmosphere, this American speakeasy is the bee's knees, promising a night of "moonshine madness at Monument." Get a taste of Giggle Juice, an apple and ginger punch spiked with Grey Goose La Poire vodka, or enjoy some creatively served cocktails in milk bottles, Mason jars, and teacups at The Bootlegger. Don't forget to try the fancy fizzes, Long Island Tea, and unique twists on classics like the Manhattan, Bronx, and Brooklyn, all paired with dishes of charcuterie and cheese.
Completely over the top, lashings of sex appeal and set in a glamorous ballroom that harks back to a prohibition style that's both classic and contemporary in its character; Proud City is an extravagant array of cabaret, jazz and burlesque where you can dine by candlelight and sink into the low-lit ambiance as performers dazzle around you at one of the best 1920s clubs in London.
You'll get a true 1920s experience at Camden Basement Cocktail Bar, a speakeasy-inspired spot where you can bring along a bottle of your favourite spirit for the talented mixologists to create five bespoke cocktails from across a two-hour session. Sit back in gold and green surrounds at one of their themed areas, named after figures like Charlie Chaplin, Pablo Picasso, Louis Armstrong, and Pauline Sabin, with tasty small plates up for grabs too.
