Bars in Central London

Swift is a new cocktail bar in North London that's forever changed the way we think of a 'quick drink'. With years of flairing under their belts, and an eye for infusing different flavours together, the master mixologists offer a stunning range of crafted cocktails. And better still, the venue's mantra of casual cocktails drinks means that each beverage is served with the usual long wait. 

Hop off the tube at Leicester Square and make your way to the high-energy entertainment bar that is Albert's Schloss Soho. Decked out with wooden panelling and stacked log fires, the space is reminiscent of a cosy Alpine retreat with way more party vibes. Here you can tuck into Bavarian fare suck as gooey fondue and scrumptious schnitzels as well as bier imported from across the world. 

Situated just off Leicester Square, Joshua's Tavern is one of our Central favourites. Head inside, where you'll be met with a hand-painted mural of the gin-loving Reynolds, alongside over 57 variations on tap. Hungry? Chow down on a selection of gastro eats.

Escape to the slice of Latin-inspired heaven sitting right in the heart of London, Vinoteca Farringdon. This Central London bar and restaurant serves up a selection of 300 fine wines and a menu full of fresh breads, cheeses, meats perfectly reminiscent of the sunny coasts of the Spanish Mediterranean.

Just steps away from the National Gallery, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Circus is All Bar One Leicester Square. If you're looking for a fun bar in Central London, serving up British pub food classics, cocktails and wine, you've found the right place.

Just a stone's throw from Temple Underground Station, Salsa promises cocktail masterclasses, authentic Latin party vibes and also salsa dance classes for all levels. This place is primed for birthdays, work dos, hens, stags and plenty more.

Taking inspiration from Richard Mason's love story 'A World of Suzie Wong', Lucy Wong is a Central 1950s-themed bar worth visiting. On top of the beautiful Hong Kong-esque interiors and courtyard space, there's also a mouthwatering Chinese menu and bespoke drinks.

Planning a karaoke brunch with your squad or thinking about hiring the whole venue? Lucky Voice in Soho, Holborn, Liverpool Street and Waterloo has got you covered to make your party extra special. You'll have a blast with two hours of non-stop singing in your private pod, complete with disco balls and room service at the push of a Thirsty button. And when hunger strikes, they've got a menu filled with pizza and other tasty treats to keep you fuelled.

Canoodle down to Covent Garden for a bar in Central London that's brimming with fun-time attitudes and a gnarly happy hour. Not only boasting an extensive cocktail menu alongside fantastic 2-4-1 drinks deals, Be At One in Covent Garden's Lyceum is a treasure of DJing and rampant bar staff.

For haunts in Central London, head to Purgatory Bar on Cambridge Street. This gorgeous venue is whipping up a range of bespoke concoctions, from coffee-laced bevvies to a theatrical Fallen Angel made up of dragon fruit vodka, Aperol lemon and mango.

Located in the ever-trendy Soho, Disrepute is a 60s-style bar that's fuelling your nights out with a touch of hedonism. Feel like one of the cool cats of the era as you sip from a carefully curated menu of cocktails and shimmy your hips to wild jazz.

If you're hunting for bars around Central London, you're in luck with NYX Eat, Drink & Play. The bar's quirky artwork is based on pop culture, music and fashion while its menu is equally as enticing. Choose between plenty of mezcal choices while munching on a nacho sharing platter.

A beautiful speakeasy from the team behind the London Cocktail Club brand, this subterranean watering hole in Covent Garden is a one-stop shop for innovative cocktails, live music and vintage-inspired interiors.

If you're looking for a place to drink in Leicester Square, make sure to check out Clubhouse 5. This bustling spot is perfect for sipping a range of lip-smacking cocktails or beers, plus you'll never have to miss a match again, as it screens sports throughout the week.

At Reverend J W Simpson, a basement bar in Fitzrovia, the venue holds much of its original decor - with retro tiles, stripped-back wallpaper and the like. Head here for adventurous and classic cocktails, many of which are made using foraged ingredients and obscure spirits.

Another corker from Simmons, the Temple outpost is bringing more of their cocktail magic to central London. Expect teapot cocktails, quirky decor and one of the best happy hours in London.

Nestled in the centre of Leicester Square, Horizons Casino is a slinky late-night bar that features all of your favourite table games. Play poker, blackjack and more while you sip on classic cocktails and feast on tasty food.

When you're in central London and need a place to grab a drink, Bat & Ball in Covent Garden or Stratford is your go-to spot. Offering a fantastic mix of craft beers, signature cocktails, and an extensive wine list, you'll always find something to enjoy.

The vibe here is lively yet laid-back, perfect for sipping a drink while challenging your mates to a game of ping pong or kicking back and watching live sports on big screens. A great choice for drinks and entertainment in the heart of the West End.

An effortlessly cool space offering a unique concept near Oxford Circus, The Studio is a must see. Guests slot in to cosy black booths and sip away at Vetel One vodka cocktails, before heading over to explore the inbuilt recording studio. Once inside you'll find DJ decks and karaoke facilities, and you're free to work your magic to the adoring crowd in attendance. DJ sounding a bit… flat? No worries, just take off your Skullcandy headphones and have a chat with your pals instead.

The Listing Bar is a Central London spot where an all-day menu of food and a delish cocktail list collide. You'll be washing down the likes of Biscoff French toast brunches, poke bowls, burgers and small plates with boozy concoctions in no time.

If you're looking for fun bars in Soho, head on over to Rupert Street, the LGBTQ+ friendly space that's perfect for enjoying cocktails with mates and dates. Whether you fancy a classic margarita or a salted caramel old fashioned, you can also enjoy stylish decor and a spot of people watching.

No matter what you want from your Central London night out, The Albany can provide it. The corner spot in Fitzrovia is split between an upstairs, traditional pub which serves seasonal dishes, while downstairs a basement bar puts on DJ nights and live music.

BYOC City is one of the quirkiest cocktail bars in Central London, as it gives you the chance to bring you favourite spirits along to the casino-inspired space. The expert mixologists will do the rest, adding a range of other ingredients to shake up into some bespoke drinks.

Situated on Drury Lane, Cecilia's Wine House is a Covent Garden gem worth visiting. Not only does this glorious drinking den flaunt pretty interiors, including exposed brick walls and sultry corners, but it also has a range of bevvies up for grabs and a top-notch food menu.

For a bar in Soho, look no further than secret spot Nightjar Carnaby. It's fronting the same winning formula as its famous Shoreditch sister: secret speakeasy vibes, a unique list of sippable cocktails and a lineup of cool live jazz.

Make Thirst your watering hole for an after-work tipple or night out and you won't regret it. This glamourous venue is spread over two floors, with a bright and airy bar upstairs, perfect for people watching with a cosmopolitan in hand, and a dark and intimate basement bar downstairs. Head there if you're looking to dance the night away to the hottest tuns, spun by top DJs, or are keen to get cosy in a leather booth. 

From the futuristic blue bar through to the golden tones throughout, May Fair Bar is a smart cocktail spot moments from Green Park. The stylish space is part of the May Fair Hotel and puts twists on classic options, including the likes of a Mayfair Mojito, which comes with a smooth hint of vanilla.

If you're keen to catch a bit of stand-up as well as enjoy a cocktail or two, Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London is for you. Just off Thames Path, this buzzing bar hosts an array of events throughout the week, as well as whipping up classic tipples for £11.95 a pop. And if you're hungry? There's an on-site pizza truck that'll do just the job. 

A hidden gem amongst the often crazed and crowded bars of Central London, Soho's Arts Theatre Club serves as a romantic relaxation destination with a little extra vintage flair. With luscious seats, sips, and sounds, this member-only speakeasy will knock the socks off of any date in true Prohibition-era grandeur.

Either head to the Wild Heart Restaurant and Bar or the Roof Terrace for some great drinks in a relaxed but sophisticated environment. Perfect for everything from a private party to a late night tipple in Soho.

Whetting Londoners' whistles like no other, Soho Residence is a beaut three-floor haunt on the corner of Wardour Street. Head over to relax in the gin parlour, knock back tasty tipples in their botanical cocktail bar or party like there's no tomorrow on their festival-style floor.

Ready for a dreamy date night destination in London? Decked out with rustic decor, Amelie's Wine House is a fantastic spot. The venue comes complete with red, white and rose wine, alongside an array of nibbles - think sumptuous cheese boards and juicy olives.

Taking inspiration from the 1920s Havana heydays, Burlock is a cavernous rum bar with a mighty selection of over 200 bottles of the spirit to its name. Dabble in a couple of cocktails complemented by something from the authentic menus of Cuban and Caribbean food - a continuous happy hour offers great deals from open 'til close and there's even a Havana-styled barber shop that doubles as a secretive drinking den to discover.

Cocktail bars in central London don't get much better than this Japanese-inspired speakeasy in Chinatown. Head under Yatay restaurant and you'll uncover this cool spot, which is styled to resemble a recording studio, while fronting sake-laced concoctions.

Central London is lively, stunning and quite frankly - thirsty work. Just a stone's throw from Oxford Circus, Be At One Wimpole Street offers a fun retreat from the busiest street in London, serving up spectacular cocktails with buckets of enthusiasm. Good for a cheeky tipple after work and an ideal spot for welcoming in the good times over the weekend, Be At One Wimpole Street is one of the best bars in Central London. 

Perched high above Central London, the 1864 Rooftop Bar is a haven for sky chasers and cocktail lovers alike. Whether you're soaking up a golden sunset or admiring the city lights, every moment feels like a postcard coming to life.

With a menu that balances sophistication and comfort, you'll find it hard to decide between their expertly crafted cocktails and the drool-worthy grazing boards. Trust us, the toughest decision you'll make all evening is whether to stay for just one more. Spoiler: You will.

From the team that brought you The Piano Works, The House of Song presents Studio 88. Two piano vocalists and accompanying musicians take to the stage to play songs that are requested by you, the audience. Enjoy usherette served California Cones that offer a fresh take on social dining along with a creative selection of cocktails including their very own Autograph collection.

Just on the cusp of Soho is the Perception bar, designed to reflect the multiple faces of London and made to entertain. This stunning bar is perfect for great interiors, amazing cocktails, delicious food and a music programme perfect for the socialites of London.

Close to Piccadilly Tube, and a stone throw away from the bustling streets of Oxford Circus, the Be At One Soho is fantastically placed for Central London clubs and bars. Start off your night here and pick whether to stay with the wild crowd on at this party bar all night, or head to Leicester Square for the cool London nightclubs and bars there.

All Bar One is a classic London spot, and perfect for a stop after shopping. Head to the classic venue to try European plates such as salt and pepper calamari, and patatas bravas, along with delicious cocktails and wine.

Central London pubs don't get much better than The Oxford Market, a lovely little boozer near Oxford Street. Not only is there cool, colourful interiors for a quirky yet laid-back vibe, but also a menu of burgers or the chance to catch live music on Thursday and Friday nights.

Be At One ticks all the boxes for a feel-good party venue. Cracking on with daily happy hours from 4.30pm, the atmosphere builds early as the crowd polish off a couple of Aperol Spritz and Bangkok Garden Party cocktails. Bartenders are impossibly friendly, the atmosphere is intimate and the dance floor soon gathers momentum, with guilty pleasure party tunes playing until 3am.

Not only does Quaglino's put on a incredible array of European inspired cuisines mixed with Middle Eastern flavours, but it's host to one of the City's most opulent bars. Stocked with all manner of potent liquors, the talented bartenders will see you through your spirit cravings with their list of crafty concoctions so all you need to do is perch at the art-deco styled bar and take in the decadent surroundings. 

Toting gorgeous Parisian-style interiors, this pretty Soho pub is not to be missed. Pop along to The Sun & Thirteen Cantons to enjoy a glass of vino in the glamorous boozer or a refreshing ale or beer in its alfresco area. And if you get hungry? Expect vegan eats from Tendril.

If you're looking for somewhere that meets all your needs in one venue, then you'll love Elaine's Bar, Restaurant and Deli in Holborn. This vibrant space is inspired by New York, from the classic cocktails on offer to the gorgeous marble bar in the centre.

Their menu fuses American and British cuisines together with their delicious dishes - we're talking salt beef reubens, cheese and charcuterie boards or juicy meat and plant-based burgers.

Oriole is a Covent Garden bar oozing speakeasy vibes. They've got live music every night of the week, as well as a tasty selection of plates like beef tartare, smoked cauliflower and mushrooms with huitlacoche and egg yolk. The drinks are pretty special here too, with Insta-worthy cocktails like the Calypso made with rum and sherry.

Looking for a bar in central? You won't be disappointed with Covent Garden's Tequila Mockingbird. Head on down to this underground haunt for a watermelon and strawberry martini or for a much-loved Aperol spritz. They also offer a top-notch happy hour too.

Tucked away beneath the National Portrait Gallery in its historic vaults, Larry's is an exclusive spot, accessible through a hidden entrance on Charing Cross Road. With its blend of exposed brick and art deco décor, the bar offers a quirky yet stylish ambiance, perfect for an unforgettable date night.

Here, you can enjoy classic cocktails, indulge in brunch staples like blueberry buttermilk pancakes, or devour a set lunch menu featuring dishes such as house-cured yuzu gin salmon, miso-roasted aubergine, and beef short rib. All of this takes place amidst over 100 portraits of iconic West End figures, a nod to the venue's prime location in Central London.

Overflowing with beautiful cocktails and majestic French wines, Baranis brings a dash of Provencal opulence to Chancery Lane. A hideaway of intimate booths and seductive vibes, head round for dinner and drinks and have a few games of indoor boules at the UK's only indoor Petanque court.

A gangster's tequila paradise, the London Cocktail Club in Oxford Circus is inspired by downtown LA. The venue is covered in graffiti, depicting gun-toting clown figures and cityscapres, whilst the staff wear bandanas and lumberjack shirts buttoned to the top. If you're a little further east, their Mansion House venue is ready and waiting.

If you're looking for a bar in Soho with serious style, Old Compton Brasserie delivers. Nestled on the iconic Old Compton Street, this trendy spot boasts a bar menu packed with inventive cocktails and top-notch spirits.

Whether you're sipping their signature Soho Spritz or savouring a smoky Old Compton Negroni, the drinks here are as bold as the neighbourhood itself. The brasserie's industrial-chic interiors and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for casual after-work drinks, date nights, or catching up with friends. 

Located round the corner from St Paul's is Core; a fun-loving, fresh hangout where you can eat, drink and dance your way through to the early hours. Sup on one of their truly unique cocktails, enjoy an expertly made coffee or craft beer and survey a strong menu filled with lighter snacks and wholesome feasts alike. Available to hire at the weekends, Core is perfect for celebrating that special occasion.

For a bar in Central London with a unique twist, head to Nordic Bar which celebrates all food, drink and party vibes hailing from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Just a stone's throw from Oxford Street, this party bar boasts ping pong tables, shot wheels and fun DJs spinning the freshest tunes until the early hours of the morning.

Mayfair bars don't get much better than Clémence, a wine and Champagne-packed spot that oozes French flair. Think old school, Parisian-inspired interiors coupled with plenty of bottles, cocktails from France, cheese boards and more.

This is a real West End favourite, welcoming an eclectic bunch through the door with a charismatic and familiar approach. There's fresh food, plenty of beers and an eye-catching selection of cocktails to work your way through.

One of the most unique bars in the city, The Bar At Temple is found on board a boat, located close to Temple tube station. Expect casual interiors with simple wooden furnishings and white walls, promising a laid-back environment for a few pints.

You can sample a wide range of draught beers, wines and spirits from the bar, alongside tasty plates like buttermilk chicken burgers or nachos.

Looking for pretty watering holes in Holborn? LOCKES is a grand shout if you're on the hunt for boozers with plush interiors. In addition, the drinks are top-notch from classic pina coladas to mezcal margaritas and other killer cocktails.

Hit this hot spot in Soho for a bit of late night decadence. Gobble down a delicious dessert plate and taste some of the best cocktail concoctions around in a speakeasy bar with the plushest of leather armchairs, polished wooden surfaces and a Parisian lick to the interior that will have you chilled out and indulged.

Although situated in Fitzrovia, Albufera Bar offers a taste of Valencia. Step inside this pretty cocktail haunt to enjoy a range of theatrical cocktails, complemented perfectly with a snacks menu made by the eight Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta.

Based on the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London, The Escapologist is simply a fascinating place to grab a drink in Covent Garden. It takes the form of a 'modern-day Victorian men's club / Masonic Lodge', and is based on the exploits of the infamous Baron. Beautifully designed, serving fun yet refined cocktails and cheese-drenched pizzas, The Escapologist is a cracking themed bar perfect for after-work drinks and late-night parties alike.

If there was a contest for "most central pub in the whole of London", it wouldn't even be close. The Admiralty lies 50 metres from the plaque that marks the city's centre point, within easy strolling distance of Big Ben, Downing Street and just a stone's throw from Nelson's Column. Head here after a long day exploring central London; The Admiralty specialises in beautifully made, melt-in-the-mouth pies and a crisp pint of Fuller's ale.

If you find yourself in Mayfair and are gagging for a top-notch drink, The White Horse should be your port of call. Home to a bevvy of delicious beverages, from premium wines through to classic lagers, this place is sure wet your whistle and then some.

Dip below the arches of Charing Cross to stumble across this snug wine bar with bags of charm. Filled out with all sorts of antiques and quirky knick-knacks, Champagne Charlie's also features a choice of intimate dining rooms ready for up to 45 diners. British classics are on the menu, and there's a rich range of wines to cater for all tastes.

In the bustling cultural hub of Central London, you'll stumble upon this hedonistic haunt promising a good night. Bourne & Hollingsworth Bar is noticeable from the onset, thanks to an 'oil painting' cast upon its exterior of people enjoying a life of leisure. Head on down into its basement to uncover DJs playing until late, along with red booths, intimately lit tables and a bespoke cocktail menu featuring tea-infused gin. 

Simmons always promises a memorable night out in Central London. Head down to this eccentric spot and you'll be greeted by a charming space, decked out with an assortment of quirky ornamentation - it probably looks a bit like your nana's house. But unlike her gaff, Simmons boasts an awesome late night atmosphere with tasty tipples and great music. 

Holborn's The Fable is a central London bar brimming with character. With an inventive, innovative and enchanting decor running through the venue, the creative menu and cocktail list is equally as quirky. There's a selection of tasty grub and really delectable cocktails and wines to sample, and with a whole host of functions like regular cookery classes, mixology masterclasses and late night supper clubs, there's every reason to swing by no what what time of day you are in town.

Fronting vibrant Mexican-inspired decor and a crackin' menu filled to the brim with street food and bespoke concoctions, Barrio Covent Garden is a firm choice for bars in the heart of the city. And if you're on the hunt for a bargain? There's a pretty epic happy hour too.

Offering some of the best bars in Central London, The Montague hotel brings seasonal pop ups and a bricks and mortar leopard-print bar to the city, perfect for after work drinks, or weekend day sessions.

Opium is a great Central London speakeasy style bar. Discretely hidden in Chinatown, they deliver seasonal Oriental themed cocktails - using ingredients sourced locally. This cool and quirky Central London cocktail bar is perfect for unique and interesting cocktails, in a beautifully decadent setting. 

In terms of value for money, few are in the same league as Zebrano. Stop in during their daily happy hours for some discounted drinks, or there's a menu of international treats if you're peckish, and a thriving party atmosphere a little later on.

Based just seconds from the water's edge, Mulberry Bush is a trusty gastropub popular with locals and visitors alike. Comfortably kitted out with inviting sofas and a selection of bookable private spaces, you can expect a lineup of stellar beers alongside a rotating guest ales list from this popular Young's pub.

Long Bar at Sanderson Hotel is in the heart of the West End, where there's a summer garden, unique cocktail list and extensive drinks menu up for grabs. Our favourite concoctions here include the likes of apple pie syrup, cardamom bitters and more.

We couldn't think of a cooler bar if we tried with The Little Violet Door, nestled in the heart of Carnaby. This fictional flat share-inspired haunt boasts velvet sofas, a disco kitchen and a vinyl bar which welcomes DJs from Wednesdays to Saturdays. Downstairs, you'll find a retro games bar which is an absolute hoot, and if you're feeling thirsty you'll be thrilled with its signature cocktail list. Think Crimes of Passion, which tastes of strawberries and cream, or the tequila-based Sex and the City followed by delicious bar bites. 

If you're looking for a beautiful bar for craft beer sipping in Central London, German Kraft Brewery in Mayfair is a firm choice. Housed within a grand old church, this quirky bar is a haven for speciality brews and international dishes with a sun-soaked roof terrace for summer. 

Looking for a bar in Soho where the drinks are delicious and the energy is on high? Then it looks as though Lucky Voice could be your guide. One of the best karaoke bars in the city thanks to their unrivalled private booths, waitress service and gleaming playlist, grab the mic and belt one out at this unique London bar. 

You know us - we love a quirky bar. And The Rabbit Hole? It's exactly what the (boozy) doctor ordered. Alongside the menus that double as interactive board games and the slick, intriguing interiors, there's an extensive selection of curious cocktails to get stuck into.

If you're on the hunt for a bar in Central London, Brewdog Soho is set over two floors and includes 20 taps of craft beer goodness on each level. Hungry after a few pints? The venue also has a full menu with your favourite comfort eats, like their messy wings or stacked burgers.

Classy cocktails, a cool setting and a suggestive atmosphere, Salvatore at Playboy is quite the experience. Ran by Salvatore Calabrese, one of the finest mixologists in the world, it still maintains the classic Playboy Club charm of waitresses in traditional uniforms and fluffy tails, but in a new and modern setting. 

With walls adorned with bespoke art pieces and a cocktail list screaming for you to indulge, Eve is a luxurious hideaway off the streets of Covent Garden. Come for the theatrical cocktails, stay for the live music and atmosphere.