“I exercise strong self control. I never drink anything stronger than gin before breakfast” - W.C. Fields
Created by British officers in India, the gin and tonic was mixed to make the quinine in the tonic taste less bitter, with that generating an iconic summertime drink that spread across the world. Now the perfect teaser to warmer weather, we're helping you celebrate the liquid libation at the best gin and tonic bars in London with our recommended list below.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 9th October 2024
Gin and tonic, it's one of the most popular drinks in the world, and it's also not all that hard to find an amazing one in London. Head on down to The Bull in Streatham as their back bar not only boasts a top selection, they're sure to mix you a top taste.
With over 30 different varieties of gin to choose from, Old Street's Sports Bar & Grill is one of the best places in the city to get your sip on. Soak up your G&Ts with a few of their delicious bar snacks or big, juicy burgers.
With stunning decor, live music and an enviable postcode, The New York Bar is a great shout for G&T enthusiasts. Located by Buckingham Palace, the watering hole also offers a gin tasting for those of you looking to push the boat out.
Not much goes better together than gin and tonic, but if you want one that tops all others? Head over to Soho Residence. This Central London hangout features a first-floor bar devoted to the spirit, where you can get one of the best G&Ts around.
If you're looking for unique gin and tonic pairings, The Terrace Bar is a firm choice. Housed within The Chesterfield Mayfair, this place is encouraging visitors to choose from four menus and explore a multitude of different flavour combinations with its gin experience.
Serving liquid beverages since 1740, the Portobello Star has been a staple of nightlife in Notting Hill for long enough to establish a well-earned reputation. The clientele, which has varied from street beggars to royalty, will all no doubt agree the bar staff know how to whip up a good drink. Not only is the Portebello Star the home of the Gin Institute, it is also the birthplace, sorry source of the Portebello Road No.171 London dry gin. This is one of few places in the world you can create your own personal gin with specialist help in the upstairs still room, and then reorder your personal blend when you run out.
The Colonel Fawcett is a beloved Camden boozer that oozes an old school charm. To top it off? They're home to an awed-inspiring collection of over 100 gins, that can be expertly paired with the perfect tonic, no wonder it's a haven for London's gin-lovers.
Graveney Gin doesn't just distil its own tasty creations - think rosemary, thyme, and a fig-infused Old Tom Gin - but it also features a cosy bar in Tooting serving some of the best gin and tonics in the area.
Head over to Tooting Market to discover this stylish, dimly lit bar whipping up inventive cocktails using their award-winning spirits. And if you're in the mood for a little extra fun, check out their weekly gin-tasting experiences, perfect for gathering your friends for a gin-filled adventure.
If you're after a lip-smacking G&T, then look no further than Joshua's Tavern. This popular Leicester Square boozer is inspired by the avid gin-lover, artist and local resident Reynolds, so there are around 57 different types on tap. Now that's extensive.
