City Bars in London

Sitting pretty under one of London's biggest landmarks, The Sterling is a cool city bar in the shadow of the Gherkin. Head here for your after work local where you can enjoy their outdoor terrace as well as a spread of cocktails, wine and beer along with some top British nosh.  

Like to feel as though you're always in the know? One of Brick Lane's best cocktail bars, this subterranean watering hole hidden underneath Blixen offers a carefully curated and undeniably curious selection of cocktails, with a cosy and stylish setting in which to enjoy them.

Located in Finsbury Square, Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is a stunning rooftop bar complete with pretty igloos and incredible views. They offer a range of expertly curated cocktails in collaboration with Grey Goose, as well as some of the UK's finest wine and indulgent eats.

Whilst city has a reputation for being full of slightly overly swanky places to drink, Tank and Paddle comes in with all the stylish and contemporary finishes but not the pretentious price tag. Head on down for some of the finest in craft pints and pizza in the city.

One of the City's best bars, the Gun offers some stunning interiors alongside a great selection of eats and extensive list of craft beers, wines and excellent cocktails. If you like a little history, swing by and see the site of King Henry VIII's weapons practice ground with its 17th Century decor. 

Slip into Proud Cabaret City for a night of vintage-inspired fine dining, Prohibition cocktails, fire breathers, belly dancers and, of course, beautiful burlesque performers. Make sure to book yourself a table and you'll be able to tuck into premier dining while watching the show. 

Sitting pretty on the ninth floor of Hyatt Place London City East, PocketSquare Skyline Bar & Terrace is a rooftop bar with showstopping views. Nab an outdoor table, where you'll get to gulp down a few carefully curated cocktails while taking in the twinkling lights.

Bags of old world charm and the style of a gentleman's smoking room fuse at Balls Brothers Minster Court. This bar in City is a timeless capsule of contemporary and vintage swag, where you can kick back for some ambient drinks or tuck into traditional English dining. 

Relaxed by day, yet a haven for revelry by night - The Slug and Lettuce offer a little bit of everything in the centre of the city. There's all kinds of British fare up for grabs if you're after something to eat, with a good range of beer, wine, champagne and spirits for after work drinks. 

be sure to check out Lucky Voice Liverpool Street for fun, themed cocktails like the Purple Rain or a Watermelon Sugar - as well as non-stop tunes. This cracking spot has nine different private karaoke rooms, with over 12,000 songs to sing along to, alongside regular live DJ sets. You can munch on tasty pizzas or tacos while you're at it, which can be delivered straight to your booth. Even better? You can get your hands on bottomless brunches every Saturday.

Riverside views of the Shard and Tower of London are worth the trip to the Oyster Shed alone. Once inside, there's a fine glass of wine with your name on it, and a corker of a menu brimming with fresh British fare if you're looking to chow down within the bar's relaxingly airy ambiance. 

If you're looking for a laid-back spot with a party vibe, Apples & Pears is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of East London, this neighbourhood bar offers a welcoming space with its exposed brickwork and quirky décor, perfect for casual drinks with friends or an intimate evening.

The cocktail list is diverse, featuring innovative concoctions that are as fun to look at as they are to drink, like the Dark And Stormier, and the gin-based Old Mary Rose. The bar hosts regular DJ nights with genres like Motown and RnB to get the crowd moving too.

Balls Brothers Austin Friars brings a touch of relaxed elegance to the city's bar and restaurant scene. Serving up seasonal dishes from an open kitchen it's one beautiful space to eat, but there's a strong lineup of drinks if you're just here for a tipple or two. 

The Tokenhouse is a modern City bar in Moorgate and offers a flexible, unpretentious space that's perfect for lunch or drinks. With its speakeasy bar vibe, the downstairs Cellar Bar offers an exciting change for those looking for a private hire space.

The Hydrant is a favourite for beer drinking, cocktail sipping and freshly made foods. Satisfying a traditional pubbing physique, this boozer mashes together contemporary design with English character so you can pull up a stool, have a pint passed to your hand and be in total comfort. 

Just a few minutes walk from Bank station, The Anthologist is keeping you watered and fed at its sleek City bar and restaurant. Alongside an extensive wine list and some very pretty - and potent - cocktails, you'll also find snacks and bigger plates if you get peckish.

Found in the heart of The City, Florattica is a rooftop bar that's worth knowing. From the incredible sky-high views to the stunning, botanical-infused interiors, plus a unique menu of signature cocktails, there's a lot to love about this Aldgate perch. 

An easy walk from any of Monument, Cannon Street and Bank stations, The Vintry is a friendly city pub with excellent seasonal food and more than 170 wines from across the globe. Come by after work and find a buzzing scene, with workers letting off steam with a tipple or two.

Fancy a few sunshine sips? Then make your way to The Saint located on Bow Churchyard, for some lip-smacking craft ales or cocktails. If you're hungry, they also offer up a range of British and European fare to sink your teeth into.

City of London rooftop bars are topped off by cloudM, a stunning destination with views of both the Shard and Tower of London. This destination also serves a cocktail list themed around our capital, including Chelsea Flower Show and Wimbledon.

City of London cocktail bars are topped off by All Bar One's Tower of London, Houndsditch and Cannon Street locations. Whether you want a classic drink or a signature serve, these guys are bound to have something you fancy across an extensive list of concoctions, alongside tasty brunches, small plates and wine.

Fleets is one of the best bars in the City of London, offering a stylish setting for after-work drinks, casual date nights and group gatherings. While you're there, enjoy a list of expertly curated tipples, which come met with tasty small plates and a selection of larger international bites. 

The Drift can be found close to Aldgate tube station, on the ground floor of the Heron Tower. Great for business drinks, dinner dates and tasty cocktails, this stylish restaurant bar blends fine dining in the City with exquisite drinks and quirky surroundings.

Get down and dirty at Dirty Martini, a cool city bar in London with a sexy interior and happy hour drinks deals to match. Open until late six nights of the week, this is the perfect place to grab a drink in Bishopsgate or in one of the kick-ass outposts in St Paul's and Monument.

With splashes of NYC coming through via the exposed brickwork and cage-framed bar, Be at One in Guildhall is a great bar in London for drinks in the City. With areas or even the chance to hire the whole bar for a private event, its cool, welcoming and serves some delicious cocktails.

If you're after a top-notch City bar, then head along to Cabotte on Gresham Street. This fabulous venue is home to gorgeous dimly-lit interiors, where punters can enjoy traditional French classics with a modern twist, alongside flavourful concoctions. 

Ideal for business meetings and cute date nights, The Libertine is a great shout when it comes to City bars. Crack on with fresh oysters, short rib sliders and the like, alongside wine, beer and some tantalising cocktails at this basement boozer.

One of the best cocktail bars near Liverpool Street in the City of London, The 1 Bar is your port of call. This place has a great balance of cosy ambience and vibrancy, coupled with live music from local artists.

As for cocktails? There's the usual list of classics, alongside their own cocktails like The Encore (an orange marmalade-flavoured tequila mix) and the Spotlight Solace (featuring Teeling whiskey, pineapple, mango and bitters).

Enjoy the energy of London's business district at Finsbury Square Garden, where drinks, delicious bites, and seasonal decor come together in a vibrant, green-lined setting, perfect for both casual hangouts and private celebrations.

On the menu, you'll find a selection of wines, from white to sparkling, as well as all your favourite cocktails like an old fashioned or a negroni. 

When it comes to the best City of London bars, Balfour At Bow Wine Vaults is a top shout. Settle into one of the classy leather seats and delve into the extensive wine list, many of which are sourced from the brand's own vineyard in Kent.

Situated in the heart of Aldgate, The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen is a great spot for drinks and dining. The gorgeous venue is filled with colourful furniture, vibrant paintings and pretty greenery, and there's even a charming outdoor terrace for the summer months.

While sipping pints or cocktails, there are plenty of tasty plates to enjoy. Think aged beef burgers with kimchi mayo, wild mushroom and ricotta gnocchi or steamed pork bao buns.

Based in the heart of the City of London, the Refinery is an all-day restaurant and bar that promises to cater to whatever need you might have. In true Drake and Morgan style, the venue boasts a menu of comfort food alongside a cocktail and drinks list that's sure to impress.

Shaws Booksellers is a quirky City bar that comes complete with a delicious lunch and dinner menu, as well as their famous Bloody Marys. They pride themselves on their great selection of real ales, classic cocktails and great food, perfect for after work drinking sessions. 

For a city bar that delivers on both style and substance, The Wren Tavern is the place to be. Situated near Bank and St Paul's, this two-floor venue boasts an impressive whiskey vault, craft beer selection, and a basement cocktail bar, 5CC.

Whether it's an after-work drink or a weekend gathering, expect flavour-packed dishes, expertly mixed cocktails, and a lively atmosphere - especially on Thursdays, when the DJ turns it up a notch.

Break free from that office and head straight to Forge, where the City comes to let its hair down. Loosen that belt because there's a feast to be had, with cider belly pork, racks of ribs and grilled steaks cooked to perfection, that can all be washed down with an ample drinks selection. 

City of London bar BYOC not only has a suave casino-inspired theme to its decor, but the delicious cocktails to match. Once you're done with a hard day at work or sight-seeing, pop by with your choice of spirits and the mixologist will whip you up some bespoke serves.

Serving only the most delicious food, The Breakfast Club Spitalfields is one of Liverpool Street's gems. From salt beef bubble and squeak to bangers and truffle mash, this is a spot you won't want to miss.

Much like its Bishopsgate and Monument siblings, Dirty Martini St Paul's is the perfect escape from the trials and tribulations of the office. Come at quitting time and fill your boots with delicious martinis and signature cocktails, or drop in later for a little boogie with some of the city's top DJs.

With happy hours, food offers and a stylish young professional clientele, Patch St. Paul's is one of London's top City bars. Set over two floors and located by the iconic St Paul's Cathedral, the bar even has large doors opening to a cobbled lane that allows for dreamy alfresco drinking. 

This gorgeous historic boozer is a great place for an after-work drink or a pub lunch while exploring the city. It's history can be seen around the space, with large wooden beams, vintage decor and a bar named after John Keats who was born in a stable where the pub now stands. 

The Listing Bar is a gorgeous bar in the City of London, one where foliage and huge windows make sure the interiors hit the spot. Better yet, the list of cocktails here is perfect for washing down the all-day menu of Biscoff French toast or sweet potato fritter brunches and a variety of mains.

Located in the heart of Bank is The Trading House, the perfect bar for a night out with friends. Choose between hand-selected wine, ales and cocktails or eat up on their delicious cuisine. Feeling inspired? Check out one of their masterclasses. 

Situated in the City of London, Goldwood Sports Pub & Kitchen is a stylish pub worth getting stuck into. You can enjoy live sports on 20 different HD screens while sipping on a freshly pulled pint and wolfing down loaded filthy fries or fried chicken burger.

On the hunt for a cool bar to sink a couple of drinks? The Factory House is a popular spot in Leadenhall Market that boasts industrial-chic decor and all kinds of fabulous beverages, from expertly crafted cocktails to premium wines.

A new bar and music venue from the team behind Old Street, Northcote and Venn Street Records, Eastcheap Records has set up shop on the corner of Lovat Lane to offer great tunes and performances every night of the week, as well as fun cocktails and delicious pizzas.

The London Cocktail Club has created a reputation for its tasty cocktails and lively nights out. Their Monument and Mansion House bars are a must-see, with the former inspired by Britain's most prestigious tailors from the 1970s with quirky props, pinstripe designs and subtle references to Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith. 

If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a drink in Bishopsgate, this friendly boozer should be top of the list. Not only does The Woodins Shades boast warm yet elegant interiors, but also a mega menu of boozy beverages and pub grub.

Broadwood is the latest venue from the renowned ETM group and they're sticking to a winning formula with this top sports bar in the City. Beer is served from huge tankers to ensure the freshest quality, food is British inspired and there's shuffleboard games to play.

One of the funnest bars in the City, Puttshack Bank is bringing you hole after hole of high-octane putting action. More than your standard pitch and putt, their courses are decked out in the latest technology, and their bars are fully stocked with great cocktails to boot.

Located right in the heart of the Barbican, Barbie Green is an Australian-inspired bar and restaurant that offers all-day drinks and dining. It features retractable floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious alfresco dining area, which offers stunning views of the acre of ancient gardens surrounding it.

Sip coffee in the morning or cocktails in the evening, paired with tasty plates like house-cured yuzu gin salmon, barbecue monkfish skewers and mezze platters. Not in the area? Then head to Beany Green in Broadgate Circle instead.

Looking out onto New Street Square with all its greenery, The Refinery is a charming bar with one of the best outdoor spaces in the city. Plonk yourself down at a table  by the window or outside, and work your way through the extensive (and affordable) selection of cocktails and beers. 

The Botanist, Broadgate Circle is a trendy and suave space on Broadgate Circle. It's difficult not to be charmed by the funky tables, marbled pillars and cosy boothed seating that makes up the bones, along with the refined cocktail lounge - the Soda Room - that you'll find in the basement.

Promising 360-degree views of the City, Searcys at the Gherkin stretches across levels 39 and 40 of the iconic building. Nab a seat by the window to enjoy the sunset, while enjoying a selection of fine wines and Champagnes.

They offer a delicious menu of British fare here, featuring everything from seared pork loin to sweetcorn gnocchi and Lake District lamb rump. What's more, you can nab a mouthwatering afternoon tea, starting from £55 per person.

Pop around the corner from Monument to unearth a chic basement bar serving some pretty spectacular martinis. There's an array of newbies and age-old classics to choose between, which are half price if you come during their extensive happy hours. 

When it comes to a unique City of London bar, we surely can't think of anywhere better than Simmons. Not only a quirky and kitsch wonderland of trinkets, textures and games consoles should the evening so take you, their cocktails are infamous and their happy hours are even better.

Boasting a fancy bar area and heated outdoor terrace, Back To Mine on Exchange Square is perfect for sipping quality vino or grabbing quirky cocktails with your crew. Known for their exceptional service and incredible cocktails, they have tipples like salted coconut espresso martini and raspberry commodores on offer, along with natural wines, local beers as well as local kombucha. Plus, they're open 'til 1am, so you can party alll night.

A unique cocktail bar that pays home to the history of merchant trade, Merchant House can be found on Bow Lane. expect dark, sultry interiors, with plush velvet seating and a striking bar in the centre of the room.

They've got a selection of over 250 bottles of gin to sample, from premium sips to rare blends. There are plenty of rums on offer too, which can be made into some delicious cocktails.

Head into The City where this unique pub if offering one of the best places to drink in the area. Alongside an excellent offering of craft pints and fine wines, you'll find a slap-up menu of pub grub and a large heated beer garden.

Hidden in the historic Royal Exchange, Engel Bar is your gateway to the hedonistic 1920s Berlin experience. Marvel at the Art Deco ambience, elegant arches, and plush seating overlooking a charming courtyard.

Located moments from Bank station, Engel serves up delectable snacks like oysters, frites, and German charcuterie. Pair these bites with the expertly crafted Skandal, featuring Rémy Martin 1738, or indulge in the decadent Trüffel-Martini for a true taste of luxury.

Head up to the 14th floor for this amazing bar in Aldgate which comes alive in the evenings and summer when guests take to the terrace. Open until 1am, Jin Bo Law has rooftop views and a bright interior, perfect for everything from after-work drinks through to date night.

Looking for a bar in the city where you can really treat yourself? Located at five-star lifestyle hotel Andaz London Liverpool Street, Rake's Café Bar promises different types of cocktails and wines, sharing platters and a completely quirky and stylish interior that creates an eccentric ambience.

Offering a side order of theatrics with your drinks, this slick city bar promises some of the most innovative cocktails in the area. Alongside their impressive list of drinks, you'll find a menu of mouthwatering eats, fronting everything from burgers and steaks to vegan curries. What's more, they've got a second venue in Monument too.

Moments from Bank and St Paul's, Core brings a laid-back and infectious approach to eating, drinking and partying in the City. A strong cocktail list offers up all sorts of punchy and refreshing concoctions which can be paired perfectly with a choice of light bites or larger plates. 

From the super slick interiors to the mammoth menu of delicious cocktails and elevated British classics, Nest is the City bar that's buzzing night and day. Head on over, whether it's for casual drinks, cosy date nights or just a bite to eat.

Coin Laundry is covered with old-school ambiance and retro style, the restaurant has yellow hues and exposed wood throughout the entire venue. This City bar in Exmouth Market has a heavy menu of original craft cocktails with funky names that'll keep you wanting to try more. 

Demon, Wise & Partners brings a touch of west London swagger to the city. Found beneath the Arbitrager in the heart of the financial district, seek out this classic basement bar to enjoy your drinks in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. 

Sleek and stylish Burdock Café & Cocktail Bar do more than serve delicious and seasonal sharing plates. The City Bar has its own micro-brewery on site as well as a shuffleboard, making it the perfect option for an after-work pint and a game, or three.

This City bar is laid back and friendly and has everything you need to relax anytime of the day (especially when the sun is out). While the large after work following keeps it busy in the evenings, it is a bit quieter in the afternoon making it perfect for business meetings and catch ups.

Head down to The Folly for a City bar that champions sophisticated design and a homely atmosphere. There is an impressive food menu, with brunch taking centre stage, alongside a varied drinks menu that'll encourage you to sink hours into this place. 

A fun bar in the City, Be At One is a great place to let off some steam whilst drinking tasty cocktails. Swing by the Spitalfields watering hole after work and sip on happy hour cocktails whilst bopping to fun tunes.

Situated within the renowned Cheesegrater building, this Vietnamese restaurant isn't just a great choice for its location but it also serves up a range of beer, quirky cocktails and wine. And if you get peckish? Snack on dumplings, rice bowls and hot banh mis. 

Situated in the heart of Liverpool Street, Ginger Lily is a top-notch spot for speakeasy-style vibes and mouthwatering Singaporean food or concoctions. Our pick? A Cockpit Country made up of rum, maraschino cherry liquor, bitters and orange oils. Yum.