Hidden Gems In London

While you'll certainly know Swift, one of the most popular bars in Borough, did you know it has a slinky speakeasy-style space just downstairs? Make your way to this intimate spot for mouthwatering cocktails and intimate date night vibes.

As a favourite location for canalside strolls and picturesque dates, you can bet that Little Venice has some of the prettiest hidden gems around. From wine bars with outdoor seating to boat restaurants and cosy pubs, you'll find it hard to stay away after your first visit to this famous district. 

Hidden on a cobbled East London side street in Shoreditch, Callooh Callay is a true gem serving some of the best cocktails around. Make your way to this beautiful quirky bar for some fabulous live music and nibbles.

The Murdér Express is an award-winning immersive dining experience, where you'll be transported to the early 20th century. And guess what? A murder has taken place and there's a mystery to be solved... Plus, while you enjoy the entertainment, indulge in a four-course meal.

Cocktail bars in London aren't hard to come by, but we doubt you've seen anything as sultry as King of Ladies Man. Sister bar to Clapham's Breakfast Club, head on down to this haunt for luxe and retro interiors, set alongside some of the most creative and delicious cocktails in the biz.

Located on Mortimer Street in Fitzrovia, Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai is a restaurant worth visiting. Head inside, where you'll be met with pretty interiors, alongside a crackin' menu designed by head chef, Avi Shashidha which flaunts mouthwatering and regional Indian plates. 

Retaining some of its secretive edge, WM Barker & Co is a hidden gem located underneath Bishopsgate. Known for knocking out a seasonal foray of creative concoctions, this haunt has a team of mixologists crafting some of the most unusual cocktails with foraged ingredients.

Sat on the 35th floor of the famous Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden has a lot more going for it than people think. Known for its far-reaching views of the city, this spot also has a range of events to keep visitors entertained after they've had a good look out the window. We're talkin' yoga sessions, VIP music nights and tea and coffee served during sunrise. 

A sensual indulgence like no other, Looking Glass Cocktail Club is a secret bar in London that creates a world of drinking, debauchery, decadence and sheer eccentricity. Expect artfully crafted bespoke cocktails with live entertainment that is all sorts of weird and wonderful. 

Sat atop Brixton Market, Pergola Brixton is a stunning rooftop venue that comes with Latin American-inspired cocktails, jaw-dropping interiors and mouthwatering international plates courtesy of the iconic street food vendors below.

Tower Hill charmer The Dickens Inn is housed inside a historic wooden warehouse dressed up with plants and florals from head to toe. Though the location keeps it discreet, it's certainly not hard to spot; the huge three-storey venue boasts two beer gardens and a buzzing atmosphere fuelled by fresh ales, BBQ food and sports screenings. 

One of the best secret bars in the city and perfect for those that like their drinks with a dose of quirk, head on down to Call Me Mr Lucky for something a little off-the-wall. From cool cocktails to the kitsch interiors, this gem isn't one to be missed.

Only a gold plaque on the wall reveals this bar. Descend into a lair of French-inspired interiors where Parisian chic mixes with desserts and cocktails - a match made in heaven. Make your way to this secret bar for ultimate indulgence and melt-in-the-mouth moments. 

Located in Fitzrovia, The Lucky Pig is an intimate cocktail bar that has bags of atmosphere, with retro furnishings and seriously hot DJ nights come the weekend. Head there for a night of cocktails and fun, before staying to party the night away.

While Old Mary's may look to be an unassuming pub in the heart of Notting Hill, it's the basement that makes it so special. Head downstairs to their cool and illicit bar for a delicious range of bespoke concoctions and nibbles.

Beautiful cocktails, a very interesting history, and poetry in their menus, Disrepute is the definition of a hidden gem in England. Nestled under Kingly Court, this is a great place to enjoy bespoke drinks, a glamorous interior and sophisticated company.

Perfecting a snug and intimate set-up with leather sofas, warm lighting and eccentric artwork on the walls, we only wish we had discovered The Den sooner. You'll find it inside the St. Martin's Lane hotel, welcoming those lucky enough to find it inside for a divine Afternoon Tea experience or just a few drinks from the bespoke G&T menu.

Arguably the most hidden bar of them all, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is concealed behind a Smeg fridge at The Breakfast Club in Spitalfields. Keep a low profile while climbing through the door and take in all the wonders that lie within; think incredible food, from buffalo wings to nachos and corn ribs, and signature cocktails including the exotic Rumble in The Jungle and caramel-flavoured Cinema Paradiso. 

Hidden inside BrewDog Waterloo is this speakeasy bar from award-winning bartender Rich Woods. The intimate space is dimly lit and features vintage artwork for a Prohibition feel, with that theme continuing in the Lost Property Office menu. A highlight? The martini roulette, which features three indistinguishable mini martinis with different flavours and strengths to show the evolution of this cocktail over the years.

Away from the main bustle of Islington is The Narrow Boat; the only pub directly located on the Regent's Canal in the neighbourhood. Take a relaxed stroll along the water and stop by for an exciting range of boozy options, British food, and a balcony space that overlooks the water.

Only a couple of minutes from the station, The Cocktail Bar South Norwood is one of London's hidden gems. A relaxed, jazz-inspired with exceptional, affordable cocktails, expect to find favourites on the menu like a Moscow Mule or Old Fashioned.

The Churchill Arms is one of the most famous pubs in London, but it's not in the most obvious location. The Notting Hill stunner sits on a quiet street corner, enticing punters with a mishmash of eclectic ornaments and old-school decor, fuss-free drinks and an incredible Thai menu.  

Did you know that Camden is home to London - no - the world's only vampire-themed pizzeria? Oozing 80s nostalgia with plenty of quirky goings-on, Lost Souls Pizza is an essential visit for pizza-lovers looking for something a little different. 

Found in Hackney, Night Tales Loft is a New York-inspired rooftop bar that boasts 180-degree views of East London, alongside a heated and covered outdoor terrace. This leafy space transitions from cafe to bar as the day goes on, so swing by for quality coffee or cocktails like the Loft Rum Punch or a frozen negroni. There are some unmissable events on offer here too, from Ibiza-themed brunches to jazz nights every Wednesday.

When it comes to cool bars in London, this Peckham number is a quirky name above the rest. Not only can you join The Four Quarters for sizzling Americana inspired bites and cocktails, but there are also heaps of retro games consoles and a secret speakeasy bar in the basement. 

Found may only offer a selection of 12 cocktails, but their mantra of quality over quantity is something that really rings true. Make your way to this basement bar in Shoreditch, for a drinking experience that promises speakeasy vibes and killer drinks combined. 

The Bourne and Hollingsworth Buildings might look like an idyllic bar, but it's got a bit of a secret. Have a wander around the bar, look behind a few pieces of furniture and you might stumble upon Below & Hidden, a secret basement bar based underneath the venue. 

Think you know Knightsbridge back to front? We bet you don't know about this place. The Hari Hotel Bar & Terrace is offering a relaxing place for a knees-up, with a cosy outdoor seating area, delicious cocktails and a laidback menu of first-class comfort food classics.

Once an old boozer in Bethnal Green, this exposed brick watering hole has had a revamp to become one of the world's best cocktail bars. Find it not far from the station to discover a den of French ciders and classy cocktails. Check out Atelier Coupette in Soho too, for a taste of French elegance in Central. 

Whether you're heading out with friends or on a date with your beau, Supermax is a top spot. This stunning underground haunt touts chic decor inspired by 1970s Milan, and a drool-worthy cocktail menu to boot.

Located behind a fairly non-descript door in the heart of Leicester Square, Opium is worth a visit. This discreet haunt serves a range of delicious Asian cocktails and equally compelling food with a contemporary twist.

If you're looking for hidden gems in London for food... it's bound to be in Brixton. Head down on the Victoria Line and stop off at Shrub and Shutter for interesting cocktails, along with unique small plates, which are complemented by quintessential British flavours. 

Inspired by alfresco Spanish dining, La Terraza is a cute, laid-back terrace in Canary Wharf where you can indulge in a range of scrumptious bites from Iberica. Chow down on cured meats, artisan cheeses and beautifully prepared mains, washed down with a glorious glass of vino.

One of the hidden gems of South London, Hop Kingdom is a bar and skate park all rolled up into one. Whether you fancy hitting the raps, sipping craft brews or hiring out the place for a gig, they're sure to cater to your every need. 

This little cracker, perched on the corner of Grosvenor Square, evokes the spirit of the roaring twenties with its chilled speakeasy vibes. Formerly a luggage room (the clue's in the title), this secret London bar goes beyond a hotel watering hole with date night vibes and incredible mixology.

From seven-course brunches through to candy sweet cocktails, Bobby Fitzpatrick is one of the most unusual places to visit in London. This cool Hampstead hangout is sporting 70s vibes, with yellow wallpaper, ruby red sofas, and date night vibes.

The Portobello Star is the, well, star of Notting Hill. The quaint boozer has been entertaining all sorts of individuals since 1740 and continues to deliver with handmade liquor and exotic cocktails, alongside premium beers and an atmosphere that attracts the coolest crowd around.

Tucked away near Liverpool Street Station, Cafe Luca is a Mediterranean restaurant and bar serving weekend brunches, all-day dining and expertly crafted cocktails. Think dishes like grilled aubergine, shakshuka and enticing salads at this picturesque venue. 

Hidden by an illicit sex shop in Soho, La Bodega Negra may be hard to spot. But if you do manage to find it, you'll be greeted with a stylish, Mexican taqueria, where the margaritas are exactly on point and the grub is enough to make any mouth water.

A quirky, subterranean drinking den under the streets of Soho, Cahoots is the place to go for Brtish 1920s decor and swinging vibes. When your not knocking back the range of classic cocktails, get stuck into the retro-style canapes and bar snacks.