Best Bars in the West End

The West End is one of the busiest and most vibrant districts in the world. The variety of shopping, eating, drinking and clubbing options (along with its world famous theatres) have been amongst the best and most diverse in the world for decades and new exciting sites continue to open throughout the year. So, amongst all of the possibilities, where are the best places for tipple? Here are a few West End bars we think deserve a visit.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 22nd May 2024




Thirst Soho

Stupid Hour and 1 other offer

Thirst Bar, modestly tucked away in the less hectic Tottenham Court Road side of the West End, is a fun and independently owned cocktail bar in the heart of Soho. In its 10th year, the late night cocktail bar is split over two floors with a cocktail bar on each. Al fresco drinking on the ground floor and a snug VIP booth area provides the drinker with a number of varying environments to choose from. 

The Refinery New Street Square

Thanksgiving

Looking out onto New Street Square with all its gracious greenery, The Refinery New Street Square boasts one of the best outdoor spaces of any bar in the West End. Plonk yourself down at a table and get ready for some outdoor sessioning! Work your way through the extensive (yet affordable) selection of cocktails and beers with your boozing buddies.

Quaglino's

Perched in St James', Quaglino's is a space of truly decadent drinking and dining dressed in opulent interiors, sweeping staircases and bartenders with showmanship. This restaurant bar knows no boundaries when it comes to indulgent and luxuriant partying at its best. Think theatrical, think exquisite mixology and think late licence come the weekends. 

Swift Soho

If you're looking for a sophisticated place to sip some top-class cocktails then you've got to hit up Swift. Located on Old Compton Street, this haunt combines elegant interiors with a European apertivo vibe across two floors. Slide into Art Deco-style sofas and enjoy a Sgpoppino made with lemon sorbet and prosecco upstairs, or a Humbug featuring Hennessy VS cognac and Eminente 7yr Cuban rum downstairs, as well as an expansive whisky collection. 

Blame Gloria Covent Garden

NHS/Blue Light Discount and 2 other offers

Despite the plethora of West End Bars to chose from, Blame Gloria stands out as one of the best. If you are in the Covent Garden / West End Area, want a lively drinking vibe all week long, want to be served by attentive and always unpretentious bartenders, love a blend of exciting music and expertly made cocktails, Blame Gloria may just be the place for you. 

Dovetail Bar - Covent Garden

Dovetail Bar can be found close to several theatres, hidden away above a restaurant. This intimate haunt provides the perfect escape from the bustling streets below, whether you're beginning the night here or stopping by for a post-theatre drink. Expect quirky twists on classic cocktails, like the piña colada with Dulce de leche and sweet sherry or a clarified rum and coke, served in relaxing, stylish surrounds.

Be At One Covent Garden Lyceum

Fancy Extra Long Happy Hour? (Requires an app Download) and 1 other offer

For those wanting a friendly cocktail bar to relax in after a long day spent admiring the West End sights or the shops, then head to Be At On Covent Garden. With delicious cocktails and a cool bar to discuss the days events in, you'll be up for staying longer than you expected (probably all night) with the buzzing atmosphere egging you on. For those pre-Theatre drinks, nothing beats a classic mojito to get your juices flowing for the show.