The best new bars in London

A visit to the Guinness brewery is a typical activity if you're visiting Dublin but now Londoners won't even need to travel thanks to Guinness at Old Brewer's Yard. The venue is a microbrewery but also has a rooftop bar and restaurant, just like the Dublin venue. There's an open fire pit here and you can enjoy a cold and refreshing pint.

True to their name, The Alchemist bars across the capital specialise in advanced mixology, creating distinctive molecular cocktails and showcasing them in stunning, dramatic presentations. Alongside this, a comprehensive all-day dining menu featuring international favourites is offered in a stylishly decorated setting. On selected nights, live DJs provide entertainment, captivating the audience until the early hours.

The Nine Elms Bar, situated across from the reception at the luxurious Park Hyatt London River Thames, is a tranquil haven adorned with striking art pieces. By day, skilled baristas serve expertly brewed coffee and hot beverages, while evenings are ideal for unwinding with a finely crafted cocktail or a selection from the extensive range of spirits.

Pretty Decent Beer Co have been crafting quality brews for quite some time. They focus on innovative, seasonal beers, ranging from IPAs and pale ales to lagers and low-alcohol options. Their creations often sport amusing and offbeat names, such as "I could get better at T*esco for a quid." At their new Bow Wharf taproom, you'll find 12 Czech-style side-pour taps, a rotating line-up of food trucks, and unique offerings like beer and crisp pairings, beer slushies, and even beer-infused soft-serve.

A new London branch of a thriving Swedish bar chain, Boulebar introduces pétanque to Spitalfields. In this chic, contemporary setting, guests can enjoy the laid-back French game on ten well-designed indoor courts, complemented by an authentic charcuterie restaurant and an elegant Parisian-style cocktail bar. Group packages are available too, perfect for team-building activities or large birthday celebrations.

Dynamic Vines, an importer specialising in organic wines, operates a wine bar and bottle shop in East Dulwich. Patrons have the option to take wine home or savour it in-house with no corkage charge. The selection emphasises wines from boutique, eco-conscious vineyards that practise minimal intervention, complemented by charcuterie and cheese boards for snacking. The venue also frequently hosts tastings, winemaker meet-and-greets, and various events tailored for wine enthusiasts.

Located in Mayfair, ABar Rooftop is an upscale rooftop bar with a terrace that boasts panoramic views of the city skyline. At this sophisticated spot, guests can sample craft beers, fine wines, and cocktails with a distinctive Asian twist. A menu of refined nibbles is also available, developed by leading Korean chef Akira Back.

Luum is a late-night cocktail lounge situated in the basement of the former Pantechnicon building. Showcasing Latin American influences in its drink offerings, the bar includes a dedicated laboratory for distilling its own house spirits. This sophisticated venue also regularly features live music, enhancing its vibrant atmosphere.

Quill, a wine bar from the team behind Plume and Finch, specialises in fine wines offered at lower mark-ups, all served in a spacious venue adorned with eclectic artwork and curios from around the globe. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor area designed in the style of an English garden. The wine selection is paired with a menu that showcases the finest of British cuisine.

The 1 Bar, located near Liverpool Street Station, blends live performances by West End talent with creative cocktails from world-class mixologists, creating an energetic nightlife spot. This chic venue is set to be a dynamic meeting point for post-work drinks and social gatherings, complete with DJs, interactive shows, and a diverse playlist from timeless hits to today's favourites.

Right beside chef Anna Haugh's renowned Irish restaurant, Myrtle, you'll discover a charming new addition to the family — an Irish wine bar, affectionately dubbed The Little Sister. This cosy spot is all about celebrating Ireland and its people, with a menu spotlighting wines and dishes crafted either in Ireland or by Irish talents abroad. You can savour an assortment of fine wines, paired with imaginative small plates and bites.

Operated by the same Dutch family that runs the seafood restaurant upstairs, Zum Barbarossa is a stylish speakeasy nestled in the basement of the Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse. In this intimate and elegant venue, guests can indulge in a selection of distinctive cocktails, accompanied by sophisticated small plates like caviar and dressed oysters.

The Blood Orange Bar, an intimate basement speakeasy beneath The Orange hotel in Belgravia, features a main bar and a secluded 16-seat private vault tucked away behind a velvet curtain. Guests can enjoy inventive cocktails paired with wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean-style bar nibbles. The bar also hosts live music, vinyl DJ nights, and broadcasts live sports events.

A new gastropub in Kensington, The Blue Stoops gets its name from a historic pub in Burton-on-Trent. Hand-pumped cask ales are the speciality at this place, but simple and seasonal British pub food is also a speciality. Expect straightforward and classic food and drinks here. The pub comprises of a relaxed bar area and a dining room.

Odyssey Bar & Lounge in Hoxton is a top spot for whiskey enthusiasts. Renowned for its focus on bourbon, the bar offers one of the most extensive American whiskey collections found outside the United States. The vast selection of spirits is paired with a variety of small plates, each crafted to enhance the complex flavours of the drinks. This stylish lounge also hosts tasting events and other gatherings, providing a space to deepen your appreciation for fine whiskey.

Nestled beneath a new location of top Italian eatery Lina Stores, Bar Lina is a speakeasy serving spritzes, Italian wines, and modern twists on classic Italian cocktails. It's a cosy and candlelit venue, with a vibe that'll transport you to 1960s Italy. Snacks that give you a taste of Lina Stores' food are available too.

Occupying the site that used to house The Seveney, Godet is a friendly pub with a strong emphasis on European fine wines. Guests can also choose from a selection of craft beers and other drinks, which can be enjoyed either indoors or in the charming garden. Music lovers will be drawn to the vinyl hi-fi section, where DJs frequently enhance the lively atmosphere.

Situated across four levels near Spitalfields Market, 68 & Shanghai presents two unique venues. The ground level and basement house 68, a wine bar featuring an international selection of wines paired with charcuterie boards, sandwiches, and various nibbles. Above, Shanghai offers a chic, Asian-inspired cocktail bar complete with its own terrace and a private Bartender's Table. This speakeasy-style retreat serves up signature cocktails, complemented by an assortment of dim sum.

The original Cahoots in Soho is well-known for its quirky setting in a disused tube station, and the Borough Yards branch follows suit with a playful twist. Housed in a former post office, the speakeasy is full of on-theme touches, starting with the entrance through a life-sized post box and being greeted by a "postie" on duty. After exploring the creative cocktail menu, your drinks are delivered via pneumatic tubes. Meanwhile, the bar's decor could be described as Total Postal.

Evolving from a pop-up to a permanent venue, Hausu is a listening bar that celebrates the harmony of food, drink, community, and music. Equipped with a vintage HiFi sound system, the bar offers an array of quality wines and cocktails, while the kitchen crafts inventive small plates centred around fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Dang's is a trendy spot in Spitalfields that serves up Thailand's signature spicy fried chicken, known as Hatyai chicken. Diners can choose from wings or whole chickens, paired with salads and a variety of sides. To cool down from the heat, Thai-inspired cocktails are on offer, though beware of the chilli or wasabi vodka options. The intimate basement space boasts exposed brick walls and warm red accents, creating a cosy atmosphere.

Good Measure is a hidden speakeasy-style bar nestled beneath the Daddy Bao Taiwanese restaurant in Tooting. With seating for just 15, this snug and intimate spot is adorned with piles of steamer baskets and softly glowing candles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rotating menu of cocktails and mocktails incorporates Taiwanese-inspired flavours, and a selection of Taiwanese bar snacks is also on offer.

Clock House Tavern is a freshly revitalised pub in Peckham Rye, brought to life by the Parched pub group, celebrated for restoring iconic South London boozers. Blending vintage appeal with modern comfort, the pub boasts oak panelling, antique mirrors, and a spacious beer garden, complemented by a cosy snug, an upstairs bar overlooking the park, and a welcoming community vibe. The drinks selection highlights locally brewed ales, premium whiskeys, and expertly mixed cocktails, while the kitchen serves up hearty and flavourful fare.

Pulse Bar in Bankside is a stylish, modern spot that draws in the afterwork crowd looking to unwind. Alongside a selection of signature and classic cocktails, as well as a variety of other beverages, the bar offers hearty food options like burgers and tacos. Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere with games like darts and beer pong, and the bar is also dog-friendly, making it a great place for both socialising and relaxation.

You Call The Shots is a vibrant, fun-filled spot perfect for mingling and enjoying drinks. This Hackney bar serves top-tier cocktails, fine wines, and crafty brews in an energetic atmosphere. The food offering is equally dynamic, with a rotating kitchen residency that lets each chef take charge (hence the name of the venue). Expect a mix of renowned and emerging culinary talents showcasing their dishes here.

Charming Brockley with a touch of Soho flair, Mauby is a lively bar offering an array of cocktails, craft beers, and alcohol-free beverages. Patrons can also enjoy bar snacks, with a kitchen soon to open, serving a diverse range of small plates. The minimalist venue boasts a warm and cosy atmosphere, with seating around the inviting wooden central bar.

Rasputins, brought to London Fields by the team behind the beloved Dom's Subs, shifts the focus to beverages this time. This laid-back bar aspires to be a friendly local hangout for enjoying a cold beer or a well-crafted martini, but the food is also a major highlight. Patrons can look forward to casual bites like hot dogs and Dom's Subs sandwiches, all served in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Sol's is a cosy neighbourhood wine bar and delicatessen. Adorned with wooden decor and natural hues, and offering counter seating on the street, Sol's combines exquisite wines with a selection of Mediterranean tapas. At lunchtime, visitors can enjoy a variety of salads and sandwiches. Additionally, bottles of wine are available for purchase.

A venue from the team behind the legendary Electric Ballroom, Camden Courtyard is a sunny outdoor spot with a contemporary style. Visit for live music, brunches, and energetic daytime parties, or simply stop by for drinks and street food. The bar serves a full range of drinks, including boozy slushies just made for warm weather.

Located in Islington, Goodbye Horses is a wine bar and restaurant serving seasonal and sustainable small plates with eclectic global inspirations – think Cornish crab blinis and oxtail ragout. It also serves a carefully-curated wine list, showcasing fine organic and biodynamic vintages. This intimate neighbourhood venue has space for around 50 diners.

Jazu Bar began as a pop-up listening bar before finding a permanent home in Deptford in 2024. Outfitted with a bespoke sound system, a DJ booth, and a disco ball, the venue caters to laid-back afternoon gatherings as well as late-night dancing. The drinks menu offers a range of signature cocktails, while the on-site kitchen provides small plates in the evenings and an ingredient-focused brunch at weekends.

Albert's Schloss brings a lively German beer hall to the heart of the city. This is a venue where you can escape - expect roaring fires, live music and entertainment every night, a lively crowd, and delicious food and drinks. German beer is naturally the star of the show but you can also visit for an Alpine meal or fresh products from the bakery.

A lush spot in Canary Wharf for drinks after work, Oasis Bar & Terrace features a terrace and lawn, offers fab views of the area, and stages live music and screens live sport. A comprehensive choice of drinks are on offer at this relaxed destination, plus there are small plates available if you get peckish.

You can go to a party at Stormzy's house if you visit House Party in Soho. This bar in Poland Street is co-owned by the star and offers seven floors of fun in what looks like a domestic setting. Expect music from DJs and live performers, pizza and a wide range of drinks, and a unique environment that means no two nights are the same.

A bar from local resident and DJ Simon Bear, Wood Street Bear is an easygoing neighbourhood venue in Walthamstow. Visit for sustainable wines and local craft beers, as well as great music on vinyl, including sets from local DJs. Pork pies and cheese toasties made with locally-supplied cheese are on offer if you're peckish.

Bar-meets-house party The Little Violet Door brings the concept of its sister venues to Carnaby. Let loose in an unpretentious setting with a style inspired by swinging 1960s London. This lively spot is open til late and serves food and drinks throughout the day. The venue has different areas to explore, plus there are games to play.

No. 23 is a bar from Carousel, and is based in the restaurant's former incubator space. This intimate and minimalist spot has just 23 seats and specialises in serving mezcal and tostadas. A small range of other bar snacks, as well as original cocktails, are available too, plus there's a lengthy selection of mezcal to choose from.

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city whilst you sip on Instagrammable cocktails at Circe's. This Mediterannean-inspired rooftop bar enhances the setting with lights and palm trees, whilst DJs provide the soundtrack. It's a spacious venue where you can have a great time from afternoon until late at night.

Located on the roof of John Lewis in Oxford Street, 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen offers impressive city views and a relaxed feel. Sip on refreshing drinks and enjoy light nibbles at this summery spot, featuring grassy flooring, laid-back wicker furniture, and a private area for special events. The comprehensive drinks list ranges from cocktails to soft drinks.

Although the pub was built in the 19th century, The Hero is reopening with Phil Winser and James Gummer, the duo behind gastropub The Pelican, at the helm. Set across four floors, the venue has its original features along with modern design. There are several distinct areas and you can visit for drinks or to sample elevated British pub food.

Located at the historic Royal Exchange, Engel is a cocktail bar that takes inspiration from Weimar Germany. This lively spot is a venue from restaurateur Des Gunewardena, serving German beers, vintage cocktails, and snacks. The venue also has an outside terrace and a performance space for exciting cabaret acts.

Perched beneath Soho restaurant The Counter, the aptly-named Under The Counter is a cosy cocktail spot and listening bar. Check out some records in this snug setting whilst enjoying well-mixed cocktails. Grilled dishes from the upstairs restaurant kitchen are also on offer. The bar hosts events regularly and has a cutting-edge sound system.

July takes inspiration from Alsace. Food is served throughout the day at this convivial destination, but guests are also welcome to drop by for a drink. This place is also a wine bar serving a specially-selected range of wines sourced from small producers from around Europe. Enjoy a glass in the evening accompanied by bar snacks and small plates.

The Volley is an inclusive drinking spot in East London. Football is at the heart of this welcoming venue, served up alongside quality drinks, hearty food, and plenty of entertainment like gigs, quizzes, and exhibitions. Of course, the venue is well-equipped to screen all of the important sporting action.

Located at Battersea Power Station, Two Drops is the ideal bar for cheese and wine fans. This cosy and comfortable spot has indoor and outdoor seating, serves a curated wine selection, and also specialises in cheese toasties and other comfort food. If wine isn't for you, there's also a list of classic cocktails and draft beer available.

Karaoke fans in London are in for a treat when BAM Karaoke arrives in the capital. It's the largest karaoke bar in all of Europe, offering a sleek and luxurious space to belt out your favourite tunes. There are over 20 private karaoke rooms plus a stage for the professionals. Drinks and food are available from the bar to keep you going.

Three Sheets has long been a staple of the Dalston cocktail scene and in 2024 it's expanding with another venue in Soho. This intimate and sophisticated spot is known for serving just nine elegantly-crafted cocktails at a time, with the options changing every week. The place is buzzy but feels upmarket.

Shoreditch bar Chiave is a stylish cocktail bar that stays open late and is great for drinking and dancing the night away. This venue pairs distinctive original cocktails with a carefully curated playlist that really enhances the atmosphere. In a friendly and welcoming environment, guests can sample creative cocktails, plus there are French and Spanish wines and beer.

Located on the ground floor of Brazilian rodizio restaurant Fazenda, Fino is a refined cocktail bar with a tropical look and exotic flavours on the menu. Premium spirits and imaginative South American-inspired cocktails are the speciality here. Light bar snacks such as grilled octopus or Brazilian cheese bread are also on offer.

Nancy Spains is an Irish pub in East London and it's all about Irish whiskey here. Inspired by bootlegging and the vibrant atmosphere of Shoreditch, this place offers an exclusive collection of whiskeys as well as innovative cocktails and Irish stout. Snacks are also available, plus there's live music on regularly to keep the fun atmosphere going.

Camden pub The Constitution closed abruptly in February 2020 but it's back on the scene as of March 2024. This canalside venue is set over three floors, including a roof terrace offering great views of the area. Guests can enjoy a full range of drinks as well as fresh and seasonal British pub food, including plant-based dishes.

Enjoy Mexican flavours at El Bar de Cavita, located beneath Cavita in Marylebone. This bar is rustic and low-lit, serving up Mexican spirits, vibrant cocktails, and Mexican street food. You'll see well-known spirits like mezcal and tequila as well as less common drinks like sotol. It's a great spot before heading into the restaurant for a meal or just for a little taste of Mexico.

Part of the popular group of Mr Fogg's venues, Mr Fogg's City Tavern is located mere moments from Liverpool Street station. Expect a lively interior packed with objects and elaborate decor. You can sample draft beers and pub grub or visit the more intimate saloon bar for a cocktail. Events are on regularly at this bar.

Coming from the team behind Sager + Wilde, Bar Bruno is a cosy neighbourhood wine bar near Victoria Park. It's named after the owner's father. At this trendy destination you can sample quality biodynamic wines. If you find one you really love, there's also a bottle shop on-site where you can purchase your favourite to take home.