Bar – Guides to London

Soho has changed quite a bit over the years, but it has remained cool throughout, especially once night falls and the hip crowds come out in search of fun. There's no shortage of cool bars in Soho with trendy decor, expertly poured drinks, and fashionable crowds, from live music joints with energeti...

Partying in Soho can be an expensive proposition, especially if you're looking to make the most of your time here. Thankfully, one of the most famous nightlife spots in the world comes prepared for those on a budget as well, with plenty of cheap Soho bars to choose from. Our guide to the best cheap...

Looking to watch a big match with a lively crowd, hang out with your mates, or just grab some tasty food with the footie on in the background? Soho's got you covered. This buzzing part of London has a handful of spots that show live sports and know how to bring the energy when a major tournament's o...

Soho has long been the heart of London's thriving nightlife, and its jazz bars are no exception. Whether you're a die-hard jazz lover or simply in the mood for some smooth tunes, this iconic district houses a mix of cosy venues and iconic spots where the music flows and the vibes are high. Soho's ja...

It's no secret that Soho's wining and dining scene is among the city's best. The area is known for being chock full of incredible restaurants, independent boutiques, old-school pubs and an excellent selection of wine bars. Whether you're hunting for your next favourite natty wine or simply searching...

Soho is the beating heart of London's LGBTQ+ nightlife, celebrating diversity and pride at its core. This dynamic neighbourhood has been an integral part of London's LGBTQ+ community for decades, with its roots in the post-war era when it became a hub for queer people. Soho is choc-a-bloc with renow...

Soho has long been the beating heart of London's famed live music scene, with history, creativity, and culture colliding on its bustling street. The iconic district, known for its rich musical heritage, has hosted legendary artists and continues to thrive as a hotspot for live performances. From int...

In Soho, the main action is on the streets, but there are still opportunities for taking in the hustle and bustle of this famous London neighbourhood from high above. Though rooftop space is at a premium in Soho, several bars have set up perches above street level, offering striking views of the cit...

Wander through Soho on any night of the week and you'll see crowds of people enjoying the area's famed drinking culture. You can find bars of all sorts here, from seedy and disreputable to some of the best ones in the whole world. Whether you're looking to try an exciting new concoction or just want...

Tooting boasts a diverse pub scene that perfectly encapsulates this dynamic South London neighbourhood. You'll find a mix of places here, from traditional and modern pubs to craft beer bars and more. Many of the pubs also have interesting historical backgrounds, with several retaining their original...

London is a city famed for its rich history and pub culture, which has become an important part of British heritage. Brits are incredibly proud of their pubs, and many of them tell the tales of all important historical moments. London is home to many, including a collection of pubs with names as int...

Sometimes you head home after one drink, other times you … don't. Thankfully, living in a city the size of London means there's always some place you can drag yourself to after your local turns on the lights. London's late-night bar scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from li...

Looking to get your drinks on without breaking the bank? This guide is your ticket to exploring the best spots in the capital where you can enjoy expertly-crafted cocktails whilst staying within budget. Whether you're a local looking for a new haunt or a visitor seeking to experience London's cockta...

Pubs are fun to visit at any time of year but hunkering down with a few drinks can be especially enjoyable when it's cold outside. There's no shortage of cosy pubs London-wide, ideal for those who love nothing more than snuggling into a comfortable chair next to a roaring fire and enjoying a drink.

25th January means it's Burns Night, celebrating the birthday of Robert (Rabbie) Burns, the national poet of Scotland who was born in 1759. Don't think that the partying is just limited to our friends in Scotland though – plenty of venues in London are putting on special menus and lively events to h...

In London you can find all kinds of pubs, from reliable chains and down-to-earth local boozers to some that are absolute stunners. Across the city you'll find stylish contemporary venues as well as elaborate pubs that have stood the test of time. If you want somewhere a little more picturesque than...

So you fancy a drink, but you're on a budget – what do you do? With Wetherspoons rapidly closing down pubs all over the city, the opportunities for a cheap and cosy pint are becoming more scarce. All is not lost if you want the fun of a trip to the pub without a serious price tag; when it comes to c...

Fish and chips is an iconic British dish, the golden, crispy batter and perfectly cooked chips a staple of UK cuisine, and one of the best places to enjoy it is a proper pub. You should always have a good pub that serves fish and chips in your back pocket for hunger emergencies, with the authentic p...

Dining or drinks al fresco is fun, but the British weather in winter doesn't make it easy. With chilly temperatures, the threat of rain, and even the odd scattering of snow, it's preferable to have some shelter. Fortunately there's a happy medium between the two – getting comfy in an igloo. Igloos a...

Greenwich is home to a great range of attractions and venues that make it a fab part of the city to live in or visit for the day. There's a thriving pub scene here, too, with a huge range of drinking spots that cater to every preference. From smart gastropubs to down-to-earth boozers, there are load...

Beaujolais Nouveau Day is a pretty big deal if you're a wine aficionado. Falling on the third Thursday of November each year (this year it's the 21st), it's the day when the newest red wine from Beaujolais in the Burgundy region of France is released. Unlike other French wines, it's ready to drink i...

Tucked away amidst world-renowned museums, historic buildings, and leafy garden squares, South Kensington offers some of the finest bars in the city. Among the various bars South Kensington calls its own, you'll find beautiful traditional pubs, classy cocktail bars, prohibition-style speakeasies, an...

The West London suburb of Ealing probably isn't the first place that springs to mind when you think about London's nightlife. Whilst it might not have a reputation like Soho or Shoreditch, that doesn't mean there aren't some great places for a drink in the area. If you're looking for a fantastic Eal...

London has a vast array of different types of accommodation for visitors. Staying at a pub that has its own guest rooms is one fab idea – it's usually more affordable than a fancy hotel and gives you a boutique hotel experience along with all the fun and atmosphere of a typical British pub. If you'r...

With its rich sporting history and deep-rooted pub culture, London has always been a hub for rugby enthusiasts worldwide. The capital's many watering holes come alive with the roars of fans enjoying the Rugby World Cup, Six Nations, and other major rugby union matches. Our guide to where to watch ru...

Belgravia's well-heeled reputation might bring cocktail and champagne bars to mind. Whilst such sophisticated spots are indeed a fixture of the area, that doesn't mean there's a shortage of pubs with a friendly atmosphere and down-to-earth attitude. If you want to drink in a traditional venue or enj...

From traditional boozers to trendy gastropubs, there are plenty of spots where you can quench your thirst or tuck into some tasty pub grub when you're in Marylebone. This sophisticated area has lots of attractions and if you like going to the pub you certainly won't be disappointed. If you're not su...

Once they get their big break and start bringing home the big bucks, many actors, musicians, athletes and other celebrities decide to invest in the hospitality business. For some, it's the realisation of a lifelong dream, others see it as a good investment opportunity, and some probably just want a...

Chelsea is an upmarket part of West London with all sorts of high-end shopping and dining options. If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a few drinks, this sophisticated area won't let you down. From vibrant cocktail bars mixing original drinks to sleek wine bars, the area is full of interesting...

Thanks to the high density of five-star hotels and luxurious shopping opportunities in Knightsbridge, this affluent London district is where to go if you're looking for drinks in an atmospheric, sophisticated setting. From glamorous hotel bars and elegant cocktail lounges to stylish wine bars, Knigh...

London has a buzzing food and drink scene, with new bars as well as restaurants opening up regularly. If you're the type of person who's always on the look-out for new venues and experiences, our list of the newest bars in London will keep you in the know about the latest places to go for a drink. W...

More and more of us are now choosing to drink less alcohol or give it up altogether. That means that zero-alcohol alternatives are becoming more commonplace, including alcohol-free spirits and well-crafted mocktails that give you all the fun of a cocktail without the headache the next day. If you're...

Born as a response to the segregation and racism experienced by South Asian immigrants in the second half of the 20th century, desi pubs are a testament to the power of multiculturalism – failing pubs, taken over by British-Indian landlords and turned into a success story. With food and community at...

Buzzy Marylebone has lots of cool places to explore, from Michelin-starred restaurants to top-ranked cocktail bars that are great options for beginning or continuing your night. If you fancy a drink in the area you'll find lots of pubs and bars to try out. From rum shacks to wine bars, we've found s...

Beer pong might not have taken off in the UK to the extent it has in the USA, but there are still quite a few places around London where you can get your game on. What's more, some enterprising souls have actually evolved the game and adapted it to the British palate, replacing beer with prosecco as...

Looking for a taste of the tropics in London? Look no further than the city's top tiki bars! From subterranean sustainable bars with innovative cocktails to tropical havens with private huts and pirate caves, London's tiki bar scene has something for everyone. Whether you're craving signature fruity...

Wine isn't just delicious, it's complex, diverse, and infinitely fascinating. If it's your drink of choice you might be interested in going to a wine tasting and learning more about it. All over the city there are wine bars and shops running tastings so you can get some insight into your favourite t...

From the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile breweries to the bustling Deptford taprooms, every corner of London is overflowing with places producing and pouring a wide range of refreshing beers. Whether you want to embark on a brewery tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the art of beer making or you'd...

A refreshing gin and tonic after a long day at work or on a breezy summer evening is a real treat. The UK's love of gin goes back hundreds of years, with the spirit even named as England's national liquor. There's no shortage of gin bars in London, from classic gin palaces to trendy new spots pushin...

Whisky and whiskey are beloved spirits that have been enjoyed for centuries around the world. In London, you can find a plethora of options when it comes to whisky tastings and masterclasses, from intimate, cosy bars to grand, luxurious venues. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curio...

From plagues and great fires to world wars and global pandemics, the city has had its fair share of tumultuous times, but if there's one thing it has perfected, it's pulling the perfect pint. The city has a healthy smattering of quaint old boozers that are perfect for sinking a few pints in a vintag...

For some of us a great night out just isn't complete without music. From smooth jazz in the background to raucous live bands that get everyone going, music can really be the icing on the cake for your evening. Fortunately London has a huge variety of bars that have live music on regularly. Whatever...

Every year, on 17 March, the world celebrates St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. In the capital, a variety of fun activities and events that showcase Irish culture and traditions help mark the occasion. Our guide to where to celebrate St Patrick's Day in London highlights some of the best thin...

London's live music scene is one of the best in the world. From the Amy Winehouse days in Camden to Jimi Hendrix's former stomping ground in Mayfair, the city has always been a hub for some of the most incredible musical talent to exist. Many pubs have played a part in this and continue to provide a...

If you're looking for the best Irish pub in London to sink a pint of the black stuff, you've come to the right place. From whiskey watering holes and toe-tapping trad bars to craic-filled corner pubs, London is full of traditional boozers oozing with Irish charm. Here's our guide to the best pubs in...

Margarita fans rejoice, this is your time to shine. If you can't hop on a flight to Tulum to celebrate in true Mexican style (we wish), then we have the next best thing: this guide to where you can find the best margaritas in London. The capital boasts a pretty impressive calibre of margarita menus,...

Londoners love a trip to the pub and the only way to make a pub better is by attaching a beautiful beer garden. The city’s many beer gardens are often rammed during the summer months but many of us love hanging out in them all year round. If you’re looking for some al fresco drinks with...

In 2022, London was voted the most expensive city in the UK for a night out. Yikes. But lucky for us, it also has its fair share of happy hours to keep you thrifty. So, if you're done with spending your monthly wage on overly expensive cocktails and want to get frugal, you're in the right place. Fro...

If you spend time in Victoria, or even if you’re just passing through when you’re getting a train or coach, there’s a good chance you might want to enjoy a drink in the area. Fortunately, there are a variety of bars in Victoria that cater to a range of different preferences and are...

Like any self-respecting London neighbourhood, Clapham is full of welcoming neighbourhood boozers, ranging from classic pubs to more quirky establishments. Whether you're after a fresh pint, a filling meal, chilling in a nice beer garden, or a lively, sociable night, you're sure to find the right pl...