London is brimming with places to enjoy a drink, be it alcoholic or not. In fact, the number of bars in the capital borders on ludicrous. From quirky speakeasies to questionable old-man pubs, it can be difficult to find just the right place to enjoy a tipple. So, to make things easier for you, I’ve narrowed down the options. Here are the chicest, bougiest, best bars in London; my favourite tried and tested watering holes.
Ralph’s Coffee & Bar
If you’ve ever shopped on London’s famous Regent Street, you’ll no doubt have thought ‘help’ at some stage. It is hectic. And that applies year-round. For some much-needed respite, nip into Ralph’s Coffee & Bar located inside the flagship Ralph Lauren Polo Store. You’ll instantly feel calmer and as though you’ve somehow stumbled out of London altogether… into a luxurious, wood-panelled haven.
Cahoots
Have you ever wanted to drink inside an abandoned train station? Well, now’s your chance. Head underground to Cahoots in Soho for an evening you’ll never forget. You’ll be completely transported to the 1940s and it’s utterly enchanting. From the old-fashioned radio broadcast echoing in the bathrooms to the creative cocktail menu provided on Metro-like newspapers, every single detail is intentional. And brilliant.
The entrance can be hard to find as it’s tucked away in Kingly Court. Just lookout for the tube sign – and a dapper host manning the fort.
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The Wolseley
A stone’s throw from the renowned Ritz Hotel lies The Wolseley, a glittering and opulent venue that was once a prestigious car showroom. Now, a glamourous art-deco eatery, seamlessly blending the best of European grandeur with British heritage. Typically recognised as an all-day cafe and restaurant, it can be a little pricey. But I recommend that you at least sample the bar.
It’s worth it to marvel at the domed ceiling and monochrome marble floor as you sip on your champagne cocktail and imagine life as the modern-day Daisy Buchanan.
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The Bletchley
Another one to transport you to the 1940s – clearly a popular era for boozing – this Chelsea-based bar has a bit of a twist. The twist is that you must work for your tipple. Using WW2 Enigma machines to complete various tasks, you’ll aid The Bletchley‘s skilled mixologists in creating your perfect cocktail.
You can book various experiences in advance and choose your preferred difficulty level on the day. It’s a fun experience and a challenge for even the most competent code-cracker.
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Library Bar at The Ned
There’s something about The Ned that I just adore. Most likely, it’s the atmosphere. I’ve yet to visit at a time when it’s not absolutely bursting with energy, which is no easy feat considering how vast the hotel is. Housing an impressive eight restaurants and numerous bars, one of my favourites is The Library Bar. It’s tucked away, hidden from the live music and the throng of bankers letting loose. Honestly, it feels like you’re taking a well-deserved break from one of Gatsby’s wild parties, mixed with a study session in the Griffindor common room. Before you step back out and rejoin the masses, of course.
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The Shard
Few cities are now complete without a sky-high observation deck of sorts – even Melbourne has one. If you’re interested in admiring London from great heights, do not pay for a ticket to The Shard’s observation deck. Instead, head to one of the bars in The Shard’s Shangri-La Hotel. And spend that money on your drink of choice. Yes, it’s a few floors down, but the views are still fantastic. Plus I’d rather pay for a vino than just a view! Who’s with me?
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I hope that this article has inspired you to visit London! If you have any questions about the best bars in London, please do share these in the comments below. I will be continually adding new cocktail and wine bars to this list and would love to hear your suggestions.
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