One thing about the brits… they know how to drink. One of my favorite aspects of life in London was their pub culture – every afternoon after work, crowds of people would hang around outside of local pubs and socialize with their coworkers and friends. It felt so different than what I was used to in Chicago and I loved it! needless to say, I definitely took part in this scene (as much as my job allowed me to), so consider my list of London bars and pubs below to be well vetted. Keep reading or jump to a section by clicking a link below.
pubs
perfect for a pint, really at any hour (well until midnight or so)! many of these also have good traditional british food like sunday roasts, sausage rolls, fish and chips, etc. there are obviously a tonnnn of cool pubs all over the city, but these are just my favorites that I found while living there.
Williams Ale and Cider House – Spitalfields
loved this pub both for its atmosphere, and also because it was literally steps from my apartment’s front door. there are always people hanging around here after work!
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – Holborn
the oldest pub in London (or at least that’s what they say). cool atmosphere!
Thomas Cubitt Pub – Belgravia
an adorable pub in the heart of Belgravia (one of my fav neighborhoods).
The Coach Makers Arms – Marylebone
another cute pub, owned by the same group as the Thomas Cubitt (they have several all over the city). love their upstairs dining area.
The Culpeper – Spitalfields
A classic pub atmosphere with great food. what more could you ask for!
Mikkeller – Shoreditch
A well-known danish chain of pubs serving up really good beers. Really like the atmosphere of this place too. They have locations all over Europe!
Wine bars
I feel like there are definitely more wine bars in London than in other major cities around the world, and maybe that just goes back to the brits being good at drinking? no idea. but not complaining!
Noble Rot – Soho, Mayfair, and Lamb’s Conduit
looove this little spot! Haven’t been to the Mayfair location, but I prefer the Soho location to the Lamb’s conduit location if I had to choose. it has a cozy and inviting atmosphere – perfect for enjoying a glass of wine (or a few).
Amie Wine Studio – Belgravia
super cute wine shop tucked away in a courtyard area called Eccleston Yards. lovely outdoor space!
Bottles – Spitalfields
Laid back italian spot with a great wine selection. good place to just grab a glass and hang out for a bit!
Cocktail Bars
more of a standard “bar” you could say. a range of upscale martini bars to late night live music spots to keep you busy all night!
Sky Garden – London City
located high up in the so-called “walkie talkie” building, this bar offers unparalleled views of the entire city and beyond. there are a couple of bars as well as a few restaurants at the top. you have to make a reservation weeks in advance though!
The connaught – Mayfair
This bar is Consistently rated among the world’s best bars, and for good reason. The bar is tastefully decorated and the attention to detail in both the decor and service are unmatched. They are famous for their martinis and make a whole show out of it! it’s definitely on the pricier side, but worth it for the experience in my opinion.
The Wolseley – St. James’s
A stunning restaurant with a great bar. highly recommend their espresso martinis.
Madison – London City
fun bar with awesome views of St. Paul’s, surrounding buildings, and the London eye.
Eastcheap Records – London City
a go-to going out spot! they often have live music, too. definitely more of a late night spot.
looking for more?
Check out my list of London restaurant recommendations for all the best spots in the city!
Questions / comments?
let me know below!
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