Discover London's Best Speakeasy Bars: A Hidden Gem Guide

London's got a secret, and it's hiding behind unassuming doors and down secret staircases. If you're tired of the usual crowded pubs and want to find somewhere a bit more special, you're in luck. We've been sniffing out the best speakeasy london spots, the kind of places that make you feel like you've discovered something truly unique. Forget the obvious; these are the bars where the cocktails are as intriguing as the entrance. So, ready to uncover a bit of London's hidden bar scene?

Key Takeaways

• London is home to numerous speakeasy bars, offering a unique and often hidden drinking experience.

• These bars are known for their discreet entrances, intimate atmospheres, and creative cocktail menus.

• From Bloomsbury to Shoreditch, different areas of London boast their own distinctive speakeasy gems.

• Many speakeasies draw inspiration from historical periods like Prohibition or wartime eras.

• Finding the best speakeasy london often involves looking beyond the typical tourist spots for a more exclusive feel.

Discover London's Best Speakeasy Bars: A Hidden Gem Guide

London's bar scene is always buzzing, but sometimes you just want to find a place that feels a bit more special, you know? A spot that’s not on every tourist's radar, where the drinks are top-notch and the atmosphere is just right. That's where the speakeasy comes in. These hidden bars are like little secrets waiting to be uncovered, offering a unique escape from the everyday hustle. Forget the crowded pubs and noisy clubs; we're talking about intimate settings, creative cocktails, and a sense of discovery. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a quiet corner to catch up with a friend, London has a speakeasy for you. We've rounded up some of the best, from Bloomsbury to Bethnal Green, so you can start your own hidden gem hunt.

The Vault: A Bloomsbury Hideaway

Down in Bloomsbury, The Vault offers a truly clandestine experience. It’s the kind of place you might walk past a dozen times without noticing, which is exactly part of its charm. Inside, the vibe is hushed and sophisticated, perfect for those who appreciate a well-made drink in a relaxed setting. They’re known for their carefully curated selection of spirits and a cocktail menu that’s both classic and inventive. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a quiet night out without the usual city noise.

Evans & Peel Detective Agency: Earl's Court Enigma

Stepping into Evans & Peel Detective Agency in Earl's Court is like stepping back in time. This place has a unique theme, presenting itself as a detective agency where you can, well, solve mysteries. The atmosphere is moody and intriguing, with dim lighting and vintage decor. You’ll need to know how to get in, of course – it’s not as simple as just walking through the door. They serve up some seriously good cocktails, and the whole experience feels like a bit of an adventure. It’s definitely one for those who enjoy a bit of theatre with their drinks.

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town: Aldgate's Secret Entrance

Finding The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town in Aldgate is part of the fun. You’ll need to head through a coffee shop and then descend into a hidden bar. Once you’re down there, the space is cosy and has a really friendly feel. It’s a popular spot for good reason, serving up a great range of drinks in a setting that feels both relaxed and a little bit special. It’s a fantastic example of how a simple, unassuming entrance can lead to a really enjoyable drinking experience.

London is a city that loves its secrets, and its speakeasy bars are a testament to that. These hidden spots offer more than just a drink; they provide an experience, a chance to step away from the ordinary and into something a little more extraordinary. Each one has its own personality, its own story, and its own way of making you feel like you've stumbled upon something truly special.

Here’s a quick look at what makes these places stand out:

• Atmosphere: From dimly lit corners to vintage decor, the vibe is key.

• Cocktails: Expect expertly crafted drinks, often with unique twists.

• Secrecy: The thrill of finding the entrance is half the fun.

• Intimacy: Smaller spaces mean a more personal and relaxed experience.

If you're keen to explore more of London's hidden bars, you might find some inspiration at London's top speakeasy bars.

Covent Garden's Intimate Cocktail Havens

Covent Garden, with its lively atmosphere and street performers, might not be the first place you think of for a quiet, hidden drink. But tucked away, you'll find some truly special spots that offer a more intimate experience. These aren't your loud, bustling pubs; they're places where the focus is on the craft of the cocktail and a more personal vibe.

Cellar Door: A Nostalgic Basement Bar

Down a flight of stairs, right in the heart of Covent Garden, Cellar Door feels like stepping into another era. It's a small place, seating only about 60 people, which really adds to the cosy feel. The decor has a definite 1940s influence, all plush furnishings and intimate nooks. They're known for putting on a bit of a show, with cabaret, drag, and burlesque performances happening regularly. It’s the kind of place where you feel close to the action, no matter where you're sitting. The cocktails are pretty good too, with a menu that seems to change and offer something a bit different.

• Intimate Seating: Limited capacity means a personal experience.

• Live Entertainment: Cabaret and burlesque add a unique flair.

• Nostalgic Ambiance: A step back in time with its 1940s theme.

This bar is a real find for anyone looking for something a bit different from the usual London nightlife. It’s not just about the drinks; it’s the whole atmosphere.

The Blind Pig: Soho's Chic Speakeasy Style

While technically just on the edge of Soho, The Blind Pig, located within the Blindspot, offers a sophisticated take on the speakeasy. You'll find it at 45 St Martin's Lane. The cocktail menu is quite something, taking you on a bit of a world tour. You can try drinks inspired by places like Australia, with ingredients like Beluga vodka and caviar, or Mexico, featuring mezcal and even a hint of guacamole. What's really neat is that each cocktail comes with a suggestion for a small plate to pair it with, and even a recommended song for your playlist. It’s all about creating a full sensory experience. It’s a bit more polished than some of the more rustic speakeasies, aiming for a chic and immersive vibe.

Cocktail Inspiration Examples:

Destination	Key Ingredients
Gold Coast, Aus	Beluga vodka, Papa Salt gin, Lillet Blanc, caviar
Oaxaca, Mexico	MayaJules Mezcal, Cenote Blanco, Fair Chipotle, guac
Santorini, Greece	Bombay Sapphire, Ouzo, honey, Greek yoghurt
Lima, Peru	Pisco, lavender syrup, sea salt, egg white

East London's Enchanting Speakeasy Escapes

East London has a knack for hiding some truly special spots, and its speakeasy scene is no exception. Forget the usual pub crawl; these places offer a bit of mystery and a whole lot of charm. They're perfect for when you want to feel like you've discovered a secret, a place where the cocktails are as intriguing as the entrance.

Discount Suit Company: Petticoat Lane's Tailored Tipples

Tucked away behind what looks like an old tailor's shop, Discount Suit Company is a real find. You'd easily walk past it if you weren't looking, which is part of the fun. Inside, it's all about classic cocktails with a bit of a twist, served in a cosy, intimate setting. They've got some really interesting concoctions on the menu, using quality spirits and fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for the evening and forget about the outside world.

Here's a taste of what you might find on their menu:

• Purple Noise: Teeling Small Batch Whiskey, Fig, Amaro Montenegro, Blackberry and Bay, Leaf Squash, Club Soda.

• Meladori Magpie: Bombay Sapphire Gin, Cocchi Rosa Americano, Fig Leaf, Pepita Syrup, Citrus.

• The Tailor's Old Fashioned: A classic with a house-made twist.

Shanghai Cocktail Lounge: Spitalfields' Oriental Flair

This place really transports you. Shanghai Cocktail Lounge brings together the glamour of old-school cocktail bars with the flavours of China. It feels like stepping back in time, with dim lighting, plush seating, and a really sultry vibe. The cocktails are where they really shine, blending Prohibition-era ideas with Asian ingredients. Think unique flavour combinations you won't find just anywhere. And if you get peckish, they do a pretty decent dim sum to go with your drinks.

The atmosphere here is something else. It’s dark, it’s moody, and it feels like a proper escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Definitely a spot for a more sophisticated night out.

135 Bar & Lounge: Bethnal Green's Art Deco Delight

While not strictly a speakeasy in the hidden-entrance sense, 135 Bar & Lounge in Bethnal Green has that exclusive, hidden-gem feel. It's inspired by the Art Deco era, so expect stylish interiors, a bit of jazz, and a generally sophisticated vibe. They focus on well-crafted cocktails and have a good selection of spirits. It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening, whether you're catching up with friends or on a date. The attention to detail in the decor and the drinks makes it stand out.

Shoreditch & Beyond: Uncovering Unique Speakeasy Experiences

This part of London, particularly Shoreditch and its surrounding areas, is a treasure trove for those seeking out those elusive, hidden bars. It’s where you’ll find places that don’t shout about themselves, but rather whisper their secrets to those who are in the know. Forget your flashy signs; here, the entrance is part of the adventure.

Nightjar: Shoreditch's Prohibition Past

Stepping into Nightjar feels like a genuine trip back in time. It’s not just the dimly lit, vintage decor that does it; the whole vibe screams Prohibition era, but with a really cool, modern edge. They’ve got live music most nights, which really adds to the atmosphere. The menu itself is a journey through cocktail history, starting way back in the 1600s and working its way up to more recent times. It’s a place that’s gained international fame, and for good reason. If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, this is it. You absolutely have to try their signature cocktails; they’re something else.

Seed Library: Shoreditch's Retro Retreat

Seed Library offers a different kind of throwback. Think more 70s and 80s cool, a bit more laid-back than Nightjar, but just as intriguing. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately feel like you’ve discovered something special. The cocktails are creative, often with unexpected ingredients that just work. It’s a great spot for a more relaxed evening, perhaps catching up with friends without the usual city noise.

• Cocktail Focus: Expect inventive twists on classics.

• Atmosphere: Relaxed, retro, and intimate.

• Vibe: Perfect for a quiet catch-up or a date.

Callooh Callay: A Long-Standing Speakeasy Favourite

Callooh Callay has been around for a while, and it’s a firm favourite for a reason. It manages to feel both classic and contemporary, a tricky balance to strike. The entrance is discreet, leading you into a space that’s buzzing but still feels personal. They’re known for their playful approach to cocktails, and the staff really know their stuff. It’s a place that consistently delivers a great night out, whether you’re a seasoned speakeasy hunter or just looking for a good drink in a cool setting. They even have a secret room upstairs if you can find it!

Finding these hidden bars is part of the fun. It’s about the journey as much as the destination, and Shoreditch really excels at offering these unique, tucked-away spots that make you feel like you’ve found a real gem. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you have to seek out.

Bar Name	Location	Key Feature
Nightjar	Shoreditch	Live Music, Vintage Vibe
Seed Library	Shoreditch	Retro Decor, Creative Cocktails
Callooh Callay	Islington (nearby)	Secret Room, Playful Drinks

Central London's Secret Sips

Central London might seem like a whirlwind of activity, but tucked away from the main thoroughfares are some truly special spots for a quiet drink. These aren't your average pubs; they're hidden gems that require a bit of seeking out, offering a more intimate and often more sophisticated drinking experience. Finding these places feels like being let in on a well-kept secret.

Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration: A Steampunk Basement

Descend into a world of Victorian adventure at Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration. This basement bar is a treasure trove of curiosities, packed with artefacts and mementos from imaginary travels. The atmosphere is thick with the spirit of exploration, making it a unique place to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail. Their menu is as adventurous as the decor, featuring inventive concoctions inspired by far-flung destinations. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, surrounded by fascinating objects and the hum of conversation.

The Bloomsbury Club Bar: Tarot-Inspired Cocktails

For a touch of mystique, head to The Bloomsbury Club Bar. This spot offers a more refined, almost clandestine feel, with a particular focus on its unique cocktail menu. What sets it apart is the tarot-inspired selection, where each drink is linked to a card from the tarot deck. It’s a fun and intriguing way to choose your tipple, and the bartenders are happy to guide you through the mystical offerings. The bar itself has a cosy, wood-panelled interior that feels both classic and intimate, perfect for a thoughtful evening.

Sibin Speakeasy: Whisky Behind a Bookcase

Prepare for a bit of a treasure hunt at Sibin Speakeasy. Located within the Great Scotland Yard Hotel, this bar is literally hidden behind a bookcase. Once you've found your way in, you'll discover a haven for whisky lovers. They boast an impressive selection of over 170 whiskies from all corners of the globe. The space is designed to be a cosy, intimate den, making it an ideal spot to sample some rare drams or simply enjoy a classic whisky in a truly secret setting. It’s a place that rewards the curious and offers a quiet escape from the city bustle. You can explore their extensive whisky collection and find your perfect pour.

Here's a quick look at what makes these spots stand out:

• Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration: Steampunk decor, adventurous cocktails, unique atmosphere.

• The Bloomsbury Club Bar: Tarot-themed drinks, intimate setting, classic cocktails.

• Sibin Speakeasy: Hidden bookcase entrance, vast whisky selection, cosy ambiance.

These central London speakeasies offer more than just drinks; they provide an experience. Each one has its own distinct personality, from the adventurous spirit of Mr Fogg's to the mystical allure of The Bloomsbury Club Bar and the whisky-focused secrecy of Sibin. They are perfect for those looking for something a little different, a place to escape the ordinary and enjoy a well-made drink in a memorable setting.

Soho's Clandestine Cocktail Spots

Soho, a district known for its vibrant energy and endless entertainment, also harbours some of London's most intriguing hidden bars. These aren't your average pubs; they're places where the entrance is part of the adventure and the cocktails are crafted with serious flair. Finding these spots is half the fun, turning a night out into a mini treasure hunt.

Basement State: Sophisticated Sips Below Soho

Beneath the bustling streets of Soho, Basement State offers a refined escape. This spot focuses on expertly made classic cocktails in an intimate setting. It’s the kind of place where the bartenders know their stuff and the atmosphere encourages hushed conversations and serious appreciation for a well-mixed drink. They've got a great selection of spirits, and the focus is really on the quality of the drink itself.

Cahoots Bar: A Wartime Wonderland

Step back in time at Cahoots, a bar that fully embraces its 1940s wartime theme. It's a place that doesn't just serve drinks; it offers an experience. You might find yourself sipping a cocktail from a vintage tube carriage or enjoying illicit-sounding concoctions in a space designed to transport you to another era. It's a popular spot, so while it might feel like a secret, it's one that many people have discovered and loved.

Here's a taste of what you might find:

• Themed Cocktails: Expect names and ingredients that nod to the Prohibition era and wartime spirit.

• Unique Seating: From vintage train carriages to cosy nooks, the seating adds to the immersive feel.

• Nostalgic Decor: Every detail is considered, from the music to the furnishings, creating a genuine throwback atmosphere.

Cahoots really commits to its theme, making it more than just a bar; it's a destination for those looking for a bit of escapism and a good story to tell.

Opium: Gerrard Street's Apothecary and Attic Bars

Opium is a multi-level experience tucked away in Chinatown. It's split into distinct areas, each offering a different vibe. The Apothecary Bar feels like stepping into an old-world pharmacy, with shelves lined with intriguing bottles. Upstairs, the Peony Bar offers a more luxurious and intimate setting, perfect for a quiet catch-up. Finally, the Attic and Academy Bar provides a more communal, relaxed atmosphere. It's a place that truly feels like a hidden gem, offering a unique cocktail journey across its different spaces. You can explore the diverse Soho bar scene and still find places like Opium that stand out for their originality.

Chelsea's Exclusive Drinking Dens

Chelsea might be known for its posh boutiques and manicured gardens, but it also hides some rather intriguing spots for a clandestine drink. Forget the usual pub crawl; these places offer a bit more mystery and a lot more style. It's all about finding those hidden doors and secret passwords to unlock a different side of London's nightlife.

The Bletchley: A Fun, Themed Speakeasy Experience

If you're after something a bit different, The Bletchley is a real treat. It's not just a bar; it's an experience. Think of it as stepping into a secret wartime bunker, but with much better cocktails. The whole place is themed around code-breaking and espionage, which is pretty cool. You can even use an old-fashioned telephone to order your drinks, which adds to the whole clandestine vibe. They've got a decent selection of classic cocktails, but they also do some fun, themed creations that fit right in with the atmosphere. It's a great spot for a bit of fun and a good chat, especially if you're with a group who appreciate a bit of playful theming.

Barts: Chelsea Cloisters' Password Protected Bar

Now, Barts is the kind of place that really leans into the whole speakeasy idea. You won't find a flashy sign outside. Instead, you'll need to find a specific black door in the lobby of the Chelsea Cloisters apartment building. Once you've located it, you'll have to give the secret password to get in. It's a bit of a performance, but that's part of the charm, isn't it? Inside, it's all about a quirky, eccentric vibe, apparently inspired by a fictional gangster's apartment. They're not afraid to serve their drinks in unusual ways – think teapots, paper bags, and sometimes even set aflame. It’s definitely not your average cocktail bar, and that’s exactly why people go.

Getting into Barts feels like you've stumbled upon a secret society. The effort to get in just makes the reward of a well-crafted, unusually presented drink even better. It's a place that doesn't take itself too seriously, but clearly takes its cocktails seriously.

So, What's the Secret?

Right then, that's a wrap on our little adventure into London's hidden drinking spots. It's been quite the journey, hasn't it? From tucked-away basements to doors that look like they lead nowhere, finding these places is half the fun. You've got your pick of cosy corners for a quiet chat or lively spots with a bit of a buzz. So next time you're looking for something a bit different, something with a bit of mystery, you know where to look. Just remember, the best discoveries are often the ones you have to work a little bit for. Cheers to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a speakeasy bar?

A speakeasy bar is a secret bar, often hidden away and hard to find on purpose. Think of it like a secret club where you might need a password or have to go through a hidden entrance to get in. They became popular a long time ago when drinking alcohol was actually against the law!

How do I find these hidden bars in London?

Finding them is part of the fun! Sometimes you'll need to look for a special sign, know a secret password, or even go through an unusual entrance like a fake shop or a hidden door. Websites and articles like this guide can give you clues, but you'll still need to do a bit of searching when you get there.

Do I need to book a table at speakeasy bars?

It's a really good idea to book ahead, especially for popular places. Since many speakeasies are small and don't have many seats, they can fill up fast. Booking makes sure you get a spot and don't miss out on the secret fun.

What kind of drinks can I expect?

Speakeasy bars are known for their amazing cocktails! They often have unique and creative drinks you won't find anywhere else. Many also have a great selection of whiskies, gins, and other spirits, often with a special twist.

Are speakeasy bars expensive?

They can sometimes be a bit pricier than regular pubs because of the special atmosphere, unique drinks, and the effort it takes to find and run them. However, there are places for different budgets, and many offer great value for the experience you get.

What's the dress code for these bars?

Most speakeasies have a relaxed dress code, but some might suggest dressing up a little to match the cool vibe, especially if they have a theme. It's always best to check the bar's website or social media if you're unsure, but generally, smart casual is a safe bet.