Discover the Best Cocktail Bars in Camden: A 2025 Guide

Right then, if you're after a decent drink in Camden and want something a bit more interesting than your standard pint, you've come to the right place. Camden's got a bit of a reputation for being a bit different, hasn't it? And that definitely extends to its bars. Forget stuffy places; we're talking about spots where you can actually enjoy a well-made cocktail without feeling like you're in an art gallery. This guide is all about finding those gems, the best cocktail bars in Camden that really capture the spirit of the place. Whether you're a local or just visiting, get ready to discover some seriously good tipples.

Key Takeaways

• Camden boasts a vibrant cocktail scene with a wide variety of bars, from lively music venues to more relaxed spots.

• You can find creative and unique cocktail menus that reflect the area's alternative and artistic vibe.

• Many bars offer special deals and events, making it a great destination for both casual drinks and planned nights out.

• Expect a diverse range of atmospheres, catering to different tastes, whether you prefer something energetic or a bit more chilled.

• Camden's cocktail bars are generally a good value compared to some other central London areas.

1. The Blues Kitchen

If you're after a night that's got a bit of everything, The Blues Kitchen is definitely worth a look. It’s not just a bar; it’s a whole experience, really. They’ve got this brilliant mix of live music, mostly blues and soul, happening every single night. Seriously, you can just turn up and there’s always a band playing.

When it comes to drinks, they’re big on American whiskey, which makes sense given the whole vibe. You’ll find a decent selection of classic cocktails, but their real strength is in the whiskey-based ones. Think Old Fashioneds, Sazeracs, that sort of thing. They do a few creative ones too, inspired by the Southern states, like a "Burnt Pear Old Fashioned" if you fancy something a bit different. It’s not the cheapest place, but you get what you pay for, and the quality is there.

The atmosphere here is electric. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it feels like a proper slice of American music history right here in Camden. You can easily lose a few hours just soaking it all in.

Here’s a rough idea of what you might find on the drinks menu:

• Whiskey Classics: Old Fashioned, Sazerac, Manhattan

• Southern Twists: Hurricane, Burnt Pear Old Fashioned

• Other Favourites: Mojito, Espresso Martini

• Extensive Bourbon & Rye List

It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a night out that’s more than just a few drinks – it’s about the music, the food (they do BBQ too, which is pretty good), and the general buzz. Definitely a Camden institution.

2. Fifty Five Bar

Fifty Five Bar has been a fixture in Camden for a good while now, and honestly, it's easy to see why. If you're after a place with a seriously massive cocktail menu, this is it. We're talking hundreds of options, so whether you're a classic cocktail fan or looking for something a bit more adventurous, you'll find it here. It's spread across a few floors, which means there's usually a good buzz, especially during their happy hour deals – which are pretty legendary, by the way.

It's the kind of place that feels lively and fun, not too stuffy, and you can expect a good time whether you're with a big group or just a couple of mates. They've got all the usual suspects, but also plenty of their own creations that are worth a punt. Just be prepared to spend a bit of time poring over that menu!

Fifty Five is known for its sheer variety and energetic vibe. It's a solid choice if you want to try a bit of everything and have a good laugh while you're at it. Don't be surprised if you end up ordering more than you planned because there's just so much to choose from.

They often have special nights and deals, so it's worth checking what's on. It’s a place that really embraces the Camden spirit – a bit loud, a lot of fun, and always something interesting happening. You can usually order your drinks at the bar and then find a spot to enjoy them [a5c7]. It’s a straightforward approach that works well for the busy atmosphere.

3. Simmons Bar

If you're after a cocktail bar that doesn't take itself too seriously, Simmons Bar in Camden is your spot. It's a place that really leans into the fun, with a vibe that's more about letting loose than hushed reverence. You'll find it on Kentish Town Road, and it's known for being a bit of a party starter.

What really sets Simmons apart is its legendary happy hour. We're not talking about a quick 60 minutes here; they often stretch it out for five whole hours. This makes it a go-to for anyone looking to enjoy some quality drinks without completely emptying their wallet. During this time, you can grab some seriously affordable cocktails, and they've got a whole range of them. Their "Teapot Cocktails" are a bit of a signature – basically, large sharing cocktails served in, you guessed it, teapots. They're usually pretty fruity and sweet, perfect for a group.

Beyond the happy hour, Simmons has a knack for throwing themed parties and DJ nights, so there's often something happening. It can get pretty packed, especially on weekends, but that just adds to the lively atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can expect a bit of a crowd, some loud music, and a generally unpretentious good time. If you're looking for a relaxed evening with intricate, spirit-forward cocktails, this might not be it, but for a fun, energetic night out with mates, it's a solid choice. They also do a popular bottomless afternoon tea, which is a great way to spend an afternoon if you fancy unlimited drinks and some sweet treats.

Simmons Bar is all about good times and great value. It's a place that embraces its quirky side, from the decor to the signature teapot cocktails. Don't expect a quiet, intimate setting; this is a bar that's built for celebration and a bit of boisterous fun. It's a student favourite for a reason, offering a lively atmosphere that's hard to beat for the price.

While they focus on fun, don't think they skimp on the classics. You'll find all the usual suspects on the menu, and they're generally well-made. It's a place that understands that sometimes, you just want a straightforward, tasty drink in a buzzing environment. It's a good option if you're exploring the many pubs and bars in Camden and want a lively stop.

4. Jazz Cafe

The Jazz Cafe is a bit of a legend in Camden, not just for its music but also for its drinks. It’s been around since the early 90s, but it really got into its stride with cocktails a bit later, around the mid-2000s.

It’s a proper music venue, so you can expect a great atmosphere, especially if you catch a live show. They’ve got a pretty decent cocktail menu that goes hand-in-hand with the sophisticated sounds they often have playing. Think classic cocktails done well, perfect for sipping while you listen.

While it’s famous for its live music, the bar at Jazz Cafe offers a refined experience. It’s a place where the drinks are as much a part of the vibe as the tunes, providing a smooth accompaniment to the soulful melodies.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• A solid selection of classic cocktails.

• Drinks designed to complement the music.

• A sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

It’s a great spot if you appreciate good music and a well-made drink without too much fuss.

5. The Spirited Camden

If you're after a bit of a view with your drinks, The Spirited Camden is definitely worth a look. It's a rooftop spot that offers a pretty cool vibe, especially when the weather's playing nice. They've got a decent selection of drinks, and rumour has it their alcoholic milkshakes are something else. It’s not the biggest place, so it can get cosy when it’s busy, but that just adds to the atmosphere, right?

The Spirited Camden doesn't really have a strict dress code, but people tend to dress smart casual. It's more about enjoying the view and the drinks than anything too fancy.

They're known for a few things:

• Great rooftop views over Camden.

• A unique take on classic cocktails.

• Their signature alcoholic milkshakes.

It's a good shout if you're looking for something a bit different from the usual pub scene. You can find them up there, ready to serve up some tasty concoctions. It's a nice place to chill out after exploring the markets, and they're a good option if you're looking for a place that feels a bit more special than your average bar. You can check out their rooftop experience for more details.

6. The Cuban

If you're after a taste of the Caribbean right here in Camden, then The Cuban is your spot. It’s not just about the drinks, though they are pretty good, it’s the whole vibe. Think vibrant colours, lively music, and a general feeling of being somewhere much warmer.

This place really nails that authentic Cuban atmosphere. They’ve got a seriously impressive rum selection, which, as you can imagine, forms the backbone of their cocktail menu. You'll find all the classics you'd expect, like Mojitos and Daiquiris, made with care and good quality ingredients. But they also do some interesting twists that are worth trying.

Here’s a little peek at what you might find:

• Mojito Variations: Beyond the classic, expect options with different fruits or spiced rums.

• Rum Punch: A staple, usually a well-balanced mix of rum, fruit juices, and a hint of spice.

• Specialty Cocktails: Look out for drinks that incorporate other tropical flavours or local twists.

It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, especially if you get caught up in the music. They often have live music that adds to the whole experience, making it feel like a proper night out. It’s a good shout if you want something a bit different from the usual Camden scene. You can find out more about their events and menu on their website.

The decor and music really transport you. It feels like a little escape, and the staff are usually pretty friendly, happy to guide you through the rum options if you're not sure where to start. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed evening with friends.

7. The Magic Roundabout

Right then, let's talk about The Magic Roundabout. It's a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away under the railway arches near Camden Town station. This place really comes alive after dark, offering a proper buzzing atmosphere. It’s not your typical quiet cocktail bar; it’s more of a lively spot with a real energy about it, especially when the DJs are playing.

They’ve got a decent menu of cocktails, and while it might not be the most extensive list you'll ever see, what they do, they do well. Think classic mixes with a bit of a twist. It’s the kind of place you’d head to before a night out or if you just fancy a few drinks in a place with a bit of a vibe.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Location: Under the railway arches, a stone's throw from Camden Town station.

• Vibe: Lively, energetic, often with DJs playing.

• Drinks: A good selection of well-made cocktails, plus beers and other drinks.

• Crowd: Usually a mix of locals and people heading out for the night.

It’s a great spot if you’re looking for somewhere with a bit of a party feel without being a full-on club. You can grab a drink, soak up the atmosphere, and maybe even catch some live music on certain nights. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area and fancy something a bit different from the usual pub scene. They also do some pretty good food, so you can make a night of it.

Camden's bar scene is always changing, and places like The Magic Roundabout show that. It’s a spot that’s managed to carve out its own niche, offering a good time without any fuss. It’s the sort of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a local secret, even though it’s right there.

If you're looking for some laughs before your drinks, there's a comedy night every Wednesday at The Camden Eye, which is just a short hop away. Check out the comedy for a good start to your evening.

8. Heads + Tails

Just a stone's throw from West Hampstead station, Heads + Tails is a spot that's genuinely earned its place on lists of the UK's best bars. It’s got this really laid-back feel, you know? Not too dark like some places, but just right, so you can actually see your drink and the cool decor. They've even been recognised in the UK's Top 50 Bars list, which is pretty impressive.

The menu is split into two halves: 'Heads' for lighter, fresher drinks, and 'Tails' for the richer, more intense ones. It’s a neat idea and makes choosing a bit more fun. If you're unsure what to go for, the Gunsmoke, with its mezcal and bergamot, is a good shout, or try the Tokyo Vice if you fancy something a bit more complex. Honestly, anything from their aperitivo selection is usually a safe bet.

What's also great is their daily happy hour, running until 7 p.m., where you can grab Negronis and Spritzes for a fiver. It’s a proper bargain, especially for the quality you're getting. It’s the kind of place that feels both stylish and comfortable, perfect for catching up with mates or a more relaxed date night. You can find out more about booking spaces for events on HeadBox.

• Menu Structure: 'Heads' (light & refreshing) vs. 'Tails' (dark & decadent).

• Signature Drinks: Gunsmoke (Mezcal, bergamot), Tokyo Vice (Vieux Carré variation).

• Happy Hour: £7 Negronis & Spritzes daily until 7 p.m.

This bar strikes a good balance between being a bit swanky and totally unpretentious. It’s the sort of place where you can feel comfortable trying something new from the menu without feeling out of your depth.

9. The Gallery

Tucked away in West Hampstead, The Gallery has this really nice neighbourhood feel to it. You can pop in any night of the week and you'll see a real mix of people, from their twenties right up to older folks, all just chilling out. It’s quite a relaxed place, with a DJ often spinning some hip-hop tunes.

It manages to feel cosy, but there's also a balcony that looks over the main bit, and the basement is pretty good for private parties if you need something a bit more exclusive. You can even hire the whole place out if you've got a bigger group, up to about 180 people.

Inside, it's got exposed brick walls and little candle-lit tables, which is all quite charming. But the real standout for me is the massive collection of vinyl records by the bar. They’ve got a huge selection of whiskies, and honestly, whatever mood you're in, they’ll have a drink for you – whether it’s beer, a spritz, or a proper cocktail.

The Gallery is the kind of place you find yourself returning to when you're in the area. It just has that welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay a while.

10. Cafe KOKO

Cafe KOKO is a bit of a multi-tasker, really. It’s not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a whole experience. You can catch live music here, or if you're feeling it, there are RnB bottomless brunches and even spoken word nights. They’ve also got art exhibitions popping up now and then.

When it comes to the drinks, they’ve got a decent range. You’ll find natural wines, and of course, a selection of cocktails. They even do a special deal on Tuesdays called 'Double Marg Tuesdays', where you can get a margherita pizza and a margarita cocktail for £15. It’s a pretty good shout if you're looking for a bit of a bargain and some Italian food to go with it. It’s a spot that really tries to offer something for everyone, blending food, drinks, and entertainment.

The vibe here is pretty lively, especially when there's a gig on. It’s the kind of place that feels buzzing without being overwhelmingly loud, making it a good choice for a relaxed evening out or a fun catch-up with mates. They seem to have a good handle on keeping the atmosphere just right.

If you're planning a visit, it's worth checking their schedule beforehand to see what's on. You might find yourself enjoying a cocktail while listening to some live tunes or catching a new artist. It's definitely a place that adds to the diverse nightlife scene in Camden, offering a different flavour compared to some of the more traditional bars. You can find out more about their events on the Cafe KOKO website.

Next up on our list is 10. Cafe KOKO. This spot is a great place to chill out and grab a bite. You might even catch some amazing live music while you're there! Want to know more about what's happening at The Camden Eye? Head over to our website for all the latest updates and showtimes.

So, What's Next for Your Camden Cocktail Adventure?

Right then, that's our little tour of Camden's best spots for a decent drink. Whether you've been after a classic G&T or something a bit more adventurous, we've hopefully pointed you in the right direction. Camden's always got something new popping up, so don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path a bit. You never know what hidden gem you might stumble upon. Cheers to that!