Ah, London! The city that never sleeps – well, at least not until the early hours of the morning. With its eclectic blend of traditional British pubs, swanky cocktail bars, and electrifying nightclubs, London’s nightlife is the stuff of legend. If you’re visiting the Big Smoke and looking for a night out you won’t soon forget, then this guide is for you. Let’s dive into the city’s best nightlife spots that promise to keep the good times rolling long after the sun goes down.
No night out in London would be complete without a visit to a classic British pub. Whether you’re after a pint of locally brewed ale or a plate of delicious fish and chips, the city has a pub for every taste.
Located in Kensington, The Churchill Arms is a must-see. This pub is a lush botanical wonder with walls draped in vibrant flowers. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; their Thai menu is top-notch.
If you find yourself in Covent Garden, pop into The Lamb & Flag. This historic pub dates back to 1623 and is affectionately known as "The Bucket of Blood" due to its long association with rough-and-tumble dock workers. Don’t worry; nowadays, it’s a cosy haven with a cracking selection of real ales.
In East London, the The Ten Bells is famous for its connection to the Jack the Ripper story. It’s eerie but fascinating, perfect for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. Besides, their eclectic drinks menu and DJ nights make it a lively spot to end the evening.
For those who prefer a sophisticated night out, London’s cocktail bar scene won’t disappoint. Here’s where to find some of the city’s most inventive and delicious cocktails.
Tucked away in Shoreditch, Nightjar is the epitome of speakeasy chic. The bar features a 1920s-style setting, complete with live jazz and a menu of prohibition-era cocktails. Booking is essential because this place is often packed to the rafters.
Nestled within The Langham Hotel, The Artesian has claimed multiple accolades, including being named the "World’s Best Bar" several times. The cocktails are out-of-this-world inventive, featuring unique ingredients and stunning presentations. Expect to pay a pretty penny, but it’s worth every sip.
Divided into a bustling upstairs bar and a laid-back basement lounge, Swift in Soho offers a versatile drinking experience. Their Irish Coffee is legendary, and the ever-rotating menu keeps things fresh and exciting.
If your idea of a great night involves dancing until dawn, London’s vibrant nightclub scene has you covered. The city boasts some of the most iconic venues in the world.
A titan in the London club scene, Fabric in Farringdon is synonymous with dance music. Known for its body-shaking sound system and stellar line-ups, this club is not for the faint-hearted. Open until 8 am on weekends, Fabric attracts a global crowd of party-goers.
Another legend is the Ministry of Sound, located in Elephant and Castle. Famous for its unbeatable sound system and laser light shows, MoS has been a staple in the world of dance music since 1991. Bring your stamina – you’ll need it!
In the heart of Shoreditch, XOYO offers an eclectic mix of live music and DJ sets. With its intimate layout, you’ll feel up close and personal with some of the hottest names in music. It’s a stellar choice for anyone wanting a high-energy night out.
Can’t decide between having a drink or catching some live music? London’s live music bars offer the perfect dilemma solver.
Located in Soho, Ronnie Scott’s is a legendary jazz club where world-class musicians perform every night. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it the perfect venue for music lovers.
With branches in Brixton, Camden, and Shoreditch, The Blues Kitchen offers a taste of the Deep South right in London. Enjoy live blues, rock, and soul coupled with a menu full of American comfort food classics.
In Islington, The Lexington mixes craft beer with indie-rock gigs. The upstairs venue hosts an array of up-and-coming bands, while the downstairs bar is a great spot for a few quiet drinks.
For a more relaxed, scenic evening, London’s rooftop bars provide stunning cityscapes along with your cocktails.
Located atop the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building, the Sky Garden offers 360-degree views of the city. This lush, indoor garden space is open to the public and offers several bars and dining options. Perfect for an unforgettable sunset.
For a more laid-back vibe, visit Frank’s Café in Peckham. This rooftop bar boasts fantastic views of the city skyline and has a laid-back, artsy feel. Grab a negroni and relax as you take in the sights.
Perched above One New Change in St Paul’s, Madison offers views that will leave you breathless. With a loungey atmosphere and top-notch cocktails, it’s the ideal spot for a sophisticated evening out.
London’s nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering something for every kind of night owl. Whether you’re after a traditional pint in a historic pub, a sophisticated cocktail in an award-winning bar, or a night of dancing in an iconic club, London has it all. You might come for the history, the culture, and the sights, but it’s the nightlife that will make you fall in love with this electrifying city.
So, the next time you find yourself in London after dark, you know where to go. Cheers, and happy partying!
What’s been your favourite nightlife spot in London? Or if you haven’t been, which one would you love to visit first? Let us know in the comments below!
