Uncover London's 10 Best Cocktail Bars, One Sip at a Time

London's cocktail culture is nothing short of legendary: the city's talented mixologists treat their craft with the same skill as the capital's finest chefs. There's even a London Cocktail Week (usually in October), showcasing the incredible talent on offer. From sky-high bars to underground speakeasies, there's no shortage of venues to explore. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a casual bar-goer, you're sure to have a memorable night out. But with so many different options to choose from, how do you know where to start? Here's our guide to London's 10 best cocktail bars where top-notch tipples are guaranteed.

The American Bar holds the distinction of being Britain's oldest surviving cocktail bar, introducing American-style drinks to the London public back in 1893. The menu is organised into historical eras and features classic cocktails reimagined with a brave, creative twist – don’t miss the Hanky Panky, which was invented right here. The décor evokes the glamour of a bygone era, with a tasteful ivory palette, baby grand piano and portraits of Hollywood legends on the wall. Actress Marlene Dietrich once sipped cocktails in this very room. If you're not staying at The Savoy hotel, be prepared to queue – though the wait is well worth it.

• 100 Strand, WC2R 0EZ
• Covent Garden, Charing Cross or Embankment tube stations

Describing itself as "deeply atmospheric with a hint of the illicit", this dark and moody basement feels straight out of a Bond movie – there's even a full-size Aston Martin in the wall behind the bar. It's located in the secret subterranean rooms of the Old War Office Building, once used by MI5 and MI6 agents (including Bond author Ian Fleming himself, when he was a naval intelligence officer). As part of the tasting experience, guests are treated to three exquisite cocktails, accompanied by three delicious canopies – each a tribute to the spies who once occupied the clandestine corridors. Naturally, photography is strictly forbidden. And the menu? It's classified.

• Old War Office Building, Raffles London at The OWO, 57 Whitehall, SW1A 2BX
• 200 m from Charing Cross station

Entered via an unassuming door close to Old Street roundabout, this underground hideout transports you back to the Prohibition era with its dusky, low-lit interior, complete with olive-green leather seating, dark-wood panelling and flickering candlelight. The cocktail menu is a journey through the ages, divided into Pre-Prohibition (1600–1918), Prohibition (1918–1932) and Post-War (1940–2000). Each drink is a work of art, like the visually stunning Heart of Gold. Arrive early to avoid the cover charge, or book ahead and settle in for an immersive evening of live music, often featuring jazz from the 1920s, 30s and 40s.

• 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB
• 5 minutes from Old Street tube/rail station

Soho certainly isn't short on bars, but Swift stands out for its elegant dual-floor set-up, offering two experiences in one. The Upstairs Bar is bright and buzzy, and exclusively for walk-ins. It's an ideal spot for early evening aperitivi or a post-West End show nightcap. The reservations-only Downstairs Bar offers a more intimate and sophisticated ambience. With its low lighting, plush seating and dark-wood panelling, the space is designed for relaxed, unhurried drinking. Choose from a menu of complex cocktails or sample a dram of your favourite whisky – you won't be short of choice, with over 300 types to choose from (the menu runs to over 68 pages!). The live Sunday jazz sessions are particularly atmospheric.

• 12 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 4TQ
• Easily accessible from Tottenham Court Road

Tucked away down a side street in Islington, this cosy, low-lit space fuses 1950s cafe style with film noir aesthetics, creating an intimate, living room-like atmosphere. Led by legendary mixologist Tony Conigliaro – famed for his ground-breaking techniques – bartenders in lab coats concoct cocktails using pioneering ingredients concocted in the upstairs laboratory. On the menu, you'll find everything from distilled clay and lichen to pine-infused gin and jasmine liqueur, all incorporated into imaginative drinks. This London cocktail bar also offers mixology masterclasses, along with live performances of jazz, blue and rock'n'roll.

• 69 Colebrooke Row, Islington, N1 8AA
• Angel tube station

Elevate your night out at the 155m-high Sky Pod Bar, an extraordinary rooftop garden offering some of the best views in London. Perched at the top of the "Walkie Talkie" skyscraper, the three-storey glass dome features observation decks, an open-air terrace and landscaped gardens filled with exotic plants like fig trees, ferns and purple African lillies. Soak up panoramic views of the Shard and city skyline beyond as you work your way through the seasonal cocktail menu, choosing from tempting tipples such as Winter Berry Martini, Rhubarb Fall or an indulgent Chocolate Sunset. The most popular timeslot is one hour before sunset, when the golden glow of the city creates a magical backdrop to your drinks.

• 20 Fenchurch Street, EC3M 8AF
• A few minutes' walk from Monument and Bank stations
• You'll need to bring photo ID along with your ticket in order to enter the building.

Back down to earth in Shoreditch, step into the eccentric world of Callooh Callay, a London cocktail bar inspired by Lewis Carroll’s surreal tales. Known for its playful décor and inventive cocktails, this spot is perfect for adventurous drinkers. Try the Japanese spice mix togarashi or perhaps the bubble gum-infused tequila, and don’t miss exploring their secret bar – accessed through a wardrobe. Other whimsical touches include a gilded palm tree shaded lamp, seating made from a bathtub and a private booth set against a swirling monochrome background. Prepare to be surprised and delighted in this fabulous, fun-filled setting.

• 65 Rivington Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 3AY
• Old Street tube/rail or Shoreditch High Street rail

This globally inspired London cocktail bar offers a lush, exotic escape, inspired by the themes of "exile, empire and exploration". On the ground floor is the Bamboo Bar serving aperitivo-style cocktails, complemented by delicious small plates of food, which you can take outside if it's sunny. Downstairs, is the plush basement restaurant for dinner and a show. Sample creations like the Peacock Tail - with its tropical blend of rum, pandan and passionfruit - against a soundtrack of live jazz, cabaret and music from across the world.

• 7-9 Slingsby Place, Covent Garden, WC2E 9AB
• Leicester Square or Covent Garden tube stations

The highlight of the Soho cocktail scene, Disrepute effortlessly combines mystery with mid-century glamour. Its story-driven menu, inspired by the venue’s past as a private club, showcases characterful creations like the 1960s Sour. The cocktails are rooted in the concept of contradictions, pushing boundaries with bold and thought-provoking flavours. The Instagram-worthy décor exudes vintage charm, with leather booths, plush armchairs and gilded mirrors adding to the allure. For an exclusive experience, book one of the private vaults for up to 10 guests.

• 4 Kingly Court, Carnaby, W1F 9RS
• Piccadilly Circus tube station

This tiki-themed cocktail bar in London's Notting Hill is all about fun vibes and tropical flavours. With its kitsch decor and laid-back atmosphere, it's an ideal place for a casual night with friends. The menu, inspired by the Polynesian islands and the Caribbean, is heavy on rum, daiquiris and cocktail shots. Crowd-pleasing classics like the Zombie complement new inventions like the Jungle Fizz (a mix of rum, grapefruit, passionfruit, Prosecco and more), with alcohol-free options available. Expect a party atmosphere at weekends.

• 177 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, W11 2DY
• Close to Ladbroke Grove and Notting Hill Gate tube stations

Ready to plan your next cocktail adventure? Start by reserving a room at one of London’s high-end hotels, like the Sofitel London St James or Raffles London at the OWO to really make a weekend of it. Whether you’re drawn to rooftop views, Prohibition-era speakeasies or experimental mixology, get ready to raise a glass and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant nightlife.