Last month I was in a rush to find a place where the city’s usual buzz turned into whispered conversations and a glass of something truly special. I ended up at a speakeasy tucked behind a nondescript door in Soho, and that night changed my idea of what a London bar should be. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the usual tourist spots, here are five hidden spots that will make your weekend feel like a secret adventure.
1. The Back Room – A 1920s Revival
Located on a narrow alley behind a bakery on Gower Street, The Back Room is a literal throwback to the 1920s. The entrance is a wooden door with no sign; you have to ask the man in the coat to open it. Inside, the lighting is low, and the walls are lined with old photographs of jazz musicians. Their signature cocktail, the “Blue Velvet,” is a gin‑based drink with a hint of violet bitters that tastes like a memory of summer nights. The bar serves about 20 drinks per night, keeping the atmosphere intimate. A downside: the price of a single drink is £12, which is on the higher side for a hidden bar, but the experience justifies the cost if you’re after a nostalgic vibe.
2. The Ivy on the Square – A Secret Garden
On a quiet Tuesday evening, I discovered The Ivy on the Square, a garden‑style bar that only appears when you knock on a brass door in a courtyard near Leicester Square. The space is a small patch of greenery surrounded by brick walls. The bartenders craft a “Garden Gimlet” using fresh cucumber, lime, and a splash of elderflower, which tastes like a walk through an English garden on a sunny day. The bar is open only from 6 pm to midnight, and they close early on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. The only drawback is that the seating is limited to 15 people, so you might have to wait for a table during peak hours.
3. The Canteen – A Speakeasy in a Former Post Office
The Canteen is hidden behind a false wall in a converted post office on Old Street. The entrance is a simple door marked “Canteen” with no sign. Inside, the décor is industrial chic, with exposed brick and metal shelving. The bartenders are known for their inventive gin cocktails. I tried the “Canteen Crush,” a gin with a splash of pomegranate and a twist of orange peel, and it was a revelation. The bar offers a limited menu of 12 drinks, so if you’re looking for variety, you might need to bring your own preferences. The bar closes at 11 pm on weekdays, which can be a constraint if you plan a late‑night outing.
4. The Speakeasy on the 2nd Floor – A Rooftop Surprise
Hidden behind a bookshelf in a small bookshop on Tottenham Court Road, The Speakeasy on the 2nd Floor is a rooftop bar that opens its doors at 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The view of the city skyline is stunning, especially at dusk. The signature cocktail, the “Skyline Sour,” is a bourbon‑based drink with a touch of lavender syrup that tastes like a calm evening. The bar serves about 30 drinks per night, keeping the line short. The only downside is that the bar is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
After sampling a few of these hidden gems, I realized that London’s nightlife is full of surprises for those willing to look beyond the obvious. Whether you prefer a jazz‑filled speakeasy or a rooftop with a skyline view, there’s something for every mood. If you’re craving a different kind of thrill, you might find a parallel in the world of online entertainment. Lizaro Casino Uk offers a range of games that can keep you entertained for hours, just like these bars keep you entertained for a night.
Why These Bars Stand Out
- Each bar has a unique entrance that makes the experience feel like a secret discovery.
- The cocktails are crafted with local ingredients and a touch of creativity.
- The atmosphere is intimate, with seating ranging from 15 to 30 people.
- They all offer a distinct vibe, from a 1920s jazz club to a rooftop garden.
Plan Your Weekend Escape
Mark these bars on your map, and remember to check their opening hours before you go. If you’re planning a night out, aim to start at 7 pm to catch the best drinks and the best atmosphere. With these hidden bars, your London weekend will be a memorable adventure that feels like a secret escape from the ordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these bars hidden gems?
They’re tucked behind plain facades, require a secret knock or password, and offer exclusive cocktails in intimate settings.
Do I need a reservation?
Most of these spots recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends, to secure a spot behind the discreet entrance.
Are they family‑friendly?
No, they’re adult‑only venues focused on sophisticated, craft cocktails and a relaxed, adult atmosphere.
