Best Places for a Cocktail in Central

The best places to have a cocktail in London from the hotel bar to a speakeasy!

Enjoy a decadent cocktail in one of London’s premium establishments. We’ve sampled the finest ingredients and the most sumptuous settings to help you make your evening one to remember. This list concentrates on Central London and the popular East, making it perfect for tourists or a special occasion for locals!

The Glade

Perfect for: daydreaming & drinking

The Glade (within Sketch) is like an enchanted forest floor, with decoupage walls depicting early 20th century postcards and rich, hand-painted upholstery. It is simply magical, beautiful and unique. There’s no better place to indulge in a cocktail and absorb this imaginative and spellbinding setting. Cocktails are on a walk-in basis only, and you’re asked to dress ‘art smart’ with a sense of style and character (definitely no beach or sportswear).
Our favourite cocktail: 'The Royal Buds of May'. It’s made with Tanqueray 10, Briottet Rose, Briottet Violette, St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Orange Blossom Water and Fever Tree Aromatic Tonic.
Nearest station: Oxford Circus / Bond Street / Piccadilly (Central London)

Official Sketch Website

The Coral Room

Perfect for: lounging in luxury

The beautiful Art Deco decor makes The Coral Room an opulent treat for a cocktail. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the orange walls, blue velvet sofas, green plants and an array of art on display; all combine to provide a stunning setting. It’s glamorous and luxurious with cocktails to match. The words adorning the menu read 'this is alchemy: magic in technicolour – whisked, shaken and stirred' and we couldn’t agree more.
Our favourite cocktail: 'The Midtown Swizzle'–made with Havana Club Especial, Lustau Sherry, Passion Fruit Purée, Lime Juice, Pineapple Syrup and Sparkling Wine. Lustau Sherry, Passion Fruit Puree, Lime Juice, Pineapple Syrup & Sparkling Wine.
Nearest station: Holborn or Tottenham Court Road (Central London)
Official Coral Room Website

The Long Bar

Perfect for: the chic

At 80-feet in length, The Long Bar at the Sanderson Hotel (part of the same group as the Mondrian) makes one very cool statement. Perch on a tall chair at the glowing onyx bar and sit beneath the beautiful floral displays and vines that drip from the ceiling in pure decadence. Throughout the week you can listen to live music and DJ's playing soulful house and funk.
Our favourite cocktail: 'Coyote Creyente' – made with 15 Creyente Mezcal, Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato, Raspberry and Orange. If you like your drinks fresh, smoky, sweet and sour, then this one is for you.
Nearest station: Oxford Circus (Central London)

Observe Tip:This bar is located within walking distance to the amazing Italian restaurant Circolo Popolare - making it great for a pre-dinner drink

Official Long Bar Website

The Nightjar

Perfect for: drinks & dancing

Nightjar is one of London’s speakeasy legends–described as a hidden slice of old-school glamour and a journey into another time and place. In this subterranean bar, you’ll not only find rare and intriguing ingredients, but you’ll also encounter the best live blues and jazz band around. You’ll need to book – there’s no standing here, which means all guests can enjoy table service whilst sitting in a lively yet comfortable setting.
Our favourite cocktail: 'Picardy Punch' – It’s made with Grey Goose Vodka, Giffard Berry Liqueurs, St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Grand Marnier, Aronia Berry Juice, Fresh Squeezed Lime, Rose Champagne, Eucalyptus leaves and Sichuan Pepper. Served in a graceful golden swan!
Nearest station: Old Street (East London)
Official Nightjar Website

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