London is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the world. Whether you’re looking for a speakeasy vibe, rooftop view or basement hideaway, the City of London will not disappoint.We’ve rounded up five of the best cocktail bars in the Square Mile to get you ready for a stress-free night.
The Ned
27 Poultry, London EC2 8AJ
Since opening in 1917, The Ned has become of the most popular destinations in The City. Located in the former Midland Bank headquarters, the grand, marble and columned interior houses a private members’ space, gym and rooftop bar together with a spa, a hotel and not one, but ten restaurants and bars. It’s swanky to say the least.
Amidst The Ned’s historic 3,000 square metre former banking hall and lower ground floor, are 7 restaurants and 3 bars. Electric Bar and Diner, sister to Soho House & Co’s Electric, serves up your cocktail of choice direct to one of the bar’s plush red leather booths and live sports most nights of the week.
The Parlour is an intimate jazz and cabaret restaurant serving up great 1920’s sounding cocktails - Kiss from a Rose, The Night Train and Parlour Fizz - while you’re entertained.
For more info click here
City of London Distillery & Bar
22-24 Bride Lane, London EC4Y 8DT
This hidden cocktail gem is somewhat overshadowed by the multi award winning on-site gin distillery producing Whitley Neill gin since 2012. The cocktail bar overlooks the striking copper stills of the distillers and the faint aroma of gin hangs in the air while you sip on gin based cocktails.
There’s also a nice selection of bar snacks to nibble on, including deli platters of meats and cheeses, while you work your way through the cocktail list.
You can take a full guided tour of the stills and learn about the history gin making in the City here.
If you fancy having a go at making your own gin, book on a tour or visit their Gin Lab here.
Sky Garden
1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF
Want your Elderflower Bloom with one of the best views of London? The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden on top of the affectionately named Walkie-Talkie tower, AKA The Fenchurch Building.
Located on the North bank of the River close to the Shard, the Sky Garden is a three-story glass dome that offers incredible 360 degree views of the city and its famous landmarks.
The Sky Pod Rooftop Bar is an all-day drinking and dining rooftop space, serving up sumptuous sounding cocktails including: Sakura Blossom, Mango Salsa, and Pear Sherbert.
To add to the views, there’s also a packed line-up of events and live music. Take a look at the full event schedule here:
Sky Pod Bar is open Monday – Sunday, 8am – 12am and 8am - 1am on Friday and Saturday night.
For reservations book here: restaurants@skygarden.london
Madison London
Rooftop Terrace, One New Change, St Paul’s, London, EC4M 9AF
Madison is one of the best cocktail bars in London with a view. Step out of the lift onto the top floor of One New Change in the heart of The City, into the world of Madison.
With several rooftop terraces offering supreme views across the London skyline, you can take your pick from Madison’s 10 Signature cocktails.
Our favourites are the aptly named and Vodka based Rooftop Sunset; Ocean Blue with Henricks, Aperol and cucumber syrup; or (and for special occasions only ) the Martini 1942 complete with a dash of caviar.
Madison is renowned for its atmosphere with entertainment from its resident DJs and live musicians. The spectacular views make it the ideal spot to catch up with friends and colleagues while enjoying fine nibbles and cocktails.
For more click here.
The Alchemist
