If you’re tired of the usual cocktail scene and want a little adventure with your drink, you’re in luck. London has a fantastic lineup of quirky cocktail bars, many of them hidden in the most unexpected places. From secret detective offices to “underground” tube stations, these bars are not just about cocktails; they’re experiences. Here’s my list of the best quirky hidden gems in London, perfect for a unique night out. (And yes, some even come with passwords or mysterious entryways—so get ready!)
Where: Earls Court
Dress Code: Vintage detective or just come as you are—mystery loves a good disguise.
Signature Cocktail: Their Prohibition-style creations are full of surprises, but the Private Eye is a winner.
Why You’ll Love It: Picture this: You’re greeted by a detective, who grills you on your “case.” Once you’ve passed muster, you’re led into a dimly lit bar that feels like a noir film set. The cocktails are classically inspired, with a hint of mischief. Perfect for those who love a little theatre with their drink.
Top Tip: Lean into the theme and tell them you’re tracking down “missing cocktails.” (They’ll appreciate the dedication!)
Where: Shepherd's Bush
Dress Code: Smart-casual (or a deerstalker if you’re really into it)
Signature Cocktail: Choose the Sherlock, a complex blend with subtle clues of flavours.
Why You’ll Love It: Ever wanted to be Sherlock Holmes for a night? The Mind Palace lets you crack cases while sipping a drink, blending mystery with mastery. It’s a clever spot to bring your wittiest friends—or that one mate who thinks they’re the next Holmes.
Top Tip: Grab your crew and attempt one of the interactive cases they offer. It’s surprisingly fun, especially after a cocktail or two!
Where: Spitalfields
Dress Code: Casual—but retro works!
Signature Cocktail: The Peanut Butter Daiquiri (yes, really).
Why You’ll Love It: Hidden behind a fridge door in The Breakfast Club, this one is quirky to the core. Once inside, you’ll find an eclectic vibe and a cocktail menu that’s as playful as the décor. Perfect for those who love a bit of whimsy with their cocktails.
Top Tip: Tell the staff you’re “here to see the Mayor,” and you’ll be led through the fridge to this underground world of oddity.
Where: Shoreditch
Dress Code: Smart-casual
Signature Cocktail: Try the Aviation, a classy yet edgy concoction.
Why You’ll Love It: Nightjar brings all the jazz club vibes, with an underground setting and a cocktail list that’s pure artistry. They take the word “presentation” to a new level here, so get ready for drinks that look (almost) too good to sip.
Top Tip: Book ahead. This place is as popular as it is charmingly elusive.
Where: Oxford Circus
Dress Code: Smart-casual with a 1940s twist, if you’re feeling it.
Signature Cocktail: The Doodlebug, which blends rum, cinnamon, and a bit of nostalgia.
Why You’ll Love It: Set in a post-war tube station, Cahoots takes you back to the 1940s. Complete with train seats and old-school decor, it’s London Underground in the best way possible. The cocktails have a vintage twist, making it a true hidden gem for history buffs and cocktail lovers alike.
Top Tip: Go with a group, so you can get the “ration-style” sharing drinks.
Where: Hackney
Dress Code: Relaxed but artsy works well here.
Signature Cocktail: The Hackney Hellbound, with bold, botanical flavours.
Why You’ll Love It: With walls lined with plants and an almost enchanted feel, this place blends natural ingredients with innovative cocktails. It’s got that antique-shop-meets-greenhouse vibe, perfect for a relaxed but adventurous evening.
Top Tip: Come early; this spot is cosy and can fill up quickly.
Where: Chinatown
Dress Code: Smart-casual
Signature Cocktail: Their unique takes on classics; the French 75 here is a hit.
Why You’ll Love It: Hidden in bustling Chinatown, this place feels like an exclusive secret. Their cocktails are anything but ordinary, with unexpected ingredients that actually work (go figure). Think of it as a playground for cocktail lovers.
Top Tip: Get there on the earlier side as it can be packed—and remember, it’s got more of a snug speakeasy vibe.
Where: Chelsea
Dress Code: Casual with a vintage twist (think Great Gatsby meets Peaky Blinders)
Signature Cocktail: The Cucumber Martini—a cool, refreshing twist on a classic.
Why You’ll Love It: Bart’s Bar is like a hidden time capsule to the Prohibition era, tucked away inside the Chelsea Cloisters. Knock on the door, and once you’re in, you’ll find a 1920s speakeasy full of vintage charm, complete with quirky decor and old-timey photos that could make you question if you’ve accidentally stepped back in time. The cocktails here lean on both creativity and nostalgia, so every sip feels like part of the experience. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to spot an old-school gangster in the corner (don’t worry, it’s all for show).
Top Tip: This spot can be tricky to find, so keep your eyes open for subtle signs, and make sure you know the password in advance for the full “speakeasy” experience!
Where: Shoreditch
Dress Code: Casual and a bit quirky, just like the place.
Signature Cocktail: Through the Looking Glass—a nod to Alice and all things whimsical.
Why You’ll Love It: Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, Callooh Callay has secret rooms, hidden doors, and a menu that’s just as playful. There’s even a room upstairs called the Jubjub Bar—if you find it, that is.
Top Tip: Spend some time exploring; each hidden corner has its own vibe.
Where: Waterloo
Dress Code: Smart-casual
Signature Cocktail: Martini Roulette, where you get a mini-flight of martinis with different flavours.
Why You’ll Love It: This quirky bar is hidden inside BrewDog Waterloo, and it’s all about mislaid luggage and old-school charm. It’s the kind of place where you don’t know what to expect until you’re inside.
Top Tip: Try the Martini Roulette—it’s like playing poker, but with martinis.
So, there you have it—the quirkiest and most hidden cocktail bars in London! Perfect for when you want more than just a drink; you want an experience. Whether you’re in the mood for solving mysteries, travelling back to the 1940s, or simply finding a hidden gem behind a fridge door, these bars will bring the adventure. (And don’t forget to tell me which was your favourite, because I’m still trying to pick mine!)
For more unique experiences, check out our post on Fun and Quirky Cocktail Making Workshops where you can create your own cocktails in some pretty unusual settings. And if you ever want to switch things up with a luxurious night out, take a peek at The Most Luxurious Cocktail Bars in London for When You’re Feeling Fancy for a touch of glamour.
Happy exploring and remember: when it comes to hidden gems, the fun’s in the finding. Cheers!