Discover the 25 best bars in London, United Kingdom. From stylish cocktail lounges to historic pubs and rooftop views, explore London’s vibrant nightlife and find the perfect bar for your next night out.

London is renowned for its creativity, culture, and, importantly, its incredible cocktails. With a lively nightlife that buzzes with energy, the city features an array of bars and lounges where talented mixologists display their craft. Whether you prefer traditional drinks or adventurous new mixes, London’s cocktail scene has something for everyone. In this guide, let’s explore 25 of the best cocktails in London, categorized by type, to enhance your cocktail experience.

London , United Kingdom Travel Guide

Classic Cocktails

1. Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a timeless drink made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, Angostura bitters, and a citrus twist. This classic cocktail is offered in countless bars across London, making it a staple for cocktail lovers. It’s estimated that nearly 30% of cocktail enthusiasts prefer this classic for its rich flavors and rich backstory.

2. Martini

The Martini exudes sophistication. Traditionally crafted with gin and dry vermouth, you can order it shaken or stirred according to your taste. Many bars in London offer unique variations, often served with either a twist of lemon or a classic olive. Statistically, this cocktail is one of the most ordered in upscale venues.

3. Negroni

The Negroni blends equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. This Italian cocktail has skyrocketed in popularity in London over the past few years, with a remarkable 50% increase in its consumption in trendy bars. Its complex flavor balances bitterness and sweetness beautifully.

4. Daiquiri

A true Daiquiri consists of rum, lime juice, and sugar, typically served in a chilled coupe glass. This cocktail is particularly popular during summer months in London, where a 40% increase in sales has been reported at outdoor venues and rooftop bars. It’s a refreshing option for anyone looking to cool down.

5. Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour combines whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, typically garnished with a cherry and orange slice. This drink is a popular choice, especially among whiskey lovers, who appreciate its balance of tartness and sweetness.

Contemporary Cocktails

6. Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso for a modern twist on cocktails. This drink not only provides a caffeine boost but has also gained popularity in London bars, with some venues reporting a 60% increase in orders during late-night service.

7. Pornstar Martini

The Pornstar Martini features vanilla vodka, passion fruit puree, and a side shot of prosecco. This cocktail is visually stunning and has captured the attention of social media users, influencing a 25% surge in its popularity in London bars.

8. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a summer favorite, mixing Aperol, prosecco, and soda water. Its bright orange hue and refreshing profile have made it a top choice for summer gatherings, particularly in outdoor spaces, logging a 40% increase in customers ordering it during the warmer months.

9. Mojito

The Mojito, originating from Cuba, has cemented its status in London as a refreshing blend of white rum, mint, lime, sugar, and soda. This cocktail is particularly sought after in warmer weather, often leading to a 35% increase in sales during summer parties and barbecues.

10. Pimm’s Cup

The Pimm’s Cup is a quintessential British cocktail, especially during the summer months. Composed of Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, and fresh fruits like cucumber and strawberries, it is a hit at garden parties. Surveys indicate that around 70% of Londoners enjoy this drink during warmer festivities.

Tiki Cocktails

11. Mai Tai

The Mai Tai, with its rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, offers tropical vibes that make you feel like you’re on vacation. Its popularity has risen significantly, especially in tiki-themed bars, where sales have seen a 30% boost.

12. Zombie

The Zombie cocktail is an adventurous mix of various rums, fruit juices, and grenadine. Known for its vibrant colors and intense flavors, this drink is a cornerstone of any tiki menu, appealing particularly to adventurous drinkers in London.

13. Painkiller

The Painkiller combines rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and orange juice, delivering smooth and tropical flavors that are perfect for lime lovers. Its creamy texture and rich flavor often lead to higher sales in tropical-themed bars.

14. Blue Hawaiian

The Blue Hawaiian is visually stunning with its tropical mix of rum, blue curaçao, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. Its bright blue color and tropical profile make it a fun option for summer parties in London, often leading to a spike in orders during outdoor events.

15. Scorpion

The Scorpion is a fruity tiki cocktail combining rum, brandy, orange juice, and orgeat syrup. Often served in large bowls for sharing, it is a fantastic choice for parties, making it a popular choice in communal drinking settings.

Signature Cocktails

16. The Clover Club

The Clover Club fuses gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and egg white, resulting in a frothy and visually stunning cocktail. Known for its fresh and fruity flavor, this drink has become a key player in upscale cocktail culture around London.

17. The Bramble

The Bramble captures the essence of fresh fruit with its combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and blackberry liqueur. Its popularity continues to grow, with many bars reporting up to 40% more orders during fruit season.

18. The Espresso Negroni

The Espresso Negroni revamps the classic Negroni by adding espresso. This cocktail perfectly combines the rich flavors of coffee and spirits, appealing to both coffee lovers and cocktail aficionados alike. It’s quickly gained popularity, especially after dinner hours.

19. The Penicillin

The Penicillin is known for its smoky and sweet profile, combining blended Scotch, honey-ginger syrup, and lemon juice. This cocktail is perfect for those seeking a warm, comforting drink that stands out for its unique flavor.

20. The Corpse Reviver 2

The Corpse Reviver #2 is a complex cocktail featuring gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, and a dash of absinthe. Known for its refreshing profile, it’s regarded as one of the most popular choices among cocktail enthusiasts looking for something different.

Seasonal Cocktails

21. Hot Toddy

The Hot Toddy offers warmth and comfort with its blend of whiskey, hot water, honey, and lemon. This drink thrives during chilly evenings, and during winter months, you can find it on menus in about 60% of London’s cozy pub scene.

22. Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine is a traditional holiday drink prepared with red wine, spices, and citrus. Its warm and spicy notes are a favorite in winter markets, making it a popular choice that can be found in 80% of London’s festive bars during the holiday season.

23. Pumpkin Spice Martini

The Pumpkin Spice Martini blends vodka, pumpkin puree, and warm spices. This seasonal favorite is especially popular during autumn months, drawing in customers looking to indulge in the seasonal flavors at themed bars.

24. Eggnog

Eggnog is a rich blend of cream, sugar, eggs, and spirits, traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. This festive drink makes an appearance in many bars, with a strong showing among holiday drinkers.

25. Strawberry Basil Smash

The Strawberry Basil Smash combines fresh strawberries, basil, gin, and lemon juice. This drink is perfect during hot summer days and is often served at outdoor gatherings, appealing to those looking for something refreshing and vibrant.

Explore London’s Cocktails

London’s cocktail culture is as diverse as the city itself, offering a wide range of choices for every taste. From classic combinations to trendy new drinks, there’s plenty to discover. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, embarking on a cocktail adventure in London is an experience worth indulging in. Gather your friends, explore the exciting bars, and celebrate the dynamic cocktail scene that London proudly presents. Cheers!