Food & Drink

On our radar: Top best bars near Soho for every kind of night out

things to do in central london with friends
Beauty Club London

Ready to explore Soho’s nightlife beyond the usual pub? From immersive themed bars and intimate jazz clubs to rooftop terraces, lively dancefloors and luxurious cocktail lounges, Central London has something for every kind of night out. Just north of Soho, Fitzrovia Quarter adds distinctive drinking spots and vibrant nightlife to the experience.

Just north of Soho, Fitzrovia adds independent bars and distinctive drinking destinations to the mix. Discover 15 bars near Soho for your next date night, after-work drinks or evening out with friends.

Discover unique and themed bars near Soho

For something beyond a traditional cocktail bar, Soho and its surrounding streets offer imaginative venues with distinctive concepts and immersive interiors. From pirate-inspired taverns to vintage Underground stations and secret drinking rooms, these bars make the setting just as memorable as the drinks.

1. Rhum Tavern

  • Location: 48 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SE
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Wednesday: 12 PM – 12 AM
    – Thursday – Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
    – Sunday: Closed
    Must-try: Tepache Rum Punch, Dead Men Tell No Tales and rum-based Espresso Martini
    Price: Approximately £10 – £30 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 0.4 miles (10-minute walk)

Inspired by a 17th-century pirate ship, Rhum Tavern brings an adventurous nautical theme to Fitzrovia Quarter. Its timber-lined interiors, atmospheric lighting and extensive rum collection create an immersive drinking experience. With creative rum-based cocktails and a distinctive maritime setting, this themed bar offers an unusual alternative to Soho’s conventional cocktail lounges.

rhum tavern

 

Discover the best bars on Great Portland Street.

2. Cahoots Underground

  • Location: 13 Kingly Court, London W1B 5PW
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Wednesday: 5 PM – 1 AM
    – Thursday – Friday: 4 PM – 2 AM
    – Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
    – Sunday: 4 PM – 12 AM
    Must-try: Gin-based signature cocktails and theatrical sharing drinks
    Price: Approximately £15 – £35 per person for drinks

Cahoots Underground transports visitors to a fictional 1940s London Underground station, complete with vintage railway details, period advertisements and swing-era music. Its imaginative cocktail menu and nostalgic surroundings make it one of Soho’s most recognisable themed bars. The lively atmosphere is particularly suited to celebrations, first dates and visitors seeking an unusual London nightlife experience.

3. The Vault at Milroy’s

  • Location: 3 Greek Street, London W1D 4NX
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Saturday: 5 PM – 12 AM
    – Sunday: Closed
    Must-try: Seasonal signature cocktails and whisky-based creations
    Price: Approximately £15 – £35 per person for drinks

Hidden behind a bookcase inside Milroy’s of Soho, The Vault offers a secluded drinking experience beneath one of London’s longstanding whisky specialists. Exposed brickwork, low lighting and intimate seating create a classic speakeasy atmosphere, while the cocktail menu brings a contemporary touch to the historic surroundings. It is an appealing choice for couples and small groups looking to escape Soho’s busier nightlife.

Enjoy live music, jazz and blues near Soho

Soho’s musical heritage continues through intimate jazz clubs, independent music venues and energetic blues bars. Whether you’re interested in established performers or discovering emerging artists, these destinations offer memorable performances alongside a lively drinking scene. For more inspiration, explore the guide to live music bars in Central London.

4. The Social Little Portland Street

  • Location: 5 Little Portland Street, London W1W 7JD
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Wednesday: 5 PM – 12 AM
    – Thursday – Friday: 5 PM – 1 AM
    – Saturday: 6 PM – 1 AM
    – Sunday: Selected events only
    Must-try: Classic Negroni and the current house cocktail selection
    Price: Approximately £10 – £25 per person for drinks; tickets for selected performances cost extra
    Distance from Soho: 0.4 miles (9-minute walk)

A longstanding fixture of London’s independent music scene, The Social Little Portland Street combines an intimate upstairs bar with a basement performance space. Its varied programme includes live bands, emerging artists, alternative music and DJ events, creating an inviting atmosphere for music enthusiasts. With a history of hosting artists including Lily Allen and The Chemical Brothers, the venue offers a distinctive alternative to Soho’s larger entertainment spaces.

5. Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club

  • Location: 47 Frith Street, London W1D 4HT
    Opening hours:
    – Monday: 5:30 PM – 3 AM
    – Tuesday: 5:30 PM – 1 AM
    – Wednesday – Saturday: 5:30 PM – 3 AM
    – Sunday: 12 PM – 4 PM and 6:30 PM – 12 AM
    Must-try: A classic cocktail during a headline jazz performance
    Price: Performance tickets vary by artist and seating; drinks are charged separately

Established in 1959, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is one of London’s most celebrated live music venues. Its intimate stage has welcomed internationally acclaimed musicians alongside emerging jazz performers, preserving a rich musical tradition in the heart of Soho. Atmospheric lighting, attentive table service and a varied performance calendar make it an appealing choice for jazz enthusiasts and special evenings out. Guests are encouraged to arrive ahead of their booked performance.

6. Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues Bar

  • Location: 20 Kingly Street, London W1B 5PZ
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Wednesday: 5 PM – 1 AM
    – Thursday: 3 PM – 1 AM
    – Friday: 3 PM – 2 AM
    – Saturday: 1 PM – 2 AM
    – Sunday: 1 PM – 11:30 PM
    Must-try: Classic beer or house spirits alongside a live blues performance
    Price: Free entry during selected periods; evening cover charges may apply

Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues Bar brings the energy of traditional blues music to Kingly Street. Hosting live performances every day, the venue features acoustic musicians, full bands and lively jam sessions that bring audiences close to the stage. Its informal atmosphere makes it a favourite for experiencing London’s grassroots music scene. The bar does not accept reservations, so arriving early is recommended, particularly on weekends.

Sip cocktails above the city at rooftop bars near Soho

Rooftop bars offer a different perspective on London’s nightlife, combining elevated terraces, skyline views and carefully prepared drinks. From glamorous hotel rooftops to Japanese-inspired lounges, these destinations are ideal for sunset cocktails and special occasions. Visitors exploring the West End can also discover more options in the guide to bars near Oxford Circus.

7. Flute at Broadwick Soho

  • Location: 7th Floor, 20 Broadwick Street, London W1F 8HT
    Opening hours:
    – Sunday – Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
    – Friday – Saturday: 12 PM – 12:30 AM
    Must-try: Seasonal signature cocktails and Champagne
    Price: Approximately £20 – £40 per person for drinks

Located on the seventh floor of Broadwick Soho, Flute brings expressive design and an inviting atmosphere to London’s rooftop bar scene. Its landscaped wraparound terrace overlooks the surrounding streets, while the interior features mirrored ceilings, patterned furnishings and rich textures. Creative cocktails, Champagne and a lively soundtrack make it an appealing destination for dates, celebrations and evenings overlooking Soho.

8. Soho Sky Terrace

  • Location: 19-21 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7HL
    Opening hours: Monday – Sunday: 3 PM – 11 PM, weather permitting
    Must-try: Classic Mojito and seasonal cocktails
    Price: Approximately £20 – £50 per person for drinks

Perched above the Courthouse Hotel near Carnaby Street, Soho Sky Terrace offers an open-air escape from the busy streets below. Its comfortable seating, covered areas and views across London’s rooftops create a relaxed setting for after-work drinks and weekend gatherings. The rooftop is particularly appealing for those looking to enjoy cocktails above the busy West End, although outdoor seating and service may depend on weather conditions.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Soho Sky Terrace (@sohoskyterrace)

9. 8 at The Londoner

  • Location: 38 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7DX
    Opening hours:
    – Tuesday – Wednesday: 5 PM – 12 AM
    – Thursday – Saturday: 5 PM – 1 AM
    – Sunday – Monday: Closed
    Must-try: 8 Tastes of Japan signature cocktails, Japanese whisky and sake
    Price: Approximately £25 – £50 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 0.5 miles (11-minute walk)

Eight floors above Leicester Square, 8 at The Londoner combines Japanese-inspired cocktails with contemporary rooftop surroundings. Its Shima Garden features a retractable roof, while the menu showcases Japanese whisky, sake and signature drinks inspired by Japanese flavours. Weekend DJ performances bring additional energy to the sophisticated atmosphere, making it a memorable choice for evening celebrations.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 8 At The Londoner (@8atthelondoner)

Dance the night away at Soho's party bars

For an evening filled with energetic music and dancing, Soho and Fitzrovia Quarter offer everything from exclusive nightclubs to lively basement bars. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or planning a spontaneous night out, these destinations combine DJs, cocktails and vibrant party atmospheres. They are also ideal additions to a day exploring things to do in Central London with friends.

10. Selene London

  • Location: 4 Winsley Street, London W1W 8HF
    Opening hours:
    – Thursday – Sunday: 11 PM – 4 AM
    – Monday – Wednesday: Closed
    Must-try: Premium cocktails and the current club drinks selection
    Price: Admission and drinks prices vary; invitation or guest-list arrangements apply
    Distance from Soho: 0.3 miles (7-minute walk)

Inspired by Greek mythology, Selene London combines sophisticated interiors with a vibrant late-night atmosphere in Fitzrovia Quarter. Its four distinctive spaces include the Selene signature room, Helios grand room, an intimate late lounge and a private VIP bowling alley. With immersive production, energetic music and exclusive guest experiences, it offers a memorable setting for dancing and celebrations. Entry is invitation-based, so advance arrangements are essential.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Selene London (@seleneclubldn)

11. The Cocktail Club Oxford Circus

  • Location: 4 Great Portland Street, London W1W 8QJ
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Wednesday: 4 PM – 11:30 PM
    – Thursday – Friday: 4 PM – 3 AM
    – Saturday: 3 PM – 3 AM
    – Sunday: 4 PM – 10:30 PM
    Must-try: Signature cocktails and happy hour selections
    Price: Approximately £15 – £30 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 0.4 miles (9-minute walk)

Situated beneath the streets near Oxford Circus, The Cocktail Club combines graffiti-covered interiors, upbeat music and an extensive cocktail menu. Inspired by Downtown Los Angeles, its lively basement setting makes it particularly appealing for birthdays, after-work celebrations and group nights out. Regular drinks promotions and themed events add to the party atmosphere, with late opening until 3 AM from Thursday to Saturday.

 

12. The Little Scarlet Door

  • Location: 12-13 Greek Street, London W1D 4DL
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Tuesday: 4 PM – 1 AM
    – Wednesday: 12 PM – 1 AM
    – Thursday: 12 PM – 2 AM
    – Friday – Saturday: 12 PM – 3 AM
    – Sunday: 12 PM – 11 PM
    Must-try: House signature cocktails and sharing drinks
    Price: Approximately £15 – £35 per person for drinks

Designed to resemble a stylish flatshare, The Little Scarlet Door brings a playful house-party atmosphere to Soho. Its interiors feature comfortable living areas, colourful furnishings and spaces designed for socialising. DJ-led parties, dancing and creative cocktails make it particularly appealing for birthdays and group celebrations, while private spaces offer additional options for special occasions.

Experience luxury bars near Soho

For a more refined evening, Soho and its neighbouring streets offer sophisticated drinking destinations where elegant interiors, inventive cocktails and attentive service take centre stage. From intimate hotel lounges to celebrated cocktail bars, these venues are ideal for romantic dates, special celebrations and relaxed evenings in Central London.

13. Punch Room at The London EDITION

  • Location: 10 Berners Street, London W1T 3NP
    Opening hours:
    – Tuesday – Saturday: 5 PM – 12:30 AM
    – Sunday – Monday: Closed
    Must-try: Milk Punch and seasonal punch-inspired cocktails
    Price: Approximately £20 – £60 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 0.3 miles (7-minute walk)

Hidden within The London EDITION hotel, Punch Room offers an intimate drinking experience inspired by traditional British private clubs. Dark oak panelling, candlelit seating and plush furnishings create a sophisticated atmosphere, while the carefully curated menu explores the history of punch through inventive contemporary cocktails. Its understated elegance makes it a distinctive destination for romantic evenings and special occasions in Fitzrovia Quarter.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Punch Room (@punchroomedition)

14. Lobby Bar at The London EDITION

  • Location: 10 Berners Street, London W1T 3NP
    Opening hours:
    – Monday – Saturday: 8 AM – 1 AM
    – Sunday: 8 AM – 11 PM
    Must-try: Contemporary interpretations of classic cocktails
    Price: Approximately £20 – £40 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 0.3 miles (7-minute walk)

Located within The London EDITION, Lobby Bar combines contemporary elegance with the welcoming atmosphere of a stylish hotel lounge. Its distinctive interiors feature eclectic artwork, comfortable tufted sofas, a striking stainless steel orb and a snooker table. With creative interpretations of classic cocktails and spacious seating, the bar provides an inviting setting for sophisticated after-work drinks, intimate conversations and leisurely evenings. The venue operates on a walk-in basis without reservations.

15. Scarfes Bar

  • Location: 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN
    Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 4 PM until late
    Must-try: Seasonal signature cocktails and bartender-recommended creations
    Price: Approximately £25 – £50 per person for drinks
    Distance from Soho: 1 miles (22-minute walk)

Situated within Rosewood London, Scarfes Bar combines the charm of a traditional drawing room with the creativity of a contemporary cocktail destination. Rich velvet armchairs, a roaring fireplace and shelves containing over 1,000 antique books create a distinctive setting inspired by British caricaturist Gerald Scarfe. Its inventive cocktails and regular live music make it an appealing choice for guests seeking a luxurious yet characterful evening in Central London.