Fitzrovia’s best bars: Your after-work drinks sorted
Looking for the perfect place to unwind after a busy day in the office? Fitzrovia’s bar scene offers a wealth of options, featuring sophisticated cocktail lounges, characterful traditional pubs, and hidden gems that locals love. Whether you’re out for celebratory drinks with colleagues or a relaxed catch-up with friends, Fitzrovia has you covered. Here’s your forward-looking guide to the best bars in Fitzrovia.
Sophisticated cocktail havens
1. The Cocktail Club
Address: 4 Great Portland St, Oxford St, London W1W 8QJ, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Monday- Wednesday: 4–11:30 PM
Thursday: 4 PM–12:30 AM
Friday: 4 PM–1:30 AM
Saturday: 3 PM–1:30 AM
Sunday: 4–10:30 PM
Price per person: £10–30
The Cocktail Club in Fitzrovia Quarter offers a perfect mix of high-end cocktails and a relaxed, dive bar vibe. This lively spot is known for its expertly crafted drinks, energetic atmosphere, and welcoming staff. With exciting happy hour deals, private karaoke rooms, and unforgettable events like New Year’s Eve parties, it’s the ideal destination to celebrate, unwind, or simply enjoy a night out in style.
2. 1947 London
Address: 4 Great Portland Street W1W 8QJ
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 12pm-11:30pm
Friday – Saturday: 12pm-12am
Sunday: 12pm-10:30pm
Located in a beautifully designed basement space, 1947 London offers a seamless blend of modern Indian restaurant flavours and a sophisticated bar experience in Fitzrovia Quarter. With its opulent décor, award-winning cocktails like the signature Chai Martini, and a 2-for-1 happy hour Sunday through Thursday, it’s an ideal spot to relax after work. Whether you’re enjoying a private booth or exploring their impressive drinks menu, 1947 London delivers elegance, exceptional hospitality, and unforgettable flavours in the heart of London’s West End.
Traditional pubs with character
3. The Social
Address: 5 Little Portland Street, London W1W 7JD
Opening Hours:
- Mon-Wed: 4:30 PM – 12 AM.
- Thur-Fri: 4:30 PM – 1 AM
- Sat: 6 PM – 1AM (closed on Sundays)
Price per person: £10–30
Known for: Live music & performance
The Social is a Fitzrovia favourite, blending pub charm with a modern twist. Upstairs offers a cosy bar for relaxed after-work drinks, while the basement comes alive with DJs and live non-commercial music. Known for its friendly vibe and eclectic tunes, The Social is a go-to spot for music lovers and anyone seeking great energy in Fitzrovia Quarter.
4. The Oxford Market
Address: 11-13 Market Place, London W1W 8AJ
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 11 AM-11 PM, Sun 12 PM-10:30 PM
Highlights: Great cocktails, pet friendly, easy for parking
The Oxford Market is where Victorian charm meets modern energy, making it a go-to spot in Fitzrovia Quarter. The beer garden is a favourite for after-work drinks or catching up with friends, no matter the season. But the real treat? The private space downstairs, which is perfect for parties, events, or any celebration. With room for up to 150 guests, a great sound system, and a team that takes care of everything, it’s a hidden gem for hosting unforgettable nights.
Hidden gem bars in Fitzrovia
5. Rhum Tavern
Address: 48 Margaret St, London W1W 8SE
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 12PM – 12AM
- Thursday – Saturday: 12PM – 1AM
- Sunday Closed
Price per person: £10–30
Step into the 17th century at Rhum Tavern, a rum-themed bar with a stunning ship’s keel-inspired, wood-panelled interior. Enjoy expertly crafted rum cocktails alongside grilled delicacies echoing historic seafaring flavours.
6. The Champion
Address: 12-13 Wells St, London W1T 3PA, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 12 PM – 11 PM, Sun 3 PM-10 PM
Price per person: £10–20
The Champion is a proper Fitzrovia gem with loads of character. Those stunning stained-glass windows aren’t just pretty – they tell the stories of real people and their achievements. It’s cosy, welcoming, and the perfect spot for a quiet pint, or soaking up a bit of history, or simply just a rewind after your Cartoon Museum visit nearby. Definitely worth a visit!
7. The Yorkshire Grey
Address: Yorkshire Grey, 46 Langham St, London W1W 7AX, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 12 PM – 11 PM (closed on Sundays)
Price per person: £1–10
The Yorkshire Grey is a proper Victorian pub with a cosy vibe and a modern touch. Think crackling fireplace, comfy booths, and great craft beers. It’s dog-friendly, super welcoming, and the perfect spot to wind down after work or catch up with mates. A real Fitzrovia gem!
8. The Newman Arms
Address: 23 Rathbone St, London W1T 1NG, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 12 PM – 11 PM (closed on Sundays)
Price per person: £10–20
The Newman Arms has been a Fitzrovia favourite since 1730, with George Orwell even using it as inspiration for Nineteen Eighty-Four. Famous for its local beers, top-notch pies, and now smash burgers from a Michelin-trained chef, it’s a cosy spot packed with history and proper London charm.
Top-rated contemporary bars
9. Reverend JW Simpson
Address: 32 Goodge St, London W1T 2QJ, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 12 PM – 11 PM (closed on Sundays)
Price per person: £20–30
Once a vicar’s home, Reverend JW Simpson’s space still features its original walls, tiles, and room layouts, giving it a unique, vintage charm. The inventive cocktail menu, focused on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, is perfect for after-word drinks, date nights or a catch-up session with your pals.
10. Salt Yard
Address: 54 Goodge St, London W1T 4NA, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Daily 12 PM – 11 PM
Salt Yard is a top spot for tapas fans, offering a mix of Spanish and Italian dishes in a cosy, stylish setting. With tasty options like jamón croquettes and prawns in chilli oil, plus a great wine list, making it perfect for catching up with friends, celebrating, or just enjoying a quiet sherry at the bar.
11. The Carpenters Arms
Address: 68-70 Whitfield St, Greater, London W1T 4EY, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Daily 12 PM – 11 PM
Price per person: £10–20
The Carpenters Arms is the kind of pub where you instantly feel at home. With a chilled courtyard garden, a lively rooftop patio, and plenty of real ales and craft beers on tap, it’s no wonder it’s a favourite with locals and travellers alike.
12. The Queen Charlotte
Address: 43 Goodge St, London W1T 1TA, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Mon:12 PM – 11 PM
Tue:12 PM – 8 PM
Fri-Sat: 4 PM – 11 PM
Closed on Wed, Thu, Sun
Best for: Craft beer lovers
Price per person: £10–20
Happy hours: from 4 to 8 PM
The Queen Charlotte is a cosy, no-frills craft beer haven tucked away in Fitzrovia. Known for its rotating taps and chilled vibe, it’s a favourite spot for locals and beer enthusiasts alike. With 2-for-1 happy hours from 4 to 8 PM and friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome (even your dogs!), it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Central London.
13. The Albany
Address: 240 Great Portland St, Greater, London W1W 5QU, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Mon-Thur: 12 PM – 11:30 PM
Friday 12 PM – 1 AM
Saturday 11 PM – 1 AM
Sunday 12 PM- 11 PM
The Albany is a lively Victorian pub with a fantastic selection of craft beers, premium lagers, and expertly mixed cocktails. Plus, with rotating beers on tap and a menu of tempting pub classics, it’s a spot you’ll want to visit again and again.
Make the most of your Fitzrovia bar experience
- Happy Hours: Most bars offer early evening deals between 5-7 PM.
- Reservations: Book ahead for popular spots like 1947 London and The Cocktail Club, especially for groups.
- Transport: Well-connected by tube stations like Goodge Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Oxford Circus.
- Food Options: Many bars serve bar snacks or full menus if you’re feeling peckish.
- Lively Evenings: Thursday and Friday nights are particularly vibrant.
- Loyalty Perks: Check if your favourite spot offers loyalty cards or apps.
- Special Events: Look out for wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses, or themed nights.
- Private Functions: Many venues accommodate corporate or private events.
Fitzrovia’s bars and pubs cater to every mood, offering traditional charm alongside modern flair. Enjoy refined cocktails, casual pints, and an unforgettable evening in this vibrant London hub.
*Remember to drink responsibly and stay updated with each venue’s latest offerings via their websites or social media.
A few walks from your Great Portland St.’s office? Here’s our hand-picked best bars & pubs on Great Portland Street.