On Saturday and Sunday, the city’s underground bars stay open until 2 am, offering a rare window to experience the clandestine charm that defined Prohibition‑era London. If you’ve spent the week stuck in office cubicles, a night of secret cocktails and low‑key jazz could be the reset you need.
How to Find a Speakeasy Without a Secret Password
Most of London’s speakeasies hide behind unmarked doors or inside ordinary businesses. The trick is to look for subtle clues: a door that looks like a bookcase, a back entrance that requires a keycard, or a bar sign that only shows up when you’re standing in the right corner. A quick Google search for “London hidden bar” gives you a list of 12 locations, but the real winners are those that locals recommend on Instagram stories.
1. The Back Room of The Churchill Arms
Located at 119 Kensington Church Street, this bar masquerades as a tea shop. A door on the side of the building leads to a dimly lit room with a single bar and a live jazz trio. The bartender, who has a PhD in mixology, will ask you to order “The Whisper” before revealing the menu. The drink costs £18, and the best part is the 15‑minute wait for the signature gin‑and‑tonic, which comes with a vintage crystal shaker.
2. The Hidden Corner in Old Street
Old Street’s “Back Alley” is a 4‑room speakeasy that opens at 8 pm. The entrance is a door in a laundromat; a quick scan of the QR code on the door unlocks the hidden bar. Inside, a wooden bar hosts a rotating lineup of craft cocktails, each priced at £14. The room’s lighting is so low that you can see the bartender’s hands move in slow motion. The venue closes at 2 am, but the last drink is served at 1:45 am.
3. The Speakeasy Under The National Gallery
Hidden behind a false wall in the National Gallery’s basement, this speakeasy offers a curated menu of absinthe and bitters. The entrance requires a password, which you can guess by asking a passerby for a “hint.” The cost for a 12‑oz glass of absinthe is £22, and the venue remains open until midnight.
What Makes These Bars Worth the Effort
Beyond the mystery of the entrance, the drinks themselves are the real draw. A well‑crafted cocktail here is not just a drink; it’s a narrative. The bartender at The Churchill Arms, for instance, explains that the “Whisper” is a gin‑based concoction with a splash of elderflower, a hint of lavender, and a twist of lemon that evokes the hush of a speakeasy’s hush. The drink’s presentation—a glass etched with a silent film frame—adds to the experience.
Considerations Before You Go
These venues often have strict dress codes. For example, The Hidden Corner in Old Street requires a smart‑casual outfit and no sneakers. Also, the 15‑minute wait for the signature drink at The Churchill Arms means you’ll need to bring a book or a phone to pass the time. Finally, while the drinks are top‑notch, the service can be slow on peak nights; it’s best to arrive early if you want to avoid a long queue.
From Secret Bars to Online Entertainment
After a night of secret cocktails, you might feel like exploring other forms of entertainment that keep the thrill alive. If you’re looking for a similar sense of mystery and excitement, consider checking out an Incognito casino online.
Planning Your Speakeasy Night
Make a list of the three bars you want to visit and map out the route. Allocate 90 minutes at each spot to enjoy the atmosphere and the drink fully. Bring a small notebook or a phone to jot down the bartender’s story or the cocktail’s unique flavor notes. If you’re traveling with a group, split up the cost of the drinks—most venues charge per drink rather than a flat entry fee.
Final Thoughts
London’s hidden speakeasies offer more than a drink; they provide a portal back to a time when a whispered conversation could be the only thing you could hear. By timing your visit to the weekend, you’ll catch the longest hours of operation and the most relaxed crowds. Remember the dress code, the wait times, and the cost per drink, and you’ll leave with memories that last longer than the night itself. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes London’s speakeasies unique?
They combine clandestine vibes with creative cocktails, often hidden behind everyday facades.
How can I locate a speakeasy on a weekend?
Look for subtle clues like a bookcase door, a nondescript sign, or a business that turns off its lights at 10 pm.