London nightlife guide, find the best cocktail bars
Find the best cocktail bars in London with this compact, practical guide. Head out to rooftop terraces for skyline views, or step into historic rooms for classic cocktails and attentive service. Start your evening along the South Bank to mix riverside strolls with relaxed bars, or head to central spots for polished menus and late night energy. Each pick focuses on brilliant basics, central location, quality drinks, and easy booking tips. Use this London nightlife guide to discover unique drinks London offers, from Mediterranean flavours to Cuban flair. Whether you want a sunset rooftop, a cosy date night, or a top rated bar for groups, this city guide points you to where to go and why it works.
12th Knot
Image / Web
Rooftop drinks with a riverside view
Good for
What to expect
Bright, modern interiors and relaxed service. The menu highlights seasonal cocktails alongside wines and a few shareable plates. Staff know the drinks list and can suggest tailored choices. Expect a lively atmosphere in the evenings and a more laid-back feel during daytime visits.
Plan your visit
Book if you want an outdoor table, especially at weekends. Arrive a little early for window seats on the terrace. Bring a light layer for evenings by the river. Mention any drink preferences when you book and ask staff for a recommendation on arrival.
Ten
Image / Jimmy's Pop-Up
Riverside cocktail hideaway, brilliant basics and a relaxed Southbank vibe.
Good for
What to expect
A compact, sociable spot with a focus on well-made cocktails and easygoing hospitality. Staff offer tailored suggestions for less experienced drinkers, and seating ranges from cosy tables to bar stools that look out toward the river. Expect a lively but relaxed crowd, a practical layout for groups or solo visitors, and a neat spot to pause during a riverside walk.
Plan your visit
Head out after exploring the river, combine the stop with a Thames walk, and look for waterside seating when available. Pop in solo for a calm drink, or bring a small group for a laid-back meet-up. Staff are happy to recommend something to suit a sour or sweeter palate, so ask for a suggestion if unsure.
The 40 Elephants
Image /
History, inventive cocktails and polished interiors: The 40 Elephants promises memorable nights.
Good for
What to expect
Step into a dim, stylish room where curated artefacts and period touches nod to the all-female 40 Elephants gang, the tale introduced at the start of the menu. Expect carefully composed cocktails, a considered selection of local beers and small plates that reflect London’s culinary mix. Service is professional and personable, with staff ready to guide flavour choices. The mood suits after-work drinks, intimate dates or late-night socialising, while discreet seating offers quieter conversation.
Plan your visit
Just off Whitehall in central London, The 40 Elephants is easy to reach by public transport or taxi. Book ahead for busy evenings, or drop in earlier for a calmer experience. Ask the bar team for signature suggestions and request a seat near the display cabinets to enjoy the historic decor up close.
Waterloo Sky Bar
Image / booknbook United Kingdom
A rooftop refuge for sunset sips, wide-angle London panoramas and easygoing conversation.
Good for
What to expect
Expect a relaxed, unfussy rooftop experience with sweeping skyline views and plenty of photo opportunities. The terrace offers both open-air seating and sheltered lounges, so it suits bright days and cooler evenings alike. Service is friendly and attentive, seating is usually first come first served, and the mood leans toward quiet conversation rather than loud nightlife. Ideal for couples, friends or solo visitors looking for skyline views and comfortable surroundings.
Plan your visit
Head up for golden hour to watch the city transition from daylight to night, arrive a little earlier if patio seats are needed. Perfect for pre-theatre meet-ups, casual catch-ups or a relaxed finish to a day exploring central London. Indoor options make it a good fallback if the weather turns, and large windows keep the view even from inside.
Fifth Element - Mediterranean Tavern - Bar and Kitchen Waterloo
Image / S. Papadakis
Cosy Mediterranean tavern on the South Bank, perfect for relaxed nights and great cocktails.
Good for
What to expect
Find a warm, intimate room with low lighting and comfortable tables, plus a compact bar that serves standout cocktails. Service is attentive and personable, making this a good pick for dates, post-theatre drinks and small gatherings. The menu is focused and well executed, the vibe is lively without being loud, and staff go the extra mile to make guests feel welcome.
Plan your visit
Head out from Waterloo or the South Bank for an easy walk to this tucked-away tavern. Ideal for a pre- or post-theatre stop, or a relaxed evening with friends. Book ahead for weekend nights and larger groups. For a quicker visit, choose bar seating and enjoy cocktails at the counter.
Cubana Restaurant Waterloo
Image / Cubana Waterloo
Bold Cuban flavours, colourful murals, cocktails and music in the heart of Waterloo.
Good for
What to expect
Step inside for bright murals, upbeat music and a buzzy bar atmosphere. Staff are welcoming and service is efficient, so expect a smooth, sociable experience. Cocktails take centre stage, and the layout suits pairs and small groups, with bar seating for solo visitors. Noise levels rise after dark, creating a fun, party feel rather than a quiet dining room. Good for nights out, casual dates and group get-togethers.
Plan your visit
Head out from Waterloo station, it’s an easy walk from the river and theatres. Book ahead for weekend evenings or larger groups, or drop in earlier for a calmer table. Dress casually smart and pair the meal with a riverside walk or a show nearby to make an evening of it.