London speakeasies are some of the world's most theatrical — the 10 below show why.
Part of our 20 Best Speakeasies in the World listThis article is one chapter in our larger global guide. See the full pillar with every featured city.
Read the world list
The 10 best speakeasies in London
01 · London
Shoreditch
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Iconic · Live jazz
Hidden Shoreditch speakeasy — live jazz nightly.
Order: Old Cuban
02 · London
Hoxton
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Iconic · Basement
Below a burger restaurant on Hoxton Square.
Order: Perfect Storm
03 · London
Soho
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Iconic · Hidden basement
Hidden Soho basement cocktail bar.
Order: Bartender's choice
04 · London
Smithfield
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Iconic · Theatrical
Sister venue to Nightjar — theatrical drinks.
Order: Ortolan Sour
05 · London
Aldgate
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Iconic · Tailor-shop hidden
Iconic Aldgate speakeasy in a former tailor's shop.
Order: A Painkiller
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06 · London
Mayfair
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Iconic · Phileas Fogg's home
Phileas Fogg-themed Victorian drawing-room bar.
Order: A Tipperary
07 · London
Soho
$$$
Iconic · Theatrical
Iconic Soho theatrical cocktail bar.
Order: A theatrical signature
08 · London
Hackney
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Iconic · Behind a wall
Hidden Hackney bar entered through an unmarked wall.
Order: Bartender's choice
09 · London
Bethnal Green
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Iconic · Industry-only feel
Iconic Bethnal Green industry-favourite speakeasy.
Order: A Satan's Whiskers
10 · London
Mayfair
$$$
Iconic · Hidden basement
Hidden Mayfair Marriott basement speakeasy.
Order: A precise Manhattan
More London speakeasiesThe full London speakeasy index by neighbourhood.
See the full list
How to find a speakeasy in London
The 10 above are where London hides its best cocktails — behind phone booths, fridges, bookcases, and unmarked doors. The point is the secret. The reward is the cocktail on the other side.
