Not doing “dry January”? This one's for you.
Ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed by the number of bar choices in London? You are not alone. There seems to be a different bar on every corner; all with a different theme - and it is hard to tell the difference between the classic brown pub and the 2017 ripoff. But do not let that ruin your night! If you use this list of some of our personal favourites to navigate, we are sure you will find something that suits you, whether you are looking for a laidback sports bar, one with vegan snacks or something more upbeat!
THE SOCIAL
Struggle to decide whether you fancy a night out at a club or a bar? Well, you can thank us later, but we have an easy fix for your dilemma. The Social is located in the heart of London and has the atmosphere of both a bar and a club. With gigs and events going on multiple times a week, it is the best place to explore London’s music scene whilst having a something to drink. If you enjoy your time there, remember to sign up as a member (for free) to get cheaper drinks before 8.30 every day!
Flight club
You come for the cool circus theme and stay for best Mojito in town! It’s the perfect bar to have pres with your friends as it has several locations all over London, making sure you are always close to whatever your next plans for the evening are. It is also possible to book a private booth where you can play dart if you want a bar experience that is out of the ordinary!
Redemption
Ever wished you could have the trendy bar expereience and not wake up with a headache the next day? We have discovered your redemption! This vegan bar has several locations in London, including the cutest one which is in Shoreditch. You can expect a diverse alcohol-free bar with lots of tasty cocktails sprinkled with edible flowers. If you’re feeling a bit hungry, you can also treat yourself to something from their all vegan, sugar-free and wheat-free menu. Don’t be put off by the lack of alcohol or sugar - try it one time and their modern interior and high-quality drinks and food will leave you wanting to come back the next day.
The Lexington
Although we found this spot spontaneously, The Lexington, located not far from Kings Cross, has become an essential pub to visit for a gin & lemonade with friends or when we wish to dance all night. The pub itself has something to offer everybody. To find what would suit you best, keep checking their event lists (we can recommend the app Dice). Every Friday there is the White Heat Club, an event where they play quality music like Joy Division, Fleetwood Mac and The Cure amongst other indie rock bands. Admission downstairs is free, however upstairs admission is free if you have a ticket and show up before 12 am- if you arrive after, the ticket ranges between £5-£10.
Wags n’ Tales
A hidden gem in the heart of Surbiton. With its laid-back environment and lots of big tables, it is a lovely spot for studying during the daytime. It is also a family favorite in the area, as it allows you to bring with you your four-legged family members. Wags n’ Tales make their own dog treats that your “good boy” can enjoy while you treat yourself to a slice of vegan cake. At night, the café turns into a spots-bar where you can sit down for a pint or a pornstar martini. Pro tips: #1: If you want plant milk in your coffee - almond and soy milk are free! #2: The scrambled Tofu is the best dish on the menu!
The Grind
Let the pink neon lights lead the way to an atmospheric and tasteful bar visit. Locations span from Covent Garden and London Bridge to Exmouth Market and their Shoreditch bar which has become a local landmark with a recording studio upstairs. Let’s just say that The Grind got you covered regardless of where you may find yourself in the city, and whether you are in the need of espresso or an elderflower spritz. You are in luck because they are famous for both! Not only that, but for once you do not have to worry about a drunken visit to “Macca’s” after your night out, because the Grind offers a menu including both sweet potato fries and delicious hummus and pitta. In other words, it is the perfect spot if you are looking for a relaxed night out with friends or a place for your next date.
Café Kick
The two times we spent our evening here, the atmosphere was brilliant. It is typically very busy with people watching sport, playing foosball and sipping on beer. In other words, an excellent place to meet new people, catch up with old friends or have a couple of drinks before going out!
Disclaimer: It is immensely important to be aware of your own drinking habits, and not over-consume for a long period of time. Addiction is difficult, but it is always better to talk to someone about it. So if you, or someone you know are showing signs related to problems with alcohol, you can seek help here:
UK NHS national alcohol helpline number: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm).
Ireland HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline: helpline number: 1800 459 459, email support service (helpline@hse.ie).
Norway RUStelefonen: 91508588, for more information follow the link.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Help hotlines for various of cities in Germany.
Free Drug & Alcohol online counselling 24/7 (Australia).