Top Underground Cocktail Bars in London: A Hidden Gem Guide

London is a city filled with eclectic nightlife, and nothing adds mystery and allure quite like an underground cocktail bar. From secret basements to dimly lit cellars, these bars are where creativity meets seclusion, delivering unique cocktails and unforgettable atmospheres. Here’s a guide to some of the best underground cocktail bar London that offer a hidden escape from the bustling city streets above.

 1. Cahoots

Location: Soho  

Step into a 1940s-themed bar that feels like a time-travel experience in a disused underground tube station. Cahoots serves up period-inspired cocktails with wartime charm, making it one of London’s most famous hidden gems. Vintage décor, live jazz, and a lively atmosphere make it a standout choice.

2. Hokus Pokus

Location: 1 Belgrove Street

Enter through a secret bookshelf door in a whisky shop, and you’ll find yourself in The Vault—a hidden cocktail bar with a cozy, speakeasy vibe. Known for its exceptional cocktail menu and intimate space, this spot is a perfect hideaway for whisky and cocktail lovers alike.

 3. Nightjar

Location: Shoreditch  

Nightjar is the epitome of underground chic, featuring Prohibition-inspired décor and a live jazz soundtrack. The cocktail list is imaginative, with ingredients and combinations you won’t find elsewhere. It’s often ranked as one of London’s top speakeasy-style bars for its cocktails, music, and sultry vibe.

 4. Evans & Peel Detective Agency

Location: Earl’s Court  

Disguised as a detective agency, Evans & Peel requires a little role-play to gain entry. Guests ‘consult’ with a detective to enter the hidden bar, where quirky cocktails and vintage décor await. It’s a fun experience with an air of mystery, adding to its charm.

 5. Basement Sate

Location: Soho  

For those with a sweet tooth, Basement Sate pairs cocktails with decadent desserts in a stylish basement setting. This cocktail bar has mastered the art of dessert cocktails, serving up indulgent creations alongside classic drinks, making it perfect for a late-night treat.

 6. Happiness Forgets

Location: Hoxton Square  

Happiness Forgets brings an unassuming, laid-back vibe to the underground bar scene. Known for its ‘high-end cocktails, low-rent basement,’ this spot is all about exceptional drinks served in an intimate, no-frills setting. It’s ideal for those who prioritize quality cocktails over glitz.

 7. The London Cocktail Club

Location: Multiple locations  

The London Cocktail Club brings a party vibe to the underground cocktail scene. With various themed bars across London, each location offers unique décor, inventive cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere. From tattoo-inspired walls to 80s-style neon lights, there’s a spot for every taste.

 8. Oriole

Location: Smithfield Market  

Nestled below the streets of Smithfield Market, Oriole offers an exotic, escapist vibe with a sophisticated cocktail list. Drawing inspiration from around the world, this bar is decorated with opulent touches and serves drinks inspired by global flavors. Oriole also features live music, adding to the immersive atmosphere.

 9. Discount Suit Company

Location: Spitalfields  

This hidden gem used to be a tailoring shop and maintains its unpretentious charm. The Discount Suit Company offers an intimate setting with excellent cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an easygoing spot perfect for a cozy night out with friends or a date.

 10. The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Location: Spitalfields  

Enter through a retro Smeg fridge in a breakfast café to discover The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, one of London’s most playful underground bars. Known for quirky cocktails and cheeky signage, this bar is as much about the experience as the drinks themselves. Be sure to “leave through the toilet” when you’re done—it’s part of the fun!

 Tips for Visiting London’s Underground Cocktail Bars

– Book Ahead: Many of these bars have limited seating, so it’s wise to book in advance.

– Look for the Clues: Some bars are hard to find, often located behind secret doors or disguised as other establishments.

– Dress the Part: A few of these bars have themed décor, so adding a vintage flair to your outfit can enhance the experience.

– Try Signature Cocktails: Each bar has unique creations you won’t find elsewhere, so don’t miss their signature drinks.

 Conclusion

 Underground cocktail bar London bring a sense of adventure and exclusivity to the city’s nightlife. These hidden spots deliver not only unique cocktails but also an immersive atmosphere that transports you to another time or place. Whether you’re after a Prohibition-era vibe, exotic décor, or just a cozy basement escape, London’s underground bars have something for everyone. So grab a friend, uncover a secret entrance, and step into one of these hidden treasures for a night to remember.