London loves its drink, and while pints at one of the many pubs are popular, there's a special experience to be had hitting up the city's hotel bars. Some legendary, some new school, herein are seven slick spots where you're guaranteed a good drink and perhaps a celebrity sighting or two.
Oscar Wilde Bar at Café Royal Hotel
What was once the iconic Grill Room has a new look, one that’s firmly rooted in the past, with a restoration to the room’s authentic Louis XVI details. Established way back in 1865, this Café Royal Hotel spot has seen a lot of notable guests, including Mick Jagger, Elizabeth Taylor and its namesake Oscar Wilde. In addition to bubbly, it serves up lively entertainment in the evening.
Cocktail Lounge at The Zetter Townhouse
On a cold London night, the lounge at The Zetter Townhouse provides a sweet retreat. They say it “feels like [the] private residence of a most beloved, eccentric and indulgent great aunt…” and it does, thanks to cozy, colorful furnishing and a real open fire crackling. Behind the bar, cocktail master Tony Conigliaro delivers strong mixtures to remedy whatever the week had wrought.
The Long Bar at the Sanderson
In contrast to the chaos of Oxford Circus, a few blocks over the Sanderson’s Long Bar is a breath of fresh air. Gleaming white and 80 feet long, it’s a posh trough for people-watching (even the chairs have eyes) whilst downing a proper tipple.
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Connaught Bar at The Connaught
If Jay Gatsby weren’t fiction and he frequented The Big Smoke, he’d feel right at home at The Connaught's bar with its Deco-feel, decked out in shimmering shades of silver. Warm up with their whiskey and bespoke chocolate tasting—they offer two varieties of Lagavulin and Dalmore whisky that you won’t find at any other U.K. bar.
Blue Bar at the Berkeley
Aptly christened, this intimate bar at the Berkeley puts guests at ease by surrounding them with beautiful shades of blue—from wall to rug. Settle into a chair and choose one or a few of the 50 whiskies they stock. Poetry is sure to ensue.
Fifth Floor and Rooftop at Shoreditch House
There are two bars to hop up to at Shoreditch House, the Fifth Floor restaurant with its casual, open concept, or the rustic, atrium-style Rooftop where you can warm your hands around a table-top fire. Their refreshing house tonics are offered at both.
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Blakes Bar at Blakes Hotel
Dressed in warm, rich hues and abounding with candles and orchids, the lounge and bar at Blakes offers a regal refuge for a quiet evening drink. Tucking into the pillow-laden sofa and sipping on something exotic is an excellent way to end the night.