When I walked into a cramped back room behind a laundromat in Soho, the first thing that struck me was the dim amber light and the smell of oak. I was not alone; that same corner of the city houses a dozen hidden bars that feel like they were lifted straight from a 1920s film. If you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s a little off the beaten track, here’s a quick rundown of the best speakeasy spots, how to find them, and why they’re worth the effort.
1. The Secret of the Staircase: The Blind Pig
Located on a stairwell that no one mentions in travel guides, The Blind Pig is accessed by turning a brass knob on a bookcase in a narrow hallway. Inside, a single bar counter hosts a rotating menu of gin‑based cocktails. The highlight? A 30‑minute “mixology lesson” where the bartender teaches you how to build a classic French 75. The only downside is the seating: the bar is a single row of stools, so you’ll have to be ready for a quick sip and a quick exit. If you’re a gin lover, the 3‑hour limit on the tasting menu is generous, but bring a wallet that can handle a £12 per drink average.
2. Hidden in Plain Sight: The Old Vicarage
On a quiet street in Bloomsbury, a nondescript door marked “Vicarage” leads to a Victorian‑style interior that feels like a time capsule. The drinks list is lean, focusing on craft whiskey and homemade bitters. The bar’s most talked‑about drink, the “Midnight Sermon”, costs £14 and comes with a small glass of aged sherry. The only hiccup: the bar is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for Tuesday or later. Otherwise, the quiet ambience and the fact that the staff remember your favourite cocktail make it a standout.
3. The Pop‑Up Experience: The Blue Velvet
Every month, a different city street hosts The Blue Velvet, a pop‑up speakeasy that appears behind a laundromat in Shoreditch. The entrance is a hidden door in a laundromat’s back wall. Inside, a velvet‑lined lounge with a vintage piano offers a rotating menu of rum‑based cocktails. The price point is higher, with most drinks at £18, but the unique setting and the nightly live jazz set justify the cost. The caveat: because it’s a pop‑up, the location changes every month, so you’ll need to check the official Instagram before you go.
4. The Classic Twist: The Speakeasy at The Old Fire Station
In a converted 19th‑century fire station in Islington, a speakeasy sits behind a false wall that opens when you press a hidden panel on the floor. The bar offers a curated list of cocktails that blend local London gin with rare bitters. The highlight is a 12‑hour “rum crawl” that includes a tasting flight and a complimentary cocktail guide. The only drawback is the strict no‑photo policy, which might disappoint those who like to document their nights. However, for those who prefer an immersive experience over a social media snapshot, this spot is a gem.
Mid‑Article Bridge: From Drinks to Digital Fun
After a night of sipping craft cocktails, you might find yourself craving a different kind of entertainment. If you’re looking to keep the excitement going, you could try a quick session of online gaming. https://stmarksnewtownards.co.uk offers a range of options that can be played from the comfort of your hotel room.
Choosing the Right Speakeasy for Your Weekend
If you’re after a quiet, intimate evening, The Blind Pig’s single‑stool bar will feel like a private conversation. For those who appreciate history and a touch of class, The Old Vicarage’s Victorian vibe and whiskey focus are unbeatable. If you want a pop‑up adventure that changes each month, The Blue Velvet’s rotating location and jazz nights are the way to go. Finally, for a classic speakeasy experience with a twist of local history, The Speakeasy at The Old Fire Station delivers both atmosphere and a curated cocktail menu.
Final Thought
London’s speakeasy scene is a living museum of cocktail culture and secret doors. Each bar has its own personality, and the common thread is that they all invite you to step out of the ordinary. Pick one that fits your mood, make sure to check the opening days, and enjoy a weekend escape that’s as memorable as the drinks themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a speakeasy and why are they popular in London?
Speakeasies are hidden, often themed bars that recreate the 1920s prohibition era; London’s mix of history and nightlife makes them a hit with locals and tourists alike.
How do I locate a speakeasy in Soho?
Use clues like unmarked entrances, quirky signs, or local recommendations; many are hidden behind laundromats, bookshops, or nondescript doors.
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