London is known for its love of gin, and the city has a thriving gin scene that has been established for centuries. From the Gin Craze of the 18th century to the present day, Londoners have been enjoying this popular spirit in a variety of ways.
While a standard G&T can be found at any local pub, sometimes only the best will do. For those looking for something extraordinary, there are a number of top-notch gin bars in London that are worth a visit. In this article, we will explore the best gin bars in London and provide practical tips for visiting them.
Contents
- 1 City of London Distillery Bar
- 2 Little Bird Bar at Maltby Street Market
- 3 Four Thieves
- 4 214 Bermondsey
- 5 East London Liquor Company
- 6 Rivington Grill
- 7 Mother’s Ruin
- 8 Graveney Gin
- 9 London Gin Club
- 10 Pedler
- 11 Holborn Dining Room
- 12 Coburg
- 13 Ladies & Gents Bar
- 14 Martello Hall
- 15 Gintonica
- 16 The Gibson
- 17 Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour
- 18 Merchant House
- 19 The Library Bar at The Ned
- 20 Practical Tips for Visiting the Best Gin Bars in London
- 21 London Gin Bar Map
Key Takeaways
- London has a long-standing love affair with gin.
- There are numerous top-notch gin bars in the city.
- Practical tips for visiting the best gin bars in London are provided.
City of London Distillery Bar
The City of London Distillery Bar is a trendy speakeasy-style bar located in the heart of London’s gin revolution, The City. The bar is famous for its excellent gins and was one of the first new gin distilleries to open in London in over 200 years when it opened in 2012.
The bar’s credentials are impressive, with three of its gins winning a double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The bar’s stylish speakeasy vibe makes it the perfect place to try out the distillery’s excellent gins.
For those interested in exploring other cool bars in the area, the City of London Distillery Bar is located in Farringdon and Clerkenwell, two neighborhoods known for their vibrant bar scene.
Little Bird Bar at Maltby Street Market
Little Bird Bar, located in Maltby Street Market, is a popular gin bar in London. It is owned by a local gin distillery and offers a cozy atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their weekend cocktails. The bar has both indoor and outdoor seating, with blankets and hot water bottles provided for those chilly days. The outdoor seating includes a couple of tables, which is perfect for visitors who prefer to enjoy the market’s bustling atmosphere. Little Bird Bar is a must-visit for gin lovers in London, looking for a unique experience in a trendy location.
Four Thieves
The Four Thieves is a popular gin bar located in the heart of London. The bar is named after four infamous thieves who allegedly used a secret blend of herbs and spices to protect themselves from the bubonic plague during the 17th century.
Some key features of the Four Thieves gin bar include:
- A wide selection of gins from all over the world, including rare and exclusive varieties.
- A knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to recommend gins and cocktails based on customers’ preferences.
- A cozy and intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting, comfortable seating, and a vintage decor.
- Regular events and tastings, including gin masterclasses and cocktail workshops.
Overall, the Four Thieves is a must-visit destination for any gin lover in London. With its unique history, impressive gin selection, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder why the bar has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
214 Bermondsey
214 Bermondsey is a gin bar located in the London Bridge area. This cozy bar offers an impressive list of gins, ranging from micro-distilleries to big international labels like Hendrick’s. Gin lovers will find this bar to be their dream destination. The bar is humble and welcoming, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. On Sundays, the bar hosts a “tiki bar” party that is always great fun. After enjoying a drink, visitors can explore the two gin distilleries on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. For those looking for the perfect gin experience, 214 Bermondsey is the place to be.
East London Liquor Company
Located in Bow, the East London Liquor Company is a boutique gin producer that offers a range of excellent spirits distilled in East London, including three different types of gin. Visitors can tour the distillery or stop by their bar to try their spirits, which are also featured in a range of cocktails. In addition to their own spirits, the bar also offers a hand-selected range of imports and serves beer for those who prefer it over gin.
Rivington Grill
Located in Greenwich, the Rivington Grill is a popular restaurant and gin bar that offers a wide variety of gin options to satisfy even the pickiest of gin drinkers. In addition to its impressive gin menu, the restaurant also serves delicious food options, including perfectly cooked steaks. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal alongside their gin. Whether you’re a gin snob or just looking for a great meal, the Rivington Grill is a must-visit destination in Greenwich. Don’t forget to check out other cool things to do in Greenwich while you’re in the area.
Mother’s Ruin
Mother’s Ruin is a gin distillery located in Walthamstow, named after the time when gin was believed to be ruining London society, particularly mothers. Despite the controversy surrounding gin drinking in the past, Mother’s Ruin remains true to the traditional methods of gin-making. Their small and quirky bar is the perfect place to try their fruity and fragrant gins, which have improved significantly from the gin of the past. Mother’s Ruin is a must-visit for gin lovers and those interested in traditional gin-making methods.
Graveney Gin
Graveney Gin, located in Tooting, combines traditional methods with a modern approach to create their small-batch gin. The company prides itself on using organic and sustainable ingredients. Additionally, Graveney Gin donates 10% of their profits to gorilla conservation efforts worldwide. Gin enthusiasts can visit their gin bar in London’s Tooting Market, which is open every day except Mondays.
London Gin Club
The London Gin Club is a cozy and laidback bar located in the Soho area that offers a great variety of gin. Gin enthusiasts and novices alike can enjoy tasting events that are held at the bar. Anyone is welcome to visit, but signing up as a member (which is free) gives access to great discounts. If you’re looking for a club that’s devoted to the enjoyment of gin, the London Gin Club is definitely worth checking out.
Pedler
Located in Peckham, Pedler is a popular brunch spot that also boasts an impressive gin bar. The venue’s airy and bright atmosphere attracts a large crowd, so reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment. In addition to delicious brunch options, Pedler offers a variety of gin-based cocktails, many of which feature locally distilled Little Birdy’s gins. For those looking to enjoy a tasty meal and exceptional cocktails, Pedler is a must-visit gem in Peckham.
Holborn Dining Room
The Holborn Dining Room, located in the Holborn area, boasts lavish decor and offers a wide selection of gin and tonic combinations. With 500 gins and 30 tonics to choose from, guests can create over 14,000 unique combinations. In addition to gin, the bar also serves delicious cocktails, such as the refreshing and balanced ‘Summer’s Blush’.
Coburg
Coburg, located in the Mayfair district, offers a romantic ambiance that is perfect for enjoying a glass of London’s best gin. The decor features dark hardwoods, flickering candles, and plenty of cozy nooks for intimate conversations. Open daily from 8am to 1am (midnight on Sundays), Coburg is the perfect spot for a drink any time of day. Their food menu is equally impressive, with options such as tuna tartare and chicken satay.
Ladies & Gents Bar
Located in Camden, the Ladies & Gents bar is a unique cocktail bar that was once a public lavatory. Despite its unusual origins, the bar has become one of the top gin bars in London. The former public lavatory has been completely transformed, leaving no trace of its former life. The bar offers a “gin club” for those who can gather nine friends to join them. The popularity of the delectable cocktails has led to the opening of two additional locations in Kentish Town and Kings Cross.
Martello Hall
Martello Hall is a charming rooftop gin bar located in London Fields. The bar boasts a cosy elegance and a full calendar of events, including Sunday jazz. One of the highlights of Martello Hall is their exceptional gin, which is crafted in their own distillery. Visitors can even blend their own gin with the Gin Masterclass. With its reputation as one of the best gin rooftop bars in London, Martello Hall is a must-visit for gin lovers looking for a unique experience.
Gintonica
Gintonica, a Spanish-inspired gin bar located in Notting Hill, London, takes pride in serving gin in large goblets. This unique way of serving gin keeps the drink cool and allows the fragrance and flavors to present at their best. Gintonica also offers 100 expertly crafted cocktails for those who are not yet convinced to try their gin served in a goblet. The bar’s focus on presentation and taste makes it a must-visit destination for gin enthusiasts in London.
The Gibson
Located in the trendy Shoreditch area of London, The Gibson is a gin palace with a unique Prohibition-style decor. This venue offers a wide range of events and serves some of the best cocktails in London. The bar’s mixologists are skilled in creating delicious gin-based cocktails, with the “Electric Earl” being a particular standout. This cocktail combines gin and tea, resulting in a uniquely British flavor. Overall, The Gibson is a must-visit destination for gin lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour
Located in Covent Garden, Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour offers a unique and whimsical experience that is part theatre and part gin bar. The decor is Alice in Wonderland-inspired with eclectic artwork, making it a must-visit for those seeking a quirky atmosphere. With over 150 varieties of gin available, it is considered one of the best gin bars in the area. For those looking for a cool bar in Covent Garden, Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour is definitely worth a visit.
Merchant House
Located in The City, the Merchant House is a two-floor establishment that exudes elegance and sophistication. With a focus on gin and rum, the bartenders are well-trained in their craft and provide exceptional service. Guests can also attend a gin-tasting night to expand their knowledge on the popular London spirit. The decor features rich mahogany, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Merchant House is the perfect spot for those looking to impress their guests or enjoy a night out in style.
The Library Bar at The Ned
The Library Bar, located in The City, is the perfect spot for those who enjoy a well-made martini. This stylish bar takes pride in serving some of the best martinis in the capital, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. In addition to their signature cocktails, the bar also offers a wide selection of champagne. The ambiance is unique, with leather-bound books and rich hardwood furniture creating an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance. Sipping a martini in this setting makes one feel like a true aristocrat, adding to the overall charm of the experience.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Best Gin Bars in London
When visiting the best gin bars in London, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. Firstly, not all tonics are created equal, so it’s best to ask the bartender for a recommendation to avoid ruining a great gin with a bad tonic. Secondly, it’s important to plan out your transportation in advance, whether it’s an Uber or tube ride, to ensure a stress-free experience. Finally, if you’re new to gin, many of the best gin bars in London offer masterclasses and tasting sessions to help you learn about the different types of gin and what distinguishes a gold-medal winning batch from a “bathtub gin”. These sessions can also be great fun, so don’t hesitate to give them a try.
London Gin Bar Map
- Check out the map with the locations of the featured bars.