Come rain or shine, cocktails are always a winner. Whether you’re a fan of fruity, can’t get enough of bitters and fizz or like them punchy, there’s sure to be something that suits your taste. Since most bars also offer a tempting, non-alcoholic selection of mocktails, everyone can join in on the action - especially during London Cocktail Week between 13-22 October 2022.
There are so many unique bars in and around London that it can be hard to narrow your choices down. We’ve done the hard work for you! Here we’ll name just a few of the best cocktail places in London and the South West, all of which can be easily accessed on the South Western Railway network. Looking for the best rooftop bars with a view in London? We've got things covered there too.
If you’re looking for quirky bars in London, head to The Escapologist. Inspired by all things weird and wacky, you're promised a cocktail bar experience like never before. With its concept based on creepy old secret societies alongside a temptingly unique cocktail menu, there are so many reasons to round up your friends and pay a visit here. The bar’s website warns guests to ‘expect the unexpected...’, adding to the mystery of the place.
Pricing: ££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there: From London Waterloo, it’s a 22-minute walk to the Escapologist. You can also take the Northern line northbound, getting off at Leicester Square. The bar is a five-minute walk from this station.
Embrace your inner child for the day and head to Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch. This quirky cocktail bar features two adults-only ball pits filled with over one million balls – perfect for taking selfies and living your best life. The extensive cocktail menu contains everything from ice lolly tipples to fruity favourites. You can further tempt your tastebuds with one of the delicious pizzas. Meanwhile, mocktail lovers can choose between three delicious concoctions.
Pricing: ££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there: Catch the London Overground from Clapham Junction to Shoreditch High Street, then walk for seven minutes to reach Ballie Ballerson. If you’re heading from London Waterloo, hop on the Jubilee line (eastbound) and get off at London Bridge. Switch to the Northern line (northbound) and get off at Old Street, then Ballie Ballerson is an eight-minute walk away.
Sitting in the heart of Covent Garden, The Alchemist is the best place to go for theatrics and Instagrammable drinks. With a ginormous menu packed with drinks that bubble, smoke and change colour, you’ll feel like you’re participating in a super delicious science experiment. If you’re feeling hungry, The Alchemist also offer a tasty food menu inspired by worldwide cuisines.
Pricing: £££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there: The Alchemist is a 22-minute stroll from London Waterloo. You can shorten the walk by taking the Northern line (northbound) and getting off at Leicester Square.
If you’re searching for good London bars, look no further. Murder Inc. is well known throughout London for unique and expertly crafted cocktails. With a menu that’s constantly being refreshed, it’s a place you can revisit endlessly. If you want to learn how to make your own from the experts themselves, why not book a cocktail masterclass and see what you can muster up?
Pricing: ££
Do they serve mocktails? On request
How to get there: From London Waterloo, hop on the Northern line northbound and get off at Tottenham Court Road. The bar is then three minutes walk away.
With its underground station theme, the location alone makes Cahoots in London well worth visiting. You can knock back your cocktails from the confines of an old tube carriage at this 1940s style speakeasy bar, where no detail has gone amiss. Your drinks will be served in old mugs, hip flasks, tins and vintage milk bottles reminiscent of wartime rations, and there’s the option to grab a bite to eat if you’re feeling peckish.
Pricing: ££-£££
Do they serve mocktails? No
How to get there: Join the Tube via the northbound Bakerloo line at London Waterloo, then get off at Oxford Circus. From here, it’s a six-minute walk to Cahoots.
The best places for cocktails in the South West
Smokin' Aces – Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, Bournemouth
Open every day of the week, Smokin’ Aces is a cocktail bar with a twist – and that’s the fact there isn’t actually a menu. Simply tell the bartender your flavour preferences and leave the rest to the experts! Its party atmosphere and impressive spirits selection make it the perfect cocktail spot for an after-work tipple or a big weekend bash.
Pricing: ££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there: It’s an eight-minute bus journey plus a six-minute stroll to reach this bar. From Bournemouth station, catch the 5a towards Bournemouth, get off at Exeter Road and cover the rest on foot.
There is plenty to enjoy at Medbar Southampton, from DJ sets to the oh-so-popular Latin nights. With 2-4-1 Cocktails from 16:00 and 20:00 daily and bottomless brunch options, it’s easy to get your money’s worth here. With cocktails ranging from classics like the mint mojito to signature concoctions like the Medbar Special, there’s a tipple for every taste.
Pricing: ££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there:Southampton Central is the nearest train station to Medbar. From here, catch the Quayconnect bus towards Town Quay, ride for four minutes and get off at Holyrood Church. It’s a six-minute walk from the bus stop to the bar.
This popular bar chain appears all across the UK for a good reason. Featuring one of the most extended cocktail lists you’ll frankly find anywhere, you can sip away at all kinds of concoctions at The Alchemist. With exciting theatrics, you can expect foam, bubbles, dry ice, fire and colour-changing variations, where the drink’s presentation is just as memorable as the taste.
Pricing: £££
Do they serve mocktails? Yes
How to get there: The Alchemist is just a seven-minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour.
Whether cocktail bars or independent breweries are calling your name, plan your journey today! Look at our flexible range of ticket types to find the right one for your trip and make the most of cheap train tickets by going off-peak. For additional discounts, check if you’re eligible for a Railcard or GroupSave. Thanks to the SWR Rewards scheme, we could even save you money on hotel stays, meals out and attractions when you book online through us.
From the FA Cup Final and Chelsea Flower Show, to free outdoor activities like scenic bike rides, wildflower wandering and more, here’s what’s on in May in London and the South West.
