Your boss is a nightmare, your inbox is overflowing, and you're starting to think that maybe, just maybe, becoming a surfer in Bali wasn't such a bad idea after all. But there's a cure for what troubles you, and it comes in a glass (or plenty thereof) and you can find the liquid solution in one of these bars for after-work drinks in London.
We’re not just talking about your regular old pints, either. Embrace your spontaneous side with spicy mezcals, Italian mixologist classics, cosy craft ales, luxurious concoctions, forever-bubbling champagne and the finest red and white wines London has to offer. Relax, refresh, and rejuvenate to take on tomorrow–shame we can’t do anything about your boss!
Here are the 19 of the best bars for after-work drinks in London.
1. Oxo Tower Bar
Unwind in style at the iconic OXO Tower Bar. For over two decades, this London landmark has been the go-to spot for casual drinks after work. Indulge in expertly-crafted tiki cocktails, classics and inventive creations, while soaking up breathtaking panoramic views of the city on the garden terrace. Whether you're catching up with colleagues or celebrating the end of the week, the OXO Tower Bar is your go-to for an after-work tipple.
OXO is perfect for celebrations and for anyone who enjoys fine dining with an unmatchable views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames.
Monday - Wednesday: 17:00 - 00:00
Thursday - Saturday: 17:00 - 01:00
Sunday: Closed
Barge House St, London SE1 9PH
Here’s Oxo’s menu to help you make your choice.
2. Thirteen at Chateau Denmark
Unleash your inner diva at Thirteen. This Soho sensation blends bold cocktails with a touch of Japanese flair, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding after work. Free yourself in the bar's theatrical decor, inspired by Moulin Rouge, with delicious cocktails made with a rebellious, colourful twist by dressed-to-impress mixologists. You can also enjoy delicious poke bowls and sushi rolls if you get hungry–the perfect way to let loose and celebrate office freedom.
Feeling like you’re in Moulin Rouge.
Monday - Thursday: 11:00 - 23:30
Friday- Saturday: 11:00 - 23:00
Sunday: Closed
1-3 Denmark St, London WC2H 8LP
Thirteen does great Japanese poke bowls for lunch as well as tacos and spring rolls as the day progresses. Check out their food & drinks menu here.
3. Flute
Flute is a wonderland that offers a dazzling blend of indoor glamour and outdoor escape. With its cinematic-inspired cocktails that are an ode to Soho’s film scene and breathtaking views across London, Flute is the perfect spot to unwind after work.
The welcoming interior, inspired by the area's flute-making history, adds to the overall ambiance. Surround yourself in the world of silver screen sophistication, from the moment you step through the door to the last sip of your star-studded drink.
Cocktails inspired by Soho’s historical film scene.
Sunday - Thursday: 12:00 - 00:00
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 - 00:30
7th floor, 20 Broadwick St,
London W1F 8HT
Flute’s menu is packed with the fanciest things you can find–think Hereford steak tartare with black truffle, Carlingford rock oysters and British lobster. A real treat-yourself type of place.
4. Humble Grape
Humble Grape is the perfect spot for wine lovers to unwind after work. This cosy wine bar boasts an impressive collection of over 400 sustainable wines, making it a retreat for both wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers. Every month, the Humble Grape takes you on a journey to a new wine region in the world by hosting a tasting special featuring unique sustainable wines and food that make the region so special.
Romantic dates and an immersive food and wine history experience.
Battersea
2 Battersea Rise, London, SW11 1ED
Islington
11-13 Theberton St, London, N1 OQY
Canary Wharf
18-20 Mackenzie Walk, Canary Wharf, E14 4PH
Fleet Street
1 St Bride’s Passage, London, EC4Y 8EJ
Liverpool Street
8 Devonshire Row, London, EC2M 4RH
Crouch End
4 Topsfield Parade, Crouch End, N8 8PR
Exclusive Humble Grape wine list from independent winemakers.
5. Sparrow Italia
Unwind after a long day with a sophisticated cocktail at Sparrow Italia. This Italian restaurant and bar creates expertly crafted drinks blending traditional Italian flavours with modern mixology, creating a truly unforgettable experience. From classic aperitifs to innovative creations like the Sardinia—with nitrogen-infused honeydew pisco—their cocktail menu is a testament to Italian artistry. It's the perfect spot to go for a drink while still in your fancy business clothes.
Sparrow Italia is the best place to go if you enjoy classic Italian cuisine and fancy truffle.
Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 00:00
Saturday - Sunday: 13:00 - 00:00
Avery House, 1-3 Avery Row, London W1K 4AJ
Modern yet classic Italian dishes and an imported wine list to choose from on Sparrow’s menu.
6. Caia
Unwind after work at Caia, Notting Hill's vibrant neighbourhood wine bar. With its infectious energy, curated selection of great jazz and soul music, and a carefully selected wine list, it's the perfect place to relax and recharge. Enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple while soaking up the lively atmosphere. It’s the best place to be after work on a Friday to kick off your night.
Sparrow Italia is the best place to go if you enjoy classic Italian cuisine and fancy truffle.
Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 00:00
Saturday - Sunday: 13:00 - 00:00
Avery House, 1-3 Avery Row, London W1K 4AJ
Modern yet classic Italian dishes and an imported wine list to choose from on Sparrow’s menu.
7. Bar Jackie
Soho's streets can be a whirlwind, but Bar Jackie offers a welcome oasis. This stylish cocktail bar blends a relaxed atmosphere with a touch of elegance, making it the perfect spot to unwind after work. The inviting terrace beckons on warm sunny days, while the stylish interiors offer a comfortable escape year-round. Indulge in classic Italian cocktails like Negronis and Aperol Spritzes, perfectly complemented by the sparkling chandeliers that add a touch of glamour to any afterworks.
Your Aperol Spritz fix.
Everyday: 07:30 - 23:00
20 Broadwick St,
London W1F 8TH
Cocktails, aperitivo classics such as Pinsa Romana, and homemade gelato.
8. Seed Library
After a long day at work Seed Library in Shoreditch is exactly where you want to be for a post-work drink. This underground Mayan-themed speakeasy blends botanical brilliance with expert mixology, creating a truly unique drinking experience. Their signature cocktails, featuring a playful mix of rum, tequila, and fresh fruit juices are a celebration of Mexico’s flavours and the perfect antidote to a busy day.
Spicy food and tequila.
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Thursday: 18:00 - 01:00
Friday: 18:00 - 02:00
Saturday: 16:00 - 02:00
Sunday: 17:00 - 00:00
100 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JQ
9. Feels Like June
Yes, Feels Like June is ideal even on a winter’s day. This Canary Wharf cocktail bar and restaurant will have you California dreamin’—no matter the season. Hop on over straight from work for some much-needed refreshment–or even work ‘from home’ there on their high-top tables with plenty of charging points and fast WiFi. After work (or during), you can choose from a plethora of sunny Californian cocktails and mocktails.
10. Gilgamesh
Gilgamesh is a drinking den that offers a unique experience inspired by ancient Mesopotamia. The team have gone all out with decorations reminiscent of a Babylonian Palace, and a signature drinks menu inspired by ancient cities, all transporting you to a world of grandeur and luxury. Expect plenty of exotic flavours–mango, grapefruit and lychee to name a few–and rare champagnes and wines by the bottle.
Gilgamesh is the best place for first dates with Pan-Asian fusion meals.
Sunday: 09:00 -00:00
Monday - Saturday: 12:00 - 02:00
4a Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9NY
11. Velvet Alfresco with Campari
Perched atop the Corinthia London lies a stylish escape from the city’s 9-5 bustle, perfect for soaking up the summer sun with a few drinks. The collaboration between the iconic Velvet Bar and Campari results in a stunning alfresco space, adorned with vibrant Italian pink and white decor. On the menu you’ll find a selection of expertly mixed cocktails, showcasing the versatility of Campari, from classic Negronis to new, innovative creations.
12. Pivot Bar & Grill
Spanning across two floors with a view overlooking Covent Garden, Pivot Bar & Grill is the perfect spot for a drink in the midst of a busy day in Central London. With its long booth seats and all-day-eating options, it's the ideal place to enjoy a well-deserved drink when you need it. Whether you're feeling a cocktail, a refreshing glass of wine, or a perfectly poured pint, Pivot has something to satisfy every taste. Complement your drink with delicious bar snacks or a hearty meal from their menu that champions British culinary excellence.
13. Dalloway Terrace
Dalloway Terrace is a stunning, tranquil escape for a calm drink to forget about your early morning commute the following day. With its stunning floral decor, it's the ideal spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail in the summer or stay warm in the winter with its heated glass enclosure and soak—all while soaking up the London skyline. From classic cocktails to wine and afternoon tea, It’s the perfect place to catch up/gossip with an old colleague.
A stunning grade business lunch in London.
16-22 Great Russell St,
London WC1B 3NN
Afternoon tea and cocktails.
14. Aqua Kyoto
Aqua Kyoto is the perfect destination for stylish after-work drinks. Situated high above the city overlooking the West End, its rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views that pair perfectly with expertly-crafted cocktails inspired by the Japanese blossom trees in Kyoto. With a calm atmosphere on the heated outdoor space, Aqua Kyoto hits the spot for drinks on a winter evening after a day of business meetings–after your third drink, you’ll forget you even had a boss.
The Aqua Kyoto offers some of the best Asian flavours London has to offer.
Sunday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 00:00
Thursday - Saturday: 12:00 - 00:30
5th Floor, 240 Regent Street (Entrance 30 Argyll Street), London W1B 3BR
Different menus available at different times—here’s the lunch menu and the dinner menu. Oh, and they do brunch on weekends 😉
15. Aviary Rooftop
Aviary Rooftop, a stone's throw away from Liverpool Street Station, is a stunning Friday-after-work type of place that boasts panoramic views of London's skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable Friday night. Plus, its location makes it the perfect last-minute drinks spot before catching the overground home if you live out of the city.
Its 6,000 square-foot rooftop allows you to get a bird’s eye view of London with an excellent cocktail filled with tequila, sweet juices, and good vibes. As the evening progresses, a DJ starts to spin some tunes guaranteed to get even the grumpiest of bosses dancing. You’ll not want to go anywhere else once you’re there—trust us. Aviary is by far the best rooftop bar in the area and a great place to be after work to kick off the weekend.
The Aviary offers a unique dining experience with their Nordic Night Igloos, letting you watch the stars and sip on cocktails in comfort.
Monday - Friday: 16:30 - 00:00
Saturday and Sunday: 07:00 - 00:00
Royal London House, 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX
16. Redwood
Adjacent to the London Bridge and just behind the Shard, you’ll find the Redwood—a sports bar and local pub that does after work drinks right. Mind-blowing margaritas aside, it’s a place to watch the game after work, no matter your sport of choice. Tennis, rugby, football, boxing—you name it, they show it.
But, it doesn’t stop at drinks. There’s always a fun crowd at the Redwood, giving it that upbeat atmosphere to cheer you up after a long day. Of course, all that fun can make a professional like yourself hungry—we recommend their mouthwatering burgers or game-changing wings. You’ll be celebrating more than just a goal.
The Aviary offers a unique dining experience with their Nordic Night Igloos, letting you watch the stars and sip on cocktails in comfort.
Monday - Friday: 16:30 - 00:00
Saturday and Sunday: 07:00 - 00:00
Royal London House, 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX
17. Goldwood
Another paradise for sports lovers is the Goldwood, based in the heart of Bank. With over 20 HD TVs—some as big as 100 inches—you can watch all your favourite sporting events while enjoying a craft beer and some savoury bar snacks.
The Goldwood is always lively, making it a great stop right after work if you want an upbeat atmosphere and a good time. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t? It’s a bicycle kick of a place to be.
The Aviary offers a unique dining experience with their Nordic Night Igloos, letting you watch the stars and sip on cocktails in comfort.
Monday - Friday: 16:30 - 00:00
Saturday and Sunday: 07:00 - 00:00
Royal London House, 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX
18. Mercer Roof Terrace
Mercer Roof Terrace is sky-high escape that offers breathtaking views of St Paul's Cathedral and the shard that'll make you forget about that inbox backlog or the Monday morning blues. With a drink in hand, and the city spread out before you, you'll feel like a million pounds (or, at least a couple of thousand). Whether you're catching up with colleagues or just need a break from reality, this rooftop retreat is your go-to.
The Mercer Roof Terrace is best for when you want to try some new, funky cocktails.
That's not all—there's also a basement bar called Do Not Disturb (DND), if you're looking for retro glamour and 1920's New York vibe. Also available for private hire.
Monday - Sunday: 12:00 - 23:00
Vintry & Mercer Hotel, 20 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2AU
From afternoon tea to three-course dinners, the wining and dining options are endless. Have a look at the Mercer menu here.
19. Enoteca Da Luca
If you need a break from the office grind, Enoteca da Luca is your Italian antidote. This posh collection of Italian wine bars is perfect for unwinding with a glass of something delicious. Forget about spreadsheets and deadlines - it's time to focus on Aperol Spritz and Aperitivos. With a robust red wine list and classic Italian bites, you'll be transported from the recliner chair to Rome in no time to forget your troubles.
Enoteca da Luca has three beautiful spots in London, so you’re never far away from this Italian delight.
Charm with parmesan.
St. Pauls
20-21 Watling St, London EC4M 9BR
Devonshire Square
Western Courtyard, Devonshire Square, London EC2M 4AE
Guildhall
10-12 Basinghall St, London EC2V 5BQ
Seasonal pasta offerings, charcuterie and cheese boards.
Find your after-work go-to in London with Ambl
London’s hustle and bustle business culture creates the perfect storm for an epic after-works drink scene.
With world-class cocktail bars, beer gardens, speakeasies, brasseries, rooftop escapes, wine bars, taverns and sports pubs scattered throughout the city, there’s always somewhere to unwind with colleagues after a long day’s graft. It’s just getting a seat at the bar that’s the problem!
Ambl is your go-to app for hassle-free, post-work plans. Secure your spot at one of these unmissable venues perfect for a post-work sip.
CC your co-workers and Ambl will sort the rest.