19 Best Bars for After Work Drinks in London

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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.

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1. Oxo Tower Bar

🍷 Brasserie, British  | 💲£££  | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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. 

Opening hours 

Monday - Wednesday: 17:00 - 00:00

Thursday - Saturday: 17:00 - 01:00

Sunday: Closed

Best for

Drinks with a view

Address

Barge House St, London SE1 9PH

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Working closer to Soho? We’ve got you covered—here are the 12 best bars in Soho for last-minute bookings.

2. Thirteen at Chateau Denmark

🍷 Japanese/Sushi| 💲£  | ⭐Rating 4.6/5

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.

Opening hours 

Monday - Thursday: 11:00 - 23:30

Friday- Saturday: 11:00 - 23:00

Sunday: Closed

Best for

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Feeling like you’ve teleported from the office into Moulin Rouge

Address

1-3 Denmark St, London WC2H 8LP

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3. Flute

🍷Australian/European | 💲£££  | ⭐Rating 4.3/5

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.

Opening hours 

Sunday - Thursday: 12:00 - 00:00

Friday - Saturday:  12:00 - 00:30

Best for

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After-work drinks inspired by Soho’s historical film scene.

Address

7th floor, 20 Broadwick St, London W1F 8HT

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4. Humble Grape

🍷 European, French| 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.6/5

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. 

Opening hours 

Monday: 15:00 - 23:00

Tuesday - Friday: 12:00 - 23:00

Weekends: Closed

Best for

A tasty glass of wine after work

Address

1 St. Bride's Passage, London EC4Y 8EJ

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5. Sparrow Italia

🍷European, Italian | 💲££££  | ⭐Rating 4.6/5

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.

Opening hours 

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Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 00:00

Saturday - Sunday: 13:00 - 00:00

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Best for

The finest Italian cocktails

Address 

1-3 Avery Row, London W1K 4AJ

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Have your heart set on something special for after-work drinks? Here are the best cocktail bars London has to offer.

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6. Caia

🍷European, French | 💲££££  | ⭐Rating 4.5/5

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.

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Opening hours 

Monday to Sunday: 12:00 - 23:00

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Best for

A cosy drink with a colleague

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Address

20 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2AU

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7. Bar Jackie

🍷 European, Italian  | 💲£  | ⭐Rating NEW

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. 

Opening hours 

Everyday: 07:30 - 23:00 

Best for

Your Aperol Spritz fix

Address

📍20 Broadwick St, London W1F 8HT

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8. Seed Library

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🍷 Speakeasy  | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.6/5

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.

Opening hours 

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

Best for

Speakeasy vibes and tequila-based cocktails 

Address

📍100 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JQ

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9. Feels Like June

🍷American  |💲£ | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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. 

Opening hours 

Monday to Sunday: 07:00 - 01:00

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Best for

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Remote work and cocktails or mocktails

Address 

📍15 Water St, London E14 9SB, UK

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10. Gilgamesh

🍷Asian, Japanese |💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.5/5

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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. 

Opening hours 

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Sunday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 00:00

Thursday - Saturday: 12:00 - 02:00

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Best for

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Drinks after getting promoted or a work anniversary

Address 

📍4a Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9NY

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11. Velvet Alfresco with Campari

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🍷Italian, Mediterranean | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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.

Opening hours 

Monday - Sunday: 16:00 - 20:00

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Best for

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Italian cocktails after work in the summertime 

Address 

📍10 Whitehall Pl, London SW1A 2BD

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12. Pivot Bar & Grill

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🍷 British, European | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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.

Opening hours 

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Sunday - Tuesday: 08:30 - 21:00
Wednesday: 08:00 - 21:00

Thursday: 08:30 - 21:00

Friday - Saturday: 08:00 - 21:00

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Best for

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An after-work pint and bite to eat

Address 

📍3 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8LU

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13. Dalloway Terrace

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🍷 British, European  | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.2/5

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. 

Opening hours 

Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 23:30

Saturday - Sunday: 11:00 - 23:30

Best for

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A drink in a botanical escape

Address

📍16-22 Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3NN

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14. Aqua Kyoto

🍷 Asian, Japanese |💲£££  | ⭐Rating 4.2/5

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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. 

Opening hours 

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Sunday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 00:00

Thursday - Saturday: 12:00 - 00:30

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Best for

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Rooftop cocktails on a winter evening

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Address 

📍30 Argyll Street, London, W1B 3BR

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15. Aviary Rooftop

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🍷 British | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.1/5

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.

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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.

Opening hours 

Monday - Friday: 06:30 - 00:00

Saturday - Sunday: 07:00 - 00:00

Best for

After-work drinks with the whole department

Address

📍22-25 Finsbury Square, London, EC2A 1DX

Looking for more bars like this one? Check out our blog on the best rooftop bars in London.

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16. Redwood Sports Pub & Kitchen

🍷British, European | 💲££ | ⭐Rating 4.1/5

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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.

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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. 

Opening hours 

Monday - Friday: 11:00 - 23:00

Saturday: 10:00 - 23:00

Sunday: 11:00 - 22:30

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Best for

📍A pint while watching sports in the middle of the week

Address 

Bridge Station, London SE1 9SP

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17.  Goldwood

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🍷British, European | 💲££  | ⭐Rating 4.5/5

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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. 

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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.

Opening hours 

Monday and Tuesday: 11:00 - 00:00

Wednesday to Friday: 11:00 - 01:00

Saturday: 11:00 - 00:00

Sunday: 11:00 - 23:00

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Best for

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Catching the game on a large screen 

Address 

30 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DQ, UK

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18. Mercer Roof Terrace

🍷Whisky |💲£££ | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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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.

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Opening hours 

Saturday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 23:00

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Best for

A large drinks area with a view overlooking the London skyline to the south 

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Address 

19-20 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2AU, UK

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19. Enoteca Da Luca

🍷European, Italina |💲££ | ⭐Rating 4.4/5

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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.

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Enoteca da Luca has three beautiful spots in London, so you’re never far away from this Italian delight. 

Opening hours 

Saturday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 23:00

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Best for

A nice glass of red after work

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Address 

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Guildhall: 10-12 Basinghall St, London EC2V 5BQ  

Devonshire Sq: Western Courtyard, Devonshire Square, London EC2M 4AE

St. Pauls: 20-21 Watling St, London EC4M 9BR

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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. 

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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!

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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.

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CC your co-workers and Ambl will sort the rest.

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