Nightlife

Number 1 on the World's 50 Best Bars list (2020, 2021) — Ago Perrone and team at the Connaught Hotel (Mayfair). The Martini trolley wheels to your table and they mix the classics in front of you; the Vesper Martini and the Connaught Martini are signature. Smart dress code, reservations essential.

Mon–Sat 14:00–01:00, Sun 16:00–24:00.

Hidden behind an unmarked door in Shoreditch — a 1920s prohibition atmosphere, a live band every night (jazz, blues, swing), and a cocktail menu of 100+ items written in the style of an old menu book. Reservations required, dress code (no sportswear).

Mon–Wed 18:00–01:00, Thu–Sat 18:00–02:00, Sun 18:00–24:00.

London's most famous club — 3 rooms, the 'Bodysonic' sound system (the bass vibrates up through the floor), top techno/house DJs (the FabricLive series is legendary). Doors at 11pm, peaks 2-4am. Friday is Hospitality (drum & bass), Saturday is techno.

Fri 23:00–06:00, Sat 23:00–08:00. Closed Mon–Thu and Sun.

A bohemian Soho pub since 1910 — De Gaulle held Free French meetings here during the war; Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon were regulars. Beer is served in half pints only (a house tradition), with no music, no TV — just conversation. Two floors, restaurant upstairs.

Mon–Sat 12:00–23:00, Sun 12:00–22:30.

London's highest public terrace (155m) atop the 'Walkie-Talkie' tower — 360° views, an indoor tropical garden, plus a restaurant and bar. The trick: entry is free but requires an online booking 3 weeks ahead (afternoon or evening slot). Without a booking, you pay only if dining/drinking at the restaurant.

Mon–Fri 10:00–18:00 (free entry), bar until 24:00. Sat–Sun 11:00–21:00.

London's oldest wine bar (1890) — narrow candle-lit cellar arches, platters of British cheeses and charcuterie, wine only (no beer, no cocktails). They never take reservations; the queue can be long, but 130 years of atmosphere is unique.

Mon–Sat 11:00–23:00, Sun 12:00–22:00.