It was 8 pm on a wet Thursday, and I was staring at the grey London sky, wondering where to go for a drink that didn’t feel like the usual tourist trail. A friend texted me about a bar that required a password and a coat of paint that looked like a 1920s jazz club. The place was called Backroom, tucked behind a nondescript shop in Soho. I stepped in, and the world shifted from the rain‑slick streets to a dim, velvet‑lined lounge where the bartender poured a gin fizz that tasted like fresh citrus and a whisper of absinthe. That night, the city’s hidden speakeasies proved that London still has a pulse of prohibition‑era mystery.
How to Find the Unlisted
Most of these bars hide in plain sight. A common cue is the lack of signage: a simple door, a bookshelf, or a back entrance that looks like a pantry. Use a map app and search for “speakeasy” or “hidden bar” in the neighborhood; the search results often show a few gems. If you’re in Shoreditch, look for the brick façade of Ritual, whose entrance is a fake wall behind a stack of crates. In Fitzrovia, the bar Hemingway’s is accessed by pulling a cigar box in a corner of a shopfront. Knowing the pattern saves you from a half‑hour wait outside a place that’s actually open.
What Makes a Speakeasy Worth the Trip
- Authentic décor – A speakeasy that uses original period furniture, like a 1930s bar counter or a velvet chaise, feels more immersive than one that just adds a few props.
- Craft cocktails – Look for a menu that includes classic recipes, such as the Sidecar or the Martinez, prepared with house‑made bitters.
- Secret entrance – A password, a hidden lever, or a bookcase that opens into a lounge signals that the establishment has taken the effort seriously.
- Live music or jazz – A small stage with a saxophonist or a DJ playing vinyl adds an extra layer of nostalgia.
Planning Your Night
Most speakeasies open from 6 pm to 1 am, but they don’t always announce opening hours online. Call ahead if you’re unsure; many will give a short hint about the entrance. If you’re on a budget, avoid the tourist‑heavy areas like Covent Garden, where prices can double. Instead, head to the East End or the West End’s quieter streets, where a hidden bar can cost between £8 and £12 for a signature drink. Also, note that many bars have a cover charge of £10–£15 if you arrive after 10 pm. A quick Google search for “speakeasy cover charge” will keep you from a surprise.
After the Drinks: A Quick Detour to Digital Fun
While the cocktails were smooth, the night’s real excitement was the thrill of discovering a place that feels like a time capsule. If you’re looking for another way to unwind after a long day, you might enjoy a session of online casino gaming, where the atmosphere can be just as engaging. For example, the site Vegashero offers a wide variety of classic slot games that echo the glamour of old‑school gambling halls, and the interface is clean enough to keep you focused on the action. The combination of a hidden bar and a digital casino can make for a memorable weekend escape.
Weekend Tips for the Curious
Plan a route that lets you visit at least three bars in one evening. Start in Soho at Backroom, then head to Ritual in Shoreditch, and finish at Hemingway’s in Fitzrovia. Keep a small wallet handy for cover charges and a few extra pounds for a signature cocktail. Bring a friend who appreciates the subtle art of a well‑crafted drink; they’ll notice the difference between a standard gin fizz and a gin fizz that’s been aged in a bourbon barrel. Finally, remember that the best speakeasy experience comes from the mystery itself – the feel of a hidden door and the thrill of being part of an exclusive club.
Final Thoughts
London’s hidden speakeasy bars are not just drinking spots; they’re a portal to a bygone era, a chance to step outside the ordinary and into a world of whispered secrets and polished glass. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or a curious newcomer, the city’s secret bars offer a weekend escape that’s both refreshing and unforgettable. The next time the city feels too predictable, step through a hidden door, sip a classic, and let the night take you where the music and the mystery lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Backroom unique?
Backroom hides behind a plain shop, offers a password entry, and serves vintage‑style cocktails in a 1920s‑inspired lounge.
How do I get the password for the bar?
Ask locals, follow the clues on social media, or contact the bar directly; they love a good mystery.
Is the atmosphere suitable for a casual night out?
Yes, the dim, velvet‑lined setting is cozy yet stylish, perfect for relaxed drinks or a night out with friends.
