There are more than 300 speakeasy‑style venues tucked behind bookshops, laundromats and even a laundrette on Brick Lane. If you’re looking for a place that feels like a secret, start with the postcode. A quick Google search for “hidden bars in EC1” pulls up two that I’ve visited: The Blind Pig on Great Portland Street and The Blue Bar in Whitechapel. Both require a key card or a password, so a phone call ahead is a good idea.

Which neighbourhoods have the best underground drinks?

Southbank’s “Bunker” is a former WWII air raid shelter, now a craft‑beer bar with a 12‑hour tap rotation. In Shoreditch, Bar 13 sits behind a vending machine that looks like a vending machine for beer. The bar is open only on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 pm to 2 am, and the staff hand out a free “mixer” card to anyone who can name the last four digits of the bar’s original telephone number. That’s a fun challenge for a first‑time visitor.

How do I know the vibe before I commit?

Most hidden bars use a subtle entrance cue: a door that opens onto a dimly lit corridor with a single lightbulb, or a bookshelf that slides to reveal a back door. The lighting is usually low, with candles or Edison bulbs, and the music is carefully curated. In the East End, the “Gingerbread House” bar has a jazz trio that plays every night from 9 pm to midnight. If you’re a fan of live music, that’s the spot.

What drinks are a must‑try at these secret spots?

• At The Blind Pig, order the “Speakeasy Old Fashioned”: a bourbon, a dash of bitters, a twist of orange, and a smoked sugar cube. The bartender burns the sugar cube over a small flame for an extra smoky note.
• In Bunker, the “London Fog” is a gin‑based cocktail with a hint of sage, served in a glass that resembles a trench coat.
• The Blue Bar’s signature drink is the “Lemon Drop” – a bright, citrusy gin fizz that comes with a slice of lemon carved into the shape of a small skull.

Can I bring my own bottle?

Most hidden bars have a strict no‑carry policy. The only exception is a small, hidden corner of the Blue Bar that offers a bottle service for groups of six or more. The price is £45 per bottle, which includes a custom garnish. If you plan to bring a bottle, call ahead to confirm the policy; otherwise, you’ll be politely asked to leave your drinks at the entrance.

While planning a night out in London’s clandestine corners, you might also consider a different kind of escape. If you enjoy a bit of mystery and chance, try a session at a lolajack casino, where the games are as hidden as the bars themselves.

How to make the most of a weekend escape?

Plan a two‑night itinerary: start on Friday with a drink at The Blind Pig, then hop to Bunker for a late‑night beer. On Saturday, begin at The Blue Bar for a brunch cocktail, and finish the night with a walk along the Thames to a hidden speakeasy in Southbank. Bring a waterproof phone case; the East End can get rainy, and you’ll want to capture the glow of the dim lights.

What’s the downside?

Because these bars rely on secrecy, they can be difficult to locate if you’re not familiar with the city. A common issue is that the staff may not speak fluent English, which can make ordering a bit awkward. Also, the entry fee at Bunker is £10, which is higher than most regular bars. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to skip the first night and save for a later visit.

Final thoughts

London’s hidden bars offer a slice of the city’s underbelly that’s both intimate and adventurous. By calling ahead, noting the entrance cues, and preparing for a small cover charge, you’ll enjoy a night that feels like a well‑guarded secret. The next time you’re looking for a break from the usual pub scene, remember that the city’s best stories are often tucked behind unassuming doors.