What a Hidden Bar Is and Why It Matters
A hidden bar is a venue that blends into its surroundings so well that you have to look twice to spot it. Think of a nondescript door in a shopfront, a back‑room entrance behind a laundromat, or a bar tucked into a quiet side street. The appeal lies in the surprise: a secret space that feels exclusive, yet is open to anyone who finds it.
Finding the First Secret Spot: The Old Vicarage
Located at 12 Old Vicarage Street in Bloomsbury, this bar is a former 19th‑century rectory. It opens with a brass plaque that reads “Enter at your own discretion.” Inside, the ceiling is low, the lighting is amber, and the bartender knows the word “saffron” before you finish your sentence. The menu features a single cocktail, the “Greyhound,” served with a twist of lemon. It’s a small price: £12 for a glass, and the bar never runs out of the house‑made bitters.
Architectural Charm: The Tunnel Bar
Just a few stops from Tottenham Court Road, the Tunnel Bar is accessed by a narrow staircase that leads into a vaulted space. The walls are lined with reclaimed timber, and the floor is a mosaic of old tiles. The bar offers a rotating selection of craft beers, with the current highlight being a 5% ABV farmhouse ale that costs £8.50. A single table sits under a glass dome, and the bar hosts a weekly trivia night on Thursdays.
Street‑Level Surprises: The Back‑Alley Speakeasy
On a quiet lane behind Covent Garden, a door marked “No Entry” hides a speakeasy that opened in 2018. The entrance is a bookcase that slides aside when you say the password “Eclipse.” Inside, the décor is 1920s minimalism: a single bar, a few mismatched chairs, and a small piano that plays soft jazz. The signature drink is the “Midnight Mule,” a Moscow mule with a splash of elderflower syrup, priced at £9. The venue is known for its live music on weekends, with local jazz ensembles performing every Friday evening.
Why You Should Go There
Hidden bars offer a break from the usual tourist trail. They provide a personal touch: bartenders often remember regulars’ names and preferences. The atmosphere is intimate, with a seating capacity that rarely exceeds ten people. This means you can have a conversation with the bartender about the cocktail’s history without being interrupted by a crowd. For those who enjoy discovering new places, the hunt itself is part of the fun.
From Secret Bars to Online Entertainment
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Planning Your Night
Start at the Old Vicarage before 8 pm to avoid the rush of tourists. Allocate 30 minutes for each bar to savor the cocktails and chat with the staff. If you’re a solo traveler, bring a small notebook; you’ll find the stories behind each hidden venue fascinating. For a group, consider a guided tour that includes all three bars; the guide will handle the logistics and let you focus on the drinks.
Final Thoughts
London’s hidden bars are more than just drinking spots; they are curated experiences that reward curiosity. With a clear address, a distinct menu, and a welcoming atmosphere, each venue offers a slice of the city’s eclectic spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned barhound or a first‑time explorer, these secret spots promise an epic night out that you’ll remember long after the last cocktail is poured.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a hidden bar?
A hidden bar is a venue that blends seamlessly into its surroundings, often behind a nondescript door or a disguised entrance, offering a surprise experience.
Why do people love hidden bars?
They provide an exclusive, intimate atmosphere and the thrill of discovery, making each visit feel special and unique.