The best secret bars in London
A bookcase in London's oldest whisky shop, a secret fridge door, a whispered password and a wardrobe... London is littered with tucked-away, hidden drinking spots.
The 'speakeasy'-style bar is a term that rolls off the average Londoner's tongue (along with added connotations of dimly lit interiors and moustached, rough linen apron-wearing bar staff). But there's a reason our establishments keep nodding to the prohibition era – there's something of a kick in settling down in a bar that's made you work for it. Browse our gallery of our favourite hidden bars below:
The low down: We begin with what is probably the most notorious of hidden bars. Chinatown's very own hidden gem is to easy to miss – ECC's inconspicuous grey door peers out from between two Chinese restaurants, with the only clue being a memorable splash of paint and the presence of a suit-clad bouncer hovering nearby. Once in, punters bask in the exclusivity, and satisfaction, of gaining admittance. A very stylish haunt indeed.
We recommend: The famous 'Kota Tonate', their version of a Milk Punch.
Can you book? Yes! It can be tricky to find a spot inside, so it is worth making a reservation. Available to book here
