Given that London is often shrouded by grey skies and rain, residents and visitors have carved out innumerable bars and pubs that make for perfect shelters from the weather. This year’s winter is predicted to be even colder and snowier than usual in the U.K.; so, if you’re making the trip across the pond, you’ll want to memorize this list of the city’s ten coziest cold-weather bars.
Night Tales
While Night Tales isn’t a year-round feature, the quirky pop-up in Dalston has been steadily attracting crowds of the city’s coolest (err, coldest) customers since its opening in early November. Occupying a converted double-decker parking garage, the pop-up venue serves hot toddies, hot Negronis, and even absinthe-dosed hot chocolate. Complete with a wood-burning fireplace, it isn’t possible to get much cozier.
Carom’s Tea Light Lounge
The chic Carom in central London is already popular among diners for its flavorful pan-Indian fare. This winter, however, it’s drawing in new crowds for its romantic, winter-themed pop-up lounge. Offering a selection of custom tea-infused cocktails and a seating area lit by flickering candlelight, it’s a perfect venue for driving away the winter chill.
Purl
Purl has long been a favorite among the city’s cocktail hunters for its inspired mixology and decidedly unusual drinks. We like the bar best during the winter months as its dark, basement location and small area of sultry nooks makes it a perfect place to hide out for a few hours.
The Star Tavern
Where better to curl up on a cold and frosty afternoon than a traditional English pub? The Star Tavern in Belgravia is not only one of the city’s coziest pubs, but also one of its most historic: In fact, the Great Train Robbery was planned in its upstairs room. While there are (hopefully) fewer criminal plots being planned here now, the Star’s long list of whiskies makes the pub a particular draw on winter days.
Gymkhana
When it’s cold out, filling your belly with warm, spicy curry is an optimal plan. At Gymkhana, you can select from a menu of gorgeously spiced, high-end Indian fare while hunkering down in its darkened basement bar. The winter spicing carries over to its homemade punches, one of our preferred winter drinks this season.
The Spaniards Inn
Stopping for a drink at The Spaniards Inn is a bit like stepping back in time. Located on a green stretch of Hampstead, the old fashioned pub was once patronized by the likes of Charles Dickens and John Keats. The 16th century inn is still a perfect place to shelter, and its crackling wood-burning fire is one of London’s best.
Sager + Wilde
A ringleader in London’s edgy wine scene, Hoxton’s Sager + Wilde offers unbeatable cold weather ambiance. Its narrow, dark confines are lit by a row of globe lights, and its short but sweet wine list brings imbibers a selection of rare and high-end bottles at accessible prices.
Nightjar
Speakeasy-like ambiance? Check. Live jazz? Check. Classic cocktails? Check. Popular London cocktail bar Nightjar is doubtless one of the best places to while away a winter evening. Try the Baltimore Eggnog cocktail for a riff on a favorite winter drink.
Somerset House Ice Rink Bar
Every year, the majestic courtyard of Somerset House turns into a beautiful, high-energy ice rink. It’s one of our top 10 stand-out ice skating spots around the world. Visiting DJs provide the soundtrack, while evening light shows transform the surface of the ice into a riot of pinks and purples. After taking a few turns around the ice, the rink-side Chocolate and Champagne Bar will help you fight off the cold.
The Southampton Arms
Voted as one of London’s finest pubs, The Southampton Arms in Gospel Oak is a small but superbly cozy little watering hole. Alongside its menu of craft beer and cider from independent British breweries, it offers live jazz twice a week and stokes a warm fire during the winter. What’s not to like?
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose London guide covers all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
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