Top 5 London Hangouts
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I’m an avid traveller, which has been a major benefit of living in London, since Continental Europe is only a short plane, or train, ride away. I moved to London a year ago from sunny Florida to pursue an MA at King’s College London, and now that I’m done, I never want to leave.
I’ve only been living in London for a year now, and the diversity of the city has left me with too many options on where and what to do when I go out. I thought I’d share my top five favourite London hangouts, each being in a different area. You’ve got to make sure to visit these ones.
East London: The Book Club
100-106 Leonard Street, London EC2A 4RH ∙ 020 7684 8618
I was recently introduced to The Book Club, and I can’t get enough. It’s got everything a person needs and is open late seven days a week. The atmosphere and decor make it great for having cocktails with friends or enjoying something to eat. The drinks are decently priced for the area, so your wallet won’t be hurting the next morning. I’d have to say my favourite thing about The Book Club is that there always seems to be something going on, so you’ll never have a dull moment. Make sure to check the website before you go to see what events, performances and exhibitions are going on.
West London: The Phoenix
23 Smith Street, London SW3 4EE ∙
Get directions 020 7730 9182
This quiet, but popular, pub on Smith Street, hidden off the King’s Road, is one of my favourite places in West London to get a drink or bite to eat on the weekend. Not only are the drinks affordable, but the food is mouth-watering, like the fishcake with poached egg and hollandaise sauce I had this past weekend. The Phoenix gets creative with its menu, so you’re guaranteed never to find the same thing on it twice. If you’re looking for a relaxing evening at the pub, or starting a night out in West London, the Phoenix is definitely worth a visit.
South London: ROXY Bar & Screen
128-132 Borough High Street, London SE1 1LB ∙
Get directions 020 7407 4057
When I moved to London a year ago, I was living near London Bridge, and found ROXY Bar & Screen, an unassuming bar on Borough High Street…until you go inside. The bar is always busy, but the best thing is the screening room in the back, which shows everything from classic movies to football matches. The only downside is that you do have to be a member to attend screenings, but I found the membership well worth it. Regardless, the bar is definitely worth the visit, and make sure to have one of ROXY’s house cocktails.
North London: Keston Lodge
131 Upper Street, London, N1 1QP ∙ 0207 354 9535
Keston Lodge is a favourite of mine in North London for a night out. It’s open late on Friday and Saturday’s, so it’s definitely worth a stop by if you’re bar hopping for the night. It has a comfortable retro feel, with leather booths and chairs at the bar, and a great buy one cocktail, get one for £1 special that runs from 5 p.m. until close on Thursday and Sundays. I’ve personally never had the food, but friends tell me it’s delicious. Keston Lodge varies its music, so no matter what friends you go with, everyone will hear something they can sing to.
Central London: Barrio Central
6 Poland Street, London W1F 8PS ∙ 020 3230 1002
I was introduced to Barrio Central on my birthday, and it did not disappoint. Everything in Barrio is a fiesta, with quirky materials and games attached to its vibrant colourful walls. You’ll feel like you’re on a summer holiday in Spain. Plus, its ‘Amigo Hour Special’, everyday from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., is something not to miss, with margaritas starting at £4. Quick tip: Make sure to sign up for your friends of Barrio card to receive even bigger discounts. Ole!
I’d love to hear your opinions on my favourite hangouts, and if there are any places you think I should visit, let me know!
Photography by Picnic Projects, The Roxy, and Worlds Best Bars
Love all the tips and ideas- I will def make my way around to them all!
Glad to hear that Mel! They’re definitely worth the visit.
I have been to the Roxy it was totally amazing. They screened This is England and even had actors from the film to answer questions at the end.
An unforgettable experience.