London is a city that seamlessly integrates modern times with history, past and present, local and international. Consequently, the city’s social environment has become as diverse as the people in the city and it’s easily noticeable everywhere. The city’s nightlife is one aspect where this diversity shines more than most: pubs, clubs, restaurants, lounges, and the list goes on. There are numerous venues inside this world capital that easily qualify it as a melting pot of different cultures.
This guide will help you understand the scenic as well as the social aspects of the city which are better explored after the sun has gone down.
Savoring The True Essence of a British Pub
Especially if you’re new to the city, experiencing a true British pub should be at the top of your list. It’s an integral part of any trip to London; the successful ones at least. You may be thinking, what’s integral about some themed bar, but it’s more than that. A lot of London’s pubs have been open for decades; long enough to have had regulars like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens.
The types of pubs one can find in the city are just mind-blowing – from small, warm wooden rooms with a fireplace to modern, well stocked, and fully equipped gastro pub with a pool—and some finely delectable food.
For a truly local feel, go to The Churchill Arms located in Kensington. This pub, commonly known for its floral artwork outside and its mixed decor inside, has equal parts history and charm. There are also pubs where you can get a feel of the more fashionable London. The Draft House on Charlotte Street is, for example, one of them. It carries a rich variety of craft beers and is known to be a gathering place for the city’s younger crowd.
Feeling the Spirit of the Nightclubs in this Megalopolis
If dancing is something you can’t compromise on, the city’s clubs would be more your speed. After all, pubs are fun and all, but where will you dance your heart out? An area like Mayfair, for example, is known for having some of the best nightclubs in London — all elegant and exclusive venues with celebrities going to party there on the regular.
All over city, you’ll find all sorts of venues, whether you’re looking for interesting themes, world-class DJs, multiple floors, multiple rooms, and the list goes on. Some venues consist of many rooms for guests to experience as many genres as they want on a single night.
Covered Places and Alternative Nightlife
Aside from clubs and pubs, London is also known for its speakeasies. Having gone through its own version of prohibition, London has had its fair share of speakeasies, many of which are still open to this day. Aside from an entertaining night, these venues offer an insight into the city’s history like no other.
In case you want to try something out of the ordinary you can go to The Vault at Milroy’s Soho. It’s a whiskey bar located under a whiskey shop with a small and warm atmosphere. The baristas love what they do, and the amount of whiskey on the menu is nothing short of astounding. It’s an ideal place to unwind and have a quiet drink without the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you’re more interested in the speakeasy experience but historical accuracy isn’t your priority, Void Bar at the Shoreditch District is a good option. This is a time traveling venue in that it is modeled after American Prohibition era speakeasies bars and serves incredibly delicious mixed drinks. The live jazz music is an added bonus and a perfect final touch to a quiet and intimate night in London.
Whether it’s a nice warm pint in an old quaint pub, a strobe lit dance floor in a popular club, or an underground hidden speakeasy deep in the city, London has a perfect night in store for everyone who goes out looking for one. Not to mention, if you’re looking to meet new people, you won’t be disappointed. It all goes back to the diversity London offers as a cultural melting pot and as a world capital.
