The most romantic bars in London: 12 places to take a date

In a city as diverse and vibrant as London, finding the perfect spot for a romantic rendezvous can feel a little overwhelming. However, hidden amidst the bustling streets, lively pubs, and eclectic shops are a collection of intimate bars that promise to elevate your romantic date night in London. From stunning rooftops that offer breathtaking views of the River Thames and the iconic London skyline to charming underground hideaways nestled within historic vaults, these venues are waiting to be explored.

Whether you are seasoned romantics or new lovebirds, the most romantic London bars provide an ideal backdrop for intimate conversation, connection, and unforgettable moments. Just imagine sipping cocktails and bubbles perched high above London or in a romantic bar that feels as though it belongs in a glamorous movie. Or perhaps you’d prefer the allure of a hole-in-the-wall speakeasy where dim lighting and live jazz create a secretive atmosphere. London’s romantic bars cater to every preference, ranging from luxurious hotel lounges to tropical rooftop escapes and art deco-inspired spaces.

This list showcases the best of the best, rounding up the most glamorous spaces offering menus made by mixologist royalty. But everyone looks for something different when it comes to romantic bars, and sometimes the best date night bars are the casual ones. So we’ve done our homework to pull up a few casual wine bars and lounges to help you avoid any awkward moments.

These bars aren't just places to grab a drink; they are sanctuaries designed for intimacy, the kind of places that might have you confessing secrets, sharing stories, and huddling together. Love isn’t just in the air, at these romantic bars in London it’s in the cocktails, the ambience, and the shared experience. So what are you waiting for? Don’t be shy, get booked in!

Artesian, Marylebone

What: Offering a brilliant blend of glitzy glamour, award-winning mixology, and effortless romance, Artesian stands as one of the most romantic bars in London. It’s located in the glitziest of hotels, The Langham, but the main reason this spot stands out against the rest is the unwavering passion of the team, not just when applied to crafting exceptional drinks, but to delivering a holistic experience that emphasises comfort and atmosphere.
Where: The Langham, 1c Portland Place, W1B 1JA
Book now: Artesian at the Langham

Coupette, Bethnal Green

What: A sophisticated cocktail bar with London charm, Coupette draws inspiration from the most elegant of glassware, the Coupe. It’s intimate and refined, showcasing a harmonious blend of contemporary art and vintage elements. Cocktails here combine traditional French flavours with cutting edge techniques, producing standout drinks with luxurious twists that have won several awards. Plus, you’ll also find a moreish food menu or sharing plates. Now that’s a date spot.
Where: 423 Bethnal Green Road, E2 0AN
Book now: Coupette

Donovan Bar, Mayfair

What: Courtesy of cocktail master, Salvatore Calabrese, Donovan Bar offers a taste of luxury to match the alluring location. Set within the iconic Brown’s Hotel, Donovan Bar stands as a love letter to sophistication and timeless glamour. Think monochromatic interiors studded with green and gold accents, softly lit interiors and an intimate atmosphere. Cocktails here are a matter of artistry, whether you opt for a classic or a new and unusual invention.
Where: 33 Albemarle Street, W1S 4BP
Book now: Donovan Bar

Gordon's Wine Bar

What: It might be more than 130 years old but London’s oldest wine bar hasn’t lost an ounce of charm. Tables laid out in the vaulted wine cellar are iconic, each lit with tapered candles protruding from bottles, and surrounded by old newspaper clippings and photographs. It feels like a bar from another age, but it’s very real, packed full of charm, and happens to boast an incredible reasonably priced wine list.
Where: 47 Villiers Street, WC2N 6NE
Book now: Gordon's Wine Bar

Savage Garden, Tower Hill

What: Few things are more romantic than rooftop bars blessed with brilliant views over the glistening city, and Savage Garden stands out among the rest. This one offers several beautifully designed areas for date nights, from the modern main area to cosy lounge seating and an al fresco terrace lit by glowing string lights. Whether you’re here for the rose, the view, or the fabulous cocktails, it's sure to add a little love to the evening.
Where: 7 Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF
Book now: Savage Garden

Hithe + Seek, City of London

What: Equipped with gloriously luxurious modern interiors, Hithe + Seek is a suave location ideal for couples interested in wine looking for a wonderfully personal experience. It also boards brilliant views looking out over the river towards Shakespeare’s Globe, where the lights of London dance over the River Thames. You could easily while away several hours here chatting over great cocktails, wine and internationally inspired small plates.
Where: 60 Upper Thames Street, EC4V 3AD
Book now: Hithe + Seek

GONG, London Bridge

What: It’s near impossible to talk about the most romantic bars in London without a mention to GONG at The Shard, who wouldn’t want to spend a date night sipping bubbles on the 52nd floor of the tallest building in London? From this height, with the whole city at your feet, it’s hard not to get swept up by the sultry allure of the place. Cocktails here take cues from Asia and the Far East, offering signature cocktails and twists on the classics.
Where: 31 St Thomas Street, SE1 90U
Book now: GONG by Shangri La The Shard

Topa, Holloway

What: A deli by day, and wine bar by night, Provisions might be one of the most underrated romantic bars in London. On select evenings it transitions into Topa, a Basque pintxos bar with a menu curated by Simon Shand inspired by the bars of San Sebastian. It’s charmingly casual, with guests gathered around a large communal table and perched at old barrels lit by candlelight. But the real draw here is the natural and low intervention wine list.
Where: 167 Holloway Road, N7 8LX
Book now: Topa

SOMA, Soho

What: If the goal of the evening is to impress a date, this hole-in-the-wall style bar is sure to deliver. It’s a sultry, pared-back little spot from the same team behind the Kricket restaurants. Drinks come from a beautiful menu packed with edgy twists on classic cocktails and new concoctions served in elegant glassware. SOMA is undeniably modern, but it’s one of the few bars that retains enough warmth and character to remain modern.
Where: 12-14 Denman Street, W1D 7H
Book now: SOMA Soho

Nipperkin at NIJU, Mayfair

What: An intimate cocktail bar set within Japanese restaurant NIJU, Nipperkin has made a name for itself as an understated but elegant bar inspired by the immersive atmosphere of 1950s Japanese listening rooms. To match the alluring setting, guests can anticipate a harmonious menu of meticulous cocktails curated by the award-winning mixologist Angelos Bafas and his team.
Where: 20 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EE
Book now: Nipperkin Bar

Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese, Charing Cross

What: Inspired by the roaring twenties, Velvet is a celebration of ‘joie de vivre’ as curated by award-winning mixologist and cocktail consultant Salvatore Calabrese. The space is dark, moody, and utterly romantic, making it the perfect late-night spot for date nights. The menu here is remarkable, taking inspiration from notable figures and quotes from historic icons like Einstein, Enzo Ferrari, and Michael Jordan.
Where: Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall Place, SW1A 2BD
Book now: Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese

Bar Americain, Piccadilly Circus

What: An Art Deco cocktail bar inspired by 1930s America, Bar Americain harks back to the origin of the cocktail craze. It’s an atmospheric opulent space, decorated with varnished woods, gilded accents, period furniture, and Josephine Baker prints adorning the walls. It’s not just beautiful, drinks here are crafted masterfully and laid out in a menu that highlights the legacy of prohibition and explores pre- and post-prohibition drinking.
Where: 20 Sherwood Street, W1F 7ED
Book now: Bar Americain

London’s most romantic bars are in a league of their own, but sometimes the classics are best. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best pubs and restaurants in London with real fires so you can find the next best place for a cosy night out.