Bars
The 5 Best Hotel Bars in London
You do not need a room to drink in London's grandest hotel bars. Here is where to go.
In short: our top picks are The Connaught Bar, American Bar at The Savoy and Claridges Bar. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
London’s hotel bars are some of the best rooms in the city to drink in, and you do not need to be staying to enjoy them. Between the grand classics and the quietly brilliant newcomers, this is where the bartending, the rooms and the occasion all come together. These are the ones worth dressing for.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Connaught Bar | Mayfair | ££££ |
| American Bar at The Savoy | Strand | ££££ |
| Claridges Bar | Mayfair | ££££ |
| The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy | Strand | ££££ |
| The Connaught Bar | Mayfair | ££££ |
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Editor’s choice
The Connaught Bar
Why we pick itRepeatedly named among the world's best bars; the martini trolley is the rite of passage.
-
American Bar at The Savoy
Why we pick itThe Savoy's grande dame; live piano, a century of history, and faultless classics.
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Claridges Bar
Why we pick itArt Deco glamour off the Claridge's lobby; dress up and order a Flute of champagne.
-
The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy
Why we pick itThe Savoy's darker, theatrical sister bar; cocktails with a sense of showmanship.
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The Connaught Bar
Why we pick itRepeatedly named the world's best bar; the martini trolley is legendary.
Before you book
Go early for a seat at the famous ones, and dress for the room; most hotel bars expect smart-casual at least. You do not need to be a guest, but a quiet word at the door never hurts at the busiest. And ask the bartender what they would make you: at this level, it is always worth hearing.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
The Connaught Bar is our editor's choice: Repeatedly named among the world's best bars; the martini trolley is the rite of passage. The Connaught Bar, American Bar at The Savoy and Claridges Bar lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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