Mark Andrew

Looking for things to do in South West London? Clapham is the heart of South West London. With Clapham Junction, Clapham Common and Clapham North. It could claim to be the capital of young London, almost like a mini University town. The busiest drinking spots stretch along Clapham High Street. The common itself hosts a number of festivals and music events in the summer months. For an edgy night out head further south to Brixton, for a more chilled out affair sample Battersea or Wandsworth.

1) The Loft

If youre heading to out to Clapham, get off the tube at Clapham North and take a short five minutes walk down Clapham High Street to Clement Avenue, there you will find The Loft. It doesnt look much from the outside, fairly inconspicuous, the only obvious clue being the bouncers. Once inside, youll be blown away by the Lofts post- modern, New Yorky charm; lurking within, is a modern industrial style, stainless steel, exposed breeze blocks, exposed air vents, stylish white plastic seats, exposed brick flooring, all off set set by brown leather sofas and candle lighting– a bit different from the homogenised local alternatives. The Loft, brought to you by the same people as acclaimed Brixton club, Plan B, tends to attract a trendy yet eclectic bunch. Differing from its larger cousin, theres no dance floor, but that doesnt stop the big name DJs, Norman Jay for one, from manning the decks from time to time. Otherwise, music is groovy funk and disco fused with a Latin vibe. One of the striking features of this first floor establishment is the huge glass windows, portraying commanding views of bustling Clapham High Street – why not kick back on a comfortable sofa, choose from over 50 reasonably priced, tasty cocktails and take a look out upon the street; complete with vomiting, bust exposed girls being chased broken healed by kebab wielding men.

Located: 67 Clapham High Street, London, SW4 7TG

For more details visit: The Loft Clapham

2) Sugar Cane

Lets face it, in the UK the chances are its raining, cold or overcast or quite possibly, all of the above. If you fancy a bit of sunshine all year round; gather a group of people, friends, randoms – it doesnt matter, jump on the tube, hop off at Clapham Common and take a short 15 minutes walk to Sugar Cane. Alternatively take the over ground to Clapham Junction. There you will find solace, sunshine and tiki – (tiki is the Polynesian god) which means in real terms, rum, rum and err more rum. An extensive selection of cocktails is available, included rum based tiki drinks, the classics and Sugar Cane originals such as the Grass Skirt; vodka, rum, grapes, elderflower and apple. Yum! You could conclude, with the wicker chairs, palm trees and carved statues, that Sugar Cane is a little tacky but that doesnt matter, its tongue in cheek and cheery. Along with the tat, youll also find a great welcoming atmosphere and, as mentioned above, year round sunshine, a metaphor, of course. Musically, Sugar Cane is a huge miss-mash, expect anything from hip-hop, jazz, funk, rock, old school to the classics.

Located: 247-249 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 1JW

For more details visit: The Sugar Cane

3) Brixton Bar and Grill

Just a short walk from Brixton tube station, just off Brixton Road youll find Brixton Bar and Grill, located under a Victorian railway arch, pretty much in the centre of colourful and lively Brixton market. Accommodated over 3 rooms – the intimately lit front bar, the middle room complete with, oak table and a lone chandelier and the funky cocktail lounge styled with mismatched furnishings. As far as the tunes are concerned, expect house, old school, breaks, that sort of jazz plus occasional live acts. As for the drinks, youll get great cocktails made with premium spirits. All the above pulls in a mixed crowd of locals and young professionals. Brixton Bar and Grills close proximity to Brixton Academy, make it the perfect for pre and post gig drinks – theyve even been know for posting unofficial pre-event parties.

Located: 15 Atlantic Road Brixton, London, SW9 8HX

For more details visit: Brixton Bar and Grill

4) Lost Society

Step off the train at Clapham Common; avoid being propositioned or mildly harangued by those casually cottaging (only joking, was a problem years ago), head down Wandsworth Road and pop into a fantastic experience of decadence and history, step into Lost Society. Set over 6 opulent rooms and a heated secret garden, – perfect for the smokers among us, Lost Society was originally a 2 storey 16th century barn, which once hosted a banquet for Elizabeth I. This heritage, along with the decadent, contemporary art deco decor, sets the foundations for a great evening. Lost Society tends to attract a diverse array of partying punters, reflected by the music policy – supplied by Lost Societys resident DJs. Party on while they traverse breaks, funk, electro, house, disco and punk, stopping at many stations between. A stand out venue in the South West London area, Lost Societys ethos is intelligent drinking, as such the cocktails are exceptional. Also worth checking out is Lost Societies equally cool sister bar, Lost Angel, situated in nearby Battersea Park.

Located: 697 Wandsworth Road, London, SW8 3JF

For more details visit: Lost Society

5) Suburban Bar Lounge

This is a cool little bar offering an impressive range of over 150 cocktails, but you wont just get a drink, youll get the glass juggling and showmanship of expert mixologists with a smile and without the pretension. Based in West Londons upmarket suburb of Wimbledon, Suburban Bar & Lounge is a friendly place – the passageway to the rear garden reinforces this, its covered with framed photos of punters enjoying themselves and the bar. The rest of the venue is smart, chocolate brown, the bar is terracotta tiled and theres even a lounge area with fire. The music is indie, retro and loud.

Located: 27 Hartfield Road, Wimbledon, London, SW19 3SG

For more details visit: Surbaban Bar

6) The Peacock

And now for something a bit different. This Clapham bar and club can claim to be Londons number one burlesque and cabaret club. And thats exactly what you get on Friday and Saturday, followed by DJs playing the best retro tunes from 1970-s/80s/90s. Best thing is, with all this entertainment to be had, it wont cost you a bean, zilch, nothing – fantastic and rare, travel to the West End and youll pay a premium for this sort of fun. The Peacock is a fun place to be, you can tell that from the decor, clever juxtaposition of baroque, retro, and rococo or just a jumble of styles? You decide, either way, its unique, impressive and one of the coolest places to be in South West London, think about this as you relax on achaise longue peering at the free entertainment. Liquid refreshment comes in the form of classic cocktails, fruit beers as well as the usual goodies. Alight at Clapham Junction, its only a 3 minute walk.

Located: 148 Falcon Rd, Clapham Junction, London, SW11 2LW

For more details visit: The Peacock Bar

7) Adventure Bar and Lounge Battersea

If youre looking for something a little more intimate, Adventure Bar and Lounge, Battersea is your place. Just a crawl away from Clapham Junction, Adventure Bar and Lounge is perfect if you want quality, inexpensive cocktails, theyre 2-4-1 before 8, great tunes as long as you dont mind being cramped and sweaty in a hectic environment. The musical offering of this Battersea bar is what sets it apart from others in the area, no house, no breaks, no hip hop but indie and retro by request –perfect for a sweaty, dance and booze filled evenings. And given the packed-in –like an-over-stuffed-beanbag-circumstances, you may come out with a few fun memories and a few more numbers in your phone.

Located: 91 Battersea Rise, Battersea, London, SW11 1HW

For more details visit: Adventure Bar

8) The Holy Drinker

Northcote Road is a veritable Mecca for the trendy bar goer, it is the pinnacle of the Clapham area, inevitably this saturation effects the quality of bar on offer, however The Holy Drinker is a puritanical drinking experience, alchopops have been ex-communicated and only premium sprits are served. Get off the tube at Clapham Common and head down Northcote Road for about 15 minutes, passing, and resisting, the numerous tempting bars on display. Hold out, all expectations are about to be surpassed. This is the original sin, one of the first bars in the area and it sets a precedent. Music is extremely varied and depends on the night – anything from a little light drum n bass to The Doors. The Holy Drinker is usually packed and buzzing but dont worry as there is extra accommodation outside in the form of a canopied and heated outdoor seating area, as it happens its not a graveyard!

Located: 59 Northcote Road, Clapham Junction, London, SW11 1NP

For more details visit: Holy Drinker

9) The Hive Brixton

Beehive Place, Brixton looks fairly inconspicuous – youd never guessed this was the black market capital of London. Bootleg Bill MacDonald moved into the area and turned it into a bootleggers heaven, and due to American prohibition, he made a fortune shipping illicit booze. Style wise, a tribute to this theme has carried over to The Hive today, along with simple, slick elegance two characters peer from the walls, a gun toting American prohibition era gangster and his female companion. Smallish, intimate, this South West London bar is more a cocktail lounge cum restaurant, well it feels much more like a living room to be honest, but that adds to the charm and makes it the perfect place to chat amongst friends with a large range of wine, a great selection of cocktails and live music, what more could you possibly want?

Located: 11-13 Brixton Station Road, Brixton, London, SW9 8PA

For more details visit: Hive Bar

10) The Windmill

And finally, though not a bar, more of a pub, is The Windmill. This legendary Brixton live music venue brings the very best in up and coming bands and artists, in the past well known act such as Biffy Clyro, The Wombats, Plan B, The Rakes, The Magic Numbers and Scouting for Girls to name but a few. Basically this is typical, scuzzyBrixton boozer but with bands, so no fancy cocktails, just the usual fodder served friendly and cheaply. Why not start your night with a band then end with a bang at one of the other nearby bar, as above. To get here, get off atBrixton tube, walk up Brixton Hill after about 10 minutes, turn left into Blenheim Gardens.Yeah, it looks a bit weird from the outside but trust me, youll enjoy it. Especially if youve checked out the listings – from time to time big bands will pop back to the place they started out. Why not check out one the bands; afterwards, if you want to dance, you could head up to one of Brixtons late bars.

Located: 22 Blenheim Gardens Brixton, London, SW2 5BZ

For more details visit: The Windwill

West London has the highest concentration of bars in the whole of London so you if you are looking for things to do you really are spoilt for choice! The West End is the throbbing heart of the capital and the destination of choice for tourists.
Soho and Covent Garden are also rammed full of bars to suit all tastes, just get off at Oxford Circus or Tottenham Court Road tube and head in random directions, you cannot fail to find yourself the perfect venue -alternatively read our top 10 list!

1) Trailer Happiness

At the bottom of Portobello Road, once the bohemian hub of London, and only 10 minutes walk from Notting Hill Gate, youll find a little bit of Polynesia – in the form of kitsch tiki bar, Trailer Happiness. Styled like a scummy cluttered 60s bachelor pad slash trailer interior, its kitsch charm is irresistible; Tretchikoff and J.H.Lynch prints and pop art Polynesians smile from the walls and, I mustnt forget, the retro-tastic flying ducks, yes, fantastic! Drinks are equally retro and tiki flavoured, mostly rum based and extremely potent for example, cocktails such as the lethal Zombie (5 rums, absinthe and bitters) all expertly served by skilled mixologists. Lager is available for those less adventurous campers. The music in this Notting Hill rarity is cool, matching the trendy clientele. True toTrailer Happiness wacky, tongue in cheek form, the toilets are unisex. Yes, you find yourself cheesiliy grinning, thinking, this is a great place!

Location: 177 Portobello Rd, London, W11 2DY

For more details visit: Trailer Happiness

2) belowzero

On Heddon Street, Mayfair, youll find two bars for the price of one; Alsolut Ice Bar and belowzero, located in the former Royal wine vaults. Situated in between Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations, Absolute Ice Bar offers unique experience being the only permanent bar in the UK to be made out of ice – the walls, the bar and even your glass is made of the purest Swedish ice plucked from the Torne River. After being handed a designer thermal cape, gloves and hood, youre given a 40 minute time slot to explore the cavernous interior, the theme of which is redesigned every 6 months. Indeed, Absolute Ice Bar it is more like a tourist attraction than a bar per se but it is certainly unique. Im sure theres no need to mention what is on the drinks menu, vodka! In fact vodka at its best in all its wonderful versatile variety.
If you are in need of warming afterwards, you can find a normal temperature bar – in belowzero on the ground floor (in the same building) complete with outside terrace. If youd like to visit at peak times, booking is advised.

Location: 31-33 Heddon Street Mayfair, London, W1B 4BN

For more details visit: belowzero

3) Gordons Wine Bar

Do not, in this case, allow your imagination to conjure visions of what youd usually consider when reading the term, wine bar – this is a unique, up-market, and slightly dingy, old school drinking den. Step down the narrow stairs into a cramped cavernous brick exposed cellar into a piece of genuine Victoriana. Essentially, as you step down the stairs, you are stepping back in time to 1890s bohemian Paris or Victorian London – you decide.
Londons oldest wine bar, Gordons, established 1890, is located in Kipling House after the famous writer, Rudyard Kipling, who lived in the parlour above the bar in the 1890s. It is worth noting that London chronicler Samuel Pepys also called the building home in the 1680s. The family run wine bar is located on Villiers St, just next toEmbankment tube stations and five minutes from Charing Cross and Waterloo. In the terms of drinks, as the name dictates, expect some of the finest wine the world has to offer served with the expertise and warmth of the staff. Gordons Wine Bar is definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in the West End, a fantastic alternative to the more cheesy commercial offerings in the area. And the intimacy also makes Gordons Wine Bar the perfect venue for a date.

Location: 47 Villiers St, London, WC2N 6NE

For more details visit: Gordons Wine Bar

4) The Crescent

In West Kensington, in an intimate basement, lies The Crescent. Yeah, West Kensington is basically South Kensingtons slightly less classy neighbour however, Im sure youll agree The Crescent lends a champagne cork popping air of sophistication to a less desirable location. Five minutes from West Kensington tube station, The Crescent offers an extensive range of Champagne including some rare offerings and skilfully created cocktails. Decor is extremely stylish and comfortable, blue and rose velvet sofas offset by relaxing modern lighting fixtures, slate gray walls and a host of pictures portraying the Hollywood stars from the 40s -80s. Music is represented by soul, funk and house, with the obligatory DJs playing on weekends.

Location: 3a North End Crescent, London, W14 8TG

For more details visit: The Crescent

5) Aint Nothing But The Blues

If you are looking for somewhere with a great, welcoming atmosphere, Sohos Aint Nothing But The Blues, is the perfect destination. Due to the intimate placing of tables youll find yourself happily chatting to the occupants of the adjacent tables, the clientele consists mainly of overseas students and young professionals looking to make the acquaintance of similar others. Three minutes walk from Oxford Street, Aint Nothing But The Blues is probably the closest answer to a genuine Memphis blues bar this side of the Atlantic. Youve guessed it; music is represented solely by the blues. Bands perform regularly and there are blues jam sessions where anyone may participate. In between sets crackly vinyl recordings of almost 100 year old music punctuate the intermission between sets. As youd expect, drinks wise, all the usual suspects are there – along with an exceptional selection of wines and an unspeakably extensive range of whiskeys.

Location: 20 Kingly Street, London, W1B 5PZ

For more details visit: Aint nothing but the Blues

6) 22 Below

Blink and youd miss it. Or, as is more appropriate, walk past and ignore it. Thats what would happen with this intimate Great Marlborough Street venue. Camouflaged in between cafes, just off trendy Carnaby Street, is a small staircase leading to 22 Below, a basement bar (theres a slight clue in the name). Once inside, youll be glad you found it, as you are greeted by a welcoming warm red interior. This is one for the cocktail buffs, 22 Belowsrange is mind blowing and original. Another great thing is the entertainment, on Wednesdays, 22 Below plays host to the Electric Mouse brotherhood, bringing some of the greatest upcoming names on the comedy circuit, much cheaper than the nearby West End alternatives. Fridays and Saturdays are dedicated to vinyl, belting out the sounds of house and hip hop.

Location: 22 Great Marlborough Street, London, W1F 7HU

For more details visit: 22 Below

7) Buddha Bar

This exclusive West Central London celebrity hangout is the place to be seen, Buddha Bar is a melting pot of the rich and famous also available to the less privileged; entry is guest list only after 10pm. Once you get over that and gain entry to the Victoria Embankment bar, you are greeted by opulent oriental interiors and yes of course, the obligatory statue of Buddha, which commands pride of place above the dining room. The bar, situated on the mezzanine, offers a selection of excellent cocktails including unique signatures such as the Millionaires Mojito. Musically, one can expect a chilled out selection of electronic infused with eastern spice. Although, after ten the dynamic changes and vinyl recordings starts churning out the usual bar fodder to appease the exclusive guests. So check your watch; if its before 10 and youre with a group of fun-hungry friends, get off the tube at Temple Tube Station, Buddha Bar is just around the corner.

Location: 8 Victoria Embankment, London, WC2R 2AB

For more details visit: Buddha Bar

8) The Lonsdale

If you find yourself in the Notting Hill area The Lonsdale is calling, offering some of the best cocktails this side of London and indeed the world. The Lonsdale celebrates the origins of delicious intoxicating drinks and their arrival in Britain. Sat in The Lonsdales cool, art deco styled bar, you can travel back in time to discover original cocktail recipes such as Drakes Mojito (1600s). With a selection of over 200 of the worlds best sprits, some brands and concoctions youd never heard of let alone tasted. The West London den is situated over 3 rooms: the restaurant, the bar and Genevieve – the private members bar, situated upstairs. Get off at Notting Hill tube station and head north.

Location: 48 Lonsdale Road, London, W11 2DE

For more details visit: The Lonsdale

9) The Players

Located on the Embankment, just a short walk from Charing Cross, Embankment and Leicester Square tube stations, The Players is not your average bar – being the destination for West End Theatre staff – mainly the chorus and dancers. At this point it is worthwhile mentioning, linked to The Players is the New Players Theatre. This is great venue to view the melodramatic mincing of the theatrical darlings and the blue blooded buffoonery of the public schooled social elite. The best thing about The Players is the music; none of the loud house or chart offal served up other West End establishments, just a white baby grand piano – which tends to get commandeered by the songsters and thespians, once the curtains have been pulled. If you can play piano and sing, due to the open-mic policy – the floor is yours, so to speak. Drinks, the usual suspects, are served from a long gleaming bar, the chairs are leather, the hours are late and if youre lucky, you can catch a slightly inebriated rendition of a current West End number by the cast.

Location: The Arches Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG

For more details visit: The Players

10) All Star Lanes Bayswater

And finally, something a little different; All Star Lanes, Bayswater. Ok, so not a bar as such, more accurately, its a bowling lane, but a little treasure it is. Its inclusion is due to the venues homage to American drinking and the fact its certainly not your typical bowling alley, you know the ones – chavs, Tennents Super cans and marauding children. No, this one is a bar first, novelty 50s leisure complex second. Yeah, its part of a small, London-wide chain however; the Bayswater branch has a unique claim – the largest variety of bourbons in London, hell yeah! Otherwise, expect a mighty drinking experience with a large selection of premium American sprits and cocktails on offer. Decor is, hmm lets see, 50s American. Music is not off trend either and on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays the sounds come courtesy of DJs. All in all this is the perfect spot for a laugh filled, and boozy, West London evening.

Location: 6 Porchester Gardens, Bayswater, London, W2 4DB

For more details visit: All Star Lanes

Are you looking for things to do? There are lots of great bars to choose from in South East London, so when youre searching for a place to meet up with some friends theres certain to be a bar for you. But read our top 10 guide before you leave the house!

1) Roxy Bar & Screen

Only a 2 minute walk from Borough Tube Station, youll find an original concept in the form of Roxy Bar & Screen, the first venue to showcase cutting edge independent films, visual art and VJ nights mixed in with a bar and drinking experience. So, I suppose, its a cinema you are allowed to drink in. Cool! A new concept in Londonlet alone South East London. They also screen premiership football matches, which considering the massive screen and modern sound equipment is fantastic. Roxy Bar & Screen is a members bar really but non-members can attend film screenings and VJ nights for a small entry fee. To drink, you can choose from a small list of classic and house cocktails, a fine selection bottled and draught beers (including Staropamen, Hoegarden, Guinness, wheat beers, fruit beers) and a diverse and not unaffordable wine list. Many drinks are sourced from local Borough Food Market. As well the screenings there are regular live music and VJ nights.

Location: 128-132 Borough High Street, Borough, London, SE1 1LB

For more details visit: Roxy Bar & Screen

2) The Old School Yard

Remember school, as soon as the bell sounded signalling break, that was the cue to run riot around in the playground, without a care? Well, now you can re-create that feeling in original and exciting South East Londonbar, The Old School Yard. The decor in The Old School Yard is comfortable and interesting; part school common room, part playground and part 90s style living room. The ceiling is sky blue with fluffy clouds, representing the haziness of playtime, and is perfect for winter evenings. Theres even an old skool Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle arcade game to play on. Music is, hmm let me think –old skool and school disco themed. The menus are in a cartoon style and cleverly split into subjects for example, on the Geography page there is the Mojito, from Cuba of course. The Cocktails at The Old School Yard are exceptional and the vibe is really relaxed here, until later and the mayhem begins, although the The Old School Yard has one rule, if you misbehave, you will be punished just like school. So no smoking in the toilets then but you can get away with it in the heated garden, I mean schoolyard. Getting there is no problem either; The Old School Yard is just a short walk from either London Bridge or Borough tube stations.To put a modern twist on school games and crazes, theyve even got Wiis for you to play with, although booking is advised as theyre pretty popular with the Southwark barsclientele.

Located: The Old School Yard 111 Long Lane London SE1 4PH

For more details visit: The Old School Yard

3) Shunt Vaults

Opposite London Bridge station, on Joiner Street, is a small door leading to a very special place. Shunt Vaults is a dark, cavernous, underground members bar very close toMadame Tussauds, London Dungeons, if youve visited the popular London bridge attraction; you immediately begin to draw similarities between it and Shunt Vaults. On any given night you could find performance artists and art installations, given that this South East London bar is the home to shunt collective and setting for theatrical performances and such like. It is a members bar but as a non-member its inexpensive to enter for an evening, around a fiver. Drinks wise, all the basics are provided, nothing fancy but that doesnt matter – Shunt Vaults offers a completely unique experience.

Location: 20 Stainer Street, London, SE1 9RL

For more details visit: Shunt Vaults

4) The Cut Bar

If you love the theatre, The Cut Bar is Ideal. Its set within pioneering theatre, The Young Vic and is just a short walk from The South Bank, Tate Modern, Old Vic Theatre and Southwark and Waterloo Stations. Not just for theatre goers, The Cut Bar is a popular destination for post-work drinkers and artists, as well as visitors to theSouth Bank; all seem friendly and the vibe is upbeat. Complete with outside roof terrace, this bar is buzzy and could easily be located in Hoxton or Shoreditch. An extensive selection of martinis and cocktails as well a wide range of wines, beers and ciders. The Cut Bars South Bank location and roof terrace make it an ideal relaxing vantage point to watch Londonand Londoners as they go about their busy business.

Location: 66 The Cut, London, SE1 8LZ

For more details visit: The Cut Bar

5) The O2

The O2, formerly the Millennium Dome situated on the Greenwich Peninsular, is Londons largest arena venue, staging world class artists such a Take That, Kylie Minogue and Metallica. The O2 is also one of the largest entertainment complexes of its type is London and rapidly becoming the largest, and most popular, in the world boasting: an 11 screen cinema, the smaller 2500 capacity venue indigO2, an ice rink, The Bubble – an exhibition space, Matter Nightclub, as well as 20 bars and restaurants. Inside the O2 is Entertainment Avenue, a standalone area housing the bars and restaurants – you dont have attend any of the events to enjoy The O2. Among the bars is Las Iguanas, a fantastic Latin influenced cocktail bar and eatery and the Slug and Lettuce,amongst a host of other high street bar/restaurant chains. Many of the premises within The O2 are licensed until 3 am and, as Matter closes 6am, you could easily spend a night there without entering the arena. For those of you who are on the O2 mobile network, theres a separate bar, The Blue room, dedicated to you, all you have to do is text in and O2 will send you an entry barcode via text message. Getting there couldnt be easier, by tube North Greenwich station, by bus or by Thames Clipper. AEG, The O2s owners are developing the Greenwich Peninsular area with many more entertainment facilities in mind.

Location: The O2, Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0DX

For more details visit: The O2

6) Adventure Bar

This is the East Dulwich offering from the small Adventure Bar chain. Adventure Bar and Lounge, East Dulwichis attract a young and trendy crowd. Stepping into Adventure Bar and Lounge, you are met with warm colours and exposed brickwork, bold, modern prints adorn the walls, and the seating accommodation is made up of comfy stools and sofa benches. The staff are friendly and attentive, you wont be waiting long to be served. The cocktails are sublime, skilfully created with a twirl of a glass and the juggling clink of bottles. Akin with the other bars in the chain, the music policy is indie. Get off the train at East Dulwich; its less than a ten minute walk along Grove Vale to Lordship Lane and Adventure Bar and Lounge.

Location: 72 Lordship Lane, London, SE22 8HF

For more details visit: Adventure Bar

7) Liquorish

Also along Lordship Lane, Liquorish is one of best cocktail bars in South East London, if not Londonin its entirety. Sleek and sexy, Liquorish is intimately and colourfully lit by strings of bare bulbs, throwing wonderful shadows on the comfy black leather armchairs and the bar, complete with smiling, helpful staff. As mentioned above, Liquorish is a premier contender in the cocktail and mixology field, serving top notch original cocktails, check out the Honey Pie for example- honey vodka, whisky, apricot liquor, orange bitters and apple juice. How tasty! Liquorish are pretty good at the classics too. And for the non-drinkers, virgin cocktails, all made from fresh ingredients. Also available is a fantastic range of wines and bottled beers. On Fridays and Saturdays the East Dulwich bar plays host to resident DJs, spinning through an eclectic mix of hip-hop, house, disco, reggae, soul and funk. Also there are monthly nights featuring guest DJs and there is even live music from time to time, ranging from reggae, jazz, folk and acoustic acts. Sundays are dedicated to board games, chess, backgammon, connect 4 and all the rest – for the competitive amongst us, there are monthly contest to crown the champion of a particular game. Just hop off the Overground at East Dulwich and take a brief stroll along Lordship Lane.

Location: 123 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, London, SE22 8HU

For more details visit: Liquorish

8) Village East

Set in a stunning, former Victorian warehouse in Bermondsey, Village East, is the ideal place for young and trendy media professionals to congregate. Its no surprise really, the decor is everything youd expect from a venue catering for the new social elite (and those striving to be), minimalist, big windows, exposed pipes, white tiles, black leather. There are 3 rooms; the White Bar, the dining room and the upstairs lounge bar. You can expect the best cocktails from Village East with all the showmanship expected from the best bartenders and mixologists. To get there, get off at London Bridge Station, walk down St Thomas Street, then down Bermondsey Street, its about 10 minutes walk.

Location: 171-173 Bermondsey St, London, SE1 3UW

For more details visit: Village East

9) Cubana

If youre feeling a little bit revolutionary, why not try South East Londons, Cubana; a genuine Cuban experience complete with plenty of rum, cigars and revolution – only joking about the latter. Situated on Lower Marsh, in between Waterloo and Lambeth North Stations, Cubana is a celebration of all things Cuban, complete with numerous images of Fidel Castro himself and numerous red stars, of course. There are many little touches such as posters in Spanish and palm leaves in vases on the tables that bring a genuine taste of Cuba to South East London. In terms of drinks, rum is the dish of the day; there are 7 varieties of Mojito, and 5 types of daiquiris! Although, youll still find the usual whiskeys, vodkas, et al amongst the cocktail creations. A selection of wines and bottled beers are also available along with smoothies, juices and coffees for the non-alcoholics. Music, as you may have guessed, plays homage to its Latin influences with salsa and samba bringing a little piece of Cuban culture to Lambeth, South East London.

Location: 48 Lower Marsh, London, SE1 7RG

For more details visit: Cubana

10) Olivers

If you are out and about in Greenwich, have a look around the Greenwich theatre, because opposite youll find the downstairs entrance to Olivers, its a real blink and miss it occasion, down the side of a pub, looking like the back entrance to a seedy dive, well it sort of is, thats one of the reasons why its great. Olivers, right on the edgeRoyal Greenwich Park, close to the Royal Greenwich Observatory, is a charming, slightly scuzzy, live jazz bar which attracts some great names, check out the link below for listings. Its a slightly dusty place, with the musical instruments hung at every opportunity having seen better days. But it is all about the music, the intimacy and the people watching -with this Greenwich bar.

Location: 9 Nevada St, London, SE10 9JL

For more details visit: Olivers Music Bar

If youre looking for things to do in London – why not invite some friends out on trip sight seeing? You will always have something interesting to say to someone new if you visit all of our top 10 London tourist attractions!

1) The London Eye

The London Eye is an architectural marvel. Built in 1999, it is one of the youngest iconic landmarks in London.The London Eye enjoys an average of 3.5 million visitors a year since its opening. This makes The London Eye, Londons top paid tourist attraction. It offers breath taking aerial views right across the city. If you can, book a trip on The London Eye at night time. All of the great landmarks of London are brilliantly illuminated, and you will see the unforgettable panorama of the city spread out before you fully lit. There is no other way to experience London like it, truly an experience of a lifetime! See our review of the amazing new 4D cinema at the London Eye.

Location: Belvedere Road, London, SE1 7PB

For more details visit: The London Eye

2) River Thames

The River Thames is the second longest river in the UK and the longest river in England. The river has been in active use for thousands of years providing habitation, water, power, food and drink – although you wouldn’t want to drink it now! Walk along it, over it or ride on it. The River Thames gave birth to London so it is a must visit destination. You cant miss it really! A river cruise will give you the perfect view of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Pauls, Globe Theatre, London Eye, the Parliament Buildings and Big Ben.

Location: London

For more details visit: River Thames

3) Tower of London

The Tower of London is probably one of the most famous prisons besides Sing Sing Prison in New York. It has been in existence for well over 900 years. It is twenty towers high and is filled with a mixture of ancient history, culture and jewels. The Tower of London is located at the eastern boundary of the City of London financial district, next to the River Thames and Tower Bridge. Between the river and the Tower is Tower Wharf, a freely accessible walkway with views of the river together with the HMS Belfast and London City Hall on the opposite bank. During her long and illustrious history, The Tower of London has developed into one of the most haunted places in Britain. She has been home to beheadings and murders, torture and hangings, as well as being a prison to Queens and Nobles alike. A fascinating if not slightly scary day out then!

Location: Adjacent to the river Thames

For more details visit: Tower of London

4) Big Ben

Big Ben is the most famous clock in the world. Big Ben is actually the nickname for the great bell inside the clock. Among many achievements Big Ben is the largest four-faced chiming clock and the third-tallest free-standing clock tower in the world. Despite being one of the Londons most famous tourist attractions, the interior of the tower is not open to the public for security reasons; from time to time press and VIPs are granted access. However, the tower has no lift, so those escorted must climb the 334 limestone stairs to the top.

Location: Palace of Westminster, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

For more details visit: Big Ben

5) The National Gallery

Housed in a majestic building in front of Trafalgar Square the National Gallery is an enthralling exhibition of the Western European art, where history is depicted and is well preserved. Founded in 1824, the art gallery houses a rich collection of over 2300 paintings ranging from the 13th to 18th century. Get up close and personal to Monets Water lily pond, Van Goghs Sunflowers, Rembrandts portraits, and the spectacular Da Vincis “Virgin of the Rocks” and Raphaels “Madonna of the Pinks” to name few of the masterpieces in the museum. The Van Gogh room is a must.

Location: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN

For more details visit: The National Gallery

6) Natural History Museum

Described as one of the worlds greatest resources for all things, the Natural History Museum does not disappoint. It features fresh and exciting temporary exhibitions like the Amazing Butterflies exhibition and Darwins Canopy. The Natural History Museum has always kept an innovative and exciting atmosphere. It is well worth taking time to explore this exceptional museum, both for the scientific and historic value of the exhibits as well as to enjoy the spectacular architecture of the building itself.

Location: Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD

For more details visit: Natural History Museum

7) Tate Modern

The Tate Modern art gallery in London is the largest-scale gallery in the world, it is the UKs national museum of international modern art. Some of the worlds finest modern art resides in Tate Modern, a must see museum for any visitor to London. The galleries are laid out on several levels; watch out for the permanent Tate collection on the third and fifth levels, whilst levels two and four display temporary and special exhibitions.

Location: Bankside, London, SE1 9TG

For more details visit: Tate Modern

8) Madame Tussuads

One of the premier places to visit in London is Madame Tussauds, it houses an exhibition of the most wonderfully realistic waxwork figures. A grisly past accompanies the wax museum but that hasnt stopped it from becoming a world famous destination. It began in France in the 18th century with Madame Tussaud using people that were chosen to die via the guillotine as subjects for wax death masks. You will see famous celebrities of stage, screen, sport and life. All waxworks have been crafted with stunning lifelike reality. The famous “Chamber of Horrors” is also an experience not to be missed.

Location: Marylebone Road, London, NW1 5LR

For more details visit: Madame Tussuads

9) Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a Church, and a glorious example of medieval architecture. It is located across the street from the Parliament buildings. Coronations and weddings of royalty take place and noted people are buried inWestminster Abbey. The structure of the Westminster Abbey is the combination of a few different styles of architecture. Its West Front View is best known, because the two classical towers are there, although the lower section is Gothic. Over the door there are niches with figures of saints and martyrs in them. Inside the huge interior, taking photos is not allowed – what a shame!

Location: 20 Deans Yard, London, SW1P 3PA

For more details visit: Westminster Abbey

10) Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge, opened in 1894, has become one of the most famous bridges in the world. Tower Bridge is simply stunning. Tower Bridge is sometimes mistaken for London Bridge, which is the next bridge up the Thames. The bridge is unique because it is the only bascule bridges along the whole of the river. A Bascule bridge is a bridge whose sides can be mechanically raised in order to allow ocean going vessels to pass beneath. The bridge consists of two towers which are tied together with two horizontal walkways. These walkways at the top of the bridge provide amazing views of London.

Location: Tower Bridge, London, SE1 2UP

For more details visit: Tower Bridge

Looking for things to do in London that is cultural?

1) British Museum

Established in 1753, the British Museum was the first public museum in the world, and to this day it remains one of England’s most famous and most visited attractions. The museum has grown from strength to strength. It started with about 70,000 artefacts that comprised of mainly books, artwork and antiques. Over the years, with the help of scientist, explorers, archaeologists and wealthy collectors who bequeathed their collections to the museum, the museum now has around 15 million artefacts, all unique and fascinating in their own right.

Monthly visitors to the British Museum: 4,500,000

For more details visit: British Museum

2) Natural History Museum

The museum is home to life and earth science specimens comprising some 70 million items within five main collections: Botany, Entomology, Mineralogy, Palaeontology and Zoology. Hundreds of exciting, interactive exhibits. Highlights include Dinosaurs, the ultimate dinosaur exhibition; Creepy-Crawlies, guaranteed to have you scratching in minutes; Human Biology, the must-see exhibition about ourselves; Ecology and Mammals, with its unforgettable blue whale.

Monthly visitors to the Natural History Museum: 3,200,000

For more details visit: Natural History Museum

3) Science Museum

The Science Museum was founded in 1857 with objects shown at the Great Exhibition held in the Crystal Palace. Today the Museum is world renowned for its historic collections, awe-inspiring galleries and inspirational exhibitions. It features seven floors of educational and entertaining exhibits. Inside you will find unique specimens such as Stephensons Rocket and the Apollo 10 command module. The science Museum is the place to get a hands-on, interactive experience of the past, present and future of technology. Monthly visitors to the Natural History Museum: 2,000,000

For more details visit: Science Museum

4) Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is the worlds largest museum of decorative arts and design, housing a permanent collection of over 4.5 million objects. Highlights include the breathtaking Cast Courts, the national collection of paintings by Constable, the largest collection of Italian Renaissance sculpture outside Italy and the stunning British Galleries, illustrating the history of Britain through the countrys art and design. The V&A is accessible from the Underground (South Kensington station) or street level, and its located conveniently close to the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, as well as Knightsbridge and Hyde Park.

Monthly visitors to the Victoria and Albert Museum: 1,900,000

For more details visit: Victoria and Albert Museum

5) National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum comprises three sites: the Maritime Galleries, the Royal Observatory and the Queens House. Together these constitute one museum working to illustrate for everyone the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people. Its certainly not for all tastes, but anyone with an interest in the conduct of the British on the high seas and anyone at all curious about the tactical history of the British Empire should be fascinated what they find here.

Monthly visitors to the National Maritime Museum: 1,500,000

For more details visit: National Maritime Museum

6) Imperial War Museum

The museum was founded during the First World War in 1917 and intended as a record of the war effort and sacrifice of Britain and her Empire. Now the Imperial war museum holds the wartime experiences from both the First and Second World Wars. Visitors come face to face with wartime accounts; you can see variety of military weapons on display, tanks, one-man submarines and a human torpedo. What the Imperial War Museum does best is to remind you of hugely important moments in the history of the world without glorifying war and conflict.

Monthly visitors to the Imperial War Museum: 700,000

For more details visit: Imperial War Museum

7) Museum of London

The Museum of London documents the history of London from the Prehistoric to the present day. The museum explores the changing times of the city, the various eras from the pre-historic times to the present times. Be amazed by the Roman, Medieval and Tudor eras. The museum starts with the roman relics, which are quite remarkable, and the real gem is the exhibitions, lectures, and walks that are organised in the museum all year round.

Monthly visitors to the Museum of London: 375,000

For more details visit: Museum of London

8) London Transport Museum

Londons Transport Museum is a showcase for the capitals wide and varied traditions of transport. It is a wonderful museum celebrating Londons transport past and present. With over 80 rail and road vehicles, the museum has wide array of modes of transport. It presents the history of Londons transport, including buses, trams and the underground. It explains how due to Londons transport network, the suburbs of London flourished. Uncover the stories behind the many stunning works of art seen in Londons train stations in the Museums newest exhibition.

For more details visit: London Transport Museum

9) Design Museum

The Design Museum is the world’s leading museum devoted to contemporary design in every form from furniture to graphics, and architecture to industrial design. Exhibitions demonstrate both the richness of the creativity to be found in all forms of design, and its importance. See designmuseum.org for current exhibitions and special events.

For more details visit: Design Museum

10) Cartoon Museum

Laugh your way round this amusing museum, which displays British cartoons, caricatures, comics and animations. The Cartoon Museum exhibits the very finest examples of British comic art from the 18th century to the present day. There are currently about 900 works in the collection. On the ground floor, marvel at classic works by Hogarth and Gillray, WWII cartoons featuring Winston Churchill and more recent famous figures; Bush and Blair. There is an excellent selection of amusing merchandise in the shop, an extensive library and regular cartooning workshops.

For more details visit: Cartoon Museum