Choosing Your Escape

When the weekend rolls around, the city offers two very different ways to unwind: a tucked‑away pub with a history that dates back to the 18th century, or a rooftop bar that lets you drink while watching the skyline glow. The decision often comes down to mood, budget, and the kind of conversation you want to have. If you’re after a quiet pint with a story, go for the hidden pub. If you’re after a buzz of city lights and a cocktail menu that reads like a passport, the rooftop is your ticket.

Hidden Pubs: History on Tap

London’s hidden pubs are a treasure trove of character. Take The Ten Bells in Spitalfields, for example. Open since 1794, it sits behind a brick wall that once protected a bakery. The interior is a low-lit room with a wooden bar that has seen the likes of Charles Dickens. A pint of real ale costs £5.50, and the pub offers a free pint on the 12th of every month, a tradition that dates back to 1923.

Another gem is The Old Blue Last in Shoreditch. Its 18th‑century façade hides a speakeasy‑style interior. The bar hosts a weekly jazz night on Wednesdays, and the house ale is brewed on-site, costing £6.00. The only drawback? The entrance is a narrow door that requires a key, so you’ll need to ask the barman for the code—perfect for a secretive night but a hassle if you’re in a hurry.

For a truly off‑the‑beaten‑path experience, head to The White Hart in Hampstead. This 17th‑century coaching inn has a cellar that’s been used for centuries as a meeting place for local artists. The price of a pint is £5.75, and the pub offers a small menu of traditional British snacks for £4.50. The only downside is that it closes at 10 pm, so if you’re planning a late‑night stroll, you’ll need to time your visit accordingly.

Rooftop Bars: Skyline Sips

Rooftop bars bring a different kind of charm. The Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street offers a 360‑degree view of the city for a £12 entrance fee, which includes a complimentary drink. The bar itself serves craft cocktails at £15.00 each, with a signature “London Fog” that blends gin, smoked tea, and a hint of citrus.

Another standout is The Shard’s 72nd‑floor bar, which costs £18 for a cocktail and offers a stunning view of the Thames. The bar’s menu includes a “Shard Sour” for £16.50, a twist on the classic whiskey sour that uses a splash of London gin. The main limitation is that the bar is open only from 5 pm to 1 am, so you’ll need to plan your arrival to avoid the rush.

For a more relaxed vibe, try The Rooftop at The Zetter Townhouse in Clerkenwell. The entrance is free, and a standard drink is £12.00. The bar hosts a weekly “Sunset Sessions” on Fridays, featuring acoustic sets from local musicians. The only catch? The bar closes at 11 pm, so you’ll need to finish early if you’re planning to catch the sunset.

Mid‑Week Connection

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Which to Pick?

If you’re after a quiet night with a touch of history, a hidden pub is the clear winner. They offer a relaxed atmosphere, a sense of place, and usually a lower price point for drinks. On the other hand, if you’re after a visual treat and a modern cocktail menu, a rooftop bar provides that high‑energy, panoramic experience. The choice ultimately hinges on whether you value ambience or aesthetics, and whether you’re willing to pay a premium for a view.

Frequently Asked Questions