The Best Whisky Bars in London – A Guide for Curious Sippers
Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or someone just dipping a toe into the world of single malts and smoky drams, London is the perfect city to sip, explore, and discover. From grand lounges with rare bottles to quirky hideaways pouring peaty perfection, London’s whisky bars offer something for every kind of drinker.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best whisky bars in London, places where every glass tells a story, and every visit leaves you wanting more.
1. Black Rock – Where Whisky Meets Innovation
📍 9 Christopher St, Shoreditch, EC2A 2BS
Instagram: @blackrockwhiskybar
Black Rock is more than a whisky bar—it's an experience. Set in a dark, atmospheric basement in Shoreditch, this award-winning bar has revolutionized how whisky is served. At its heart? A huge oak tree trunk, hollowed out and filled with whisky for aging and serving straight from the table.
With over 250 whiskies on offer and staff who actually love talking whisky, Black Rock is perfect whether you’re a beginner or a full-blown peathead.
Try this: A curated whisky flight with their custom whisky soda pairings.
2. The Vault at Milroy’s of Soho – London’s Oldest Whisky Institution
📍 3 Greek St, Soho, W1D 4NX
Instagram: @milroys_soho
Milroy’s has been serving whisky since 1964—long before it was cool. Upstairs, it’s a shop with knowledgeable staff and rare bottles. Downstairs? A speakeasy-style bar called The Vault, accessed through a secret bookshelf door.
Expect over 600 whiskies, from the classic to the obscure, plus seasonal whisky cocktails and a candlelit, subterranean vibe that feels like you've discovered a secret London portal.
Don’t miss: A dram from an independent bottler you’ve never heard of—you’ll likely fall in love.
3. Salt Whisky Bar & Dining Room – Indian Fusion & Global Whiskies
📍 82 Seymour St, Marble Arch, W2 2JB
Instagram: @saltwhiskybar
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Salt brings together two great passions: whisky and Indian cuisine. This unassuming gem near Marble Arch boasts a globe-spanning whisky menu and an exciting fusion menu that goes far beyond the typical pub fare.
The staff will happily match whiskies with your meal, making it ideal for dinner-and-dram nights.
Signature touch: Whisky pairings with spicy Indian small plates—yes, it works beautifully.
4. Boisdale of Belgravia – The Classy Cuban Vibe
📍 15 Eccleston St, Belgravia, SW1W 9LX
Instagram: @boisdale_uk
Think red walls, jazz bands, tartan carpets, and cigars. Boisdale is old-school London luxury with a Highland twist. With one of the largest whisky collections in the city and a live music lineup featuring everything from swing to soul, this is the place to go when you want a night out that feels like something special.
Perfect for: A romantic night, a celebratory dram, or impressing whisky-loving guests.
5. The Sun Tavern – East London’s Whisky Rebel
📍 441 Bethnal Green Rd, E2 0AN
Instagram: @thesuntavern
Tucked away in Bethnal Green, this east-end bar brings a laid-back, punk-rock twist to traditional whisky drinking. It’s unpretentious but serious about its spirits, with a strong focus on Irish whiskey and poitín.
They regularly host whisky tastings, and the bartenders love surprising you with something off the beaten dram.
Go for: The Irish whiskey cocktails. Stay for the unbeatable tunes and neighbourhood vibe.
6. The Connaught Bar – Elegance in Every Sip
📍 The Connaught Hotel, Carlos Pl, Mayfair, W1K 2AL
Instagram: @theconnaught
Awarded “World’s Best Bar” more than once, The Connaught Bar isn’t just luxury—it defines it. While famous for its martinis, the bar’s whisky offerings are world-class, and the service is storytelling at its finest.
Come here dressed to impress, order a rare Japanese whisky, and enjoy the magic of Mayfair at its absolute peak.
Insider tip: Ask for a whisky from their exclusive Connaught collection—not on the menu, but unforgettable.
7. Bull in a China Shop – Whisky Meets Modern Asia
📍 196 Shoreditch High St, E1 6LG
Instagram: @bullinachinashopldn
This Shoreditch spot is light, quirky, and seriously into whisky—especially from Japan and Scotland. The menu leans toward whisky cocktails with an Asian twist, and their crispy karaage chicken is worth the trip alone.
If you want something relaxed, Instagrammable, and delicious, this one’s a vibe.
Order this: The Yuzu Whisky Sour and one of their curated whisky flights.
8. The Britannia – A Hidden Gem for Whisky Lovers
📍 1 Allen St, Kensington, W8 6UX
Instagram: N/A
This cosy pub tucked away in Kensington doesn’t scream “whisky bar,” but walk in and ask for the whisky list—you’ll be surprised. Known among locals for its unexpectedly broad collection, The Britannia is ideal for those who prefer sipping without the crowds.
Why we love it: It’s quiet, authentic, and often has rare bottles at very fair prices.
Tips for Enjoying Whisky in London
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most of these bars are passionate about whisky and love helping people discover their preferences.
Try a flight. Instead of committing to one, explore 3–5 smaller pours with tasting notes.
Book ahead for popular spots. Especially for Black Rock or The Connaught.
Mind your timing. Weekday early evenings are great for relaxed, informative service.
Final Sip
London’s whisky scene is as rich and layered as the drink itself. Whether you're in the mood for a rare Scotch in a velvet chair or a Japanese dram at a buzzing Shoreditch bar, there’s a perfect pour waiting for you in this city.
So grab your glass, follow your curiosity, and explore London one dram at a time.