The United Kingdom has a long love affair with bars. From cozy pubs with centuries of history to modern rooftop bars in UK cities, there’s always a good place to raise a glass. If you enjoy classic ales, creative cocktails, or skyline views, the UK delivers variety in every city.
This guide explores the best bars in the UK and pairs famous rooftops, historic pubs, and buzzing nightlife spots. You’ll discover where to drink in London, Newcastle, York, and Liverpool. Get tips on how to get there and what makes each bar special. If you’re planning evenings as carefully as your sightseeing, this list will help you drink smarter and have more fun!
Best Bars in United Kingdom
🍹 The Trafalgar Rooftop (London)
The Trafalgar pub in London, a classic spot blending historic charm with modern city life | Photo from Ewan Munro on Flickr
How to go: Take the Tube to Charing Cross or Leicester Square, then walk a few minutes.
If you’re searching for standout rooftop bars in UK, The Trafalgar Rooftop should be near the top of your list. Located near Trafalgar Square, this bar offers clear views of central London landmarks. The atmosphere feels relaxed during the day and turns lively at night. Drinks lean toward classic cocktails, wine, and crowd-pleasing spirits.
For a more active way to enjoy city views, the Up at The O2 experience pairs perfectly with relaxed rooftop drinks here.
Best known for:
⭐️Classic cocktails
⭐️Champagne and prosecco
⭐️Gin-based drinks
🍺 Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (London)
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, one of London’s oldest pubs tucked beneath Fleet Street | Photo from Jim Linwood on Wikimedia Commons
How to go: Take the Tube to Blackfriars or Chancery Lane and walk toward Fleet Street.
When people talk about the best pub in London, England, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese usually leads the conversation. This pub dates back hundreds of years and feels like stepping into another time. Low ceilings, wooden beams, and cozy corners give it a warm feel. The drink menu focuses on traditional ales and beers. It’s the kind of place where you sit, relax, and enjoy the moment. If you want a classic pub experience, this one never disappoints.
If you love learning about history, you can pair up by joining the Royal pub walking tour on Klook (it highlights London’s most iconic pubs!)
Best known for:
⭐️ Traditional English ales
⭐️ Real cask beer
⭐️ Classic pub pints
🍷 3SIXTY (Newcastle)
Evening drinks at a rooftop bar in the UK with glowing city views and a relaxed vibe | Photo from Czymon Shields on Pexels
How to go: Walk about 10 minutes from Newcastle Central Station.
For modern energy and skyline views, 3SIXTY ranks among the best bars in Newcastle upon Tyne. This rooftop bar wraps around the top of a building, offering wide views of the city. The design feels sleek but welcoming, making it easy to enjoy even on busy nights. Locals love this spot, which adds to its appeal. Visit at sunset to get the best views.
Best known for:
⭐️ Signature cocktails
⭐️ Modern twists on classic drinks
⭐️ Premium spirits
🍸 Evil Eye Lounge (York)
A well-stocked bar shelf showcasing spirits and liqueurs inside Evil Eye Lounge in York | Photo from Kaihsu Tai on Wikimedia Commons
How to go: Walk from York Minster; it’s right in the city center.
If you’re looking for the best bars in York, UK, Evil Eye Lounge is a must-visit. This cozy cocktail bar sits inside a historic building but feels fun and relaxed. The menu is full of creative cocktails, with something for every taste. Seating areas feel intimate, making it perfect for slow evenings. It’s a great place to rest after walking York’s old streets.
Best known for:
⭐️ Creative and quirky cocktails
⭐️ Tequila and mezcal drinks
⭐️ House specialty mixes
🎶 The Cavern Club (Liverpool)
The Cavern Club in Liverpool, a legendary music bar known for live performances | Photo from Unmuessig on Wikimedia Commons
How to go: Walk around 10 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.
If you love music with your drinks, the Cavern Club is one of the best bars in Liverpool. Famous for its live performances, this bar stays energetic most nights of the week. The crowd is lively but welcoming to everyone! Even if you’re not a music expert, the energy pulls you in (this is the true Liverpool experience!).
Music lovers may also enjoy the Soho music and historic pubs tour, which explores London’s legendary music and bar scene.
Best known for:
⭐️Beers and lagers
⭐️Simple mixed drinks
⭐️Easy-drinking spirits
🌇 Radio Rooftop Bar (London)
Relaxed rooftop seating with panoramic London skyline views | Photo from David terrar on Wikimedia Commons
How to go: Take the Tube to Covent Garden or Embankment, then walk a few minutes.
Radio Rooftop is one of the most stylish rooftop bars in UK, especially for sunset views. Located above the Strand near Covent Garden, this bar looks out over the Thames and London’s skyline.
The setting feels sleek and intimate, making it a great choice for relaxed evenings and date nights. Their cocktails add twists on refined classics, while champagne remains a crowd favorite. The atmosphere stays social without feeling too loud, even as the night picks up.
Best known for:
⭐️Classic cocktails with modern twists
⭐️Champagne and sparkling wine
⭐️Gin-based cocktails
🌃 Sky Garden (London)
Nighttime drinks at Sky Garden, one of the most popular rooftop bars in UK | Photo from DeveshT on Wikimedia Commons
How to go: Take the Tube to Monument or Bank, then walk.
Sky Garden is one of the most unique rooftop bars in UK because it offers free entry. Set high above London, it combines city views with indoor gardens. The bar area serves straightforward drinks that pair well with the scenery.
It’s calm during the day and more social in the evening. You can walk around, take photos, and relax without feeling rushed. This is perfect if you want views without spending too much. For a well-paced day, enjoy afternoon tea at the British Museum before heading here for skyline views and evening drinks.
If you want to see London from another angle, booking the Shard tickets on Klook is a great way to compare skyline views before drinks!
Best known for:
⭐️Wine and champagne
⭐️Light cocktails
⭐️Classic gin and tonics
FAQs about Bars in the UK
What is the minimum spend at the Trafalgar Rooftop bar?
The minimum spend depends on the day and time. Busy evenings may require a set spend, especially for reserved seating. Arriving earlier usually gives you more flexibility.
What are bars called in the UK?
In the UK, bars are typically called pubs, short for public houses. You’ll also see cocktail bars, lounges, and rooftop bars in UK cities. Each offers a different style and atmosphere.
Which secret cocktail bar is hidden in an abandoned London tube station?
Cahoots is the famous hidden bar. It’s styled like a 1940s underground station and feels playful and immersive. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
What is the highest free rooftop in London?
Sky Garden is the highest free public rooftop in London. It offers wide city views without an entry fee. You just need to reserve a time slot online.
Are rooftop bars in UK cities open all year?
Yes, most rooftop bars in UK cities stay open year-round. Many use heaters or indoor spaces during colder months. This makes them enjoyable even in winter.
Make Every Night in the UK Count!
From classic pubs to modern rooftop bars in the UK, there are endless places to enjoy a great drink! Plan your nights, book food experiences on Klook, and toast to unforgettable evenings across the UK. Cheers to great views, good company, and memorable nights ahead! 🥂
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