The Best Happy Hour Bars in London’s West End for 2025
If you’re planning a trip to London’s West End, you’re in for a treat. This area is home to some of the most famous London landmarks, including Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Covent Garden, along with world-renowned London theatres. It also boasts a fantastic array of bars offering happy hour drinks.
Whether you’re gearing up for a night of musicals and plays or winding down after a show, these West End bars are perfect for theatre-goers looking to grab a drink at a bargain price.
Key Takeaways
- Happy Hour Drinks: Find great deals on cocktails, wine, and more across the best bars in London’s West End.
- Perfect Pre-Theatre Spots: Discover bars close to West End theatres, ideal for a pre-show drink.
- Post-Show Fun: Explore lively venues perfect for winding down after catching the latest London theatre shows.
Simmons Bar
Simmons Bar is a popular chain with multiple locations throughout London, including four in London’s West End. Known for its retro décor, quirky vibe, and fantastic happy hour drinks, Simmons Bar offers some of the best deals in the area.
Happy hour runs from 3pm to 8pm Sunday to Friday, with drinks starting at £2.50, and themed nights like Margarita Mondays and Teapot Tuesdays offering even better bargains.
| Locations | Address |
|---|---|
| Simmons Bar Leicester Square | 28a Leicester Square, WC2H 7LE |
| Simmons Bar Golden Square | 4 Golden Square, W1F 9HT |
| Simmons Bar Bateman Street | 2 Bateman Street, W1D 4AE |
| Simmons Bar Greek Street | 7 Greek Street, W1D 4DF |
Nearby Theatres:
- Criterion Theatre
- Prince of Wales Theatre
- His Majesty’s Theatre
- Theatre Royal Haymarket
- Comedy Theatre
- Piccadilly Theatre
- @sohoplace
- Phoenix Theatre
- Prince Edward Theatre
Tequila Mockingbird
Tequila Mockingbird is a lively bar chain with locations across London, including two in Covent Garden, making it a great choice for theatre-goers. Offering a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse cocktail menu, the happy hour includes 2-for-1 deals on their top 15 cocktails from opening until 10pm.
| Locations | Address |
|---|---|
| Tequila Mockingbird Burleigh Street | 3-5 Burleigh Street, WC2E 7PX |
| Tequila Mockingbird William IV Street | 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD |
Nearby Theatres:
- Novello Theatre
- Aldwych Theatre
- Lyceum Theatre
- Theatre Royal Drury Lane
- Royal Opera House
- Duchess Theatre
- Fortune Theatre
- Garrick Theatre
- Wyndham’s Theatre
- London Coliseum
- Noël Coward Theatre
- Duke of York’s Theatre
Be at One
Location: 17 Greek Street, W1D 4DR
Be at One is a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts, offering an extensive cocktail menu with over 100 options. The friendly atmosphere and daily happy hour deals make it an excellent choice for theatre-goers. Enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails during happy hour, perfect for a pre-show treat or a post-performance wind-down.
Nearby Theatres:
- Lyceum Theatre
- Royal Opera House
- Theatre Royal Drury Lane
- Duchess Theatre
- Fortune Theatre
Bar Rumba
Location: 36 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EP
Located near Piccadilly Circus, Bar Rumba is a lively party venue known for its vibrant dance floor and great happy hour deals. Enjoy drinks from as low as £2.50, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The energetic atmosphere and prime location make it an ideal stop for those looking to extend their night out after a theatre show.
Nearby Theatres:
- Sondheim Theatre
- Gielgud Theatre
- Apollo Theatre
- Lyric Theatre
The Cocktail Club
Location: Sovereign House, 224a Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2H 8EB
Step into The Cocktail Club for a vintage speakeasy experience with plush red furniture and an eclectic vibe. The happy hour runs from 5pm to 8pm on weekdays, featuring a rotating cocktail menu that’s perfect for theatre fans. The Broadway Musical Bottomless Brunch on Saturdays is a highlight, combining live entertainment with delicious drinks.
Nearby Theatres:
- Shaftesbury Theatre
- Palace Theatre
- Cambridge Theatre
- Gillian Lynne Theatre
Covent Garden Social Club
Location: 6-7 Great Newport Street, WC2H 7JB
For a more intimate and exclusive feel, Covent Garden Social Club offers happy hour every evening before 8pm, featuring £13 cocktails in a cosy underground setting. The upstairs piano bar hosts live comedy during the week, and the weekends are filled with live music, making it a top pick among West End locals and visitors alike.
Nearby Theatres:
- Arts Theatre
- St Martin’s Theatre
- Garrick Theatre
- Wyndham’s Theatre
- Noël Coward Theatre
- Duke of York’s Theatre
- London Coliseum
Overall
Exploring happy hour drinks in London’s West End is a fantastic way to complement your theatre experience. From cosy cocktail spots to lively bars, there’s something for every theatre-goer looking to make the most of their night out in the city. Whether you’re heading to see one of the best London theatre shows or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of central London, these bars are sure to enhance your West End trip.
FAQs
What is the best happy hour in London’s West End?
The best happy hour in London’s West End depends on your preferences. For a quirky vibe, try Simmons Bar with multiple locations. If you love live entertainment, The Cocktail Club offers musical-themed brunches.
Which West End bars are near theatres?
Many bars in the West End are conveniently located near theatres. Simmons Bar and Tequila Mockingbird have branches close to multiple venues, including the Criterion Theatre and Lyceum Theatre.
Are there happy hours near Covent Garden?
Yes, Covent Garden is surrounded by great happy hour spots like Tequila Mockingbird and the Covent Garden Social Club, perfect for pre or post-theatre drinks.
What are the best cocktail bars in the West End?
Top cocktail bars in the West End include Be at One and The Cocktail Club, both known for their extensive drink menus and lively atmospheres.
Can you find happy hour deals near London Palladium?
While there aren’t many bars right next to the London Palladium, nearby options like Simmons Bar in Soho offer excellent happy hour deals.
What are the rules for happy hour in the West End?
Most happy hour deals run in the early evening and vary by bar, with some extending offers to later at night. Dress codes are usually casual, but smart attire is often appreciated, especially if you’re combining drinks with a theatre visit.
Where can I drink near Shaftesbury Avenue?
Shaftesbury Avenue is a bustling spot with bars like Bar Rumba and The Escapologist, offering easy access to drinks before or after visiting nearby theatres.
What’s the vibe at Tequila Mockingbird in Covent Garden?
Tequila Mockingbird in Covent Garden has a fun and energetic atmosphere, with hip-hop beats and a great selection of cocktails that go beyond tequila, making it a lively choice for any night out.
Are there any bars with live entertainment in the West End?
Yes, bars like Covent Garden Social Club and The Cocktail Club frequently feature live entertainment, including music and comedy acts.
Where can I find cheap drinks in the West End?
For budget-friendly options, head to Simmons Bar or Bar Rumba, where happy hour deals offer drinks starting at just £2.50, perfect for an affordable night out in London’s West End.
