We love discovering new retro bars in London, where the traditional British drinking experience is transformed into a magical pursuit of decadent entertainment and creative drink combinations, set in an atmospheric setting reminiscent of bygone eras. For those of you keen to experience these unique venues for yourself, we have come up with a list of the best retro bars in London for you to explore.
Four Quarters is coming to Hackney Wick to open the second of their amazing retro arcade bars. The bar is located near Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and will have incredible arcade games including Pacman and Space Raiders as well as the usual muddle of craft beers.
Rouges doffs its cap to the 70s and 80s, celebrating all the things we loved about those iconic decades, with DJs playing the best funk and soul tracks long into the early hours. If that wasn't enough, be sure to visit one of the two bars in this venue, both of which are over 50 years old.
Bobby Fitzpatrick is like stepping off the streets of West Hampstead and into a 70s interior decorating magazine, in the best way possible. Pop round and enjoy a pina colada, a rum cocktail or a pepperoni pizzas surrounded by Mr Fitzpatrick's memories, collected over a lifetime of Caribbean island hopping.
Situated in Bethnal Green, 135 Bar & Lounge is a stylish cocktail bar with a vintage vibe, inspired by the 1930s. The speakeasy-style space features traditional decor and Art Deco touches, as well as soft lighting and cosy velvet booths to drink in.
Expect a buzzing atmosphere at all times, with regular live performances alongside DJs playing jazz, blues and disco. Their talented mixologists craft all kinds of creative, seasonal cocktails, and they also offer fine wines and gourmet sharing platters.
Blame Gloria is a chic central London retro bar with plenty of vintage-inspired decor and Instagram photo ops. From its bold wallpaper to its corridor of glittering streamers, it's an essential visit for anyone who loves luscious libations and partying till the break of dawn.
With a nod to the 70s and some of the coolest interiors in the business, Coin Laundry is a great retro bar in London with East London style on its side. Whether you're chowing down to their retro chicken kiev inspired menu or hoofing down cocktails, Coin Laundry has a little something for everyone.
Tucked away just moments from Hoxton Overground, Molly's is the kind of spot where brunch effortlessly blends into dinner, and your morning coffee naturally evolves into an espresso martini.
Once a Victorian pub, this East London gem combines historic charm with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Bright and airy in summer, warm and intimate in winter, it's a local favourite for catch-ups over cocktails, romantic first dates, and even a post-walk pint with your pup.
Bob Bob Ricard is a multilevel bar, mixing hotel chic with British and Russian design touches. Uniquely eccentric in its style, it's 20s decor is combined with rich texture, luscious cocktails and 'press for champagne' buzzers at each booth that create a fine mix between elegant and fun. You'll find these guys in Soho, as well as The City.
Brimming with quirky, kitsch trinkets and vintage furnishings, Little Nan's Deptford Bar is like being at your granny's house if she never decorated after the 90s. Soak up the royal souvenirs, Pat Butcher references and plastic flowers while sipping cocktails served in teapots at this retro bar.
Looking for a little nostalgia on your next night out? Then head to Retro Bar, a welcoming gay bar located close to Charing Cross. This quirky space is filled with mismatching decor and pretty fairy lights, as well as an antique jukebox that plays rare, retro tunes.
They also host a regular lineup of live music and DJ sets, promising all the best 70s and 80s tunes to dance to - with a seating area for more casual drinks as well.
Disrepute is a retro gem combining the timeless qualities of Sixties counterculture with elements of London's exciting cocktail scene today. Offering an expertly curated drinks menu, the bar ensures cocktail lovers are well looked with their luxurious collection of expertly mixed creations.
With outposts in St Petersburg, Moscow and New York, Mari Vanna is a gaudy-but-gorgeous interiors vintage bar in London. Think peeling wallpaper, shawl-covered lamps, crystal bowls and stacking dolls all taking you back to the days of Soviet Union Russia surrounding you as you sip vodka.
Channelling a speakeasy vibe with its unassuming door and sliding hatch, The Luggage Room is one of London's most impressive retro bars. The decadent 1920's bar is an oasis of period curiosities, jazz music, delicious cocktails and even a giant block of ice behind the bar that is carved for each drink.
Nightjar is a charismatic retro bar inspired by the 1920s, with candle lit tables, vintage tin cup cocktails and a soundtrack of crooning jazz and swing bands. Often hailed as one of London's best bars, the drinks are tantalising while regular live music sets keep the vibe varied and interesting.
Channelling a 1970s lounge, Space Talk is beautifully retro with a dash of futuristic flair. Think walnut pannelling with sweeping chrome trim.
Separated into zones, there's always a quiet corner to sip signature cocktails and handpicked wines and sakes, whether you settle into the super stylish front room or the cosy and cocooned back lounge. As well as a carefully curated soundtrack, there's Japanese small plates and sushi to team up with your chosen tipple.
