Hidden Gems of London: a guide to the most secret speakeasies

Have you ever been to one of the hidden bars in London? Now that everything is slowly going back to normality it is your chance to go explore one of the most secret bars in the British capital. 

In this guide, we will reveal to you some really interesting places that cannot be missed, so let’s start.

1-    Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

This is probably one of the most famous hidden bars in London.

Once you arrive at the Breakfast Club in Liverpool Street (Shoreditch), you will have to tell the bartender the secret password: 'I’d like to see the mayor'. The bartender will take you to the door of the SMEG fridge. Inside the fridge, you will find stairs that will take you to one of the most popular secret bars in the capital. Its design is very underground with a kitsch touch.

The bar offers a variety of food and cocktails at a very reasonable price.

Address: 12-16 Artillery Lane E1 7LS

2-    Callooh Callay

Staying in Shoreditch we can find another bar that you must visit.

This bar has a retro and slightly crazy atmosphere, but what is crazier is that here you can find a hidden bar, called JubJub, where it is almost impossible to have access.

The entrance is hidden inside an antique black wardrobe (yes, like in Narnia) and accessing this secret place is very complicated because first, you have to find out the 4-digit code. This code changes every day, and you can only get it after answering a few questions from the staff.

So, if you like to explore new things, this Alice in Wonderland-inspired bar is perfect for you.

Fun fact: This hidden speakeasy's menu changes every month.

Address: 65 Rivington St, London EC2A 3AY

3-    The King of Ladies Man

This is probably one of the most bizarre locations for a hidden bar, in fact, you can access this secret gem through an old laundrette in the back of The Breakfast Club, in Battersea. Entering the secret “bachelor pad”, you will immediately be welcomed into the 70’s atmosphere, with pink flamingos’ wallpaper, bartenders dressed in Hawaiian t-shirts, vintage Playboys, and themed cocktails.

Address: 5-9, Battersea Rise, London, Greater London SW11 1HG

4-    Opium

If you are fascinated by the eastern world, this hidden bar in the heart of Chinatown is what you were looking for. This speakeasy is located behind a jade door and entering you will find a two-floor Shanghai-themed cocktail bar. The whole menu is inspired by the Chinese traditions and here you can find a different variety of cocktails and teas as well as some delicious dim sum to eat between drinks.

Address: 15-16 Gerrard Street, West End, London W1D 6JE

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See you in our next article with more hidden bars to discover!