Editor’s Note: Learn how to go wine tasting in London and gain insider tips on the best wine bars and what makes them stand out. Plus, get a broader sense of London’s wine scene, neighborhoods and recommended accommodation for convenient wine bar visits, tours and exploration opportunities in the surrounding countryside. This article is based on a piece originally written by Sarah Phillips McCartan.
Writing a thirty-plus-piece guide to some of London’s best wine bars and restaurants is a bit like compiling a mixtape of the world’s greatest love songs: you have a huge amount of choices, and ultimately the list ends up being somewhat personal.
What follows is a guide for the traveler. That is, it’s a list for visitors or locals who want to sample the vast range of wine spots that the city has to offer, and who are adventurous enough to move from high end, to funky and natural. You’ll even get to have a drink in a shipping container.
Diversity is London’s best asset. That’s as true of its wine scene as it is of anything else.
Best London Wine Bars & Restaurants to Explore
Noble Rot
Multiple Locations
- Noble Rot Lamb’s Conduit: 51 Lamb’s Conduit St, London WC1N 3NB, United Kingdom – +44 20 7242 8963
- Noble Rot Soho: 2 Greek St, London W1D 4NB, United Kingdom – +44 20 7183 8190
- Noble Rot Mayfair: 5 Trebeck St, Shepherd Market, London W1J 7LT, United Kingdom – +44 20 7101 6770
Just as a devotee to the classics couldn’t leave Whitney Houston off her romantic mixtape, I couldn’t open a wine guide to London without talking about Noble Rot. This wine bar and restaurant opened in 2015 and was met with almost immediate media fanfare, wine trade excitement, and later, several awards.
And deservedly so: it’s excellent. Its wine list might be impossibly hard to choose from (there are too many delicious and well-priced options), and the food menu might leave you torn (ditto), but its team are very helpful, and fortunately, decisive.
Noble Rot is open for dinner and/or drinks. Reservations are recommended for its restaurant, but space in the bar area(s) is available on a first-come first-serve basis.
Find Noble Rot’s three locations in London’s Bloomsbury, Soho and Mayfair.
RELATED: Learn Visiting the Wine Regions of the United Kingdom: A Detailed Travel Guide
Gordon’s Wine Bar
47 Villiers St, London WC2N 6NE, United Kingdom
London’s oldest wine bar is also one of its busiest. Inside, it’s like a cross between a cave and a museum of historic wine memorabilia. Old posters and pictures are pinned to its dark wooden walls. Punters crouch to walk around its old cellar area. Outside, tables line a long, narrow lane.
Don’t expect old Bordeaux and Riedel glasses. Do expect affordable bottles, a lively atmosphere, and an excellent selection of cheese and chutney that make it popular with the after-work crowd. Gordon’s is fun. It’s good at that.
Only “the cage” old cellar, which seats 8-10, is available for bookings. Otherwise, arrive when you can and hope for the best. There’s always somewhere to lean or a table outside.
Find it next to Embankment station.
Vagabond Wine Bar(s) London
Multiple Locations
- Vagabond Charlotte Street: 25 Charlotte St., London W1T 1RW, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8607
- Vagabond Monument: 51 Gracechurch St, London EC3V 0EH, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8609
- Vagabond Victoria (The Nova Building): Unit 17, 77 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0AJ, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8603
- Vagabond Shoreditch: The Pavilion, 4 Principal Pl, Worship St, London EC2A 2FA, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8612
- Vagabond Paddington: 6a Sheldon Square, London W2 6DL, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8611
- Vagabond Battersea Power Station: Battersea Power Station, Unit 12 Circus Village West Circus Road West Phase 1, London SW11 8EZ, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8604
- Vagabond Fulham: 18-22 Vanston Pl, London SW6 1AX, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8608
- Vagabond Northcote: 4 Northcote Rd, London SW11 1NT, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8610
- Vagabond Canary Wharf: Unit 3, 25 Cabot Square, London E14 4AQ, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8606
- Vagabond Birmingham: 92-98 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 3BD, United Kingdom – +44 20 4599 8605
- Vagabond Heathrow Airport: Terminal 5, London Heathrow Airport, Terminal 5, TW6 2GA – +44 20 8066 6827
- Vagabond Gatwick Airport: Gatwick Airport, 202 Perimeter Rd East, Horley, Gatwick Airport, RH6 0NP – +44 1293 988109
Vagabond is king of the eno-matic wine machines, which allow you to self-serve tasting samples using a card that you can top up at the bar.
At the time of writing, Vagabond now has a whopping 12 locations across London. These vary in size but share the same laid-back and modern character. The Battersea branch, which is in the newly developed Battersea Power Station area close to the US embassy, also has its own urban winery.
Sagar + Wilde Paradise Row
250 Paradise Row, London E2 9LE, United Kingdom
Sagar + Wilde quickly rose to fame in 2013 after opening its Hackney wine bar, which was praised for its diverse list and moderate mark-ups.
If you’re in central London, its newer venue on Paradise Row is easier to reach. This restaurant and wine bar is set in an old railway arch. It too has a wide range of interesting wines available by the glass or bottle, plus an Italian-inspired food menu. Enjoy the courtyard area in the summer months (or with a jacket).
Find it near Bethnal Green station.
Clarette
44 Blandford St, London W1U 7HS, United Kingdom
If you’re in the mood for a bottle of Chateau Margaux or Pavillon Rouge direct from the estate, you have a full page of vintages to choose from at Clarette. It was founded by the Chateau owner’s youngest daughter. If that’s a little above your price range (and I’m totally with you), there are plenty of other classic options on the list in this stylish Marylebone bar.
Find it between Bond Street and Baker Street stations.
Cork & Bottle
44-46 Cranbourn St, London WC2H 7AN, United Kingdom
Leicester Square is frantic. Several of its surrounding bars spill out noisily onto the street, so it would be easy to walk past Cork & Bottle, which you reach through a small shop front between two theatre ticket stores, and down a set of spiral steps.
Downstairs, it’s full of wooden dining (or drinking) tables and its walls are covered in old wine posters and pictures. The wine list stretches across 35 pages and the cheese counter provides a constant temptation. As well as wine, it serves classic British dishes, including several vegetarian and two vegan options.
Unwined
Multiple Locations
- Unwined in Waterloo: 137 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7AE, United Kingdom – +44 20 7803 9035
- Unwined in Tooting: Unit 16A, Tooting Market, 21-23 Tooting High St, London SW17 0SN, United Kingdom – +44 20 3583 9136
It’s worth taking the Northern Line down to Tooting, not for sightseeing, but for the best selection of Indian curry houses in the city. Many of them allow you to bring along your own bottle of wine, which is one good reason to stop by Unwined beforehand.
You’ll then surely choose to return after to this laid-back bar in Tooting Market, which has a creative and frequently changing selection of wines by the glass, too.
Find it near Tooting Broadway station. For those less willing to travel from central London, it also has a branch in a Waterloo shipping container.
The Wine Tasting Shop
18 Hildreth St, London SW12 9RQ, United Kingdom
Balham locals love The Wine Tasting Shop, which, as the name suggests, doubles up as well-stocked wine store and bar. Seating spills way out onto the street, but if you’re visiting at the weekend, best to sit inside and enjoy the live music. Themed tastings are hosted on Thursdays – you can book in advance.
Find it near Balham station.
Humble Grape
Multiple Locations
- Humble Grape Fleet Street: 1 St. Bride’s Passage, London EC4Y 8EJ, United Kingdom – +44 20 7583 0688
- Humble Grape Canary Wharf: 18-20 Mackenzie Walk, London E14 4PH, United Kingdom – +44 20 3985 1330
- Humble Grape Liverpool Street: 8 Devonshire Row, London EC2M 4RH, United Kingdom – +44 20 3887 9287
- Humble Grape Battersea: 2 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1ED, United Kingdom – +44 20 3620 2202
- Humble Grape Islington: 11-13 Theberton St, London N1 0QY, United Kingdom – +44 20 3904 4480
- Humble Grape Topsfield: 4 Topsfield Parade, London N8 8PR, United Kingdom – +44 20 8341 1781
Humble Grape is a delightful wine bar and restaurant in London, known for its commitment to offering a curated selection of handpicked, sustainable wines from independent vineyards. With multiple locations across the city, including Battersea, Islington, and Canary Wharf, Humble Grape provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere in each of its establishments.
The interiors of Humble Grape venues often feature exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and ambient lighting, creating a cozy and intimate setting that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a casual gathering with friends. Each location boasts an extensive wine list, allowing patrons to sample unique wines from all around the world. In addition to the impressive wine selection, Humble Grape offers a delectable menu of seasonal dishes, with an emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Humble Grape hosts regular events, such as wine tastings and masterclasses, providing opportunities for wine enthusiasts to learn more about their favorite beverage and discover new, exciting varieties.
Hedonism Wines
3-7 Davies St, London W1K 3DJ, United Kingdom
Hedonism Wines is a luxurious wine and spirits shop located in the heart of London’s prestigious Mayfair district. Renowned for its impressive collection of rare, unique, and exceptional wines and spirits from around the world, Hedonism Wines has become a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
What sets Hedonism Wines apart from other wine shops is its extraordinary selection, featuring over 6,500 wines and 3,000 spirits from both iconic producers and lesser-known gems. The store’s highly knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to provide guidance and recommendations, ensuring that each visitor finds the perfect bottle to suit their taste and budget.
The interior of Hedonism Wines is both elegant and inviting, with floor-to-ceiling shelves displaying an awe-inspiring array of bottles. One of the shop’s most unique features is its Enomatic tasting machines, which allow guests to sample a selection of wines, including some incredibly rare and sought-after vintages, by the glass. Last time we visited, we sampled a Sauternes on tap from the 1918 vintage.
In addition to its incredible wine selection, Hedonism Wines also hosts exclusive tasting events in its private tasting room, located in the underground cellar. These events often feature winemakers and experts from around the world, who guide guests through a curated selection of wines while sharing stories and insights about the art of their distinct winemaking techniques.
The Remedy
124 Cleveland St, London W1T 6PG, United Kingdom
Tucked away on Cleveland Street, Fitzrovia, The Remedy is a cozy wine bar and restaurant offering an eclectic range of natural and biodynamic wines. Its intimate setting, with rustic wooden tables and dim lighting, makes it a great spot for a relaxed evening. The knowledgeable staff are passionate about introducing guests to small producers and organic wines. The food menu, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, perfectly complements their wine selection.
Diogenes The Dog
96 Rodney Rd, London SE17 1BG, United Kingdom
Located in Elephant and Castle, this wine bar and bottle shop shines a spotlight on underrepresented wine regions and rare wines. The bright, airy space, with its minimalist decor, is an inviting place for exploring unusual varietals and low-intervention wines. Diogenes The Dog offers a curated selection that changes frequently, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to taste.
Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
8-10 Neal’s Yard, London WC2H 9DP, United Kingdom
Nestled in the heart of Seven Dials, near Covent Garden, this chic wine bar boasts an extensive list of fine wines from around the globe, including a remarkable selection of natural and biodynamic options. The elegant, comfortable interior, coupled with a sophisticated atmosphere, makes it a top choice for wine lovers. The menu offers exquisite pairings, with cheese boards and small plates that highlight the quality of the wines.
P. Franco
107 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 0NP England
A modern wine shop and bar located in Clapton, East London, P. Franco is celebrated for its dynamic selection of natural wines and its rotating cast of guest chefs. This unique setup ensures a fresh and innovative dining experience, with a menu that evolves and adapts to complement the wine list. The communal table encourages conversation among fellow wine enthusiasts, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Winemakers Club
41a Farringdon St, London EC4A 4AN, United Kingdom
Found under the arches of Holborn Viaduct, Winemakers Club is both a wine bar and a retailer, specializing in organic, biodynamic, and natural wines. The atmospheric setting, with old oak barrels and exposed brickwork, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring a glass of wine. Their knowledgeable staff are always ready to share stories about the wines and their producers.
Bar Crispin
19 Kingly St, Carnaby, London W1B 5PY, United Kingdom
In the vibrant area of Soho, Bar Crispin stands out for its innovative approach to wine. This modern, natural wine bar offers an impressive selection of low-intervention wines, complemented by a creative, seasonally inspired menu from Chef Nick Bramham. The interior is sleek and modern, with large windows that flood the space with natural light.
Brawn
49 Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG, United Kingdom
Located on Columbia Road in East London, Brawn is a restaurant and wine bar that emphasizes organic and biodynamic wines alongside a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The relaxed, convivial atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, featuring small producers from across the globe.
Antidote Wine Bar & Wine Shop
12A Newburgh St, Carnaby, London W1F 7RR, United Kingdom
Just off Carnaby Street in Soho, Antidote offers an upstairs wine bar and a downstairs dining room with a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients. The wine list is predominantly organic and biodynamic, reflecting their commitment to quality and sustainability. With its central location and friendly atmosphere, Antidote is a perfect spot for both casual drinkers and wine aficionados.
BOTTLES
67 Brushfield St, London E1 6AA, United Kingdom
BOTTLES is a wine bar that takes its guests on an enchanting journey into the world of wine and food. With a focus on sustainable, independent, organic, and biodynamic producers, BOTTLES specializes primarily in Italian wines, handpicking the most unique and exquisite examples. This venue is not just about the wine; it integrates a rustic and rock ‘n’ roll style with the traditional atmosphere of gathering friends, family, and even strangers around the table, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive wine experience for all.
The venue has some of East London’s finest selection of Italian wines, complemented by a tempting menu that highlights the best seasonal produce. Created by Italian food and wine aficionados Franco Mancini and Daniele Marano, BOTTLES offers a little corner of Italy in E1, from its casual on-street dining area to its stylish inner sanctum. This relaxed and buzzy space is dedicated entirely to the enjoyment of food and wine, providing seasonal wines paired perfectly with a menu that showcases the very best of the season’s offerings.
BOTTLES is designed to appeal to both true oenophiles and those new to wine, offering something for everyone through its diverse events and tastings. The space itself features a Mediterranean terrace and a decadent basement wine cave, available for private hire, tailored to provide a unique experience that suits every Winetraveler’s needs.
Best London Bar Crawls, Food, Wine Tasting Tours & Experiences to Book
For those keen to delve into London’s vibrant bar and wine culture without the hassle of planning every detail, booking through Viator offers an ideal solution. These tours and experiences are not just any outings; they are highly-rated adventures, carefully selected based on Winetraveler readers’ recommendations and our own personal experiences. You can book now and pay later, giving you flexibility and ease, ensuring you can secure your spot on some of London’s best bar crawls, wine tasting tours, and unique local experiences with the click of a button.
What sets these experiences apart is the inclusion of local guides who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about their city’s wine and bar scene. Having a local guide means you’ll get to explore hidden gems and get insights into the culture and history that you might miss when going solo. It’s the difference between a standard outing and a memorable, intimate experience that feels personalized just for you. Plus, with all logistical planning taken care of, you can focus entirely on the enjoyment and discovery of London’s best spots without the worry of navigating the logistics yourself.
Exploring London’s Wine Scene and Where to Stay
London’s wine scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, with an ever-expanding selection of wine bars and restaurants dedicated to celebrating the world of wine. From the trendy enclaves of East London, where natural and low-intervention wines reign supreme, to the classic elegance of wine bars in South Kensington and Pall Mall, there’s a venue to suit every taste and occasion.
Neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Hackney have emerged as hotspots for wine enthusiasts, offering a blend of casual, modern wine bars like P. Franco and The Laughing Heart, where the focus is on discovering new and interesting wines from around the globe. Meanwhile, South London, particularly areas around London Bridge and Borough Market, is home to establishments like Bar Crispin and Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, which offer a more curated wine experience, often paired with exceptional cuisine.
For those seeking the ultimate wine-focused stay in London, the Vintry & Mercer Hotel offers a luxurious and conveniently located base from which to explore the city’s wine offerings. Situated in the heart of the historic wine trading district, this 5-star hotel not only provides easy access to top wine bars and restaurants but also celebrates the rich heritage of wine itself.
With its own extensive wine list and a cozy, inviting wine cellar, Vintry & Mercer is an ideal choice for the discerning wine lover looking to enjoy themselves in London’s vibrant wine culture. You can browse prices for your travel dates and book your stay right here on Tripadvisor!
Frequently Asked Questions about London Wine Bars
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