Covent Garden isn’t just about street performers and fancy shops; it’s a hub for some of the best bars and pubs in London. Whether you’re into sipping craft cocktails or prefer a classic pint in a cosy corner, this area has got you covered. Just steps from the tube station, you’ll find hidden speakeasies, historic watering holes, and trendy spots that blend old-school charm with a modern twist. Get ready to discover why Covent Garden is not just a place to visit, but a place to stay, drink, and savour the vibrant nightlife.
Blame Gloria
Address: 20 Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9HP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, Blame Gloria is conveniently situated near the bustling Piazza.
- What’s the Vibe? Blame Gloria exudes a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere, characterised by its retro-inspired décor, neon lighting, and floral underground theme. The venue is renowned for its lively energy, making it a popular spot for those seeking a spirited night out.
What’s On Offer
- Themed Bottomless Brunches: Blame Gloria hosts a variety of themed bottomless brunch events, such as the ‘Lose Yourself To Disco Bottomless Brunch’ and ‘Gloria’s ABBA Bottomless Brunch’. These events feature live entertainment, including drag performances and DJs, alongside free-flowing cocktails and bubbles.
- Happy Hour Specials: The venue offers enticing happy hour deals, including 2-for-1 cocktails, £25 bottles of Prosecco, and £4.50 bottles of beer, providing excellent value for patrons looking to enjoy quality drinks in a lively setting.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Nags Head
Address: 10 James Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, The Nags Head is conveniently located just a minute’s walk from Covent Garden Underground Station. Its prime position makes it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists exploring the vibrant area.
- What’s the Vibe? The Nags Head exudes the charm of a traditional British pub, featuring classic décor with wooden beams and a cosy fireplace. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, offering a relaxed setting for patrons to enjoy hearty meals and drinks.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare: The pub is renowned for its classic British menu, with signature dishes like fish and chips, hearty pies, and bangers and mash. The menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Private Function Spaces: The Nags Head offers private hire options, including the Sapphire Room, which can accommodate up to 120 guests for events such as corporate gatherings, birthday parties, or dining receptions. The Conference Room is also available for smaller meetings and events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Friday: 11:00–23:00
- Saturday: 09:00–23:00
- Sunday: 09:00–22:00
- The kitchen serves food until 21:00 each day.
Mrs Riot
Address: 10 Henrietta Street, London, WC2E 8PS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, Mrs Riot is conveniently located on Henrietta Street, just a short stroll from the iconic Covent Garden Market.
- What’s the Vibe? Inspired by the vivacious 18th-century performer Kitty Clive, Mrs Riot exudes a flamboyant and bohemian atmosphere. The interior combines Georgian sophistication with punk flair, featuring vibrant décor and eclectic furnishings that create a lively and immersive experience.
What’s On Offer
- Live Entertainment: Mrs Riot hosts an array of live performances, including DJs, musicians, and drag artists, ensuring a dynamic and entertaining experience every night. Notably, their Bottomless Drag Brunch on Saturdays offers 90 minutes of free-flowing cocktails accompanied by vibrant drag performances.
- Culinary Delights: The venue offers a menu of comfort food, featuring homemade Italian pizzas with bases made from a blend of wheat, soy, and rice flour for a light and airy texture. Additionally, they serve crispy chicken tenders with various sauces and perfectly seasoned halloumi fries, catering to diverse palates.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Covent Garden Social Club
Address: 6-7 Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of London’s West End, the Covent Garden Social Club is conveniently located just a short walk from Leicester Square and Covent Garden stations. Its prime position places it amidst the vibrant theatre district, making it an ideal spot for both pre- and post-theatre gatherings.
- What’s the Vibe? The club boasts a lively and eclectic atmosphere, featuring two distinct spaces: the Basement Bar and the Piano Bar. The Basement Bar is renowned for its energetic ambiance, with classic tunes playing into the late hours, creating a party-like environment. In contrast, the Piano Bar upstairs offers a more refined experience, hosting live music, cabaret, and entertainment from some of the West End’s finest performers.
What’s On Offer
- Happy Hour Specials: The club offers a generous Happy Hour every day until 8 pm, featuring a selection of cocktails at discounted prices. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy quality drinks without breaking the bank.
- Live Entertainment: The Piano Bar hosts live shows nightly, including piano party sessions, cabaret, and performances by notable West End artists. This commitment to live entertainment ensures a dynamic and engaging experience for patrons.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Piano Bar:
- Monday to Thursday: Comedy from 7:15 pm to 9:45 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 5 pm to midnight
- Basement Bar:
- Sunday to Thursday: 5 pm to midnight
- Friday: 5 pm to midnight
- Saturday: 3 pm to midnight
- Piano Bar:
Mr Fogg’s Tavern
Address: 58 St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4EA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, Mr Fogg’s Tavern is situated on the corner of New Row and St Martin’s Lane, placing it amidst London’s vibrant theatre district.
- What’s the Vibe? This Victorian-style tavern exudes a lively and eccentric atmosphere, adorned with an eclectic array of memorabilia inspired by the adventures of Phileas Fogg. The décor, featuring vintage artefacts and taxidermy, transports patrons back to the 19th century, creating a warm and immersive environment.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare: Mr Fogg’s Tavern offers a menu of hearty British classics, including succulent pies, traditional roasts, and filling sandwiches. From Monday to Saturday, between 12 pm and 3 pm, guests can enjoy a sandwich and chips for £12. On Sundays, the tavern serves a delectable Sunday Roast from 12 pm, complete with all the trimmings and a unique Mr Fogg’s twist.
- Cockney Singalong: Every Thursday evening, the tavern hosts a lively Cockney singalong led by Mr Tom Carradine on the piano. This event invites patrons to join in singing timeless songs, fostering a joyous and communal atmosphere. The singalong begins at 8:31 pm and is available for walk-ins and indoor table bookings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:01 pm – 11:01 pm
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12:01 pm – 1:01 am
- Sunday: 12:01 pm – 11:01 pm
Ready to Visit?
Covent Garden is a lively destination in London that perfectly blends history, culture, and nightlife. Beyond its well-known shops and street performances, the area is a treasure trove for those seeking vibrant bars and traditional pubs. Whether you’re looking for an energetic themed brunch at Blame Gloria, which boasts eclectic décor and bottomless cocktails, or the warm, classic feel of The Nags Head, where you can enjoy hearty British fare, there’s a venue for every taste. With countless options just steps from the tube, Covent Garden promises memorable nights out filled with entertainment and charm.
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