Alright, London lovers! If you’re buzzing about near Leicester Square Tube and fancy a tipple, you’re in for a treat. This area is a goldmine of quirky pubs and slick bars, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you’re after a classic British pub experience with a pint of the finest ale, or you want to sip on some fancy cocktails in a chic setting, Leicester Square has got you covered. From hidden gems tucked away in side streets to bustling spots where the city’s heartbeat is palpable, there’s a watering hole for every mood. So, let’s dive into the eclectic mix of bars and pubs near Leicester Square Tube and discover where your next favourite haunt might be!
The Imperial
Address: 5 Leicester Street, Soho, Greater London, United Kingdom, WC2H 7BL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Imperial is close to Leicester Square, offering a central and accessible location.
- What’s the Vibe? The Imperial offers a cosy and traditional pub atmosphere. It’s known for its welcoming environment, suitable for families. The pub also boasts a beer garden, providing a relaxed setting for guests.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Pub Food & Drinks: The venue serves classic British pub food and is well-regarded for its tasty dishes like fish and chips. It also offers a selection of craft beers, ales, and draft beers, appealing to beer enthusiasts.
- Happy Hour: The Imperial hosts various events and offers, including a Happy Hour from 7 pm until close from Thursday to Sunday, featuring crafted cocktails and draught beers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 am – 11:00 pm
- Thursday: 11:00 am – 11:30 pm
- Friday to Saturday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- The serving hours for food are slightly different, generally closing an hour or two before the pub itself.
The Imperial in Soho is a traditional British pub offering a cosy atmosphere, classic pub food, a variety of drinks, and community-focused events. It’s a great spot for both locals and tourists looking for an authentic British pub experience in the heart of London.
The Leicester Arms
Address: 44 Glasshouse Street, London, W1B 5DP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Leicester Arms is nestled in the bustling area of Piccadilly, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural landmarks. Its positioning makes it an accessible and prominent spot for locals and tourists alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The Leicester Arms exudes the charm of a traditional British pub with a modern twist. It’s a place where you can unwind in a family-friendly setting, offering a welcoming and warm ambiance. Whether it’s a casual drink after work or a relaxed meal, this historic Victorian pub provides a comfortable and inviting environment.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Food & Drink Menu: At The Leicester Arms, guests can indulge in a variety of traditional pub classics like Fish and Chips, Steak and Ale Pie, and BBQ Chicken. The pub also offers a selection of lighter bites, ideal for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal. Additionally, the venue serves a range of beers from around the world, alongside warming red and crisp white wines, and a broad selection of spirits.
- Live Sports & Events: The Leicester Arms is not just about food and drinks; it’s also a hub for entertainment. The pub features facilities like Sky Sports and TNT Sports, making it a go-to spot for watching major sports events like the Six Nations rugby tournament. Moreover, the pub occasionally hosts special events, adding to its appeal as a lively and engaging destination.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
The Leicester Arms stands out as a quintessential London pub, blending traditional charm with contemporary offerings, making it an ideal spot for various occasions, be it dining, drinking, or enjoying sports events.
The Bear & Staff
Address: 10-12 Bear Street, London, Greater London, WC2H 7AX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bear & Staff is nestled in Leicester Square, London, a short walk from Leicester Square Tube, Charing Cross Road, and Trafalgar Square.
- What’s the Vibe? The Bear & Staff boasts a traditional pub ambiance with unique character. Established in 1714, it has a rich history including being frequented by celebrities like Charlie Chaplin. It’s known for its British hospitality and offers a cosy atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Drink Selection: The Bear & Staff offers a wide range of drinks, including an ever-changing selection of Cask Ales like Nicholson’s Pale Ale, brewed in Cornwall. The pub also features a Gin Palace, presenting a variety of gins from robust to sweet and fruity.
- Hand-Crafted Specialty Pies & Extensive Menu: The pub is renowned for its hand-crafted pies, such as the Chicken and Truffled Oyster Mushroom Pie and the British Steak & Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie. These dishes exemplify the pub’s commitment to traditional British cuisine with a modern twist. The Bear & Staff also offers a range of other menu items, including hearty pub classics, salads, and seafood. For those with a sweet tooth, they serve traditional desserts like Bramley Apple & Blackberry Crumble. This diversity in the menu caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Central Location: The venue is also strategically located near attractions like The National Gallery, several theatres, the Thames, and Covent Garden, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the heart of London.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
LSQ Rooftop
Address: 1 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? LSQ Rooftop is nestled on the 9th floor of the Hotel Indigo. This iconic address places it right above the lively streets of London’s West End, offering a unique urban experience.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue boasts a vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for both daytime and nighttime visits. It offers stunning views of London’s skyline, making it an ideal spot for various occasions, from casual lunches to special celebrations.
What’s On Offer
- Mediterranean-Inspired Dining & Drink Selection: The rooftop venue serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, complementing the beauty of its location. Additionally, it offers a wide selection of wines, spirits, and both classic and signature cocktails, perfect for relaxing evenings.
- Exclusive Events & Brunches: LSQ Rooftop hosts a range of events, including New Year’s Eve celebrations, Christmas parties, and special themed brunches like the Saturday Brunch. These events are characterised by their stylish settings and panoramic views of the city.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:30 am (weekdays), 7:00 am – 11:00 am (weekends & bank holidays)
- Restaurant: 12 pm – 10:30 pm (Sunday to Thursday), 12 pm – 11 pm (Friday & Saturday)
- Bar: 12 pm – late, with extended hours on weekends
LSQ Rooftop provides an exquisite blend of scenic views, elegant dining, and a lively atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination in London’s West End.
Icon Balcony Bar
Address: 5-6 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7NA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located within the Empire Casino, Icon Balcony Bar is situated in the bustling heart of London’s Leicester Square. It’s easily accessible, being just a 2-minute walk from Leicester Square Tube Station and a 4-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus.
- What’s the Vibe? The Icon Balcony Bar exudes an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, akin to a French boudoir. It features a candlelit setting with a beautiful balcony overlooking Leicester Square. The interior design includes chandeliers, antique wallpaper, exposed brickwork, and opulent crimson furnishings, creating a sophisticated and luxurious ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Exclusive Views & Atmosphere: The bar’s standout feature is its spacious terrace that directly overlooks Leicester Square. This setting offers a unique opportunity to observe the hustle and bustle of the square from a comfortable and elevated position. It’s an ideal spot for people-watching or enjoying the vibrancy of London’s nightlife.
- Boutique Beers & Cocktails: Icon Balcony Bar is known for its impressive selection of drinks, including boutique beers from around the world and expertly crafted cocktails.
- Events: The bar also hosts various events and has been the venue for prestigious film premieres and exclusive parties. It’s a popular spot for both casual drinks and special occasions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- Saturday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- Sunday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- The bar features a live DJ every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM until late hours.
Icon Balcony Bar stands out as a luxurious and unique venue in the heart of London, perfect for those seeking an intimate yet vibrant nightlife experience with exceptional views of Leicester Square.
Ready to Visit?
Leicester Square, a hub of London’s nightlife, offers an array of bars and pubs, each with a distinctive character. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional British pub experience or a chic cocktail bar, this area has it all. For a classic pub feel, The Imperial in Soho is a great choice, known for its cosy atmosphere, British pub food, and a variety of drinks. Alternatively, The Leicester Arms blends traditional charm with a modern twist, offering a warm ambiance and a diverse food and drink menu. Both are ideal spots to experience the local flavor of London.
Share the Love
Why not dive into the vibrant scene of Leicester Square on your next night out? Try a pint at The Imperial or a meal at The Leicester Arms, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of these local gems. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and spread the word. And when you’ve visited, sharing a review would be fantastic – it helps others discover these great spots too!