The festive season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the most magical time of year than sipping a glass of champagne somewhere luxurious? London champagne bars offer the perfect setting to indulge in the bubbly spirit of the holidays, with their elegant ambiance and exquisite selection of champagne.
Okay, so we may have to do all our sipping before 10 pm and only with our nearest and dearest household members, but enjoying a socially distanced drink in one of London’s top champagne drinking spots is sure to get anyone ready for the festive season. Things may be a little different this year, but that’s all the more reason to revel in small pleasures and, for me, a glass of champers with a friend is the ultimate decadent treat.
London is home to many iconic drinks spots, but these are my top recommendations for a magical, fizz-fueled evening in the capital.
best London champagne bars for a magical evening in the city
London-calling concept bar, Selfridges, Soho
The latest new hot spot to arrive at London’s glittering Selfridges store is the London Calling champagne bar. This is the place to sip champagne like a quintessential Brit, in surroundings designed by London’s most iconic motifs – the red telephone booth. Within this specially designed space will be a stylish champagne bar and a curated exhibition of moments of celebration in London from 1980s to the 1990s. You can also take advantage of a limited edition personalised gift box service, ‘Especially Yours’.
Champagne + Fromage, Brixton Village
Is there any better combination than bubbles and cheese? We’ll wait. Nestled in bustling Brixton Village where you can pick up plants, trinkets, vintage buys, your weekly fruit and vegetable haul, plus enjoy cuisine from pretty much anywhere in the world, Champagne + Fromage is always a busy spot thanks to its delicious offerings. This charming venue also serves charcuterie boards, salads, desserts, and French beer, but let’s face it, we’re here for the fizz. The selection is vast and champions lesser-known champagne brands, with staff on hand who are more than happy to impart their wisdom on the bubbly stuff.
Bob Bob Richard, Soho
While it may not strictly be a bar, we couldn’t resist adding this luxurious London restaurant to the list. Bob Bob Richard became an Instagram sensation with its iconic ‘press for champagne’ button within easy reach of diners. We defy anyone to visit this restaurant without ordering some fizz! Champagne connoisseurs will rejoice at what they claim to be the biggest selection of champers of any UK restaurant.
The American Bar, The Savoy, Mayfair
An absolute classic, this is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a truly iconic cocktail bar. The cocktails themselves are expertly crafted, but there are few that can beat a crisp, clean glass of ice-cold champers while propping up the (very plush) bar. There are two reasons The Savoy’s American Bar justifies its £20 price tag for a glass of fizz. Firstly, it’s Louis Roederer champagne, known to be one of the best non-vintage wines around. Secondly, the measure is 150ml, rather than a standard 125ml, to prolong the decadence. The surroundings are spectacular, with art-decor-inspired designs that will transport you to the roaring twenties. Plus how could you resist not to take a peek at the hotel’s famous lobby while you’re there…
Searcy St Pancreas Champagne Bar, King’s Cross
Champagne is preferably drunk here just before boarding the Eurostar to Paris, but even if you’re not off an excursion, it’s still a pretty impressive place to enjoy some bubbly and watch the world go by. We’d recommend a Veuve Clicquot Champagne Trio, which includes Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, Veuve Clicquot Rosé, and Veuve Clicquot Vintage 2012 Blanc for £27 per person.