When the twinkling lights of Oxford Street spring to life and Hyde Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland, London’s mixology scene undergoes its own magical metamorphosis. The capital’s most talented bartenders trade their summer spritzers for warming winter elixirs, crafting seasonal spectacles that capture the very essence of Christmas in a glass.
Whether you’re seeking a traditional mulled wine elevated to new artisanal heights, or a boundary-pushing creation garnished with edible snowflakes and golden dust, these yuletide libations offer more than just a drink – they’re liquid love letters to the most wonderful time of the year.
Archive & Myth
Let the festivities begin at Archive & Myth Cocktail Bar, one of London’s best-kept secrets who are set to provide the cheers this season. Hidden behind a password-protected door off Cranbourn Street, which leads deep beneath The Hippodrome Casino, lies a sanctuary for those who yearn for the best in artistic creations and delicious libations.
This season hospitality veteran and award-winning bartender, mixologist, and entrepreneur Jack Sotti expertly encapsulates the seasonal delights with three expressions available at the bar.
Find more info on Archive and Myth here
German Gymnasium
In collaboration with Monkey47, German Gymnasium has also released a truly festive new cocktail menu for the season, all inspired by the traditional German Pféfferkuchenhaus (Gingerbread House). Highlights include the Gingerbread Negroni with Monkey 47 Gin, Martini Rubino, Campari, & Gingerbread Syrup as well as the Monkey Spritz with Monkey 47 Gin, Gingerbread Syrup, Cranberry Juice, Durello, & Ginger Beer.
Find more on German Gymnasium here
Silverleaf at Pan Pacific London
As a nod to the Christmas flavours, the Silverleaf team have created a concoction that celebrates the quintessential Christmas spirit with their White Chocolate & Oolong serve. Made with whisky, salted egg yolk, oolong and white chocolate. This blend of ingredients brings home all the key pallets of the season for an utterly delicious and creamy serve.
Madison
Madison invites you to experience the festive spirit this Christmas from its iconic Aprés Ski Rooftop, in collaboration with Casamigos. Party atop a rooftop wonderland that brings epic ski chalet vibes to the heart of London, as well as a premium new cocktail menu created in collaboration with Casamigos – perfect for toasting to the year gone by!
Find more info on Madison here
Swift Borough
Swift Borough is the perfect place for a cosy evening when wanting to escape the bustling streets of London. You can also nip downstairs where their more private seated-only area offers an unmatched ambient feel. From the Christmas seasonal menu, we recommend trying the “Nutcracker.” The serve comprises of egg, Chatigne (Hazelnut), Port and Hennessy. A delectable drink to enjoy throughout the festive season.
Find more info on Swift Borough here
Mint Leaf
Mint Leaf London is an award-winning urban cocktail bar and fine-dining Indian restaurant, bringing authentic South Asian flavours and aromas to Bank. It boasts a stunning 16 metre long bar, backed by a captivating feature wall of lights and river washed pebbles.
Liquid alchemy is performed by the talented bar team and guests can choose from over 500 spirits and a comprehensive wine list. They’ll be crafting a selection of seasonal cocktails that embody the magic of the holidays, all while reflecting their distinctive style and ambiance.
Muse at RSA House
Guests are invited to London’s latest opening, Muse at RSA House, mere minutes from the city’s iconic Strand. Created to invite guests into a cosy atmosphere, reminiscent of a private members club, Muse at RSA House bids guests to experience the festive Frankincense Fizz, the perfect cocktail for those seeing a refreshing yet complex drink with a Christmas twist!
Find more info on Muse at RSA House here
Leaf & Cane
Residing on the former grounds of King Henry VIII’s Bridewell Palace 1515-1523, famously where he divorced Katherine of Aragon, is the five-star, Grade II-listed hotel, Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars, who are celebrating their one year anniversary this June. Edward VI gave the palace to the City of London and by the 18th Century, it became a famous women’s prison.
Today, the hotel’s signature cocktail bar ‘Leaf & Cane’ is an upmarket, design led Latino bar in the city. Opening this summer is the outside terrace situated below street level, featuring nine original stone vaults, once part of the historic women’s prison, for a memorable and immersive alfresco experience. They will be crafting a collection of seasonal cocktails that captures the magic of the holidays while staying true to their unique character and setting.
The Donovan Bar
The Donovan Bar, located inside the historic Brown’s Hotel. The hotel will be wrapped up in a bundle of Christmas joy allowing you to enjoy the festivities in partnership with Golden Goose. The ‘Dream Spritz’, is an exclusive holiday cocktail in honour of the partnership with the Venetian brand. This sophisticated blend of Select infused with coffee beans; prosecco, and soda, Public embodies the essence of both brands—delivering a luxurious taste that feels festive and fashionable.
Best Holiday Spirits for Cocktail Lovers in Your Life
I have put together a list of the best Holiday Spirits 2024 that I just couldn’t live without this season. Think a warming, smooth spirits bursting with aromatic notes of dried fruit, winter spices and the freshest organic orange and lemon zest! Twist up a Negroni or Martini or try their contemporary any cocktail on your list with one of these spirits!