London's best gin bars
The naughty juniper beguiles us so.
Ah, the delicious, transparent tipple that's been the ruin of many a mother. Yes, in its time gin has probably been responsible for distracting more mothers than every Cliff Richard calendar ever printed.
But we can forgive it that when this most popular of spirits is just so darned tasty and versatile.
Gin is delicious as either a common component of cocktails or enjoyed solo with a glug or two of tonic; and with such a strong association with London we're delighted to point you in the direction of where one can enjoy a glass (or bottle) or two.
Drink responsibly though team... let's not go daft.
Distillery, shop and bar, The City of London Distillery is the grand dame of London gin joints. Selling a massive range of spirits and distilling its own tipples, the people here are experts. The bar is an experience. Try some cutting edge new gins, witness the distilling process through a glass wall and leave a little more educated in the ways of gin.
Purl
50 - 54 Blandford Street W1U 7HX
Since the whole interior was supposedly based on the old 18th century gin palaces, it comes as no surprise that Purl as a soft spot for the drink. This premium cocktail bar/speakeasy is how a bar should look. Dim, over the top and original.
The Viaduct Tavern used to have much more to do with gin than it presently does, in fact, its whole look was derived from the flash facades of the 18th century gin palaces. However, it does claim to serve a truly great gin & tonic from its range of fifteen gins. It once contained gin vaults below the pub, where bottles were stored in a converted Victorian jail. This is the historical option.
Head upstairs at Mr Fogg's Beer Tavern and you'll find comfy sofas and over 150 bottles of the good stuff.
