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Written by Mae Bristow - 05 August 2024


The 10 best bars near Southwark


Southwark, most known for being unpronounceable by clueless North Americans, the Thameside area is also blessed with a number of fantastic bars.


Fancy bars, traditional drinking holes, and foodie paradises abound in Southwark. Thankfully you don't have to sort through the bad to get to the good. We've scouted out the best bars in Southwark for your pleasure. If you want to hire one for yourself, just let us know and we'll do the rest.


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Southwark bars the hoxton
Southwark bars the hoxton

1. For a stylish evening out in one of the many bars near Southwark and the South Bank, The Hoxton Southwark is a great choice

Southwark, London

Close to the South Bank’s many galleries, theatres and food markets is one of the area's most charming hotels and bars.


The Hoxton Southwark hotel is home to the Seabird rooftop restaurant, while the Albie restaurant offers all-day dining and drinks. This hotel is great for coworking or staying over after a busy day in the city. With spaces to hire for private or corporate events, The Hoxton Southwark offers so many options.



Sama bankside Southwark bars
Sama bankside Southwark bars

2. SAMA Bankside is one of those bars near Southwark with a little of everything

Southwark, London

Tucked away beneath two railway arches near Blackfriars Bridge, this is one of the most fun neighbourhood bars near Southwark. Situated right by the Thames, you can let your hair down with a game of beer pong or enjoy a speciality cocktail.


The Bankside or Under The Arch will give you a taste of inspiration, and the menu serves up contemporary British grub with a flair of Caribbean flavour. You can even hire space for private dining in this hidden gem.



Obica St Paul's southwark bars
Obica St Paul's southwark bars

3. Obica St Paul’s brings an authentic Italian pizzeria to Southwark

Southwark, London

Beginning life in Italy in 2004, Obica has now turned into a worldwide phenomenon. Obica St Paul’s creates authentic and delicious pizzas, pasta and salads in a friendly atmosphere.


Just a stone’s throw from St Paul’s Cathedral, this stylish and welcoming restaurant is famous for its Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP and traditional Italian ingredients. The eye-catching round dining room with high windows and ceilings rivals the most upscale bars near Southwark, making it a lovely spot for a special meal or work gathering.



Revolution Leadenhall southwark bar
Revolution Leadenhall southwark bar

4. For nights out in bars near Southwark, Revolution Leadenhall offers creative cocktails and delicious food

Southwark, London

Part of a chain of bars, the individual styling and details are what make each of the Revolution venues worth visiting. Revolution Leadenhall is one of its bars near Southwark. This chic and stylish bar is a place where you can enjoy tasty food like crispy fried chicken (and a vegan alternative!), as well as sharing platters. Of course, the cocktails are one of the main draws to this trendy bar, with a focus on speciality vodka cocktails created by the Revs team.


The marble bar and stylish setting belies the casual approach to dining and drinks



Tonight Josephine southwark bars
Tonight Josephine southwark bars

5. Cocktail and wine bars near Southwark and across London: Tonight Josephine is a neon dream for nights out

Southwark, London

With venues near Waterloo, Shoreditch and Clapham, Tonight Josephine provides neon-lit cocktail and wine bars.


You can enjoy karaoke nights near Southwark, or take part in cocktail masterclasses to learn how to mix your own drinks. Hire the bar for a special event, or just spend time in the dimly lit and contemporary space with friends.


Known for a range of wines to suit every palate and some innovative cocktails, Tonight Josephine is a must-visit for a great night out when looking for bars near Southwark.



the telephone exchange southwark bars
the telephone exchange southwark bars

6. Recently refurbished, Telephone Exchange is one of the standout traditional British bars near Southwark

Southwark, London

This London Bridge pub has recently had a facelift to brighten up the interior. Walking inside, you will notice the colourful and bright interior as well as the delicious scent of classic British pub grub. Like the best bars, Telephone Exchange offers a good range of 15 beers and ciders, as well as a variety of gins.


Look out for new dishes appearing daily on the mouth-watering menu and tuck into some artisan snacks while catching up with friends. A real experience for those seeking bars near Southwark.



Lounge bar southwark bar

7. Speciality cocktails and local gins await in one of the area’s relaxed hotel bars near Southwark: The Lounge Bar

Southwark, London

With an emphasis on being true to cocktail classics and creating inspired speciality drinks, The Lounge Bar is nestled within the Mercure London Bridge Hotel.


Hotel bars near Southwark are ideal for a chilled-out vibe, and The Lounge Bar is great for spending time with colleagues or friends. With a diverse menu serving up dishes from all over the world, and locally produced spirits, you can relax in quiet surroundings. Try the delicious Vietnamese rolls or fries with a twist.



Great guns social southwark bars
Great guns social southwark bars

8. Bars near Southwark don’t often attract the kind of celebrity chefs you find at Great Guns Social: Stop by to see who’s cooking today

Southwark, London

Trendy decor and bespoke cocktails are a match made in heaven at Great Guns Social. Drinks you won’t find at other bars near Southwark include the Smoked Old Fashioned and Paddington’s Pick Me Up (yes, it really does contain marmalade).


Hidden away in Borough, this vibrant bar near Southwark has played host to Jay Morjaria and Rick Matharu among others, and the menu is as varied as you might expect from the pop-up residency events for a range of chefs.



Britannia southwark bar 1
Britannia southwark bar 1

9. Beginning life as a pop-up bar and eatery, Britannia’s Smok’d provides an upgrade to bars near Southwark, placing BBQ and whisky at its heart

Southwark, London

Created by BBQ Whisky Beer, Britannia’s Smok’d focuses on international BBQ. Bars near Southwark like this one are a rare find, so take advantage of the incredible smoked meats. Inspired by BBQ methods the world over, each dish is created with British flair in mind.


Wash down your delicious meal with unusual cocktail concoctions like the Zombie Horse, or stick with the classics such as a Bloody Mary. You will want to sample the whisky on offer, as this is the heart of the brand, and sit out on the terrace for pure relaxation.



The best bars near Southwark

Thinking of hiring a bar for your next event? Great idea. Southwark is known for its amazing bars. From busy tiki bars and cocktail bars with world-class mixologists, to quiet and cosy garden bars, we've got every type of bar in Southwark for you to browse and book. Why not take the team for a corporate day out at an activity bar or have a birthday bash at your own exclusive bar? Have a look at these top Southwark bar venues and get some ideas for where to have your next event. Alternatively, tell us exactly what you need and we'll make sure the very best Southwark venues respond to your enquiry.

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Guide to bar hire in Southwark

Southwark is a lively and eclectic part of London, boasting a mix of historic charm and modern appeal. From the iconic Borough Market to the trendy streets of Bermondsey, Southwark offers a plethora of bars that cater to every taste and occasion. The area's dynamic atmosphere and convenient location make it an excellent choice for hosting events.

Defining your event requirements

Before you start your search, it's important to clearly define your event requirements. Consider the type of event you're planning, the number of guests, and the overall vibe you want to create. A corporate networking event might call for a sophisticated wine bar, while a birthday bash might be better suited to a lively pub or cocktail bar. Knowing your needs will help streamline the selection process.

Budget planning

Establishing a budget is a crucial step in hiring a bar. Southwark offers a range of options to suit different budgets, from upscale venues to more affordable neighbourhood spots. Factor in all potential costs, including venue hire, drinks packages, and any additional services like catering or entertainment. A well-planned budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.

Location and accessibility

Southwark's central location makes it easily accessible by public transport, with several Tube stations, bus routes, and even riverboat services. When choosing a bar, consider its proximity to these transport links to ensure convenience for your guests. Additionally, check for nearby parking options if some guests plan to drive.

Size and capacity

The size and capacity of the bar are key considerations. Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list, with enough space for mingling, dancing, or seating, depending on your event type. It's also worth considering the layout – some bars have private rooms or areas that can provide a more intimate setting for smaller groups.

Ambience and decor

The ambience of the bar should match the theme and tone of your event. Southwark offers a variety of settings, from cosy, traditional pubs to sleek, contemporary bars. Visit potential venues in person to get a feel for their atmosphere and decor. Pay attention to details like lighting, furnishings, and overall aesthetic to ensure it aligns with your vision.

Services and amenities

When evaluating bars, consider the services and amenities they offer. Check if the venue provides in-house catering or if you need to arrange external food options. Many bars offer drinks packages, which can be a cost-effective way to manage your budget. Additionally, look for amenities such as sound systems, AV equipment, and Wi-Fi, which may be necessary for certain types of events.

Booking process

Once you've identified a suitable bar, it's time to proceed with the booking. Confirm the availability of the venue for your desired date and review the terms of the contract carefully. Pay close attention to details such as deposit requirements, payment schedules, and cancellation policies. It's also wise to discuss any specific needs or requests you have to ensure the venue can accommodate them.

Final preparations

As your event date approaches, maintain regular communication with the bar staff to finalise all details. Arrange a walkthrough of the venue to confirm the setup and address any last-minute changes. Ensure that all logistical arrangements, from catering to entertainment, are in place to guarantee a seamless and enjoyable event.

Hiring a bar in Southwark can provide a vibrant and memorable setting for any event. By defining your requirements, setting a realistic budget, and carefully evaluating your options, you can find the perfect venue to host your gathering. Southwark's diverse bar scene and central location make it an ideal choice for any occasion, ensuring your event will be a resounding success.

Frequently asked questions

There are lots of ways to book a Southwark bar. You can do the old-fashioned thing and pick up the phone, or email the venue directly. Unfortunately, lots of venues are busy and may not get back to you in time. That's where we come in. Give us your enquiry and we'll reach out to the best bars near Southwark and let you enjoy your free time. Easy.

It is advisable to book a bar in Southwark several months in advance to ensure availability, especially if you are planning an event during busy periods like weekends or holiday seasons. Early booking allows for better coordination of event details and helps secure the desired date and time.

The cost of hiring a bar in Southwark depends on factors such as the size and popularity of the bar, the duration of the hire, and any additional services required, such as catering, entertainment, or bespoke drink packages. It is best to contact the bar directly to get a detailed quote and to discuss any potential additional fees, such as security, staffing, or minimum spend requirements.

When hiring a bar in Southwark, you should be aware of certain regulations and restrictions, such as licensing laws for serving alcohol, noise restrictions, and age restrictions for entry. Additionally, there may be rules regarding the decoration of the venue and the use of external vendors. It is important to discuss these with the bar management to ensure compliance and a smooth event experience.

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