25 Sep Did you know most London speakeasies still hide behind a fake door?
When I first heard about London’s underground bars, I imagined a secret vault behind a brick wall. In reality, the trick is a nondescript door in a shop or a bookcase in a café. I spent a Saturday night hunting for three of the city’s most elusive spots, and the results were worth the hunt.
What makes a speakeasy truly hidden?
It starts with the entrance. At Shady Bar in Soho, a recessed doorway in a laundromat leads to a dim, piano‑lit room. The bar itself is a single counter with a glass wall that shows only the bartender and the glass of gin. No signage, no glow. The second stop, Back Room in Shoreditch, uses a back door in a laundromat that opens onto a narrow alley. Inside, a wooden door with a brass handle hides a speakeasy that feels like a 1920s jazz club. Finally, The Blind Pig in Clerkenwell uses a false back door in a shopfront that opens to a vaulted, candlelit space. The common thread is the lack of any external hint—no neon, no “bar” sign, just a door that looks like any other.
How do you find the right one for your taste?
Each speakeasy offers a distinct vibe. Shady Bar is all about classic cocktails: try the “Old Fashioned” with a twist of orange peel. Back Room focuses on craft gin, with a rotating list of local distilleries. The Blind Pig is more experimental, featuring a “Molecular Martini” that dissolves in your mouth. If you’re a whisky lover, the Blind Pig’s “Peated Old Tom” is a must. If you’re a gin aficionado, Back Room’s “Gin & Tonic” variations are a revelation. The key is to read the small print on the door—often the name of the bar is the only clue.
What’s the best time to go?
Speakeasies thrive on the evening rush. Shady Bar opens at 5 pm and closes at midnight, but the real action starts around 8 pm when the first patrons arrive. Back Room is a bit more relaxed; it opens at 6 pm and stays open until 1 am, making it ideal for a late‑night crawl. The Blind Pig is the most unpredictable, opening at 7 pm on Thursdays and 8 pm on Fridays. Plan your route accordingly: if you want to hit all three, start early in the day to avoid the 8 pm crowd at Shady Bar.
How to keep it low‑key in a city that loves to brag
Once inside, the atmosphere is intentionally intimate. The staff know your order by the second time you visit. They often use code words—“The Velvet Rope” means a special cocktail menu. Keep your phone off; the lights are already dim, and you don’t want to disturb the quiet. If you’re in a group, split up—one person can find the door while the others wait in the nearest café.
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Is a speakeasy worth the effort?
For those who enjoy a good story and a well‑crafted drink, the effort pays off. The price point is comparable to a standard London cocktail bar—about £12 for a signature drink. The experience is unique: a hidden door, a quiet room, and a drink that feels like a secret. The downside is that the bars are often crowded during peak times, and the lack of signage can lead to missed opportunities if you’re not careful. If you’re a first‑timer, plan to arrive early or call ahead to confirm opening hours.
Final thoughts
London’s speakeasies are more than just a trend; they’re a living reminder of the city’s clandestine past. With a clear plan, the right timing, and a willingness to explore, you’ll discover a side of London that most tourists miss. The next time you’re in the city, step through a plain door and let the night unfold.
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