Why a Speakeasy Night Is the Perfect Weekend Escape

Last Friday, I slipped into a London bar that looked like a 1920s bookshop and found myself surrounded by dim lighting, velvet seats and a bartender who knew the exact angle to stir a gin fizz. The secret? The door was a false front, and the entrance was hidden behind a bookcase that slid to reveal a narrow stairwell. That was just the first of three spots I discovered this weekend, and each had its own twist on the speakeasy vibe.

1. The Bookcase Door at 12a Fleet Street

Address: 12a Fleet Street, London EC4. The entrance is a mahogany bookcase that slides open with a discreet “turn the third volume” cue. Inside, the bar occupies a former printing press room. The menu is limited to 12 cocktails, each named after a famous prohibition-era figure. The highlight is the “Bootleg Bramble” – a gin‑based drink with blackberry liqueur and a hint of lemon peel. The price is £12, and the bar closes at 2 a.m. The only drawback? The seating is tight; if you’re traveling in a group of more than four, you’ll need to split up.

2. The Hidden Door in Soho’s Old Pharmacy

Location: 23-25 Old Street, London W1. The entrance is a brass door disguised as a medicine cabinet. A secret code – “Ethanol 1920” – unlocks the door. The interior feels like a speakeasy meets laboratory: glass cabinets display tinctures, and the bar is crafted from reclaimed oak. The signature drink, “The Flapper”, is a rum punch with a splash of absinthe and a cinnamon stick garnish. Prices hover around £10–£13. The bar’s biggest limitation is its late opening; it opens at 11 p.m., so you’ll need to arrive late to catch the full experience.

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3. The Speakeasy Hidden in a Disused Underground Station

Address: Platform 2, Old Street Station, London EC1. The entrance is a door that looks like a ticket booth. Once inside, you’re greeted by a low‑key jazz trio and a menu that changes nightly. The “Jazz Man” cocktail, a bourbon sour with a smoked salt rim, is a must‑try. The bar is open until 3 a.m., and the price for drinks is £11–£14. The only downside? The bar is located underground, so you’ll need to take the tube or a taxi to get there, which can add a few minutes to your evening.

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Which Speakeasy to Choose?

If you want a classic, bookish vibe and a drink that feels like a time capsule, go to 12a Fleet Street. For a more experimental atmosphere with a laboratory feel, the Old Street pharmacy is the spot. If you’re after a late‑night, underground feel with live music, the disused station bar will satisfy. No matter which you pick, the key is to arrive after midnight to avoid the early crowds and to fully appreciate the hidden details that make each location special.

Plan Your Visit

• Check opening times: 12a Fleet Street opens at 10 p.m., the pharmacy at 11 p.m., and the underground bar at 9 p.m.
• Dress smartly: a subtle blazer or a vintage dress will get you past the discreet entryways.
• Reserve a table if you’re going with a group of more than four, especially at the Fleet Street spot.
• Enjoy a cocktail, take a photo of the hidden door (just make sure you’re not caught on camera), and let the night unfold.

Final Thought

London’s speakeasy scene is a treasure trove for anyone who loves a good secret. With three distinct locations to explore, you can tailor your evening to the mood you’re in. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, literary escape or a lively, underground buzz, these hidden bars deliver an unforgettable weekend experience.

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