The Best Bar in London, England

Background Illustration for Nightlife

The pace with which London bars and clubs go in and out of fashion is mind-boggling. New trends, likewise, emerge all time. In one somewhat recent development, the dreaded velvet rope has been usurped by the doorbell-ringing mystique of members-only drinking clubs. Some of the city's most talked-about nightlife spots these days are those attached to some of the best restaurants and hotels—no wonder, when you consider the increased popularity of London cuisine in international circles. Moreover, the gay scene in London is still going strong. One constant of the nightlife here is variety. The understated glamour of north London's Primrose Hill, which makes movie stars feel so at ease, might be considered dull by the übertrendy club goers of London's East End. Likewise, the price of a pint in Chelsea would be considered blasphemous by the musicians and poets of multicultural Peckham.

Whatever your pleasure, however your whim turns come evening, chances are you'll find what you're looking for in London's ever-changing arena of activity and invention.

The Comedy Store

Soho Fodor's choice

Before heading off to prime time, some of the United Kingdom's funniest stand-ups cut their teeth here, at what's considered the birthplace of alternative comedy in Britain. The Comedy Store Players, a team with six resident comedians doing improv based on audience suggestions, perform on Sunday. The King Gong open-mike is a brutal stage contest for 30 brave newcomers while Old Rope sessions showcase new material on Monday. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday have the best stand-up comedy acts. There's also a bar with food. Note that you must be over 18 years old to enter.