Best Bars in Covent Garden: Where to Drink Near Strand Palace

Covent Garden is one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, rich in theatre, history and atmosphere. It’s also home to some of the city’s best bars – from heritage pubs and modern speakeasies to buzzing cocktail lounges. Whether you're looking for a pre-show sip or a lively night out, here are some of the best places to raise a glass, all just a short walk from Strand Palace.

The Craft Beer Co. – A Hidden Gem for Beer Enthusiasts

Just a few streets from Covent Garden’s main piazza, The Craft Beer Co. offers an impressive selection of small-batch brews in a relaxed pub setting. With over 45 beers on tap and dozens more by the bottle, it’s a great spot for discovering something new – from bold IPAs to crisp lagers and barrel-aged stouts. A favourite among beer lovers who value choice without the crowd.

The Gin Palace & Cocktail Bar – Local Legends in Every Glass

Inside Strand Palace, The Gin Palace’s new cocktail menu brings forgotten London stories to life – created in collaboration with Hidden London. A highlight is the Strand cocktail, inspired by the disused Tube station beneath the hotel. With over 40 gins from 16 countries, tasty sharing boards, and a daily Happy Hour from 4–6pm, it’s an elegant but relaxed space to toast the city’s past and present.

Lamb & Flag – A Proper London Pub

One of the oldest pubs in the capital, the Lamb & Flag dates back to the 1600s. Once a venue for bare-knuckle boxing, it’s now a charming and peaceful retreat tucked away down a side alley. Expect traditional wooden interiors, well-kept ales and pub classics on the menu. A true Covent Garden gem for those who prefer their pints with a bit of history.

The Porterhouse – Multi-Level Beer Heaven

A sprawling, multi-level Irish bar that still feels intimate in places, The Porterhouse is a great all-rounder. They brew their own beer in Dublin and serve it alongside an expansive list of international labels. Live music, spacious booths and plenty of hidden corners make it perfect for casual meetups, groups or weekend drinks with a lively buzz.

Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour – Decadent and Distilled

For something a little more theatrical, Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour delivers. Tucked above a Victorian tavern near Leicester Square, it offers over 200 gins, a detailed cocktail menu, and a staff dressed in full period style. Rich velvet furnishings and antique curiosities complete the mood. It’s a great choice for a quirky date night or afternoon gin tasting session.

Swift – Smooth and Sophisticated

Known for its polished service and perfectly balanced drinks, Swift is a favourite for cocktail aficionados. The upstairs bar is bright and sociable, while the downstairs is dark, sultry and made for lingering. Seasonal ingredients and timeless recipes dominate the menu. A refined option for those who prefer substance over spectacle.

Blame Gloria – Bold, Bright and Brilliant

If you're in the mood for something upbeat, Blame Gloria brings the party. With floral wallpaper, neon lighting and a soundtrack of disco and pop, it’s perfect for bottomless brunches or after-dark fun. The cocktails are playful and theatrical, and there’s always something happening – from themed nights to drag shows. Loud, lively, and lots of fun.

The Coal Hole – Pub History and Hollywood Links

Right on the Strand, The Coal Hole is a traditional Victorian pub with plenty of character. Once frequented by the West End’s theatrical set, it recently featured in Netflix’s The Beautiful Game with Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw. Expect hearty British fare, real ales and the kind of pub interior that hasn’t changed much in over a century – in the best way.

Cheers to Covent Garden

From gin parlours and beer halls to story-led cocktails and time-honoured pubs, Covent Garden offers something for every style of drinker. Whether you’re kicking off the night at The Gin Palace or winding it down at the Lamb & Flag, these standout spots are all just steps from Strand Palace – ready to welcome you for your next round.