Home » Blog » Late Night Bars in Soho London – Top Picks for After Hours

Soho comes alive after dark. While the rest of London winds down, this small area transforms into the city’s nightlife hub. You’ll find everything from old pubs that have been here for decades to new cocktail bars pushing boundaries.

If you’re a local looking for new places or visiting from out of town, this guide covers the best late-night spots if you want to experience real London nightlife.

I’ll cover 13 Soho bars that stay open late, what makes each one worth visiting, and practical tips for getting around safely. From how to get in to where to grab food afterward, you’ll know what to expect.

Top 13 Late Night Bars in Soho

These are the Top 13 late-night bars in Soho, ranked based on their closing time, drink varieties, atmosphere and crowd:

1. Trisha’s (New Evaristo Club)

Opening and Closing HoursDaily 5:30 PM–1:30 AM
Music and EntertainmentOccasional live jazz and jukebox sing-alongs. No dance floor, energy builds around intimate tables.
Drinks & FoodClassic spirits, house pours, bottled beers. No food served.
EntryMember required or £10 cover during special events.

Trisha’s basement bar feels like old Soho with dim lighting and worn furniture. You need a member to get you in, or pay £10 during special events. They play jazz and have a jukebox for sing-alongs. It’s just drinks, no food. 

Trisha's (New Evaristo Club)
Source: Tyler Smith From Google Maps

The worn interiors give it that old Soho vibe. The crowd ranges from 25 to 60, including writers, creative types, and curious visitors who discovered this place through word of mouth.

Bookings: +44 20 7437 9536

2. Bar Italia

Opening and Closing HoursDaily 7:00 AM–4:00 AM
Music and EntertainmentItalian pop plays while people chat. Entertainment is watching Soho’s diverse crowd mix all night.
Drinks & FoodFamous espresso, continental beers, Campari sodas, Italian snacks, and pastries.
EntryAlways walk-in, no cover charge. Gets packed after other places close.

Open practically all day (7 AM to 4 AM), this Italian café is where everyone ends up after other places close. They serve legendary espresso, continental beers, and Italian snacks. 

Bar Italia
Source: W Huang From Google Maps

No cover charge or membership needed. You’ll find students, musicians, tourists, and locals aged 21-50 mixing together. It’s bright, fast-paced, and always buzzing with conversation.

Bookings: Bar Italia 

3. The Vault Soho

Opening and Closing HoursMonday–Saturday 5:00 PM–12:00 AM (Closed Sundays)
Music and EntertainmentLive jazz and blues on Mondays, ambient music on other nights. Built for conversation, not dancing.
Drinks & FoodCraft cocktails, especially whisky-based ones. Bar snacks are available, but no full kitchen.
EntryBook through OpenTable. Walk-ins possible for small groups, no cover charge.

Hidden under Milroy’s Whisky Shop, behind a bookcase, is a romantic spot that has soft lighting and feels exclusive. The Vault cocktail bar opens Monday-Saturday, 5 PM to midnight. They specialize in whisky cocktails and have live jazz on Mondays. 

The Vault Soho
Source: 3 greek Street

The Vault’s history attracts most of the crowd. Book through OpenTable since it’s small. The crowd is couples and spirits enthusiasts aged 23-45 who appreciate the romantic, sophisticated atmosphere and quality drinks.

Bookings: THE VAULT SOHO 

4. Bar Lina Soho

Opening and Closing HoursDaily 5:00 PM–11:30 PM
Music and EntertainmentItalian music mixed with 80s disco creates a relaxed aperitivo atmosphere.
Drinks & FoodNegronis and Aperol spritzes with antipasti, cured meats, and cheese boards.
EntryWalk-ins welcome, reservations help for groups wanting to share plates.

Open daily 5-11:30 PM, this Italian aperitivo bar serves Negronis and Aperol spritzes with antipasti and cheese boards. They play Italian music mixed with 80s disco. 

 Bar Lina Soho
Source: Barlina

The candlelit, velvet booth setting attracts professionals, foodies, and Italian expats aged 21-40 for authentic European drinking culture. Walk-ins welcome, but reservations help for groups.

Bookings: Bar Lina 

5. Ain’t Nothin’ But… The Blues Bar

Opening and Closing HoursMon-Thu 5:00 PM–1:00 AM, Fri-Sat 5:00 PM–2:00 AM, Sun 1:00 PM–11:30 PM
Music and EntertainmentLive blues and jazz every night, plus open jam sessions where musicians can join in.
Drinks & FoodSolid beer and cider selection, classic cocktails, and bar food for longer sessions.
EntryQueues on weekends, £10+ cover for main events.

Live blues and jazz every night in this small, authentic venue. Open Monday-Thursday 5 PM-1 AM, weekends until 2 AM, Sundays 1-11:30 PM. Expect queues and £10+ cover charges on weekends.

Ain't Nothin' But… The Blues Bar
Source: AintNothinBut

They have open jam sessions and serve beer, cider, and bar food. Music lovers, working musicians, and blues regulars aged 21-60 create the community.

Bookings: Ain’t Nothin’ But… 

6. Cahoots

Opening and Closing HoursMon-Wed 5 PM-1 AM, Thu-Sat 5 PM–2:00 AM, Sunday 4 PM- 12 AM
Music and Entertainment1940s jazz and swing DJs, themed events, weekend dancing in a vintage atmosphere.
Drinks & Food“Ration book” cocktails like signature “Cahooch,” British pub classics with wartime theming.
EntryBook ahead recommended, cover charges for special events with costumed staff.

Cahoots is a 1940s-themed speakeasy in a fake tube station that opens from 5 PM until 1 AM from Monday to Wednesday and until 2 AM on Thursday to Saturday. Sundays have different timings from 4 PM to 12 AM. 

Cahoots
Source: Cahoots

The staff wear period costumes and serve “ration book” cocktails, and it is one of the best bars in Soho. They play vintage jazz and swing with weekend dancing. Pre-booking is recommended. Young professionals, vintage enthusiasts, and couples aged 21-45 love the immersive time-travel experience and theatrical atmosphere.

Bookings: Cahoots London 

7. Experimental Cocktail Club

Opening and Closing HoursSun-Mon 6 PM-12 AM, Tue–Wed 6 PM-2PM, Thu–Sat 6 PM-3 PM
Music and EntertainmentBackground music and occasional DJ sets, the focus remains on cocktails and conversation.
Drinks & FoodCreative cocktails with rare spirits and innovative techniques. Drinks only, no food.
EntryBook through website; strict door policy rarely accommodates walk-ins.

A Parisian-style cocktail bar open 6 PM-2 AM Monday-Wednesday/Sunday, until 3 AM Thursday-Saturday. A £5 cover charge is payable at the door after 11 PM. They serve innovative cocktails using rare spirits across multiple intimate rooms. 

Experimental Cocktail Club
Source: ExperimentalCocktailClub

Pre-booking is essential as they rarely take walk-ins. The dark wood and vintage décor attract cocktail connoisseurs, creative professionals, and industry workers aged 25-45 who appreciate serious mixology.

Bookings: Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown | London Cocktail Creativity 

8. 100 Wardour Street

Opening and Closing HoursTue–Thu 5 PM–1 AM, Fri 4 PM-3 AM, Sat 12 PM- 3 AM (Closed Sun/Mon)
Music and EntertainmentLive bands and DJs nightly, dance areas, themed party nights with regular entertainment program.
Drinks & FoodClassic and signature cocktails, premium wines, and champagne. Modern British food and late-night service.
EntryGuestlist or reservations advised, smart dress code, £10-20 cover after late hours.

Two floors of party atmosphere open Tuesday-Saturday between 5 PM and 3 AM. Live bands and DJs perform nightly with dedicated dance areas. They serve cocktails, champagne, and modern British food. 

100 Wardour Street
Source: 100 Wardour Street

Guestlist recommended with smart dress code and £10-20 cover charges. Fashion industry workers, corporate groups, and West End performers aged 23-40 come for high-energy celebrations.

Bookings: 100 Wardour Street 

9. Disrepute

Opening and Closing HoursMon-Fri 5 PM–3 AM, Sat 4 PM- 3 AM, Sun 4 PM- 1 AM
Music and EntertainmentDJ sets and themed events, carefully curated music support an intimate atmosphere.
Drinks & FoodPremium artisanal cocktails utilizing top-shelf spirits with carefully selected bar snacks.
EntryBook ahead for Thu-Sat, smart dress expected, possible door charges on busy nights.

A mysterious 1960s glamour cocktail den with secluded booths. Open from 5 PM to 3 AM, Monday to Friday, and Saturday until 3 AM. They focus on artisanal cocktails and DJ sets rather than live music. 

Disrepute
Source: Disrepute

Pre-booking is essential for weekends with smart dress expectations. Couples, professionals, and style-conscious drinkers aged 25-45 return for the intimate, seductive atmosphere.

Bookings: Disrepute 

10. Opium

Opening and Closing HoursMon-Tue 5 PM–1 AM, Wed-Thu 5 PM-2 AM, Fri-Sat 5 PM–3 AM, Sun 5 PM-12 AM
Music and EntertainmentDJ sets and lounge music are designed for conversation and dining rather than dancing.
Drinks & FoodAward-winning Asian-inspired cocktails with innovative flavors, dim sum platters, and sharing plates.
EntryBook ahead for late-night service; walk-ins possible earlier, depending on capacity.

Asian-inspired cocktails and dim sum in multiple themed rooms with orientalist décor. Open till 1 AM on Monday and Tuesday, from Wednesday to Thursday until 2 AM, and until 3 AM on Friday and Saturday. They play relaxed electro and lounge music. 

Opium
Source: Opium

Pre-booking is recommended for late-night service. Chic professionals, foodies, and tourists aged 25-40 appreciate the exotic atmosphere and innovative menu combinations.

Bookings: Opium Cocktail Bar 

11. Jack Solomons Club

Opening and Closing HoursWednesday-Friday 4 PM-1 AM, Saturday 12 PM-1 AM, Closes on 11 PM on Wednesday
Music and EntertainmentDJ sets featuring soul and funk, occasional live acts, and dedicated dance floor space.
Drinks & FoodClassic cocktails and premium spirits selection with light bites and snacks.
EntryGuestlist recommended, walk-ins possible early, weekend door charges apply.

A converted boxing gym speakeasy with red-leather booths and boxing memorabilia. Open from Wednesday to Friday, 1 PM to 1 AM, and Saturday, 12 PM to 1 AM. DJ sets feature soul and funk with a dedicated dancefloor. 

Jack Solomons Club
Source: Instagram

Closed from Sunday to Tuesday. Guestlist is recommended with weekend door charges. Late-night regulars, music fans, and stylish crowds aged 23-45 enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Bookings: Jack Solomons 

12. Jazz After Dark

Opening and Closing HoursTuesday–Saturday 4 PM–2/3 AM (Closed Sun/Mon)
Music and EntertainmentLive jazz and blues nightly, sometimes pop and soul. Built for listening, not dancing.
Drinks & FoodCocktails, premium spirits, and table snacks that complement the live music experience.
EntryReservations essential for guaranteed seating, £10-20 cover charge for live entertainment.

Small, intimate jazz club with nightly live performances. Open from 4 PM until 2 AM on Tuesday to Thursday and till 3 AM on Friday and Saturday. Art-filled walls and candlelit tables create a classic jazz club atmosphere. 

Jazz After Dark
Source: Google Maps

Reservations essential with £10-20 cover charges. They serve cocktails and table snacks but focus on the music. Jazz aficionados, couples, and music lovers aged 30+ appreciate the authentic commitment to live entertainment.

Bookings: Jazz After Dark – London 

13. Soho Residence

Opening and Closing HoursSun-Thu 4 PM, Fri 3 PM, and Sat 2 PM to 3 AM (Closes at 10.30 PM on Sunday)
Music and EntertainmentDJ sets and weekend dancing, themed parties create a high-energy celebration atmosphere.
Drinks & FoodClassic and creative cocktails, craft beer selection, bar bites, and pizza.
EntryWalk-ins welcome, reservations for large groups, door charges after 10 PM.

Three floors of party space in Victorian architecture with a botanical terrace. Open all week until 3 AM(except Sunday), Sunday to Thursday from 4 PM, Friday from 3 PM, and Saturday from 2 PM. Resident DJs and weekend dancing with themed parties. 

Soho Residence
Source: Google Maps

Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are needed for groups, with door charges after 10 PM. Birthday parties, young professionals, and celebration groups aged 21-40 gather in these Instagram-worthy surroundings.

Bookings: Soho Residence 

What Makes a Bar “Late Night” in Soho?

In Soho, “late night” means staying open past midnight when top Soho bars have closed. True late-night venues have licenses until 2 AM, 3 AM, or even 6 AM, especially on weekends.

For most Londoners, anything past 1 AM counts as late night. Soho regulars say the real action starts around 2 AM when casual drinkers have gone home. Places like Bar Italia run on different schedules entirely, serving coffee and conversation until 4 AM.

Soho late night
Source: Google Maps

UK licensing laws require special permits to serve alcohol after 11 PM. Westminster Council, which governs Soho, has strict standards because of how dense the area is and how close residents live. About 121 venues currently have late-night licenses in Soho.

Private members’ clubs often stay open the latest, sometimes until 6 AM, under different licensing rules that require membership and extra security.

Insider Tips for a Great Night Out

These are some unwritten rules and timing to navigate Soho’s nightlife like a local:

1. Best Nights to Go Out In Soho

  • Friday and Saturday have the most energy and full entertainment, but Thursday offers similar excitement with smaller crowds. 
  • Wednesday and Thursday often have special DJ sets and themed events that draw industry people. Midweek happy hours usually run 5-7 PM.

2. Getting Into Late Night Bars In Soho

  • Most premium places want bookings, especially for groups of four or more. 
  • Guestlist access often gets you cover charge discounts and guaranteed entry during busy times. 
  • Dress codes are smart casual throughout Soho. No sportswear or baseball caps unless it’s a themed event. 

3. Safety Tips

  • Soho’s busy streets, regular police patrols, and CCTV make it relatively safe, but stay aware. Keep belongings secure and don’t flash expensive items. 
  • Unlicensed cabs and street scammers target drunk people, so plan transport using official ride-sharing apps or Night Tube.
  • Avoid street vendors offering club deals; stick to researched venues. Real venues don’t require street payment or pressure immediate decisions.

4. Local Customs In Soho

  • Tipping is optional but appreciated, round up bills or add £1-2 per round. Bar staff remember good customers and give better service on return visits.
  • Last orders happen 15-30 minutes before closing time. Order quickly when they’re called so you don’t get left out.
  • Many places have happy hour until 7 PM or special deals on certain nights. Two-for-one deals help stretch budgets, especially early when you’re exploring multiple venues.

Practical Information For Late Night Bars

Planning your perfect Soho night requires considering practical details that can make or break your experience. Here’s everything you need to know:

Accessibility Considerations

  • Modern bars offer wheelchair access via ground-floor entrances and accessible toilets
  • Historic buildings may have architectural limitations; call ahead to confirm access
  • Staff can prepare suitable seating arrangements with advance notice
  • Step-free access is available at several venues
  • Group bookings allow requests for specific accessibility arrangements

Transportation After Midnight

  • Night Tube runs Friday/Saturday on Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria lines
  • Direct access via Tottenham Court Road, Oxford Circus, and Piccadilly Circus stations
  • Extensive night bus networks operate throughout the week
  • All buses require contactless payment or Oyster cards 
  • Licensed taxi ranks are available, but expect 1-3 AM peak demand
  • Ride-sharing apps offer faster service with transparent pricing

Late-Night Food Alternatives

  • Bar Italia: Italian snacks and espresso until 4 AM
  • Balans and VQ: Full restaurant service until early morning
  • Chinatown restaurants: Many open until 3-4 AM on weekends
  • Street food vendors cluster around major intersections
  • Choose busy locations with high turnover for better food safety

Safety Measures and Emergency Information

  • Licensed venues feature CCTV, professional security, and capacity controls
  • Trained door staff handle conflict de-escalation and emergencies
  • Regular police patrols maintain a visible security presence
  • Emergency services provide quick response capabilities
  • Plan your journey home in advance to avoid impaired decision-making
  • Share location with friends and keep phones charged

Conclusion: Soho’s Nightlife Never Disappoints

Soho’s late-night bars offer London’s most diverse after-hours experiences. These 13 venues represent the incredible range available from jazz basements to cutting-edge cocktail labs, romantic hideaways to energetic dance floors.

Each venue has its own personality while contributing to what makes Soho special, and you can experience completely different atmospheres within a few blocks. Don’t just read about these places, experience them. 

Start with one that matches your mood, then let Soho guide you to unexpected discoveries. 

FAQs

Is Soho good for a night out?

Soho is London’s nightlife center with an incredible variety from historic pubs to modern cocktail lounges, all within walking distance for easy bar-hopping.

What time does Soho close?

Most bars close around midnight, but 121 venues have late licenses until 1-6 AM weekends. Bar Italia operates until 4 AM daily, some clubs until 6 AM.

Is it safe to walk in Soho at night?

With heavy foot traffic, extensive CCTV, and regular police patrols, Soho is safe. Stay on main streets, avoid dark alleys, travel in groups, and use official transport.

What’s special about Soho?

Soho is London’s cultural melting pot where creative industries meet diverse communities in venues from century-old institutions to cutting-edge innovations within compact, walkable blocks.

Where should I go for cocktails in Soho?

The Vault Soho for whisky cocktails, Experimental Cocktail Club for rare spirits, Disrepute for 1960s glamour, and Cahoots for 1940s-themed drinks with theatrical presentation.

Fred Grayson

I started my career as a chef at The Vault Soho, where I learned the art of creating amazing dishes and paying attention to detail. Over time, I discovered my love for writing and decided to share my knowledge and ideas with a wider audience. I often explore topics like gaming tips and trends in the casino industry. When I’m not writing, I love trying out the latest tech, spending time outdoors, and experiencing different cultures.

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