When the weekend rolls around, the first instinct for many is to hit the most popular venues. Yet those places often feel crowded and the cocktails can taste like a copy‑cat of a menu you’ve seen a dozen times. Hidden bars, by contrast, offer a curated experience: a quiet corner, a drink crafted by a bartender who knows the ingredients, and a vibe that feels like a secret you’re meant to keep. In this guide I’ll walk through three of the best tucked‑away spots, each with its own personality and a clear reason to visit.
1. The Speakeasy in the Old Post Office
Located on a side street off the main thoroughfare, the former post office has been converted into a speakeasy that opens at 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The entrance is a brass door that looks like a bookcase; once inside, you’re greeted by low lighting and a wall of reclaimed timber. The menu features a rotating selection of gin‑based drinks, but the signature is a “London Fog” – a smoky gin, Earl Grey syrup, and a splash of fresh lemon. The bartenders keep the wait to under 10 minutes, even on busy nights, because they pre‑mix the base ingredients. If you’re looking for a place that feels historic yet modern, this is the spot.
2. The Rooftop Hideaway Above the Bookshop
For those who prefer a view, the rooftop bar perched above a second‑hand bookshop on High Street offers a different kind of secrecy. The entrance is a narrow stairwell that leads to a terrace with a 360‑degree city view. The bar serves small plates of charcuterie and a selection of craft beers sourced from local micro‑breweries. On weekends, the host often hosts a trivia night that ends with a free round of “Sky High” – a highball made with elderflower liqueur and sparkling wine. The only downside is that the terrace closes at 11 pm, so plan to arrive early if you want to secure a spot.
3. The Underground Taproom in the Warehouse District
Hidden behind a false wall in a repurposed warehouse, this taproom is a haven for beer lovers. The bar features a tap list that changes weekly, with a focus on barrel‑aged ales and experimental brews. The ambience is industrial chic, with exposed brick and reclaimed wood. The staff are friendly and will recommend a pint based on your taste profile. A unique feature is the “Tap Roulette” – a rotating selection of single‑cask pours that you can try for a small fee. The only limitation is that the venue has a strict no‑mobile‑phone policy, which can be a turn‑off for those who like to document their experience.
Bridging the Night Out with a Different Kind of Excitement
After a night of discovering hidden bars, you might crave something that keeps the thrill going without leaving the city. For those who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, the online platform ninewin offers a range of games that can be played from the comfort of your sofa, allowing you to extend the weekend’s excitement in a new way.
Which Hidden Bar to Choose?
If you’re after a classic, history‑laden experience, the speakeasy in the old post office is the clear winner. For a combination of drinks and city views, the rooftop hideaway above the bookshop is unbeatable. And for beer aficionados who appreciate a rotating tap list, the underground taproom in the warehouse district delivers. Each venue has its own charm and a small drawback, but none of them compromise on quality or atmosphere. Pick the one that best fits the mood you’re chasing, and you’ll walk away with a memorable night that feels like a secret you’re proud to share.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes hidden bars special compared to mainstream venues?
They offer intimate settings, craft cocktails, and a sense of discovery that large, crowded bars can’t match.
How do I find a hidden bar in my city?
Look for insider tips online, ask locals, or follow social media accounts that spotlight off‑beat spots.
Do hidden bars have a dress code?
Many keep it casual, but some may have a simple dress code or request guests to keep noise low.
