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A little selection of the best Barbican bars

Barbican – the City’s cultural face with its complex of theatres, concert halls, library, art gallery, and the ever-busy conservatory. There’s not much to dislike about the area – although the Brutalist architecture is certainly a room divider – it’s well-connected, hosts top exhibitions in London, and is a centre for arts and culture. Having a good place to drink only enhances a trip to the Barbican.


We walked into a martini bar, a piano bar, and a wine bar – it sounds like the setup of a joke, but we did find all three kinds of bar for you, and a couple of pubs for good measure.


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martini cocktail at barbican martini bar barbican bar london
cocktail at barbican martini bar barbican bar london

1. Shaken or stirred at Barbican Martini Bar

Barbican, London

As if you needed another reason to visit the Barbican Centre, it also houses arguably one of the finest martini bars in London. The Barbican bar started as part of the Designing 007 exhibition back in 2012 and whilst the exhibition came and went the Martini Bar stuck around.


Sip your way through a collection of classic Martinis and cocktails, and try to visit once a season to enjoy mixologist Harvey Macaraig’s exceptional seasonal drinks menu. We really rate the standard of the classic Martinis here and equally rate the signature cocktails.


If you’re looking for a cool place for private hire, you can reserve a section of Barbican Martini Bar or hire the whole venue outside of regular operating hours.



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cocktail at piano smithfield barbican bar london
interior of piano smithfield barbican bar london

2. Signature cocktails in a late-night piano bar: Piano Smithfield

Barbican, London

Piano Smithfield, in between Barbican Station and Smithfield Market, is a live music venue and late-night piano bar. It’s exactly what you expect of a piano bar right down to its little black tables, red walls and velvet curtains, dim lighting, and top-notch cocktails.


You’ll find live music on Thursday and Friday from 10 p.m. to 1.30 a.m. and from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. on Saturdays. A couple times a month it hosts Piano Requests where patrons get to request the songs. Always check before you visit as this Barbican bar is known to have sold-out events and sometimes is privately hired as well.



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interior of the sutton arms barbican bar london
people in the sutton arms barbican bar london

3. Wine & charcuterie at The Sutton Arms

Barbican, London

There are a couple of reasons we like this Fuller’s Pub on Carthusian Street. First, it’s cosy as hell, the design of the building features unique front windows, and inside there are wood and glass features throughout and a skylight. Candles in old wine bottles on tables and little nooks and crannies to sit and enjoy charcuterie and a cheese selection with your pint or glass of wine.


Some places get the ambiance just right and we do appreciate the aforementioned design of the place. It’s also a great Barbican bar for private hire – design, relaxed decor, good food and drink. You want for nothing else when you’re here.



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people outside the two brewers barbican bar london
interior of two brewers barbican bar london

4. Barbican’s local: Two Brewers

Barbican, London

Two Brewers on Whitecross Street is a local’s place – no fuss, no frills. A corner pub with pints, cocktails, darts, and sport on the TV. It’s popular with the post-work crowd but still laid-back – the kind of pub you’re likely to find a cat cat-napping in the widow.


No bells and whistles here, if you’re looking for a decent Barbican bar, a cold pint, and punters who just want to sit with their drink or catch up with friends, then Two Brewers is great for all of that and we wouldn’t change a thing.



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exterior of fox fine wine and spirits barbican bar london
wine at fox fine wine and spirits barbican bar london

5. The wood-panelled bar at Fox Fine Wines & Spirits

Barbican, London

Fox Fine Wines & Spirits is the Barbican wine bar this list wouldn’t be complete without. Located in a landmark building on the corner of London Wall and Moorgate that was previously the world-famous Fox Umbrella Shop, Fox is a wine bar, restaurant, and shop. Whilst the wood-panelled bar is the topic of discussion, we’d be remiss not to mention how wonderful the food is in the restaurant.


Expect fine wines and Havana cigars. It’s refined, yes, but still relaxed. There’s an understated masculinity to the decor and fireplaces with armchairs beside them where you want to sip a whisky or a brandy. And if you like it as much as we do, they do have a private room on the second floor available for hire. The Lounge can accommodate up to 10 seated or twenty 20 and comes highly recommended.



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Check out the best bars in Barbican

We've put together the best bars in Barbican for you to find and book. From activity bars for a corporate day out to cosy pubs to swanky cocktail bars, Barbican is full of amazing bars for you to explore. Take a look at all our bar venues in Barbican. Alternatively, tell us exactly what you need and we'll make sure the very best Barbican bar venues respond to your enquiry.

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Your ultimate guide to renting a bar in Barbican, London

In the vibrant heart of Barbican, London, unlock the perfect venue for your next event. Whether you're planning a corporate meeting, birthday party or special occasion, hiring a bar in Barbican provides a stylish and versatile setting to impress your guests. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about hiring a bar in Barbican, from pricing considerations to seating options, to ensure your event is a resounding success.

1. Research bars in Barbican:

Start your search by researching bars in the Barbican area of London. Use HeadBox to explore the options available. Consider factors such as location, ambience, capacity, amenities and reviews to narrow down your choices.

2. Define your event requirements:

Before contacting potential venues, clearly define your event requirements. Determine the type of event you're hosting, the estimated number of guests, the preferred date and time, budget constraints, and any special amenities or services you require. A clear understanding of your needs will help you find the perfect venue.

3. Contact bars for availability and pricing:

Contact shortlisted bars in the Barbican to enquire about availability and pricing for your preferred date and time. Provide detailed information about your event requirements, including the number of guests and any specific decor requirements. Request a quote for venue hire and enquire about any additional services or amenities offered for events.

4. Understand pricing structures:

Bar hire prices in the Barbican can vary depending on factors such as venue location, size, facilities, day of the week, time of day and duration of hire. Some bars may offer special packages or premium pricing for events with exclusive access to certain areas or VIP services. Review pricing structures carefully to ensure they are within your budget.

5. Explore seating options:

Consider the seating arrangements that best suit your event objectives and guest preferences. Bars in the Barbican typically offer a variety of seating arrangements, including lounge seating, high tables, cocktail tables and standing room only. Choose a layout that encourages mingling, socialising and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the bar.

6. Evaluate amenities and facilities:

Evaluate the amenities and facilities offered by each bar to ensure they meet your event requirements. Look for features such as a well-stocked bar, professional bartenders, audio-visual equipment, heating or cooling options and toilet facilities. Confirm that the bar can accommodate any special requests or arrangements required for your event.

7. Check for additional services:

Ask about any additional services or support the bar can offer to enhance your event experience. Some bars in the Barbican can offer on-site catering, bespoke drinks menus, entertainment, event planning assistance and security services. Discuss your specific requirements with the bar management to determine what services are available.

8. Confirm logistics and set-up details:

Once you've selected a bar for your event, finalise logistical details with the venue's management team. Coordinate set-up and break-down times, access for vendors or entertainers, and any special decor or branding requirements. Ensure the bar can accommodate any special requests or configurations required for your event.

9. Review contracts and policies:

Before signing a rental agreement with the bar, carefully review the contract terms and policies to ensure you understand and agree to all terms and conditions. Pay close attention to details such as the rental fee, deposit requirements, cancellation policy, liability waiver and any additional fees or charges. Clarify any uncertainties or concerns with the bar's management before proceeding with the booking.

10. Plan for a memorable event:

On the day of your event, arrive at your chosen bar in the Barbican prepared and ready to host an unforgettable event. Coordinate with venue staff, suppliers and guests to ensure everything runs smoothly. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, delicious cocktails and lively ambience for an unforgettable experience.

Bar hire in the Barbican, London provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large scale celebrations. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working closely with the bar's management team, you can create a memorable event that will delight your guests and exceed your expectations. Here's to an unforgettable event at a stylish bar in the Barbican!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, many bars in the Barbican allow prospective clients to arrange site visits to view the venue and discuss event details with the management team. Contact the bar's management to arrange a convenient time for a site visit.

Whilst most bars in the Barbican are versatile venues suitable for a variety of events including corporate functions, private parties and celebrations, it's important to check with the venue's management about any specific restrictions or guidelines for your type of event.

Many bars in the Barbican offer customisable menus and drinks options for events, allowing you to tailor the selection to suit your preferences and budget. Discuss your catering requirements with the bar management to explore menu options and pricing.

Many bars in the Barbican are flexible and willing to accommodate special requests or arrangements for events, such as decorations, entertainment or seating arrangements. Discuss your specific requirements with the bar management to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Most bars in the Barbican allow music or entertainment for events, but it's important to check with the venue's management about any noise restrictions, curfews or equipment set-up guidelines. Ensure you comply with local regulations and venue policies to avoid any issues during your event.

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