5 Top Hidden Bars in the UK for a Weekend Getaway

There’s something special about stumbling upon a hidden gem in a new city – the thrill of discovery, the sense of being in on a secret. And for those of us who appreciate the finer things in life, a well-stocked bar is the perfect place to start. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just looking for a unique experience, the UK is home to a wealth of hidden bars that are waiting to be discovered.

The Blind Pig

In the heart of London’s Soho, The Blind Pig is a tiny, 1930s-style speakeasy that’s as close to a secret as you’ll ever get in the city. To gain entry, you’ll need to know the password (which changes weekly, so do your research). Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a dimly-lit room filled with the sounds of jazz and the smell of fine spirits. It’s the perfect place to spend a rainy weekend afternoon, sipping on a classic cocktail and feeling like you’re part of a secret club.

The Nightjar

In contrast, The Nightjar in Shoreditch is a more laid-back affair, with a focus on creative cocktails and a relaxed, speakeasy-style vibe. The bar itself is tucked away in a quiet corner of the neighborhood, and the sign above the door is easy to miss – but if you do spot it, you’ll be rewarded with a drink that’s been expertly crafted by one of the city’s top bartenders. The menu changes seasonally, but some standout drinks include the ‘Penicillin’, made with blended Scotch, honey-ginger syrup and lemon, and the ‘Vieux Carré’, a classic New Orleans cocktail made with rye, Cynar and Benedictine.

The Alchemist

For something a little more off the beaten path, The Alchemist in Birmingham is a great choice. This tiny bar is hidden away on a quiet side street, and its entrance is marked by a discreet sign that’s easy to miss. But once inside, you’ll find yourself in a dimly-lit room filled with the sound of jazz and the smell of smoke (don’t worry, it’s all perfectly safe – it’s just a clever trick to set the mood). The drinks menu is full of creative concoctions, including the ‘Smoked Negroni’, made with smoked gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, and the ‘Blackberry Bramble’, a twist on the classic Blackberry Smash.

The Milk Thistle

In Northern Ireland, The Milk Thistle in Belfast is a hidden gem that’s well worth seeking out. This tiny bar is tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, and its entrance is marked by a simple sign that’s easy to miss. But once inside, you’ll find yourself in a cozy, welcoming room filled with the sound of live music and the smell of good food. The drinks menu is full of creative concoctions, including the ‘Milk Thistle Sour’, made with whiskey, lemon and a dash of egg white, and the ‘Pimm’s Cup’, a classic summer cocktail made with Pimm’s No. 1, garnished with cucumber and mint.

The Little House

Finally, in Manchester, The Little House is a charming, 1930s-style bar that’s as close to a hidden gem as you’ll ever find in the city. The bar itself is tucked away on a quiet side street, and the sign above the door is easy to miss – but if you do spot it, you’ll be rewarded with a drink that’s been expertly crafted by one of the city’s top bartenders. The menu changes seasonally, but some standout drinks include the ‘Sazerac’, a classic New Orleans cocktail made with rye, absinthe and Peychaud’s Bitters, and the ‘French 75’, a classic summer cocktail made with gin, lemon and champagne.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for a unique experience, these hidden bars are the perfect place to start. So why not take a chance, seek out one (or two, or three) of these hidden gems, and see what secrets they hold? Your taste buds, at least, will thank you. And if you’re looking for a bit of extra fun to make your night out complete, why not take a trip to https://plymouthmegaride.co.uk, where you can find a selection of high-quality, high-speed cars to get your adrenaline pumping?

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