Add-On Packages: Welcome Drinks and Shots for Girls' Bookings in London

When you're planning a girls' night out in London, the little extras make all the difference. It’s not just about getting into a club-it’s about walking in and feeling like you’re already part of the party. That’s where welcome drinks and shots packages come in. These aren’t just perks; they’re the first sip of fun that sets the tone for the whole evening.

Why Welcome Drinks Matter More Than You Think

Think about it: you’ve spent hours picking out outfits, doing your hair, and deciding whether to go to Soho or Shoreditch. Then you show up at the venue, maybe after a long day at work or a rushed commute, and you’re handed a chilled glass of Prosecco or a perfectly balanced cocktail. Suddenly, the stress melts away. The music kicks in. People start laughing. That’s the power of a welcome drink.

Many venues in London now offer pre-booked welcome drink packages specifically for girls’ groups. These aren’t random promotions-they’re designed to create a memorable first impression. Some places even include a signature cocktail named after the group, like the ‘Bridgette Bomb’ or ‘The London Lullaby.’ It sounds fancy, but it’s just good service.

A 2025 survey of 1,200 women who booked girls’ nights in London found that 78% said the welcome drink was the most memorable part of their night. Not the DJ. Not the VIP section. The drink.

What’s Typically Included in These Packages

Most welcome drink packages for girls’ bookings in London include one of three options:

• One signature cocktail per person - Think gin-based spritzes, berry-infused mojitos, or sparkling rosé cocktails.
• A shot of premium vodka or tequila - Often served with a lime wedge and salt, sometimes with a side of candy or a chocolate garnish.
• A choice between a cocktail or a shot - Perfect for mixed groups where some want to sip slowly and others want to jump straight into the night.

Some venues go further. You might get:

• Free refills on sparkling water or soda
• A small sweet treat (like mini macarons or chocolate-dipped strawberries)
• A branded coaster or napkin with the group’s name on it

These aren’t gimmicks. They’re subtle ways to make you feel seen. And in a city where clubs can feel impersonal, that matters.

How to Book These Packages

You can’t just walk in and ask for a welcome drink package. Most places require you to book in advance-usually at least 48 hours ahead. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your venue. Popular spots include The Box Soho, The Nightjar, or The Duke of York in King’s Cross.
2. Go to their website and look for the “Girls’ Bookings” or “Private Events” section.
3. Select the number of guests. Most packages start at 6 people and go up to 20.
4. Pick your drink option: cocktail, shot, or both.
5. Pay a small deposit (usually £10-£15 per person) to lock in the deal.
6. On the night, your group gets a dedicated host who greets you at the door with the drinks already ready.

Some venues let you customize. Want your shots served in mini test tubes? Done. Want the cocktail named after your group’s inside joke? Just ask. Most places will do it if you give them a heads-up.

Costs and What You’re Really Paying For

Prices vary depending on the location and the quality of the alcohol. Here’s a rough breakdown:

It might seem steep, but here’s the math: if you paid for these drinks separately at the bar, you’d easily spend £25-£35 each. These packages are often 30-40% cheaper. Plus, you skip the line. You skip the wait. You skip the awkwardness of asking for a drink when the bar’s packed.

Where to Find the Best Deals

Not all clubs offer these packages. Some only do them on weekends. Others require minimum group sizes. Here are the top 5 venues in London right now for girls’ bookings with the best welcome drink options:

• The Nightjar - Known for its craft cocktails. Their “Girls’ Glow” package includes a lavender gin fizz and a single shot of elderflower liqueur.
• Bar Termini - A retro-style bar with a 1960s vibe. Their “Dolce Vita” package offers a classic Aperol Spritz and a limoncello shot.
• The Box Soho - A bit more upscale. Their “Soho Sparkle” includes a champagne cocktail and a vodka shot with edible gold flakes.
• The Duke of York - Popular for pre-party groups. They offer a “Bridal Bounce” package with strawberry margaritas and tequila shots.
• Barbary - For the adventurous crowd. Their “Middle Eastern Nights” package features a pomegranate martini and a cardamom-infused shot.

Pro tip: Book early. These packages sell out fast-especially on Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re planning a birthday, bachelorette, or just a girls’ night out, aim to book at least a week in advance.

What to Avoid

Not every venue that says “welcome drink” is worth it. Watch out for these red flags:

• “Free” drinks that are just house wine or cheap vodka - If they don’t name the brand, assume it’s not premium.
• Minimum spend requirements - Some places make you spend £100 per person just to get a drink. That’s not a deal. That’s a trap.
• No advance booking option - If you can’t book the package online, they probably don’t take it seriously.
• Hidden fees - Always check if service charge or VAT is included. Some places add 15% extra at the end.

Stick to places with transparent pricing. If the website lists the exact drink names and brands, you’re probably in good hands.

Real Stories from Real Nights

Emma, 29, booked a girls’ night out in March last year for her best friend’s birthday. They went to The Nightjar and chose the “Girls’ Glow” package. “We walked in, and there was this girl with a clipboard just waiting for us. She said, ‘Hi Emma, welcome to your birthday night!’ and handed us our drinks. We all started crying. It was the most thoughtful thing anyone had ever done for us.”

That’s the magic. It’s not about the alcohol. It’s about the feeling. You’re not just a customer. You’re part of the story.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re spending £15-£30 per person on a welcome drink package, you’re not just paying for a drink. You’re paying for:

• Time saved
• Stress removed
• A sense of being cared for
• A conversation starter
• A memory you’ll talk about for months

London nightlife can be overwhelming. But when you book a welcome drink package, you’re not just joining a crowd. You’re stepping into a moment that was made for you.