London Cocktail Prices: What You Really Pay for Drinks in the City

When you order a cocktail, a mixed alcoholic drink typically made with spirits, modifiers, and garnishes, often served in bars or lounges. Also known as mixed drink, it’s one of the main reasons people head out in London at night. But how much do they actually cost? It’s not just about the drink—it’s about where you’re drinking, who’s making it, and whether you’re paying for the view, the vibe, or just the alcohol. A basic gin and tonic in a pub might set you back £8, but walk into a craft cocktail bar in Shoreditch and you could easily pay £16 for the same spirit, now paired with house-made syrups, smoked ice, and a story from the bartender.

That’s the difference between a cocktail bar, a venue focused on expertly crafted, often experimental drinks served in a curated setting and a regular pub. In London, cocktail bars aren’t just selling drinks—they’re selling an experience. Bartender-led tasting flights, seasonal ingredients, and signature creations mean prices reflect labor, time, and creativity. At places like The Clumsies or The American Bar at The Savoy, you’re paying for expertise, not just gin. Meanwhile, rooftop bars like The Rooftop at The Standard or Sky Garden charge extra for the skyline, often pushing cocktails to £18–£22. Even a simple Negroni can cost twice as much if it comes with a view of the Thames.

But it’s not all expensive. East London still has gems where you can get a well-made cocktail for under £12—think The Little Green in Dalston or The Windmill in Brixton. And don’t forget bottomless deals, a pricing model where you pay a fixed fee for unlimited drinks over a set time, usually during brunch or early evening. Some venues offer 90 minutes of cocktails for £35–£45, which can be a better deal if you’re planning to stay a while. But be careful: those deals often come with time limits, minimum spends, or restricted menus. Compare them to paying per drink, especially if you’re not a heavy drinker.

Then there’s the hidden cost: the bottle markups. Many clubs and upscale lounges charge £50–£100 for a bottle of champagne, even if it’s a basic brand. But if you just want one glass? Some rooftop spots now offer champagne by the glass, a premium drink option where you pay for a single serving instead of a full bottle, often at a lower cost per unit. That’s a game-changer for small groups who don’t want to overpay.

What you’re really paying for in London isn’t just the alcohol—it’s the atmosphere, the service, the exclusivity, and sometimes, the fact that you’re in the right place at the right time. A cocktail in a basement bar in Soho might cost the same as one in a hotel lobby, but the experience? Totally different. And that’s why prices vary so wildly. The city doesn’t have one cocktail price—it has dozens, depending on the neighborhood, the night, and the crowd.

If you’ve ever walked out of a bar wondering if you got your money’s worth, you’re not alone. The posts below break down real prices from real venues—from hidden speakeasies to tourist traps. You’ll find out where to get the best bang for your buck, which spots charge extra for ice, and how to avoid being overcharged on a hen night or date night. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you order.