Drink Specials in London – Where to Find the Best Happy Hours

If you love a good cocktail but hate the price tag, London has a lot of hidden deals. From downtown rooftop bars to tiny pubs in Shore Shoreditch, happy hour specials pop up every night. The trick is knowing which streets to roam, which apps to watch, and when to strike. Below you’ll get a quick map of the city’s most reliable spots and a handful of tips that keep your wallet happy.

Where to Find the Best Happy Hours

Start in the West End. Places like Bar Americain and The Alchemist offer 50% off drinks Monday to Thursday from 5 pm to 7 pm. If you prefer a quieter vibe, head east to Old Street where The Big Chill serves two‑for‑one pints after 6 pm on weekdays. 

South Bank’s river views aren’t just for tourists. Swan at the Globe runs a “sunset special” that drops the price of any gin‑based cocktail by £3 after 7 pm on Fridays. Near the river, The Nelson in Bankside offers a cheap beer bucket from 5 pm to 8 pm every day.

If you love a rooftop, check out Queens Yard in Islington. Their rooftop happy hour runs from 6 pm to 9 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with all bottled beers at £4.

Don’t forget the apps. Happy Hour London and Time Out push real‑time alerts for flash deals. Set a notification for your favourite neighbourhood and you’ll get a ping the moment a bar drops a price.

Tips to Make the Most of London’s Drink Specials

1. Plan your route. Happy hours rarely line up perfectly, so map out a few bars in the same area. That way you can hop from one to another without spending a fortune on transport.

2. Check the menu early. Some places hide the special on a chalkboard or a hidden page on their website. A quick glance before you walk in can save a surprise bill.

3. Arrive early. The best seats and the biggest discounts disappear fast, especially on weekends. Getting there 10‑15 minutes before the start time guarantees you a spot.

4. Ask for the bartender’s recommendation. They often know off‑menu twists that cost the same as the happy hour drink but taste way better.

5. Mind the closing time. Most specials end at the bar’s standard closing hour, not a fixed clock time. If you’re late, you might end up paying full price.

Finally, remember that the best drink specials are about the experience, not just the price. A cozy pub with a friendly vibe can be worth a few extra pounds, while a noisy chain might not feel worth it even at half price. Use the deals as a guide, but pick spots that match your style.

London’s drink scene is massive, and the happy hour map keeps growing. Keep an eye on local listings, set a few reminders on your phone, and you’ll always have a reason to step out after work. Cheers to cheap drinks, good company, and discovering new corners of the city without breaking the bank!