Weekend Escape: What’s Happening Tonight
London’s cocktail scene is a living, breathing city. If you’re looking for a spot where you can mix, shake, and serve yourself a drink, there are three places that will let you do just that without the wait‑list stress of a regular bar.
1. The Mix & Mingle Lounge – Shoreditch
Open from 5 p.m. to midnight, this tiny venue offers a DIY station with a 30‑minute tutorial from a resident mixologist. The bar’s signature “Electric Lemon” requires only fresh lemon, gin, a splash of elderflower cordial, and a dash of bitters. The cost is £8 per cocktail, and the venue provides a reusable glass, so you’re not left with a pile of single‑use cups.
What makes it stand out is the “Build‑Your‑Own” menu: a list of 12 spirits, 8 liqueurs, and 15 mixers. You can experiment with a “Smoky Scotch Sour” or a “Tropical Rum Fizz.” The bar’s layout is open, so you’ll see other patrons experimenting side by side—great for sparking conversation.
2. The Speakeasy Spot – Soho
Closed to the public until 6 p.m., this hidden bar opens with a password sent via text. Inside, a 12‑seat station lets you craft a cocktail in 20 minutes. The menu focuses on classic cocktails with a twist: a “Negroni on Ice” uses cold‑brew gin instead of the usual gin, giving it a smoother finish.
The price is £10 per drink, and you can order a “Mix & Take” package that includes a small bottle of your chosen spirit to take home. The bar also offers a small selection of craft beers for those who want to keep it simple. The only downside? The space is cramped, so if you’re traveling in a group of more than four, you’ll have to share the station.
3. The Rooftop Refresher – Canary Wharf
This bar is a bit further north, but the view of the Thames makes it worth the extra 20 minutes of travel. The DIY station opens at 4 p.m. and closes at 10 p.m. You’ll get a 15‑minute guided mix session, after which you can experiment on your own. The menu features a “Cucumber Basil Gimlet” and a “Citrus Vodka Spritz.”
Prices start at £9 for a standard mix and go up to £12 for premium spirits. The bar offers a “Take‑Away Kit” that includes a shaker, a muddler, and a small bottle of bitters. The only limitation is that the bar does not accept credit cards; cash or mobile payments are the only options.
Mid‑week Detour: A Quick Game Night
After a long day of exploring the city, you might want to switch gears and test your luck at a virtual casino. If you’re in the mood for a quick spin or a high‑stakes poker match, HarryCasino offers a range of games that can be played from the comfort of your hotel room. The site is user‑friendly, and you can start with a free demo before committing real money.
Closing Thoughts
Each of these DIY cocktail bars gives you the freedom to create something uniquely yours, without the usual bar wait times. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, the hands‑on approach will leave you with a new skill and a memorable evening. Remember to bring a reusable glass if you’re planning to order more than one drink, and enjoy the local flavors that London’s bartenders have perfected.