Move over, movie magic! Notting Hill’s bar scene is the real star of the show. We’re swapping scripts for spirits and red carpets for bar stools as we take you on a hilarious (and slightly tipsy) tour of the neighbourhood’s best pubs and cocktail lounges.
So, put on your drinking shoes and get ready to laugh, sip, and maybe even stumble your way through a Notting Hill night you won’t forget.
Trailer Happiness
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Location: 177 Portobello Rd, London W11 2DY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7041 9833
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 12:30 AM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Trailer Happiness is a subterranean wonderland that whisks you away to a retro paradise with its kitschy decor, Polynesian paintings, and a welcoming Polynesian statue named Bianca greeting you at the door.
This award-winning basement tiki bar is renowned for its extensive rum list and expertly crafted cocktails. Each drink features house-made infusions and premium spirits.
Try their innovative take on the classic Mai Tai, or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for their house-special Zombie cocktail – but be warned, it’s potent enough to give you a proper taste of the tiki spirit.
The Hatch
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Location: 21 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JQ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7460 4459
Operating hours:
- Monday – 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Tuesday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Born from a collaboration between the renowned Notting Hill Arts Club and East London coffee maestros Climpson & Sons, The Hatch is a cultural hub. By day, it’s a quirky kiosk where you can grab a brewed coffee, and by night, it transforms into a lively cocktail haven.
A must-try here is their signature cocktail, a concoction blending Climpson & Sons coffee with a rich bourbon base. If you’re in the mood for something more classic, their take on the Espresso Martini is a crowd favourite – smooth, bold, and utterly satisfying.
Portobello Star
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Location: 171 Portobello Rd, London W11 2DY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3325 1290
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Portobello Star is a cocktail lover’s paradise and a historical gem, having opened its doors way back in 1740. This small, intimate bar has been serving up delightful concoctions and fostering a vibrant atmosphere for centuries.
When you visit, be sure to try their signature Bramble – a mix of gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and blackberry liqueur. It’s the perfect blend of tart and sweet, and a true testament to their mixology prowess.
Oh, and by the way, they also offer gin masterclasses if you’re interested in the spirit!
The Little Yellow Door
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Location: 6-8 All Saints Rd, London W11 1HH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 4513 2429
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Pricing: ££
This quirky and colourful bar, inspired by the concept of a fictional flatshare, has become a beloved local hotspot since it first opened as a pop-up in 2014.
The Little Yellow Door is split over two floors, with an open-plan living room and kitchen upstairs that’s perfect for casual drinks and dining. Downstairs, you’ll discover The Flatmates’ Den, a retro-inspired hideaway with a DJ booth, game tables, and plenty of space to dance.
A must-try here is the Kill Bill, a mix of French Earl Grey infused gin, lemon juice, lemon curd, and thyme, served in a teacup with custard cream on the side. But if you enjoy a bit of spice, their £5 Picantes (spicy margaritas) during happy hour are a real treat.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
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Location: 8 Pembridge Gardens, London W2 4DU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7792 6688
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Nestled within the stylish Laslett hotel, The Henderson Bar & Kitchen is a lively homage to Russell “Russ” Henderson, a trailblazer of the iconic Notting Hill Carnival. Stepping inside, you’ll feel the energy of the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Head Chef Andre’s menu boasts classic British dishes with a contemporary twist, featuring the finest locally sourced ingredients. But let’s not forget the libations!
Our personal favourite, and a must-try for any visitor, is the Pembridge Secret Garden. This refreshing concoction blends Sipsmith gin with elderflower and cucumber sour, creating a mix of flavours that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Archer Street Notting Hill
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Location: 126-128 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3QG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8075 5233
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 2:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Archer Street Notting Hill is divided into two distinct areas: a place for intimate chats, and a hub with high tables and a grand bar, where the real magic unfolds.
Come here and expect a blend of cocktails and high-energy live performances. Imagine sipping on a perfectly balanced espresso martini (their signature drink and a must-try) while being serenaded by talented vocalists belting out your favourite tunes. Not bad, eh?
And if you’re looking for an extra dose of fun, don’t miss their themed brunches! From Disney sing-alongs to 70s and 80s throwbacks, these events are the perfect excuse to let loose, dress up, and enjoy bottomless drinks with delicious food.
Caia
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Location: 46 Golborne Rd, London W10 5PR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3089 6600
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Named after the Roman goddess of fire, Caia lives up to its namesake with a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu centred around the magic of open-fire cooking. As you descend into the downstairs area, you’ll be enveloped in a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding.
But the real star of the show here is the food. Chef Jessica Donovan harnesses the power of live fire to create dishes that are really innovative. One must-try is the pork belly with pineapple salsa – a combination of smoky meat and bright, tangy flavours that will leave you wanting more.
And let’s not forget the drinks! Caia boasts a thoughtfully curated wine list with selections from around the globe, as well as a cocktail menu featuring creative concoctions like the Caia Negroni.
Franklin’s Wine
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Location: 305 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2QA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7967 0198
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: ££
What really separates Franklin’s Wine from the rest is its tasting room. It’s a stylish basement space that’s perfect for intimate gatherings or wine-tasting events.
You can’t go wrong with Franklin’s signature “Franklin’s Fizz,” a zesty and refreshing cocktail that pairs perfectly with their delectable cheese and charcuterie boards. And if you’re in the mood for wine, a glass of smooth Pinot Noir or rich Burgundy is always a good choice.
They even embrace technology to elevate your experience. They track your orders and provide personalised recommendations based on your taste, ensuring you discover new favourites every time you visit.
Naked & Famous Bar
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Location: 100 Portobello Rd, London W11 2QD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 4599 1177
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Tucked away in the basement of the Zephyr restaurant on Portobello Road, this intimate spot (they can only accommodate up to 35 guests!) oozes 70s lounge vibes with its plush velvet seating, low lighting, and intimate booths.
But don’t be fooled by its setting – Naked & Famous packs a punch with its agave-focused cocktail menu. We’re talking about a curated selection of over 40 different tequilas and mezcals, each handpicked for their unique flavour profiles.
But if you’re looking for something truly unique, we highly recommend their “Negroily”. This intriguing mix of gin, mastiha (a resinous liqueur from the Greek island of Chios), vermouth, bitters, and olive oil creates a complex and surprisingly smooth flavour profile.
Love
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Location: 265 Portobello Rd, London W11 1LR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7444 041577
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Thursday – 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Pricing: ££
Love is the bar that’s anything but puppy love. This spot is where dim lighting, velvet booths, and eclectic artwork set the mood for a night of romance or revelry.
If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend their signature “First Kiss” cocktail. This delightful concoction blends Brockman’s gin, Cointreau, strawberry, coconut, and a few other secret ingredients for a taste that’s as sweet and surprising as love itself.
And unlike some romances, Love never adds a service charge to your bill. So you can enjoy your drinks guilt-free!
The Elgin
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Location: 96 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 1PY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7229 5663
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Pricing: £
This place is a Grade II listed building steeped in history. We’re talking original Victorian features, fireplaces, and a charming atmosphere that transports you back in time.
But don’t let the old-world charm fool you – Elgin knows how to keep things lively. They’ve got a fantastic selection of craft beers and ales on tap and a wine list that’ll make your head spin (in a good way!).
If you’re looking for a recommendation, we’d steer you towards their Sunday roast. It’s a local favourite for a reason, with generous portions of perfectly cooked meat, crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and all the trimmings.
The Duke of Wellington
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Location: 179 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7727 6727
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: £
This place is steeped in history, having served pints to thirsty patrons for over 150 years. Going inside is like taking a step back in time, with its traditional decor, cosy corners, and friendly atmosphere.
Our personal recommendation? You can’t go wrong with their fish and chips. It’s a British classic done right, with perfectly battered cod or haddock, crispy chips, and a side of mushy peas (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!).
Wash it all down with a pint of their locally brewed ale, and you’ve got yourself a meal fit for a duke.
