London Cocktail Week returns in October to celebrate its 15th anniversary with over 100 events

London Cocktail Week, the city’s premier celebration of mixology, returns this October, from the 3^rd to 13^th, marking its 15^th anniversary with an array of events across the capital. The festival will feature over 100 activities including the £8 Signature Cocktails available at more than 200 bars, luxury drink experiences, and global bar takeovers, showcasing the best of London’s bar scene.

The signature £8 cocktails, a popular fixture since the festival’s inception, will be accessible to wristband holders and include specially crafted concoctions like the Sgroppino Affogato at Blue Bar at The Berkeley, and the Cucumber Americano at Kol Mezcaleria. More than half of the participating venues will also offer non-alcoholic versions for £6, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.

Equipped with the guidebook and online programme, participants are encouraged as well to create also their own tours of discovery, mixing and matching favourites, less-known and wishlist spots. Whether it be in the Covent Garden and Soho area, popping by Dram and Oriole, or a stroll in Notting Hill and Kensington, for a stop by Twice Shy and Trailer Happiness, the adventure options in the city are endless.

One of the standout features of this year’s edition is the Connoisseur’s Collection, for exclusive tasting experiences at some of London’s most prestigious venues. Noteworthy events include a vintage cocktail session at American Bar at The Savoy, a whiskey and cheese pairing at Michelin-starred Hide, and a vintage martini flight at The Spy Bar at Raffles London.

In addition to curated cocktail tours, the festival will host celebratory takeovers and masterclasses. Notable collaborations include the Agave A Go Go at Side Hustle with top agave bars from around the world, and a takeover by New York City’s The Dead Rabbit at Lyaness, complete with live music and Irish-themed drinks.

Other highlights include a Beluga Vodka and caviar masterclass at Piccadilly’s Caviar House, and a one-of-a-kind rum dinner hosted by Bacardi at Portobello 177, exploring Caribbean and Japanese cuisines paired with cocktails. Among the activities for the final day will be a takeover by Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage at Seed Library, promising a laid-back evening with innovative drinks.

First launched in 2010 by co-founders Hannah Sharman-Cox and Siobhan Payne, the London Cocktail Week has grown to become not only a significant moment in the calendar of cocktail aficionados, but also an important occasion for the bars involved, providing them with a platform for further sharing their creativity and skill. The festival’s impact extends beyond the immediate enjoyment of its participants, contributing to the ongoing reputation of London as a centre of mixology excellence on the world stage.

Food Desk

Photo credit: Charlie McKay and The Spy Bar at Raffles London

London Cocktail Week runs from the 3 to the 13 October 2024. Wristbands for the event are priced at £20 and are available for purchase online, providing access to all the listed events and special pricing on drinks. For more information and to buy the event’s tickets, visit the festival’s website here.