What’s On: The Best Bars in London, One Garden: Cocktails in the City Returns for a 10th Anniversary Special | My Soho Times

Imagine sipping your way through 20 of London’s finest bars — all without leaving a manicured private garden in central London. That’s the magic of Cocktails in the City, the UK’s leading cocktail festival, back this summer for its 10th anniversary.

Set against the historical backdrop of Bedford Square Gardens (think Bridgerton vibes), the space was transformed into a colourful fête-style celebration, complete with ribbon-draped trees, food and drink stalls, a live music stage, and a silent disco. With one weekend down and another to come (7–9 August), My Soho Times‘ editor – our girl about town – Kai Lutterodt went to soak it all in… A cocktail (or two) in hand.

Alfresco drinks, live beats, global flavours — and cocktails just a few sips apart. Cocktails in the City returned this month with a 10th Anniversary edition that proves why it remains London’s most-loved cocktail festival. Taking place across two summer weekends (10–12 July and 7–9 August), the festival transforms Bedford Square Gardens into a lush, leafy playground for cocktail lovers.

If you missed the July edition (ends today, Happy World Rum Day!), fear not — this weekend might be the end of Round One, but Round Two is shaking things up again next month.

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More Than Just a Drink

What makes Cocktails in the City more than just another boozy event? It’s the immersive cocktail culture that pours into every corner of Bedford Square Gardens. Twenty of London’s finest bars, including The Savoy’s Gallery Bar, Coupette, Artesian, and Archive & Myth, line the inner square, each serving signature creations that take your taste buds on a journey across continents.

And it’s not just the cocktails. There’s live music, a Silent Disco (sorry to those around me who had to endure my off-key vocals… maybe join in next time?), garden games, and interactive masterclasses that give you more than a buzz — they give you knowledge.

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Themed Bars & Global Vibes

This year’s edition is extra special, thanks to a host of new themed stands:

• The Bartender’s Edit – A curated tasting journey with insider drinks from London’s top talent.
• Coffee Cocktails 2.0 – More than your average Espresso Martini. Expect bold, caffeine-laced creations with flair.
• Local Luxury – Sustainable sipping with luxury bars like The Guards Bar at Raffles and Nipperkin.
• London to India – A spice-laden journey into India’s rising cocktail scene.
• The French Connection – A tribute to French finesse, featuring boutique spirits and elegant serves.
• The Spirit of Mexico – Celebrate agave culture with margarita riffs and mezcal magic.

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My Top Picks

I made the rounds (solo, after a last-minute +1 cancellation, but honestly, this is an event you can totally enjoy on your own!). Highlights for me included Laki Kane, whose tropical vibes brought a holiday energy; Kavka Vodka for a clean Polish pour with flair; and Cafe Pacifico, who nailed their refreshing watermelon slush serves. I also stopped by Bourne & Hollingsworth and The Coral Room—both offering a touch of elegance and creativity that stood out.

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Perfect for Corporate Bonding — or a Solo Night Out

Whether you’re looking to impress clients, bond with your team, or just treat yourself, Cocktails in the City delivers. It’s easily one of the best corporate bonding activities I’ve experienced in London—fun, sophisticated, and just the right amount of playful.

And if you’re heading there tonight (Saturday 12 July), it’s World Rum Day, so raise a glass and celebrate with a rum-based cocktail from one of the many world-class bars on site.

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Don’t Miss the Next Round!

📍 Bedford Square Garden, WC1B 3ES
📅 Next Dates: 7–9 August
🎟️ Tickets: £22 (includes entry, one cocktail, live entertainment, and access to all festival zones)
🔗 Book now: cocktailsinthecity.com

Written by Kai Lutterodt | Photography courtesy of http://www.cocktailsinthecity.com

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