May
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LONDON BARS – Cocktails in the City Returns to London’s Most Beautiful Garden This Summer
London’s ultimate cocktail festival is back, and it’s set to be bigger, bolder and more delicious than ever.
This summer, Cocktails in the City returns to the stunning Bedford Square Gardens, transforming one of Bloomsbury’s most beautiful hidden green spaces into a vibrant open-air celebration of the capital’s best bars, bartenders and cocktail culture.
Taking place across 2–4 July and 6–8 August 2026, the festival brings together some of London’s most exciting drinking destinations in one unforgettable setting, with guests able to sip expertly crafted cocktails from just £10.
Just moments from Oxford Street, the festival offers the perfect opportunity to discover some of the city’s most sought-after bars without crossing town. Expect bespoke cocktail menus, world-class bartenders, immersive drinks experiences and plenty of summer garden party energy.
Among the confirmed venues already announced are Ognisko, Sabine, Hutong, Gong Bar, Holborn Dining Room, Boulebar, Mandrake Hotel, Laki Kane, Aqua Kyoto, Chotto Matte and San Carlo, with more still to be revealed.
What’s New for 2026
This year introduces The Cocktail Collectives, a series of curated drinks experiences designed to spotlight the trends, flavours and cultures shaping modern cocktail culture.
Highlights include:
The Bartenders’ Edit
A curated collection of bars personally loved by the industry itself, the hidden gems and go-to spots bartenders recommend to friends.
Coffee Cocktails
Beyond the espresso martini, this experience explores the future of coffee in cocktails, from cold brew highballs to fermented coffee spirits and cascara creations.
The Pan Asian Collective
A celebration of Asian-inspired cocktail culture, featuring Japanese whisky highballs, Southeast Asian flavours and inventive serves crafted with authenticity and flair.
UK Rums Showcase
British rum takes centre stage as leading distillers and bartenders showcase the creativity driving one of the UK’s fastest-growing spirit categories.
The Mexican Collective
From tequila and mezcal to lesser-known Mexican spirits, this immersive experience celebrates the richness and diversity of Mexico’s drinking culture.
More Than Just Cocktails
Alongside the drinks, guests can enjoy a packed programme of entertainment and experiences throughout the festival.
There’ll be cocktail masterclasses, tasting rooms and workshops led by renowned bartenders and producers, while the gardens come alive with live music, a DJ-led silent disco and plenty of competitive fun.
Festival-goers can challenge friends to pétanque with Boulebar, table tennis, cornhole and other garden games woven throughout the space.
And for the first time ever, Cocktails in the City will introduce a dedicated Food Village, featuring small plates and global flavours from some of London’s most exciting chefs and restaurants.
Event Highlights
- Pop-up village featuring 20 of London’s best bars
- Signature cocktails from £10
- DJ-led silent disco and live music
- Cocktail masterclasses and tasting experiences
- Garden games including pétanque, table tennis and cornhole
- Brand-new Food Village with global small plates
Event Information
Location: Bedford Square Gardens, London WC1B 3ES
Dates: 2–4 July & 6–8 August 2026
Tickets: General admission from £17 via cocktailinthecity.com
Heart London Magazine 