When people talk about a cheap night out in London, they usually mean a total spend of under £30 for drinks, entry, and a bite. It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about picking places that offer solid value without the pretence of high‑end clubs. The places I’ll mention all have a single‑digit entry fee, or none at all, and they serve decent drinks for under £5 each.
1. The Vinyl Club – Camden
Located on a disused railway line, The Vinyl Club is a 24‑hour bar that turns every Friday night into a dance floor powered by vinyl records. The entry fee is £5, and a pint of local ale costs £3.50. The staff runs a “buy one, get one free” on house cocktails after 10 pm, so you can sample two without breaking the bank. The only downside? The venue can feel crowded on Saturday evenings, so if you prefer a quieter vibe, aim for a Tuesday or Wednesday.
2. The Old Blue Last – Shoreditch
Old Blue Last is a classic pub‑bar hybrid that has been serving craft beers since 1948. Entry is free, but the first drink on the tap is £4.80. The bar’s signature “Blue Last” lager is brewed on‑site, and you can pair it with a 12‑piece fish and chips plate for £7.50. The place is popular with musicians and artists, so you’ll hear live gigs on Saturday nights, but the noise level can make conversation a challenge.
3. The Green Room – Soho
Hidden behind a nondescript door in Soho, The Green Room is a speakeasy‑style cocktail bar that offers a 5‑drink sampler for £20. The drinks are inventive, using seasonal ingredients, and the bartender is happy to explain the story behind each mix. The only catch is that the bar closes at 11 pm, so if you’re a night owl you’ll need to move on after midnight.
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4. The Walled Garden – Southbank
The Walled Garden is a garden bar that opens from 4 pm on Friday to 2 am on Sunday. The entry fee is free, and the bar serves a rotating selection of craft beers for £4.25. They also offer a “happy hour” from 6 pm to 8 pm, where all cocktails are £4.00. The outdoor seating is perfect for watching the Thames, but it can get chilly in November, so bring a jacket.
5. The 2:00 Club – Hackney
The 2:00 Club is a late‑night club that opens at 2 am on Fridays and closes at 6 am on Saturdays. The cover charge is £3, and a 12‑shot “Club Special” is available for £10. The DJ lineup is a mix of house and techno, and the club’s minimalist décor keeps the focus on the music. The only drawback is the lack of a food menu, so you’ll need to grab something before you head in.
6. The Jolly Good – Covent Garden
The Jolly Good is a pub that offers a “pint and a plate” deal for £8.50, which includes a pint of local ale and a choice of either a burger or a sandwich. The bar serves a rotating selection of craft beers for £4.50, and the nightly trivia nights draw a regular crowd of students and office workers. The venue’s small size means you’ll have to queue for a table on busy nights.
7. The Gilded Lily – Brixton
The Gilded Lily is a cocktail bar that offers a 3‑drink flight for £15. The drinks are made with fresh fruit and house‑made syrups, and the bartenders are quick to explain the inspiration behind each. The bar’s décor is a blend of vintage and modern, and the lounge area is perfect for a quiet drink. The only downside is that the bar closes at midnight, so you’ll need to plan your night accordingly.
8. The Brick – Whitechapel
The Brick is a craft beer bar that offers a 5‑beer flight for £10. The bar’s selection is updated weekly, and the staff can recommend a beer that matches your taste. The bar also hosts weekly open‑mic nights, which are free to attend. The only limitation is that the bar can get busy on Friday nights, so if you want a quieter experience you should go on a weekday.
9. The Bluebird – Notting Hill
The Bluebird is a cocktail bar that offers a “happy hour” from 5 pm to 7 pm, where all cocktails are £4.50. The bar’s décor is a mix of vintage and modern, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. The only downside is that the bar can get crowded on weekends, so you may need to wait for a table.
10. The Red Lion – Greenwich
The Red Lion is a pub that offers a 12‑drink flight for £18. The bar’s selection is updated weekly, and the staff can recommend a drink that matches your taste. The bar also hosts weekly trivia nights, which are free to attend. The only limitation is that the bar can get busy on Friday nights, so if you want a quieter experience you should go on a weekday.
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Final Thoughts
London’s nightlife budget doesn’t have to mean a compromise on quality. By choosing venues that offer reasonable entry fees, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere, you can enjoy a full weekend of entertainment without draining your wallet. Whether you’re into vinyl‑powered dance floors, craft beer flights, or cocktail flights, there’s a spot that fits your taste and your budget. Happy exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a budget‑friendly night out in London?
It means spending under £30 total on drinks, entry, and a bite, with no compromise on value.
Where can I find low‑entry bars?
Places like The Vinyl Club in Camden offer single‑digit entry fees or none, and drinks under £5.
Are the drinks still good quality?
Yes, these venues focus on solid value, serving decent drinks without pretence.
Do I need a reservation?
Most budget spots don’t require reservations, but early arrival helps avoid long waits.