The library is no longer a boring place frequented only by students and old people. Thanks to this new London trend, bars are increasingly taking on a library look. In these establishments you can have a drink, read one of the books on offer in the built-in library or play chess with friends. In the list below, find theinformation on all of London’s most interesting venues for a truly cultural experience.
The Library Bar at the Lanesborough
This elegant bar looks like it’s designed after the image of an expensive aristocratic club in an Oscar Wilde book. Located in Holland Park, the bar has a huge reading room filled up to ceilings with vintage editions of classic literature and reserves a private pianist to enhance the visitors’ experience. A selection of high-end more than a century old cognacs and other fine drinks is available.
Library Bar at the Ned
This is the seventeenth such establishment to open in The Ned club in the City’s business district. Hidden behind Cecconi’s, this bar is surprisingly quiet and cozy even despite its central location. Perfect for those who like to enjoy a top-notch martini along with a good book. The moderately glamorous atmosphere makes the experience even more enjoyable.
The Library at NoMad London
This is definitely one of the most beautiful libraries in London. Unfortunately, due to its location in the hotel, it is only accessible to NoMad guests. The library is a real treasury, containing many pieces of art and collectionary editions of rare books. It also serves unique author’s cocktails and delicious teas, which is definitely an even better reason to stay at NoMad.
Scarfes Bar
This charming library bar is located in the Rosewood Hotel, a restored Edwardian-style mansion. Inside, this venue has a laid-back vibe, exquisite room furnishing, and an excellent selection of books and drinks. The Scarfes Bar is open to all members of the public.
Swan Bar at Maison Assouline
The atmosphere in Swan Bar is reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s movies — a pleasant combination of red and gold with impressionist paintings on the walls, complemented by the general style of the bar from the middle of the last century. The establishment itself is located in one of the most unusual bookstores in London near Piccadilly. The highlight of the bar is author’s cocktails inspired by different famous sights.
The Cinnamon Club
This amazing establishment used to be the reading room of the old Westminster Library. After a restoration, The Cinnamon Club opened in 2015 and has existed ever since as one of the most striking examples of a thoughtful restoration that pays homage to the space’s previous purpose. Here you can find literature to suit all tastes, as well as enjoy a good glass of wine and modern Indian cuisine.
Electric House
Tucked away on Portobello between one of London’s oldest Electric cinemas and the eponymous haute cuisine restaurant, Electric House is a cozy little bar with a private library. Despite its size, the bar is extremely popular with Notting Hill residents and it’s often the place where you can find nice people of all ages reading or playing chess.
The Martini Library
The name of this bar speaks for itself — it specialises in books and martinis. The bar is located on Marble Arch and is especially popular with visitors in winter due to its huge fireplace. After a stroll in nearby Hyde Park, there’s nothing better than popping into the cozy Martini Library.
Peyton & Byrne at the British Library
It’s not exactly a bar, but how could you forget about this almost legendary restaurant in the British Library. Many prominent academics, writers and literary critics have regularly gathered there for decades to dine and discuss the latest news in the literary world. Among other things, regulars always praise the unusual selection of teas offered by Peyton & Byrne.
