Whisky bars have long been associated with a particular ambiance—dusty bottles lining the shelves, overwhelming choices that can intimidate newcomers, and the comforting glow of a roaring log fire. Traditionally viewed as havens for dedicated drinkers and whisky aficionados, these establishments have recently evolved.
In the past decade, a new generation of whisky bars has emerged, reshaping this perception. Whether you’re looking for a casual draught, interested in a guided tasting experience, or eager to discover your personal whisky preferences, there is now a diverse array of options available.
Here, we spotlight nine outstanding whisky bars across the UK that blend the traditional with the innovative.
Black Rock, London
This trendsetting venue in London’s financial district is a must-visit for any whisky enthusiast. Rather than categorizing whiskies by region, Black Rock organizes its selection by flavor profile. Choose your preferred style, and you’ll find a diverse array of Scotch, Irish, American, and new world whiskies all together.
Designed to help patrons make informed choices, Black Rock has set a new standard that many others have begun to follow. They also serve a variety of classic cocktails, along with opportunities to blend your own whisky under the guidance of their knowledgeable staff.
9 Christopher Street, London, EC2A 2BS; blackrock.bar
The Bon Accord, Glasgow
Located on the outskirts of Glasgow’s city center, The Bon Accord is a legendary whisky bar with a classic pub ambiance and an impressive selection of Scotch. Their menu features a mix of standard expressions and rare bottlings, all offered at competitive prices. Highlights include an extensive collection of single cask whiskies from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society.
With its welcoming atmosphere, The Bon Accord is well worth the short walk from central Glasgow. Their menu offers hearty, satisfying dishes, including a fan-favorite pie and mash. With great whisky and a cozy vibe, an evening spent here is likely to fly by.
153 North St, Glasgow, G3 7DA; bonaccordpub.com
The Bow Bar, Edinburgh
While there are numerous whisky bars in Edinburgh, few rival the charm, selection, and atmosphere of The Bow Bar. With a comprehensive whisky menu that features everything from well-known labels to unique indie bottlings, you’ll find plenty to choose from, with regular updates including new releases.
Located centrally within a bustling tourist area, The Bow Bar impressively balances a vast selection with reasonable pricing. Dog-friendly and boasting a fantastic range of local craft beers, it’s a charming spot to pop into for a dram while soaking up the friendly local vibe.
80 W Bow, Edinburgh, EH1 2HH
Grain & Glass, Birmingham
Nestled in Birmingham’s trendy Jewellery Quarter, Grain & Glass is the city’s first dedicated whisky bar and tasting room. With a selection of over 300 whiskies and a menu of classic and innovative cocktails, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through your whisky experience.
In addition, the bar features a bespoke tasting room and an interactive membership program, making it a true whisky haven. Furthermore, Grain & Glass hosts two annual whisky festivals in Birmingham: Whisky Birmingham and the Independent Whisky Market, the UK’s first festival exclusively dedicated to independent bottlers.
75-80 Vyse St, Birmingham, B18 6HA; grainandglass.co
The Highlander Inn, Craigellachie
The Highlander Inn, located in the Speyside village of Craigellachie, exemplifies the quintessential whisky pub. Just a short stroll from the Speyside Way walking trail and the village distillery, this friendly establishment offers a warm welcome.
Recognized with multiple awards, the bar showcases a vast selection of Scotch whiskies along with one of the largest collections of Japanese whisky in the UK. Owner Tatsuya developed this impressive collection during his time with a whisky brand in Japan before falling in love with The Highlander and acquiring it.
10 Victoria St, Craigellachie, Aberlour, AB38 9SR; whiskyinn.com
The Malt Room, Inverness
The Malt Room represents the modern whisky bar: stylish, cozy, and offering a superb selection of whiskies, all finished to a high standard. Ideally situated in Inverness, close to numerous distilleries with the Speyside region nearby, this bar fulfills a long-standing need for a quality whisky venue.
Upstairs, a tasting room hosts tutored sessions, brand-led events, and musical whisky gigs. With a menu that includes classic whisky cocktails, local craft beers, and innovative whisky flights, The Malt Room is certainly a destination not to miss when visiting this Highland hotspot.
34 Church St, Inverness, IV1 1EH; themaltroom.co.uk
The Pot Still, Glasgow
For those in search of a classic whisky bar experience, look no further than The Pot Still. A well-known institution in Glasgow, this bar attracts whisky lovers from around the world, many of whom make pilgrimages to visit. The extensive selection of Scotch whiskies reaches up to the ceiling, with ladders available for access, and the bar is characterized by a lively atmosphere.
The Pot Still is deeply infused with whisky culture, and the friendly staff are more than happy to assist you in navigating the vast offerings. While whisky is the main focus, they also serve an outstanding Scotch pie. Although often busy, this award-winning bar is not to be missed during a visit to Glasgow. Just walk up Hope Street from Central Station, and you can’t miss it.
154 Hope St, Glasgow, G2 2TH; thepotstill.co.uk
Sexy Fish, London
If you have a fondness for Japanese whisky, then Sexy Fish in Mayfair is a must-visit. This central London bar is home to the world’s largest collection of Japanese whiskies, available by the dram or as part of expertly crafted classic and innovative cocktails. Complementing the whisky is a Japanese- and Asian-inspired menu and sushi bar for an ultimate whisky experience.
Designed with modern sophistication, Sexy Fish exudes mid-century opulence, showcasing artworks from acclaimed artists like Frank Gehry and Damien Hurst. For special occasions, you can book The Coral Reef Room, which features two of the largest living coral tanks globally. Order your whisky, sit back, and revel in the luxurious atmosphere.
Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6BR; sexyfish.com
The Toucan, London
At street level, London’s The Toucan may not seem remarkable. However, descending the stairs to the right of the entrance reveals one of the city’s hidden gems. This quirky basement bar pays tribute to Irish whiskey, housing an impressive collection of over 300 whiskeys from the Emerald Isle, including both popular and rare offerings.
Named after the iconic bird featured in old Guinness advertising, The Toucan boasts a retro charm adorned with memorabilia from its marketing history. It’s a unique space for sipping and savoring, and they also serve one of London’s finest pints of Guinness.
19 Carlisle St, London, W1D 3BY; thetoucansoho.co.uk
