The Escapologist
London
At a glance
Located in Seven Dials, Covent Garden, The Escapologist invites guests into a fantastical world where the art of mixology meets a whimsical retreat from the everyday. Situated at 35 Earlham Street, this unique bar is styled as a hybrid of a modern-day Victorian men's club and a Masonic lodge, offering patrons a distinctive atmosphere that makes each visit feel like stepping into an era defined by grandeur and mystery.
Upon entering The Escapologist, guests are greeted by an opulent interior that sets the stage for memorable escapades fueled by inventive cocktails. The venue serves a variety of classic cocktails with an imaginative twist, making it a hotspot for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an adventurous experience. Beyond its regular offering of drinks, The Escapologist hosts themed events, including lively bottomless brunches where entertainment is provided by performers from the vibrant West End theatre district, further enhancing the venue's dynamic atmosphere.
The Escapologist caters to groups looking for a playful and interactive night out. The bar can be reserved for private functions, ensuring that special occasions are celebrated amidst a backdrop of lavish decor and playful themes. It's an ideal spot for friends, colleagues, or anyone interested in a unique setting for their gathering.
This Covent Garden venue also celebrates diversity, with special events in support of Pride and partnerships with organizations like Stonewall. Local flavor is added with certain themed nights, allowing for regular twists on the expected London nightlife.
A visit here isn't just about the impressive drink selection; it's about embracing an ambiance that feels both theatrical and inviting. Whether one is looking to host an event or enjoy a laid-back evening with friends, The Escapologist promises an environment where entertainment and libation form the perfect blend.
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We used The Escapologist for a corporate event last month, and it was a fantastic experience from start to finish. From the initial planning stages through to the event itself, everything was handled professionally and seamlessly. A special thank you to Jay from the hospitality group, who facilitated the booking process and made organizing the event incredibly easy. On the day, Bipin, MJ, and the rest of the crew were outstanding. Their attentiveness, professionalism, and positive energy helped ensure everything ran smoothly and that our guests had a great experience. They really went above and beyond, especially during one of London's hottest heat waves. The venue's air conditioning was an absolute lifesaver and made the event comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. We couldn't have asked for a better experience and wouldn't hesitate to host another event here in the future. Highly recommend The Escapologist for corporate events and private functions alike! 🙌
We went on Saturday 30th May for my 50 birthday. We were a table of ten and our server Trinity could not have been more attentive. They were amazing keeping the drinks flowing. The ladies doing the Mamma Mia experience were great. Definitely value for money.
Went to Escapologist for pre-birthday drinks and honestly one of the best cocktail spots in London. The Banana Duchess, Whisper in the Dark, Lychee Lace & Round the World were all delicious, creative and genuinely unique. Beautiful presentation, great atmosphere, and cocktails that actually taste as good as they look. Definitely recommended if you’re looking for a proper cocktail bar in London.
I went for the mama mia bottomless brunch. The atmosphere was really good, live singers which made for an amazing atmosphere. However, I had the vegan burger which was the worst burger I've ever had. It was 'sweet potato and vegan halloumi' and it had 2 small slices of sweet potato and I still don't know what the halloumi was (except for greasy and chewy). It also had a gluten free bun, and it is always so frustrating when the vegans and gluten frees are assumed to be the same.
If you’re looking for a post-theatre spot with character, The Escapologist is a must-visit. We dropped in right after seeing Matilda the Musical, and this basement cocktail bar was the perfect follow-up to the show. The Atmosphere & Vibe The bar has a fantastic "secret society" aesthetic that feels both cool and intimate. Being a Saturday night, the place was buzzing and—unsurprisingly—fully booked. We almost missed out because every table was reserved, but the staff really went above and beyond for us. Service That Saves the Day The bar team deserves a massive shout-out. Despite being packed, they were incredibly kind and managed to squeeze us in so we didn't miss out on the experience. Their friendliness really elevated the night; they were attentive and welcoming even under the Saturday night rush. The Drinks The cocktails are the real stars here: Creative & Fancy: The menu is full of inventive options that look as good as they taste. Pricing: Exactly what you’d expect for high-quality cocktails in Central London—fair for the level of craft involved. Pro Tip: If you’re planning a visit (especially on a weekend), book a table in advance! We got lucky, but this spot is clearly a popular favorite for a reason. Final Verdict Whether you’re wrapping up a night at the theatre or just looking for a moody, stylish basement bar, The Escapologist delivers. Great drinks, even better staff, and an atmosphere you'll want to return to. We’ll definitely be popping back in!
