I hate Leicester Square. There is nothing good about this area of Central London. Nothing. I find myself walking the long way ’round it to get to Soho because my hatred of it is so strong. If you want to find yourself surrounded by aimless tourists taking photos of cinemas (why?) and soulless expensive bars, then head here.

Flickr image from Paulaloe‘s photostream.

But there’s a little secret around Leicester Sqaure that no one tells you about. There are little secret wine bars. Some not even a hop skip and a jump away. Some just a hop. And they’re good. Lovely, in fact. And they’re ruining my ideals of Leicester Square being that gateway to hell. So, if you do end up here (and I don’t know how, but on any trip to London you always will), here are my Europe travel tips for the best bars in the area. The ones that will keep you smiling enough to forget you’re even here.

Cork and Bottle (Cranbourn Street) This is my saving grace in Leicester Square. It’s hidden away, it’s unique, it’s a world away from the movie premiers and screaming children. And it’s lovely. Friendly staff, fantastic wine (and cheap bubbly by the glass) and you’ll stay much longer than you planned.

Le Beaujolais (Litchfield Street): A little too expensive for regular trips (over £11 for two small glasses) but it’s very charming. Staff are friendly and there’s seats outside (albeit not with the greatest view, but you’ll forget you’re so close to Charing Cross road). It wouldn’t be my first choice, but if there was an empty seat on a sunny evening…

Gordon’s (Villiers Street): Every knows about Gordon’s now, don’t they (thanks Time Out, you’ve gone and ruined it), but it’s still my favourite wine bar in the whole of London. Get there early, grab a bottle and nab that table before anyone else can. Don’t you dare think about leaving, if you do I’ll steal your table.

Terroirs (William IV Street): The newest wine bar on the block and already getting quite a reputation. Great wine, good food and all for a decent price is making people flock here. It’s next on my list.

National Portrait Bar (St Martin’s Place): This place is a little gem. Not only do you get to pretend that you’re a little bit cultured, you get a rather lovely view of London from this top floor bar. Opening hours are a bit annoying (the bar is only open when the gallery is and you’ll get kicked out at 6, even on a Saturday) but it’s such a lovely bar. My favourite in the area, and one of my favourites in London.

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