‘Tis the season to get together with friends and loved ones over a glass or two...

Plan your Christmas catch up with our guide to St James’s best bars and festive cocktails.

The Rooftop at the Trafalgar

Winter has arrived at The Rooftop at the Trafalgar St James. Enjoy panoramic views as you toast with Going Out Out, one of its classic cocktails that'll get you ready for whatever your evening has in store. Whisky lovers should try the cherry-flavoured Timeless cocktail that will keep you toasty all night. Teetotal? Sip a Cos-No-Politan or Everleaf Spritz mocktail and delight in good company and great views across Trafalgar Square.

Rockwell

If you have more of an appetite, head downstairs to Rockwell, The Trafalgar's ground floor bar and restaurant. Take refuge from the winter chill in one of its cosy booths and order the Tipple Tea. Work your way through a selection of savouries and sweets, served with your choice of either a cocktail or mocktail pairing.

Sofitel London St James

Invite your nearest and dearest for an intimate drink in the St James Bar at Sofitel London St James. Sip intriguing creations from its menu inspired by 'A Taste of the World', from an Old Fashioned inspired by American BBQ food, to a Gin Sour evoking notes of zingy Greek dip tzatziki.

Dukes London

Unwind and catch up with old friends in Dukes’ legendary Cognac and Cigar Garden, in partnership with Rémy Martin. Or treat your inner James Bond or someone special to an original Martini and unforgettable evening at Dukes bar.

Berry Bros & Rudd

Don’t know wine? Need to bring a bottle to a Christmas party or choose a gift for a discerning relative? Head just across charming Pickering Place courtyard to Berry Bros & Rudd, a 17th-century wine and spirit merchant and the oldest of its kind in Britain. Trust recommendations from their Masters of Wine or take your time and explore the curated collection.

The American Bar at The Stafford

Uncover old world glamour at The American Bar at The Stafford, but there’s nothing old fashioned about this cocktail menu. Alongside new twists to classic drinks, you’ll find American Bar originals such as tequila-based The Moriarty. For seasonal cheers’ing, we recommend its perfectly balanced Alchemy of Equilibrium menu, inspired by harmony and delivered with elements of pure wonder.

Davy's at St James's

Step beneath the vaulted ceilings of atmospheric wine bar Davy's at St James's for a festive get-together this holiday season. Ideal for catch-ups with friends, colleagues or family, this buzzy bar has an enviable wine list, including magnums that are perfect for larger groups.

Swans Bar

Sit surrounded by thousands of stories as you create more of your own this Christmas amid the shelves of Maison Assouline and its Swans Bar. After enjoying a cocktail inspired by one of its travel books, why not browse the shelves for that special festive gift?

The Rivoli Bar

For matchless service, book your table in the iconic Rivoli Bar at The Ritz. Its expert mixologists can curate a tipple that's crafted to your tastebuds, or why not choose from an extensive menu which pays homage to The Ritz and London's unique history?

Scully

Known for the fusion of flavours found in its six-course tasting menus, Scully’s Non-alcoholic Flight is an experience all itself. From a blood orange and grapefruit infused kombucha to Chef Scully’s childhood favourite refresher and Apple and Basil Cooler, there’s nothing quite like it.

Discover more places to enjoy winter drinks on Regent Street or browse our top festive dining spots for Christmas parties and gatherings.