The LDN Gal
A SOUTH EAST UK LIFESTYLE BLOG

Cocktails in London

On the hunt for the best cocktail bar in London? If you’re looking for the best places to drink in London, look no further.

Bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch, London

If you’re looking for a girly brunch in London with a difference, you’ll love bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson.

Ballie Ballerson is an adult ball pit venue in Shoreditch and it’s certainly a unique thing to do in London.

As part of its two-hour bottomless brunch experience, you’ll have full access to both ball pits, as well as 90 minutes of unlimited sourdough pizza, pornstar martinis and prosecco.

We decided to head to Ballie Ballerson as part of a girly weekend away. Little did I know, it would be a pre-hen celebration, making the occasion even more special!

Brunch options at Ballie Ballerson

There are two tickets to choose from, the VIP Brunch or Standing Baller Brunch. These are priced from £25 and £35 respectively. Do note, brunch tickets are more expensive for the afternoon session.

There are extras you can include. If you’re celebrating, you can also pre-order a pick ‘n’ mix sweet cake for your session.

The VIP Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

Annoyingly, you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want to be seated throughout the bottomless brunch.

The VIP Brunch seated tickets ensure your own private booth in the VIP area. In my opinion, the seated tickets offer a far nicer experience.

Standing Baller Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

However, if you do choose the standing option, you may be able to bag a high-top table. These are available on a first come first serve basis, so you’ll have to be quick!

On the plus side, it’s far easier to dance if you opt for the standing option.

What’s the music like?

For our Saturday session, we had resident DJ, Izzy Trixx. You can expect a mix of Disco, House, Commercial, Hip Hop, RnB, Garage, Rock and Drum and Bass.

Honestly, the music just made the occasion with non-stop nostalgic hits.

What’s the food and drinks like?

The food and drink at Ballie Ballerson is amazing. Within the 90 minutes, you can expect freshly made sourdough pizza alongside unlimited prosecco and pornstar martinies.

The delicious pizza is made to dietary preference, so everyone is catered for.

We all found the service quick and friendly. There was no chasing down staff to get more food or top ups and we all felt like we got good value for money.

What is this adult ball pit experience like?

Ballie Ballerson is a fabulous brunch venue. For the young-at-heart, it’s amazing to just go wild amongst the alleged one million balls. It’s kind of like reliving all of your childhood soft play memories.

There are two glowing ball pits to explore as part of the experience and they’re a lot of fun. You can enjoy the glowing semi-translucent white ball pit with its ceiling mirror. The second, a candy-coloured affair with a wall embellished with Love Hearts quotes.

Overall, brunch at Ballie Ballerson was such a wonderful experience, and I cannot wait to return with my girls.

Would you check out brunch at Ballie Ballerson?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more places to eat in London?

Bar Elba, Mercury House 109-117 Waterloo Road London, SE1 8UL

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London? ?

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 1

Looking for a quirky rooftop bar in London? Say hello to Bar Elba, your new favourite tropical destination in central London.

This bright and colourful bar in Waterloo is perfect for breezy summer cocktails or wintertime drinks.

Open year round, this gorgeous rooftop bar offers panoramic views. Once inside, you will find affordable cocktails, ciders, beers and quick bites aplenty.

Bar Elba offers a lovely and chilled vibe for everyone, be it an evening with friends, a date with your other half or someone new, or even for a boozy afternoon with your mum!

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 2

Decked out with vibrant benches and tables, you could lose hours in this tropical themed bar. Most importantly, if you head down for happy hour, you can even take advantage of 2 for 1 cocktails!

However, as the sun sets, the fun starts. Get in the mood as great music, friendly laughter and excited chatter buzz in the air. Bar Elba is as perfect for daytime meet ups as it is for evening drinks.

In addition to cocktails You can also get involved with Bar Elba events, including brunch dates, movie nights and afternoon picnics!

Love the look of Bar Elba? Why not check out their oh so pink sister bar, Tonight Josephine which is round the corner.

Stephanie xox

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Cahoots Underground, 13 Kingly Ct, Soho, London W1B 5PW

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London menu and cocktails

Discover Cahoots Underground: a post-war cocktail bar in Soho, London

Nestled in the heart of Soho, you will find Cahoots Underground. A cocktail bar which offers a unique, fresh and fun experience in Central London.

On arrival, ask for the ‘Captain’ and you will be led down a tiled wall staircase into a post-war underground station.

Once inside, you will be greeted by period costumed hosts. With their characters nailed and wide smiles in tow. They will lead you to your table within the disused underground station. You may even be lucky enough to be seated within one of the train carriages!

The themed menus are presented as styled newspapers. Take your time and discover lots of sumptuous cocktail specials with an English twist.

Nibble on popcorn from wartime tins and listen to swing, jazz and Lindy Hop aplenty as you await your drinks. Be sure to take the time to soak up the experience in this moody lit playground.

So, what did I think of Cahoots Underground?

This 1940s-themed bar is certainly enchanting, albeit slightly pricy. Saying this, it is worth the ‘step back in time’ experience and sticks to its theme with finesse.

Cahoots Underground makes an excellent date night with your significant other, family or closest friends.

On select nights, there is even live entertainment at Cahoots Underground. Expect piano singalongs, live music and post-war enthusiast DJs.

It can get busy, so if you plan to head there on the weekend, do book ahead.

You can also discover their sister bars in London, Cahoots Ticket Hall and Cahoots Control room.

Have you been to Cahoots Underground before? What’s your favourite cocktail bar in central London?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in London?

A girls day out in London Bridge

The best things to do in London Bridge

London Bridge is an area bursting with history and landmarks. It’s the perfect destination to see London’s famed skyline with friends in tow.

On the southern bank of the River Thames, London Bridge offers an eclectic mix of cultural hotspots, celebrated attractions, global cuisine to suit every budget, markets and independent treasures aplenty.

Here’s the best things to see and do in London Bridge:

The best food and drink at Borough Market 

Feeling peckish? For cheap independent eats head to Borough Market, London’s oldest and most famous market.

Weave in and out the numerous stalls and sample whatever takes your fancy. Discover international street food alongside fresh produce galore. Pick up fruit and vegetables, sweet treats and pastries, homemade bread and artisanal cheese.

Once you are done meandering this foodie heaven, enjoy a drink or two in the area and soak up the atmosphere.

Cocktails with a panoramic view at Aqua Shard, London

Take to the sky in The Shard, the UK’s tallest building at 310 metres. If you are looking for breathtaking views with a more affordable price tag, head up to Aqua Shard on the 32nd floor in 15 seconds.

Try to get a seat before sunset for incredible cityscape views with a cocktail in hand. The restaurant and bar is more than a third of the way up the skyscraper and doesn’t require a reservation.

If you’d like to pay a visit to the 72nd floor, you can see up to 40 miles from The View from The Shard.

Step back in time with The London Bridge Experience and Tombs

Looking for a unique history lesson and some scares? Head to The London Bridge Experience and Tombs. This interactive and immersive guided tour is for the brave among us. You will discover over 2,000 years of (often gruesome) London and London Bridge history on route.

Once you head into the London Tombs, expect to confuse the senses with a live-action maze. These historic tombs and vaults have been voted the scariest attraction in London.

Play explorer on The Golden Hinde

Step on board The Golden Hinde, a full scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th century global exploration vessel. This celebrated ship is brought to life alongside costumed actors detailing its history.

The Golden Hinde entry – £5

Feel on trend at the Fashion and Textile Museum

The Fashion and Textile Museum is one for creative types. Just up from London Bridge station on Bermondsey Street, step inside to discover their latest fashion and textile exhibition.

The Zandra Rhodes exhibition is currently on till January 2020, detailing the fashion designers extensive portfolio. Expect high fashion, textiles, theatrical costumes and original artwork. Explore 50 years of work at the museum she founded.

The colourful museum only hosts one exhibition space at a time. Once done, be sure to swing by the shop when exiting for beautiful and unique gifts.

Fashion and Textile Museum entry – £9.90

Enjoy the beauty of Southwark Cathedral

A stone’s throw away from London Bridge station you will find Southwark Cathedral. The oldest cathedral in London, this stunning place of worship is a must visit.

Enjoy a guided tour or service inside the Gothic cathedral and take a moment to soak up it’s beautiful architecture from its gardens outside.

See where the elite used to party at the Winchester Palace Ruins

Admire the 12th century ruins of Winchester Palace. These tucked away Medieval ruins once housed one of the most grand and opulent buildings in Britain.

It was a place of comfort and celebration for the religious officials, royalty and the elite of London for over 500 years.

Unwind at Potters Field Park

Take a moment to pause with a coffee or lunch at Potters Field Park. This open green space allows for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with some wonderful views of Tower Bridge.

See how London moves at the Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour

Often mistaken for London Bridge, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. However, most people do not know that you can in fact go up the bridge, built between 1886 and 1894.

You will start with a short history lesson before making your way along the first of two partially covered glass walkways. The second walkway has a partially mirrored ceiling offering the perfect snap of the River Thames and oncoming traffic below. It also allows you incredible views of the Shard and Gherkin.

Once down, it’s a short walk to the engine rooms which continue to lift the bridge to this day. Learn about how these engines work and their maintenance.

Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour entry – £9.80

Enjoy British naval history on board HMS Belfast

To experience a monumental part of Britain’s naval past, step aboard HMS Belfast. The World War 1 ship is one of London’s most unique historical attractions. Moored near London Bridge Pier, this wartime ship is sensational.

Once aboard, make your way up and down ladders as you explore the interior and exterior of each deck, discovering the museum ship’s vast history. Expect waxwork figures ‘in action’, access to the gun turrets and hear many stories of life on board at each level.

On deck, you can take a moment to appreciate the London skyline from the River Thames.

HMS Belfast entry – £16.20 online and £18 on the day

See how medicine has progressed at The Old Operating Theatre

Make your way up a spiral 52-step staircase and enjoy a glimpse of how far modern medicine has come. The Old Operating Theatre brings you back to the 19th century where medicinal technique was still in its infancy.

The procedures were often gruesome and herbal remedies took precedence. The highlight of the museum? The opportunity to stand inside Europe’s oldest operating theatre.

The Old Operating Theatre entry – £6.50

Hunt for quirky fashion and other finds at Vinegar Yard

For vintage and retro finds, head to Vinegar Yard. This bustling flea market is brimming with antique treasures, arts and crafts and global cuisine to suit all tastes and preferences.

Be entertained at The Scoop 

Next to City Hall, the Scoop offers free theatrical performances, sporting and movie screenings at select times in the year.

800 people can enjoy events including Christmas by the River and Summer by the River within this impressive outdoor amphitheatre.

London Bridge will keep you busy for the entire weekend. To make the most of your time in the area, enjoy a London Bridge hotel stay.

Have you explored the London Bridge area? What would be your go to attraction? 

Stephanie xox

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The spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own

Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, 10th Floor, 27 - 31 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0LS

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London ?

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - table

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room

It’s always exciting when a new brunch hotspot in London appears. A fortnight ago, I headed out for brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room during its launch weekend.

The new rooftop restaurant and bar is located in the heart of the West End. Situated atop the Assembly Hotel, it offers panoramic views across London and a stunning interior.

The interior is wonderful, with floor-to-ceiling windows, delicate wicker weaved furnishings and citrus dotted flora aplenty.

Their brunch menu is wholesome and delicious, with a selection of vegetarian and vegan items to boot. Fear not meat eaters, there truly is something for everyone!

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - panoramic viewBrunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - brunch menuBrunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - baked green eggs, all mixed up

So, what did I think of Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room?

Opting for savoury over sweet, I ordered the ‘Baked green eggs, all mixed up’. This dish was bursting with flavour, embellished with fresh pesto, crunchy vegetables and baked eggs in an earthy terracotta dish.

As expected, there are options for a bottomless brunch, as well as a selection sumptuous sides, cocktails and fresh juices to suit all.

Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room offers its visitors breakfast, dinner, cocktails and of course, weekend brunch, open daily from 7am.

Have you been to Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room yet? Which item would try from their brunch menu?

Stephanie xox

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Tonight Josephine, 111 Waterloo Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 8UL

Cocktails at Tonight Josephine in Waterloo, London ?

Light wall at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal

A Tonight Josephine experience review

If you haven’t been to Tonight Josephine yet, you are in for a treat. Based in Waterloo, this pretty-in-pink hot spot is probably one of the most Instagram-worthy bars in London.

Adorned with a neon light feature wall on entrance and an interior embellished with iridescent streamer lined walls, mirrored ceilings, a floral ‘lady garden’ and mug shot decorated bathroom. This overtly girly bar serves quirky cocktails in an oh so cool environment.

Every corner of the bar proves to be a photo opportunity and most will probably spend just as much time sipping cocktails as they will taking the perfect picture – it is simply a millennial girls dream come true. 

Tonight Josephine is certainly a lot of fun with its bright, bold and brilliant interior. The bar itself is quite small but this offers a degree of intimacy and exclusivity to boot I guess.

Cocktails at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal Bathrooms at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of Tonight Josephine?

Obviously, the décor and atmosphere is fabulous – it is marketed to be just so. Though despite the glamour, its nineties and noughties soundtrack and scented interior (yes, I said scented), you cannot help but feel a little cheated when it comes to drinks – no matter how good they taste.

Unfortunately, my cocktail proved to be more ice than alcohol, free-poured swiftly before being garnished and passed across the bar. It certainly didn’t last long.

Despite this, a few hours at Tonight Josephine makes for a lovely evening and is certainly a fabulous place to stop by for drinks and snaps with the girls – just be sure to take advantage of the 2-4-1 happy hour! 

You can get a free cocktail when you sign up to the Tonight Josephine mailing list.

Have you been to Tonight Josephine yet? Which cocktail would be your go to?

Stephanie xox

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TwoRuba, Hilton London Tower Bridge, 5 More London Place, Tooley Street, London, SE1 2BY

A night of cocktails and chats at TwoRuba Tower Bridge, London ?

Two Ruba Halloween Cocktails Scary Mary

TwoRuba Tower Bridge Review

Exquisite cocktails in a beautiful bar in London? It is certainly a sought after affair after a busy week of work in the big smoke.

TwoRuba ticks these boxes, a fantastic urban champagne and cocktail bar located on the ground floor of the Hilton London Tower Bridge.

I have to admit, I was very excited when asked to come down and taste their Autumnal cocktail menu and sample some of their small plate dishes. Limited edition drinks and a cocktail masterclass were the highlight of the evening.

Two Ruba Halloween Cocktails Rainbow Cocktail

So, what did I think of the TwoRuba Autumn cocktails?

After a glass of Prosecco and getting to know the other lovely girls and guys around me, we were offered the Scary Mary. This was a twist on the classic Bloody Mary with a warming kick. The Scary Mary offered a celery juice base and a hint of spice. I honestly thought it would be perfect after a night of cocktails, both refreshing and smooth.

Next up, the Autumn Lady, with a splash of gin and whisked egg white froth, emblazoned with brand logos or Halloween decal. Still with a slight kick – we need it with these chilly Autumn evenings.

TwoRuba Hilton London Bridge Cocktail Bar My Rainbow Cocktail

A highlight of the evening for many was the cocktail masterclass. After a demonstration, we were allowed to get stuck in and create our own take on the layered Rainbow Cocktail. I was impressed with the result (although, a tad heavy on the syrup) and the whole experience was a lot of fun.

Swing by TwoRuba after work and enjoy its spacious, relaxed and welcoming ambience. The cocktail bar is open each day from 7am to 1am (closing at midnight on a Sunday). Check out the TwoRuba Tower Bridge drink menu.

In addition, they’re are also getting in the festive spirit with their own TwoRuba by the pier pop-up. So, appreciate the London cityscape with views of Tower Bridge and the Thames and sip on mulled vine with an enchanting view.

Have you been to TwoRuba yet? What is your go-to cocktail?

Stephanie xox

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Icebar London, 31-33 Heddon St, Mayfair, London W1B 4BN

Why you need to spend your next date night at the Icebar London ❄️?

Icebar London review and dining experience with Stephmulz -The-LDN-Gal

An Icebar London experience review

Icebar London satisfies the most difficult to please, a venue offering a plush ‘warm’ bar with delectable cocktails, a restaurant with a charming interior and décor and a sensory experience like no other, a bar crafted from 40 tonnes of Swedish ice from the Torne River.

When it comes to date nights, we are always looking for something unique, an experience that goes beyond the traditional dinner or cinema venture – something that leaves a lasting impression.

Start your evening in the restaurant downstairs, where you will discover a warm and rustic interior. Surrounded by low lit lights with zig-zag filaments, red-brick ceilings and cosy leather seats tucked beneath hardwood tables. The perfect start to date night in London.

Add in Autumnal tones and a relaxed mood, alongside television screens evoking warmth with open log cabin fire videos playing on loop, and you have a beautiful setting and ambience for a romantic evening meal. Serious thought went into the décor, which is complimented by smooth jazz music.

Icebar London review and dining experience tofu starter -The-LDN-Gal

So, what did I think of the Icebar London resturant?

The menu is concise but varied, with European cuisine to suit all tastes and three courses available if desired. The best bit? Vegetarian options are also readily available too.

Starters presented crispy tofu, cooked in breadcrumbs and garnished with pickled cucumber, toasted peanuts and spiced honey. A delicious tangy affair. Although, the tofu was delicious in its own right, its soft interior delicately coated made for something special.

For the main, stuffed peppers brimming with ricotta and a touch of spice (I somehow managed), alongside pistachio pesto and lightly fried quinoa. A variety of sides were also on offer to compliment, and I opted for the corn grilled in husks, a medley of sweetcorn, sour cream and spice once more.

Icebar London review and dining experience ricotta main - The-LDN-GalIcebar London review and dining experience brownie dessert -The-LDN-Gal

Finally, an indulgent triple chocolate brownie, decorated with toasted marshmallow, salted caramel and ice cream with a crunchy twist. It’s safe to say, we were very full and satisfied.

Top this spectacular dining with a variety of premium cocktails and you are on to a winner. The crumble was a delicious fruit medley, embellished with crumble detailing.  My partner, opting for the Rum Blazer and was also drawn in by his fruity concoction, served warm with a rum kick to finish.

The restaurant is truly exquisite in its own right, a warm and luxurious environment that should be recognised in addition to the physical Icebar experience. The food is a varied affair, with lots of quirky touches.

Icebar London review and experience ice cocktails -The-LDN-GalIcebar London review and experience octopus ice sculpture -The-LDN-GalIcebar London review and experience London Eye ice sculpture -The-LDN-Gal

So, what did I think?

Warm and full, we prepared ourselves for the Icebar, sitting in the warm bar upstairs and unwinding beforehand. Once our allocated time came, we were ushered towards the room, faux-fur lined capes placed over heads and our gloves swinging to and fro as we shuffled like Arctic penguins into the bar.

Walking in, I must admit, I was very impressed. The latest instillation presents a Wild in the City theme. Discover an abundance of safari and aquatic animals embracing the walls, sculptures and screens around the room. These are all brought to life as part of an exciting light show – it is a wonderful spectacle.

Icebar London review and experience with zebra ice sculpture - The LDN GalIcebar London review and experience and designers - The LDN GalIcebar London review and experience - The LDN Gal

Although a little smaller than expected, this intimate venue was fabulous. It was fun, different and exciting. Making our way to the actual ice bar, we were presented with champagne cocktails in glasses made of ice.

Essentially, there’s nothing quite like drinking bubbles from an ice glass! The colourful cocktails on offer make for some very pretty pictures indeed.

This sensory experience is simply incredible, thrusting you into a -5°C bar that is brought to life by artistic prowess. There is something quite extraordinary about sitting in a room of solid ice, bopping along to good music and a fabulous light show.

I would thoroughly recommend the entire experience for a date night or special occasion. You can take a peek at Instagram for Icebar London images.

What do you think of the Icebar London? Where is your favourite place for date night?

Stephanie xox

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This experience was exchanged for an honest review