Intro

Sunday nights can feel like a lull in the week, but a tucked‑away bar with a cosy vibe can turn the hour into a mini‑holiday. I’ve spent the last month hunting for the quietest spots that still keep the drinks flowing and the music low enough to chat over a pint. Below are my top five hidden bars that make any Sunday night feel like a secret getaway.

1. The Under‑The‑Stairs Speakeasy

Hidden behind a cracked door in a narrow alley, the first thing you notice is the wooden floor that creaks underfoot. The bar itself is a 12‑square‑meter nook with a single counter made of reclaimed oak. They serve a signature “Sunday Brunch” cocktail: gin, elderflower, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, garnished with a sprig of rosemary. The bartender, a former mixologist from a Michelin‑starred restaurant, spends about 15 seconds crafting each drink, so the wait is short and the quality high.

2. The Rooftop Garden of the Old Post Office

If you’re willing to climb a flight of steps that lead to a flat roof, you’ll find a garden bar surrounded by potted herbs and a small stone fountain. The menu features house‑made syrups, so the mojito comes with a hint of basil that you can taste even before it hits the palate. The bar is open only from 4 pm on Sundays, and the capacity is capped at 20 guests, so you’ll rarely see a crowd. The price point is £8 for a cocktail, which is a fair deal for the atmosphere.

3. The Vinyl‑Only Pub

Located on a quiet back street, this pub plays only vinyl records. The playlist is a mix of 70s funk and 80s synth‑pop, but the volume stays at a conversational level. The bar offers a rotating selection of craft beers, with the current highlight being a 5% ABV IPA from a local microbrewery. They also have a small selection of whiskies, and the bartender can pull a neat Scotch in under 30 seconds. A perfect spot if you want to enjoy a drink without the usual Sunday night chatter.

4. The Hidden Library Lounge

Inside an old bookshop, a discreet door leads to a lounge that looks like a reading room. The walls are lined with shelves of first editions, and a low table in the centre hosts a small selection of cocktails made with brandy and orange bitters. The bar is open until 10 pm on Sundays, giving you plenty of time to unwind after a day of errands. The staff is friendly, and they offer a complimentary glass of sparkling water with every cocktail order.

5. The Secret Garden on the Canal

This bar is literally a garden on a canal bank, accessed via a narrow footbridge. The seating is made of reclaimed timber, and the bar itself is a low, circular stone structure. Their Sunday special is a cucumber gin fizz that comes with a slice of lime and a tiny mint leaf. The bar is open from 5 pm, and the staff keeps the crowd under 30 people, ensuring a relaxed vibe. The price is £9.50 for a cocktail, and you can order a half‑glass if you just want a taste.

For those who love to mix a bit of adventure into their evenings, consider adding a touch of online gaming to the mix. After all, a relaxed Sunday night can also include a few spins or a quick hand of poker at the jokabet casino, where you can try out new strategies without the pressure of a crowded bar.

Conclusion

Each of these bars offers a unique slice of Sunday night that feels both intimate and indulgent. From the speakeasy’s hand‑crafted cocktails to the garden’s botanical twists, there’s a hidden spot for every mood. The next time you’re looking to escape the ordinary, remember that the city’s best secrets often lie just out of sight, waiting for someone with a curious palate to discover them.

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