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wine travels: London Wine Bars

During the Summer of 2024 I spent a long weekend in London and absolutely fell in love with the city. I spent mornings at museums, evenings at the theatre, and afternoons walking and exploring different neighbourhoods grabbing a glass of wine and a quick bite in between. Although I was only there for 3.5 days, I managed to find some true gems which I cannot wait to revisit, hopefully soon! So next time you take a trip across the pond be sure to visit at least one of the wine bars listed below. 
Gordon's Wine Bar (Embankment - 47 Villiers St)
Nestled between Trafalgar Square and Embankment Station is London's oldest wine bar that's been operating for over 130 years. Take a step inside their vaulted cellar space lit by candlelight, decorated with oak barrels and walls covered in a time-warp of historic photos and articles or choose a spot outdoors, covered and heated for all-year round enjoyment. Their extensive wine list features both a spectacular BTG and BTB program offering everything from "everyday wines" to more unique regions, appellations, and producers which tend to not frequent the North American market. I also couldn't resist their cheese and charcuterie menu, including a selection of olives, pickled veggies, chutneys, and other accoutrements.
Sol's Wine Bar (Bayswater - 25 Leinster Terrace)
I discovered Sol's nearly a month after it opened in July 2024, and since then it has since taken off and become quite the neighbourhood hot spot! It's located only a 10-minute walk from Paddington Station and is much more than your typical Wine Bar. Offering daily deli sandwiches, pantry items, a bottle shop, and of course a low-intervention European BTG and BTB program with rotating small plates. I just couldn't resist a chilled Cote de Rhone and gazpacho on a warm sunny afternoon!
Vagabound (Paddington - 6a Sheldon Square)

With a nine locations across the city, Vagabound has over 100 self-pour wines from all over the world for you to dive into. I visited the Sheldon Square location, which is conveniently behind Paddington Station right on the canal. Upon walking in you are greeted with unlimited options to choose from, all with their own description cards to ensure you're selecting the perfect wine. Their staff are also extremely friendly and knowledgeable and can help guide you in the right direction if needed. Their small/shared plates range from olives to charcuterie boards to fondue and change up seasonally.
Noble Rot (Mayfair - 5 Trebeck St, Shepherd Market)
One of three Noble Rot Restaurants throughout London (others in SOHO and Lambs Conduit), the Mayfair location is less than a 10-minute walk from Hyde Park and is the perfect spot to stop for a glass of wine, a quick nibble, or a multi-coursed meal. Their wine list was by far the most extensive and exciting, offering a great selection at every price point, as well as some unicorn bottles that I could only dream about ordering. This is also where I had the best beer tartare I have ever had in my entire life, and I still think about it daily! Their restaurants are truly an extension of their Noble Rot Magazine from the decor to the thought out food offerings to their curated wine list.
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