From the bustle of the high street to the quiet corners around the Common, Clapham has long been one of South London’s liveliest after-dark destinations. This is a neighbourhood where neon-lit basements sit alongside tucked-away wine bars, and where the options for a social drink – whether loud or low-key – are as varied as the crowd. Part of Clapham’s growing appeal lies in its distance from the chaos of central London. For locals and in-the-know Londoners alike, it offers a more relaxed (but no less energetic) alternative to the tourist-packed streets of Soho or Covent Garden. Whether you're after cocktails, craft beers, or a glass of something crisp in a quirky converted Victorian lavatory, these are some of the area’s firmest favourites for a night out in South London.
Venn Street Records
A cornerstone of Clapham’s music and nightlife scene, Venn Street Records is as much a love letter to music as it is to London’s heyday as the capital of rock ’n’ roll. From the long, industrial-style bar to the tucked-away booths on the fringe of the dancefloor, it pulses with the sound of classic hits from across the decades, cultivating an old-school vibe that’s a world away from the polish of central London.
The drinks list leans into this grungier edge – steering clear of the fussy cocktails found in Soho or Covent Garden and sticking instead to well-loved classics and house creations that suit the mood. A short-but-sharp pizza menu keeps things simple, offering up fuel for the night ahead. With its no-frills charm and unapologetic volume, Venn Street Records has earned its reputation as a Clapham favourite – a place where the music is played loud and proud until late.
Simmons Bar Clapham
In contrast to Venn Street Records, Simmons has built a name across London for its retro-tinged interiors and irreverent cocktail menus – and the Clapham branch is no exception. Step inside and you’ll find patterned wallpaper, disco balls scattering multicoloured light, and mismatched furniture that feels delightfully eclectic, with just the right amount of kitsch.
Happy hour here is more of a marathon than a sprint, stretching across five hours daily and serving up two-for-one cocktails until the heart is content. Drinks are short and sweet – quite literally – favouring punchy, neon-hued concoctions over fussy pours padded with garnish and ice. Whether you’re starting a raucous night out or parking up with a group of friends for the evening, Simmons delivers easy drinks and loud fun without the need for a plan.
WC Wine & Charcuterie
Easily one of Clapham’s most unique venues, WC occupies a converted Victorian public lavatory beneath Clapham Common station. Much of the original tiling and layout remain intact, giving the space a moody, historic character that feels more chic than gimmicky. With soft lighting and intimate proportions, this small subterranean space fills up quickly – particularly on weeknights, when commuters descend for wine and charcuterie in a setting that feels like a well-kept secret.
The wine list is tightly curated, with a rotating cast of bottles and vintages that encourages repeat visits – though crowd favourites tend to return by popular demand. Charcuterie and cheeses arrive on rustic wooden boards that contrast beautifully with the industrial backdrop. WC is a timely reminder that when it comes to a night out in Clapham, size isn’t everything – and sometimes, the best nights are found in the smallest corners.
No 32 The Old Town
Tucked just off the common in a quieter pocket of Clapham, No 32 has a more laid-back, neighbourly feel than many of its high street counterparts. The interiors strike a refined balance – warm woods, ambient lighting, and harlequin floors – but the real draw here is the rooftop terrace. A rare find in this part of London, it offers a true escape from the post-sunset buzz below. While the setting alone is reason enough to stop by for a drink, the well-executed cocktail and wine list seals its reputation as a local favourite. There’s also a full food menu for those who stay longer, with British-inspired dishes that champion seasonal produce – including wonky fruit and veg, offering a welcome nod to sustainability without compromising on flavour.
The Perky Nel
A cheerful all-rounder on the south side of the Common, The Perky Nel blends the ease of a dog-friendly neighbourhood pub with the energy of a sports bar. Inside, the space is light and open-plan by day, cosying up in the colder months with parquet floors, deep leather booths, and a lived-in warmth that draws locals year-round.
This is one of the better bars in Clapham for beer lovers, with a solid lineup of craft brews and guest cask ales. That reputation is especially clear on match days, when the big screens draw in fans for everything from football and rugby to cricket and Formula One. With no major Premier League allegiances to contend with, the crowd tends to feel more easygoing – making it one of the friendlier places in South London to settle in and watch a game.
The Little Orange Door
One of Clapham’s most distinctive venues, The Little Orange Door is a late-night cocktail bar styled to feel like a friend’s flat – complete with cosy nooks, mismatched furniture, pop artwork, and corners made for catch-ups. Bright pops of orange, teal, and pastel set the tone, giving the space a cheerful, bohemian feel that’s helped cement its reputation as a local favourite.
The cocktail list is playful and pop-culture-savvy, with house party references and tongue-in-cheek names scattered throughout the menu. The entire “flat” is also available for private hire, making it a popular pick for birthdays and group takeovers. Fun, informal, and always full of life, The Little Orange Door is an easy choice for those looking to swap the city centre for a more relaxed night out.
