Dating advice & tips5 minutes

Top Singles Bars for Over 40s in London

Abull, 7 December 2023
Top Singles Bars for Over 40s in London

Are you a Londoner over 40, single, and looking to mingle? Dating changes with each decade. The bars and pubs you frequented 10 years ago probably aren’t to your taste anymore. Now that you’re a bit more grown up, you may want to go where men and women your age hang out.

There are some great advantages to singles bars with a generational focus, and there are some excellent ones in London that you need to check out. Don’t worry if you’ve been out of the dating game for a while. Meeting people is easier than ever and we’ve got some excellent tips for breaking the ice in any London singles bar.

What are the advantages of singles bars for older adults?

When you’re in your 20s, you don’t mind getting crushed and deafened by the crowd at a party or on a night out. In a singles bar for the over 40s, you won’t experience any of that. You can dance or chat the evening away on any given Friday night with people from your generation.

Unique features of singles bars for the over 40s

Top singles bars in London for over 40s typically include some unique aspects and offer a more mature atmosphere than regular singles bars. Here are some of the most notable features you can expect from a singles bar worth its salt for people of your generation in London.

1. The range of social activities

A distinctive feature of bars for the over 40s is the range of events on offer. These days, a bar isn’t just about drinking. The space is used for everything from discussion nights and board games to classes, workshops, and even outdoor street events.

2. Casual socialising

Bars for the over-40s tend to focus on the fun side of socialising. Cocktail menus with unique flavours are often on offer as well as live music, genre-specific DJ sets, and other ways to keep things casual and interesting.

3. Themed nights

Themed nights are really popular right now. They are a common feature of the singles bar scene for the over 40s in London. They offer an exciting and incredibly easy way for people to break the ice.

4. Relaxed atmosphere

Dress codes are low-key or non-existent and this helps to create a more relaxed atmosphere. New visitors feel more welcome and nobody feels intimidated.

Top singles bars for over 40s in London right now

Here are our top picks right now.

1. The Four O Nine

At this Soho bar, you’ll find a lively atmosphere and a good selection of craft beers on tap. It has a retro-inspired vibe and a great selection of music.

2. Look Mum No Hands

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated atmosphere, then Look Mum No Hands is the bar for you. Located in East London, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with great beer. It even includes a vintage bike shop.

3. The Island Queen

Over to Islington now where the Island Queen offers a wide selection of drinks, from classic cocktails to craft beers and ales. It also has a fun and varied food menu. You don’t need a ticket, just bring yourself along!

4. The Coburg Bar

The Coburg Bar at The Connaught Hotel is a pretty special option. With an extensive cocktail menu and a stunning setting, it’s the perfect spot for over-40s to mingle and chill.

5. The Skybar

For something unique and quintessentially ‘London’, head over to the Skybar at the Tate Modern. It’s one of the best places in the city to enjoy a drink while you take in the beautiful views.

How to meet someone at a singles bar

Breaking the ice with a stranger at a singles bar can be daunting, especially if you’re a little out of practice. Here are a few practical tips to get you started.

  • Pick a great spot

Choose the right venue. Whether you’re a fan of a good pub atmosphere, or you prefer live music, there’s a place for you. Research your local area, ask friends and family, or search online for the best bars in your neighbourhood.

  • Take your time

Once you’re there, take a few moments to look around and spot the other single people. Smile and make eye contact. Maybe someone is checking you out too—you won’t be the only one looking to meet new people in a singles bar.

  • Move around a little

If someone looks interesting, approach them and ask a question or just introduce yourself. You can even join in on a conversation that’s already started. Even if the other person isn’t interested, you can still make some new friends.

  • Don’t limit yourself

After making a connection, consider suggesting leaving to grab a bite or to go somewhere else. If you’re asked to go for a drink, remember to use all the common sense safety tips for dating.

  • Last but not least

Have fun! Keep the mood light. This does not have to be stressful. Put yourself out there and enjoy the process.

Key points

There’s no one place that’s perfect for everyone. If you check out some of the places on our list, you’re off to a good start.
The dating scene has changed dramatically since dating sites and apps took off in such a big way in the last decade. There are great singles bars for over 40s in London, and all you need to do is find yours! As the saying goes, better late than never!
There are a lot of them in London and there's sure to be one for you if you take the time to look.
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