Hire Scarfes Bar, Rosewood London (WC1V 7EN)

Scarfes Bar, inspired by the atmosphere of a drawing room and the sophistication of a gentleman’s club, features a roaring fire, a collection of cosy velvet armchairs and shelves filled with over 1,000 antique books hand-picked by a Portobello antique dealer. A creative menu of cocktails and complimentary live music six nights a week all add to the conviviality and certainly give true meaning to the phrase ‘get scarfed’ at Gerald’s eponymous bar where potions and paintings meet.

The bartenders are true connoisseurs of their craft from advising on beers and matching wines to preparing specially-curated cocktails, some of which are poured from a stunning silver urn that takes centre stage on the long wooden bar. With over 200 single malts and a rare specialisation in sloe gin, including the hotel’s own label of the supremely British spirit, Scarfes Bar is a must-visit in the heart of Holborn.