If you ask anyone where to go for a drink in Lancaster, chances are they’ll point you straight to the city’s famous bars. With their ornate interiors, historic features, and unique character, the city’s watering holes feel like they could have sprung from the pages of a novel. Add in some excellent local beer and fantastic cocktails available on almost every corner, and it’s easy to see why so many love drinking in Lancaster. There are plenty of different bars to choose from when you want to head out for drinks in Lancaster each one as unique as the next. If you’re looking for somewhere special to spend an evening sipping something special with friends, here are some of our favorite places to get drinks in Lancaster.
1. The Basement Bar
The Basement Bar is one of the most atmospheric drinking spots in Lancaster. Down in the cellar of the Mayor’s Parlour Hotel, this bar is comfortable and welcoming, yet has a real sense of grandeur. The dimly lit space is decorated with old-fashioned wallpaper and illuminated by vintage chandeliers. The extensive drinks menu features a range of cocktails, spirits, and wines. If you’re hungry, you can sample some of the bar’s tasty bar snacks, or go all out with a full three-course meal. The Basement Bar is a lively place to spend a night out with friends – you can catch live bands here, or come for special events like the popular Murder Mystery nights. It’s also a great spot for a date – the low lighting and intimate feel make it a romantic spot.
2. The Last Drop
The Last Drop is one of the most famous bars in Lancaster. This historic watering hole has been serving drinks since 1879, making it the longest-running bar in the city. Over the years, the bar has changed hands a few times, but there’s no mistaking the unique feel of the place. The walls are decorated with Victorian-era wallpapers and fabrics, and the ornate bar is made from dark wood. Bars this old often have an air of exclusivity about them – but The Last Drop is as friendly as it is atmospheric. The staff is welcoming, and the drinks menu is varied enough to suit both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. To get the most out of your trip to The Last Drop, you need to order one of the bar’s famous cocktails – the signature Last Drop cocktail is a must-try. Even if you don’t love the cocktails, it’s worth coming here just to experience the bar’s unique character. The Last Drop really is one of Lancaster’s must-visit bars.
3. Walkers Bar & Restaurant
Walkers Bar & Restaurant is one of Lancaster’s most historic bars. Located in an old Victorian-era building, this bar feels like you’ve stepped back in time. The walls are adorned with vintage posters, and the bar is decorated with beautiful wooden cabinets. While the interior of the bar is lovely, what really makes Walker’s stand out is the food. This is a great place to come for a meal out with friends, as the menu is varied, yet reasonably priced. To enjoy a drink in Walkers, try one of the bar’s unique cocktails. There are some great seasonal specials, or you can go for one of the classic cocktails. The bar also has a fantastic selection of local beers available by the pint.
4. Frankie’s by the Sea
If you want to experience the laid-back atmosphere of an island bar, head to Frankie’s by the Sea. This bar is themed around Hawaiian culture and is famous for its laid-back, beach-bar vibe. The walls are decorated with bamboo and Hawaiian-themed art, while the bar features a range of tropical cocktails. If you’re hungry, you can order some tasty bar snacks the bar is famous for its nachos. Frankie’s is a great place to come with friends or to spend a date night sipping cocktails under the palm trees. With a tropical soundtrack playing in the background, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many love Frankie’s by the Sea.
5. The Oxford Hotel – The Library & The Drawing Room
If you’re looking for something a bit different, head to The Oxford Hotel for drinks in Lancaster. This hotel is home to two unique bars – The Library and The Drawing Room. Both bars have a relaxed, elegant feel to them, and are the perfect place to sip a cocktail on a date or spend an evening with friends. The Library is the more formal of the two bars. The Library is a bit of an old-fashioned place, with dark wood paneling, leather furniture, and an old-fashioned bar. The Drawing Room, on the other hand, is a more modern bar with lots of natural light. Whichever bar you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.
6. Rock-a-Hula
Rock-a-Hula is one of the most iconic bars in Lancaster. This nautical-themed bar is a great place to come with friends or to take your date for a drink by the sea. The bar is decorated with fishing nets, anchors, and other nautical decorations, while the seafront location is the perfect place to sit with a cocktail and watch the waves. Rock-a-Hula has an extensive drinks menu that features a large selection of cocktails, spirits, and local beers and ciders. If you’re hungry, you can also order a range of bar snacks – the fish and chips are a popular choice. Rock-a-Hula is a lively place and is especially busy on weekend evenings. Come here for a lively atmosphere, and the chance to try some of the bar’s unique cocktails.
7. St Helens Bar and Kitchen
St Helens Bar and Kitchen is a great place to spend a night out drinking in Lancaster. This trendy bar is located in the city’s Fishergate Quarter and has a lively, urban feel to it. The bar features a selection of different cocktails and a menu of modern British food that’s sure to satisfy. If you’re feeling peckish, the bar has a great selection of bar snacks, too. St Helens is a great place to come with friends, as it’s lively, but not too loud. The bar also has a relaxed, casual vibe that makes it a great place to come for a date. There’s a fantastic range of cocktails on offer, as well as a selection of wines and beers.
Final Words
Lancaster is the perfect place to enjoy some drinks with friends or to spend a date night sipping cocktails under the stars. The city’s historic bars have a unique character that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you prefer something traditional and elegant, or you’d prefer to relax in a nautical-themed bar by the sea, there’s a bar in Lancaster that’s perfect for you.
