The Escapologist is a popular bar and social venue known for its themed atmosphere, creative cocktails, and latenight buzz, making it a goto destination for London locals and visitors alike. Part Victorian secret society and part contemporary cocktail bar, this establishment’s opening times play a big role in planning a night out, a casual drink after work, or even weekend gatherings with friends. Understanding the opening hours of The Escapologist helps anyone looking to visit know when they can enjoy the full experience – from relaxed afternoon drinks to late evening celebrations in the heart of Covent Garden.
Overview of The Escapologist Bar
Located in Covent Garden, central London, is set in a basement space filled with wood panelling, quirky décor, and an immersive feel that blends a vintage secret club vibe with modern bar culture. Known for an extensive cocktail menu that ranges from classic favourites to imaginative signature drinks, The Escapologist offers visitors an experience that goes beyond a typical bar setting. Its environment makes it popular for afterwork drinks, weekend meetups, celebrations, and even bottomless brunch events that draw crowds throughout the year.
Regular Opening Times
The opening times at The Escapologist are structured to accommodate both early and late visitors, with variations between weekdays and weekends. As of the most recent information, these are the standard opening hours, though visitors should always check local postings or contact directly for any eventspecific changes
- Monday400 PM – 1200 AM
- Tuesday400 PM – 1200 AM
- Wednesday400 PM – 1200 AM
- Thursday400 PM – 1200 AM
- Friday400 PM – 1200 AM
- Saturday100 PM – 1200 AM
- SundayUsually closes earlier, with times around 300 PM – 1100 PM
These opening hours reflect a typical week where the bar transitions from lateafternoon drinks during the workweek to more flexible and earlier availability on weekends. Sunday can vary slightly, with openings starting midafternoon and closing earlier than other days.
Weekday Visits
During weekdays, The Escapologist usually opens in the late afternoon, around 400 PM, and stays open until midnight. This makes it ideal for stopping by after work or making plans for evening socialising. Whether you’re heading out for a relaxed drink on a Monday or planning a Friday evening meetup with colleagues or friends, the bar’s opening times allow for a range of postwork plans without feeling rushed.
Weekend Hours
Weekends feature more flexible opening times, with Saturdays often starting earlier in the afternoon, around 100 PM, to welcome both lunchtime socialisers and evening crowds. Sunday hours can differ, but later afternoon openings around 300 PM give visitors a chance to enjoy a leisurely endofweekend drink in a lively setting.
Special Events and Extended Hours
The Escapologist often hosts special events, themed nights, or extendedhours offerings, especially during busy periods like holidays or cultural celebrations in London. These events can extend opening hours into the early morning or adjust times for specific bookings. Some examples may include
- Latenight weekend parties that continue past midnight.
- Holiday season openings with special entertainment or gatherings.
- Bottomless brunch sessions that start earlier in the day.
- Private event bookings where the venue opens specifically for a group.
Because these variations depend on event schedules or seasonal promotions, it’s often best to check with the bar directly if planning a visit during a public holiday or special event night.
Planning Your Visit
Understanding the opening times of The Escapologist helps visitors plan their night with greater confidence. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience
Best Times to Go
- Arrive midafternoon on weekends if you want a relaxed atmosphere before the evening rush.
- Visit on weekday evenings after 600 PM for postwork drinks with friends or colleagues.
- Book in advance for special events or reservations, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
The early evening hours can be quieter and ideal for conversation, while later hours often bring a more energetic crowd and lively social scene. Planning ahead ensures you’ll find a good table and make the most of the bar’s distinctive environment without waiting in queues.
Understanding the Atmosphere
The opening times also reflect the type of experience you can expect at different hours. In early evening, The Escapologist tends to be more relaxed, offering visitors a chance to enjoy expertly mixed cocktails and conversation. As the night progresses, the atmosphere can become livelier, with groups gathering for celebrations, socialising, and exploring the themed interior – a mix of Victorian inspired décor and modern bar elements that make it stand out among other Covent Garden venues.
Happy Hour and Deals
Many bars, including The Escapologist, offer happy hour deals during early evening hours to attract afterwork crowds. While specific promotions can change, happy hour offers often occur between 600 PM and 800 PM, making these prime times to sample creative cocktails at a reduced price. These deals usually align with the opening times on weekdays, giving visitors a chance to enjoy drinks and social time at a lower cost.
Accessibility and Practical Information
The Escapologist’s central location in Covent Garden means it’s easily accessible by public transport and within walking distance of many West End theatres, shops, and restaurants. Its opening times are designed to complement the vibrant entertainment district, allowing visitors to enjoy a full evening of activities – from dinner to drinks and more – without worrying about early closures.
Tips for FirstTime Visitors
- Check the specific day’s opening time before you go, especially on Sundays, as times can vary slightly.
- Arrive earlier on weekends if you want to avoid the busiest periods after 700 PM.
- Consider making a reservation if you plan to visit with a group, as popular times can book up fast.
The Escapologist’s opening times offer flexibility for a range of outings, from casual weekday drinks to lively weekend celebrations. With standard openings in the late afternoon and evening during weekdays and earlier starts on weekends, the venue accommodates different social needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a relaxed cocktail after work or heading out with friends for a weekend night out, knowing when The Escapologist is open helps you make the most of your visit to one of Covent Garden’s most talkedabout cocktail bars. With its unique atmosphere, creative drinks, and prime central location, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy London’s vibrant nightlife scene.