Schofield’s Bar will open its first London location in Covent Garden in November 2026.
The Manchester original was named the UK’s number one cocktail bar in 2024.
The drinks menu will focus on classic cocktails, alongside snacks, cheese and charcuterie.
The Manchester favourite, ranked among the UK’s top 10 cocktail bars, will make its London debut this autumn.
London’s cocktail scene is already home to some of the biggest names in the business, but another acclaimed bar is preparing to join the capital. Schofield’s Bar, one of Manchester’s leading drinking destinations, will open its first London outpost in Covent Garden this autumn.
Founded by brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, the original Manchester venue has built an impressive reputation since opening in 2021. Schofield’s currently sits inside the top 10 of the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars, having claimed the number one position in 2024. Its international credentials are equally strong, with the bar reaching No.59 on The World’s 50 Best Bars extended ranking in 2022.
For the Schofield brothers, London also represents familiar territory. Both have previously worked behind the bar in the capital, with their careers including time at notable venues such as Coupette and The American Bar at The Savoy. Their return will see them take Schofield’s into a city with one of the world’s most competitive cocktail scenes.
The new bar will occupy 1A Earlham Street in Covent Garden, taking over the former Chick ’n’ Sours site close to Seven Dials. The lower-ground-floor location offers plenty of room for the brothers to establish their signature approach, although full details of the interiors have yet to be revealed.
The Manchester original offers a clue to what could be in store. Located inside the Art Deco Sunlight House, Schofield’s pays tribute to the golden age of cocktail culture and the grand drinking establishments of the 1930s. Dark interiors, leather seating and a focus on classic hospitality create the setting for a drinks list that puts familiar cocktails front and centre.
Rather than chasing novelty, the menu is known for considered interpretations of established favourites. Menus have featured drinks such as the Penicillin, Hawaiian Stone Sour, Negroni, Manhattan and Martini, alongside original creations. Around 90 per cent of the Manchester drinks selection has reportedly been earmarked for London, giving regulars a taste of the bar that made the brothers’ name.
Food will play a supporting role, with snacks, cheese and charcuterie accompanying the cocktails rather than competing for attention.
Schofield’s Bar London is currently scheduled to open in November 2026. With one of Manchester’s most decorated cocktail teams heading south, Covent Garden is about to gain another serious destination for drinks.
Where: Schofield’s Bar, 1A Earlham Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9LL
When: Opening November 2026
Contact: www.schofieldsbar.com