A retro inspiration is apparent in the decor of this small, late night basement bar: they say small barrels holds the best wine and, in this case, it is certainly true.

The Venue
A cheeky basement bar holding some interesting themed club nights, Bourne and Hollingsworth is designed to induce smiles as soon as you pass through the door. With the walls almost entirely covered in a rather old fashioned floral print - their trademark - the place is meant to resemble your grandmother’s living room whilst still being entertaining. The highlights are the Mary Poppins style lampshade, the grandma cups holding candles on each table, and the fireplace literally filled with empty Champagne bottles.

The venue is quite small, made of one single room with a small window bar, and it’s simply furnished with mix-and-match old wooden chairs and tables covered with white tablecloths coming straight from an antique market. The real highlight, however, is hidden out of sight. Through a secret door you reach the toilets, the old cellars once in use in this basement: make sure to pay a visit since the decor is stunning.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere is often as charged with humour as the venue itself. During quiet nights, Bourne and Hollingsworth is a cocktail bar, attracting mostly media types working in the area. The atmosphere remains casual and unpretentious. However, they also have club nights every now and then, gaining a reputation for themed nights with successful events like the Prohibition Party (with drinks served in tea cups or hidden in plant pots). Despite the diminutive size, gigs are also played here, attracting a younger and definitely funkier crowd.

The Drink
In accordance with their retro decor, Bourne and Hollingsworth has a distinct love for old-time spirits like gin and bourbon. Their drink selection is made up of a dozen regular cocktails priced at £6.50, including the interesting house mix Re-Bourne (gin, elderflower, lime and lemon juice), a few Champagne cocktails (£7.50), a good selection of mocktails, and shooters (£4). Within the latter, if you are up for a heavy dose, pick the Gonzo: bourbon, tequila and sambuca – ouch!

For the rest, the bar is small and does not provide a very extensive selection. However, the venue has one draught on offer: the Japanese favourite Asahi.

The Last Word
Bourne and Hollingsworth provides a different night out and is well worth a visit: the atmosphere and decor are more than enough to ensure you won’t experience a single moment of boredom.

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