Ever wished you could drink to the sound of trains racing along the tracks above you? No me neither, but if you’re looking for somewhere quintessentially quirky then head to The Archduke, as this bar houses itself beneath converted railway arches. Truth be told, the train noise is negligible: the vibrant vocals from the live band and cacophony of late night chatter permeates to the extent that you could almost confuse the railway rumbles with your stomach churning. With its colonial style wicker furniture, rich foliage, and ornate ceiling fans, there’s an Italian Trattoria feel about the place, but head to the bomb-shelter esque ‘reserved area’ and the curved brick walled ceilings cave in and transport you to wartime London. Perfect for drinks with friends, even better for a clandestine rendez-vous (no one would ever find you in between all the greenery), this place takes train spotting to a new level.
Concert Hall Approach, South Bank, SE1 8XU Tel: 020 7928 9370