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Simmons
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
kitschcosyfriendly
About the Vibe
Tucked right opposite Koko and a stone's throw from Mornington Crescent tube, Simmons Camden is your go-to for pre-club drinks that don't feel like an afterthought. The vibe's kitsch and cosy—think skull mirrorballs and warm lighting that makes you feel like you're crashing at a mate's place rather than hitting a chain bar. Happy hour runs five solid hours most days, so you can sip £2.50 spirits and £3 wines without breaking the bank before heading to the big venues nearby.
Known For
- •five-hour happy hour
- •cocktail teapots
- •skull mirrorball decor
- •pre-Koko drinks
Best For
pre-club drinksgroup gatheringscasual evenings
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 9, 2026
Solid pre-club spot with genuine value
Simmons Camden hits that sweet spot between a proper neighbourhood bar and a pre-club stop. The location is unbeatable—right opposite Koko and a quick walk from Mornington Crescent tube—making it the natural first port of call for anyone hitting Camden's nightlife. The interior has that kitsch charm locals appreciate: warm lighting, a skull mirrorball that's somehow both tacky and cool, and a layout that doesn't feel like you're fighting through a crowd to get to the bar.
Happy hour is the real star here, running from 4pm to 9pm Sunday through Friday with genuinely decent prices. You're looking at £2.50 for a spirit and mixer, £3 for a glass of wine, and £15 for a cocktail teapot that feeds two people. The cocktails are surprisingly good for the price point, and the staff actually seem to enjoy what they're doing. It's not fancy, but it's honest value in a neighbourhood where you can easily get ripped off.
The crowd's a mix of locals, students, and people killing time before Koko or other venues. It's loud enough to be fun but not so chaotic that you can't have a conversation. If you're looking for somewhere authentic to Camden that doesn't try too hard, this is it. Just don't expect white-tablecloth service—this is a proper bar, not a cocktail temple.