One of London's most prominent alcohol-free bars has announced it will be shutting its physical doors later this month. The Club Soda Tasting Room, a pioneering non-alcoholic bar and bottle shop on Drury Lane in Covent Garden, is set to close on January 25, 2026.
The End of an Era for a Mindful Drinking Pioneer
Founded by entrepreneur Laura Willoughby, the venue first opened at the end of 2022 as London's sole dedicated non-alcoholic tasting room. It quickly became a cornerstone for the mindful drinking movement, offering a sophisticated, booze-free alternative in the heart of the capital's entertainment district. The closure news was shared via an Instagram post, which cited the end of the lease and necessary building repairs by the landlord as the primary reasons.
Last Orders and Future Plans
Patrons will have until the tail end of Dry January to visit the bar for a final round of its curated non-alcoholic beverages. The establishment stocked an extensive range of adult alternatives, including non-alcoholic beers and spirits, low and no-alcohol wines, CBD-infused drinks, and premium soft drinks. Importantly, the closure is not the end for the business. Club Soda has confirmed it is actively searching for a new London location to reopen the Tasting Room concept. In the meantime, its full product range will remain available for purchase through the Club Soda online shop.
What This Means for London's Sober-Curious Scene
The shutdown of a flagship venue like the Club Soda Tasting Room highlights the ongoing challenges faced by dedicated alcohol-free spaces, even as demand for mindful drinking options grows. Its planned relocation, however, signals a continued commitment to providing a physical hub for the community. The move underscores a dynamic shift in London's nightlife and retail landscape, where the demand for quality non-alcoholic experiences is becoming increasingly mainstream.
While the bricks-and-mortar site prepares to close, the brand's digital presence and future plans ensure that the conversation around mindful drinking in the UK will continue to evolve and expand.
