If you hadn’t clocked already, London is massive! So before you even think about heading there for a big night out, you need to know where the party’s at.

Luckily Groupia, the UK’s party experts, have compiled the ultimate list of London nightlife, so you’ll know exactly where to head next time you’re hitting up the capital.

7. Greenwich

Where: South-East London

££

Great pubs with belting beer gardens, cracking cocktail bars, plus a handful of bouncing nightclubs, you’ll be guaranteed a mean time if you partying in the bustling district of Greenwich.

6. Mayfair

Where: Central London

£££

Mayfair is a more upper-class affair with posh nosh and exclusive bars where opulence reigns supreme – it’s the crème de la crème on the monopoly board for a reason!

5. Brixton

Where: South London

££

Brixton nightlife is a mashup of all styles where you’ll find rustic old boozers side-by-side with fancy eateries, alternative bars and big old nightclubs. It’s also home to the O2 Academy for those colossal nights out.

4. Camden

Where: North London

££

Famed for its market and its bohemian laid-back lifestyle, Camden is home to a sublime array of live music venues, dive bars and alternative boozers for you to enjoy.

3. Kensington and Chelsea

Where: West London

£££

Classy and sophisticated, albeit slightly on the pricey side, both Kensington and Chelsea are upmarket places to party, as well as a fantastic spot for a few quiet drinks.

2. Shoreditch

Where: The East End/Central

££

Bringing the noise, party and passion, Shoreditch is a great place to lose yourselves for an evening with plenty on offer to suit all tastes and styles.

1. Soho

Where: The West End

££

Soho is a cool, compact and energetic area that spans a small area of a mile-squared. Though it’s small, it’s seriously mighty, and you won’t be short of outstanding places to party.

Heading to London for a Big Celebration?

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The post RANKED: The Best Nights Out in London appeared first on Party On.

1. Make Gin

Boss the botanicals and master the art of gin creation as you try your hand at crafting your own artisanal gin concoctions.

Seriously, is there a better skill to learn during Lockdown? We certainly can’t think of any better. Get yourself the Ultimate Gin Maker’s Kit here.

2. Have an Indoor BBQ

Yes, the nights may be drawing in and the weather has dipped to double socks and extra layer(s) territory, but you can still fire up the BBQ and enjoy a monstrous feast.

This smokeless indoor grill allows you to enjoy a sizzling barbeque all year round, summer or winter, rain or shine. Check out this epic Indoor BBQ Grill now.

3. Adult Lego

Who said Lego was just for kids?

Lego is a brain-stimulating puzzle (just three-dimensional and actually fun), and you can purchase some seriously cool building sets online like a Star Wars Stormtrooper, the Eiffel Tower or even James Bond’s Aston Martin.

4. Become a Photographer

Unleash your camera-snapping abilities and channel your inner creativity by capturing the world around you

Whether that’s restricted to arty shots about the house or on a leisurely, socially-distanced stroll, you’ll be able to capture life’s best moments like a pro. The Nixon D3500 is highly recommended for beginners.

5. Let’s… Play… Darts!

Hone your skills at the oche, so you can clear up when the boozers reopen. Yes, darts is a game of concentration, skill, guile, and it also happens to be loads of fun (bonus!).

A fantastic new hobby to venture into and, hey, when things go back to normal, you could even join your pub team! Grab your own darts set here.

6. Make Your Own Cheese

Host your own private cheese and wine night with cheese you’ve crafted yourself.

Simple instructions, delicious ingredients, incredibly relaxing – it’s brie-lliant fun (not sorry) and very rewarding when you get to dive on in and try some. Get yourself the Ultimate Cheese Making Kit now.

7. Get Fit

If you can’t go to the gym, you can bring the gym to you with various strengthening, aerobic and toning devices.

If you’re looking to boost your cardio, check out an aerobic stepper or fitness bike; looking to build some muscle, see these great resistance bands. Yes, no excuses now!

8. Retro Gaming

Transport yourselves back to the glory gaming years with some incredible retro devices. Classics remain classics for a reason (because they’re awesome!) and you’re bound to have fun reliving all your favourite games from days gone by.

Whether you were PS1, Mega Drive, whatever, you can pick one up and grab all your old favourites.

9. Learn Some Magic

OK, not on the Derren Brown scale of magic, but why not learn a few awesome card tricks, so you can bamboozle your mates when you meet up for a reunion after this all blows over.

Learn fifty of the best card tricks and get ready to baffle, befuddle and bewilder friends and family alike.

10. Learn Poker

Now don’t go using your newfound sleight of hand from all those card tricks (see above), but you could use the Lockdown time working out how to play the world’s greatest card game.

It’s one of those things everyone says they want to learn, but never get round to doing… well, just do it already! Grab a poker set here.

Beat the boredom blues with these 10 unique, alternative and awesome things to do in Lockdown and enjoy your time spent at home!

The post 10 Genuinely Awesome Things to Do in Lockdown appeared first on Party On.

Really looking forward to a delicious bottle of wine and then not being able to find the damn corkscrew.

Don’t fret, it’s not night over, there are a couple of ways of de-corking your vino without having to venture out to buy a new one.

Please Note: These methods aren’t completely guaranteed to prove successful, so you may want to think twice if it’s an expensive bottle of wine you wouldn’t risk wasting.

Here are five quick and easy ways to open a wine bottle without a corkscrew:

The Makeshift Corkscrew – Hammer, Screw, Screwdriver!

Possibly the most effective method of removing the cork, use a screwdriver to insert the screw down into the cork (long screws work best) and use the claw of the hammer to pull the cork up and out.

Pliers instead of a claw hammer work just as well.

The Inside Out – Push the Cork in with a Wooden Spoon

The wooden spoon seems the weapon of choice for people who have used this technique before, though any blunt object which will fit will suffice.

Simply hold the bottle and apply pressure to the top of the cork and it should pop through.

The Wall Whack – Pop it Loose Using a Wall

Wrap the bottom of the bottle with a tea towel and hit rhythmically against a wall.

The pressure inside the bottle should force the cork out of the top.

When the cork has protruded far enough, simply grab it and twist it out.

String Method- Pull it Out Using String

This is a fiddly one but can be very effective with a bit of persistence.

Tie a knot in a piece of string and then tilt the bottle and squeeze one side of the cork so as to allow the piece of string to slip in.

Once it is in let go of the cork so it reapplies pressure to the string.

You should then be able to pull the string and the knot will force the cork out.

The Key to Success – Use a Car Key or Serrated Knife to Twist it Free

Force your key or serrated knife into the cork and twist in a clockwise direction until it frees itself.

It’s best to do it at a slight angle (forty-five degrees), but be sure to get it in well enough otherwise the cork could fall apart.

How to Open a Bottle with Scissors

Open up the scissors and place each blade either side of the cap then lift until it releases.

How to Open a Bottle with Another Beer

Place the beer you’re looking to open on a hard surface hold with one hand.

Twist the other beer upside down and align the ridge of the cap underneath the ridge of the other cap and lift.

How to Open a Bottle with A4 Paper

Fold the A4 paper repeatedly until you have a thick sturdy wedge and then apply the same techniques as with the lighter.

The post Survival Skills: How to Open a Wine Bottle Without a Corkscrew appeared first on Party On.

It’s a warm day, you’ve cold some ice-cold beers.

You were just about to kick back and relax in the sun and crack one, and then BAM… not a bottle opener in sight.

Does life get any more frustrating?

Fear not, your day isn’t ruined just yet (and, no, you aren’t going have to drive out and buy one)!

Here’s a list of everyday items you can grab to unleash the magical liquid trapped inside your bottle.

How to Open a Bottle with a Lighter

Usually, someone in the vicinity will have a lighter handy.

Place the bottom of the lighter underneath the bottle cap and grab the neck of the bottle so that your index finger is pressing it tight against the top.

Use your other hand to push the opposite end of the lighter down and the cap should pop off.

How to Open a Bottle with a Key

Grip the top of the bottle tightly with one hand and slide the long side of the key underneath.

Twist the key clockwise and the cap should come off.

You may need to do this a couple of times to loosen it.

How to Open a Bottle with a Spoon

Depending on the spoon, you can use a similar technique as the lighter or, alternatively, if it’s relatively thin like a teaspoon you can lift the lid off by placing the tip of the spoon underneath the cap and lifting away to allow the air to get in.

How to Open a Bottle with a Belt Buckle

Remove the belt first!

Then, if the buckle is the right size and shape, you can place the cap on one edge and prise it off with the other by lifting.

Claim 8 free beers today!

How to Open a Bottle with the Edge of a Table

Place the edge of the cap at a slight angle to the table and then whack it off with the palm of your hand.

Ensure it won’t damage the surface, though!

How to Open a Bottle with Scissors

Open up the scissors and place each blade either side of the cap then lift until it releases.

How to Open a Bottle with Another Beer

Place the beer you’re looking to open on a hard surface hold with one hand.

Twist the other beer upside down and align the ridge of the cap underneath the ridge of the other cap and lift.

How to Open a Bottle with A4 Paper

Fold the A4 paper repeatedly until you have a thick sturdy wedge and then apply the same techniques as with the lighter.

Check out StagWeb’s drinking activities!

The post Survival Skills: How to Open a Bottle Without a Bottle Opener appeared first on Party On.

From brilliant bottles to crafted cocktails, there’s a vast array of weird and wonderful variations on offer, you’ve just got to find the one that suits you best.

So let’s step to it so you can enjoy all there is to love about this fine spirit with the finesse of an experienced connoisseur. 

How to Drink Whiskey – The Basics

Glassware

Straight off the bat, you’re going to want to source a proper whiskey tumbler (other glasses can be used for cocktails – see below).

You can’t go sipping this fine concoction out of a pint glass or a Sports Direct mug, it will ruin the experience entirely.

The Scent

Again, once you’ve sourced your tumbler and poured your whiskey, don’t just get it down the hatch.

Take time to appreciate its aroma; a huge part of the whiskey drinking experience is how it smells.

The Initial Sip

Allow the whiskey to coat your taste buds for a good few seconds before you let it smoothly glide down your gullet; the first sip of every drink is always the best.

How to Drink Whiskey – The Options

Straight (or Neat)

Whilst ice can elevate certain whiskies to new magnificent heights, you should always try it neat to get a sense of the specific whiskey at its natural best.

For any whiskey novices, straight or neat whiskey simply refers to whiskey served on its own: no ice, no mixer, just pure whiskey.

On the Rocks (With Ice)

On the rocks simply refers to whiskey poured over ice.

If you find whiskey neat too intense, enjoying it with a couple of cubes of ice nullifies its intensity and allows for a more subtle experience for your palate.

With Water

The idea of watering down your drinks seems unnatural to many, but it can make the whiskey more flavoursome by lowering the alcohol content so as your tongue can detect a greater range of flavours.

Doesn’t sound so bad now, does it?

Whiskey Cocktails

Whiskey is more versatile than you may think and can be combined with an extensive list of ingredients to craft incredible cocktails. Check out our Top Ten Whiskey Cocktails.

The post Survival Skills: How to Drink Whiskey Like A Seasoned Pro appeared first on Party On.

Yes, if you can’t go to Oktoberfest, Oktoberfest can come to you with the help of our handy guide which will run through all the elements you need to throw a bouncing Bavarian party.

Jump to:

• Drink
• Food
• Décor & Dress Code
• Music
• Games & Extras

Drink

Whilst Oktoberfest incorporates many elements, the main focus has and always will be the beer!

And while you can go to your local supermarket and stock up on the big German beer brands, for a more authentic experience, you should try and source beers from the six breweries that can officially produce beer for the festival in Munich.

The Breweries

• Augustiner-Bräu
• Hacker-Pschorr- Bräu
• Löwenbräu
• Paulaner
• Spatenbräu
• Staatliches Hofbräuhaus in Munich

Whilst you may not be able to source these from your corner shop, you may find them at a specialised beer shop or online.

Party On Tip – If you’re looking to keep costs down, you can either make sure your guests bring a few bottles of each or you could just stick to whatever is available to you cheaply.

Claim 8 free beers today!

Food

If your backyard Oktoberfest is going to be a solely boozy affair, or whether you’re going to go the whole hog and have a smorgasbord of German cuisine, you simply have to include a cornerstone of every Oktoberfest beer-fuelled festivals: Pretzels!

Pretzels (Brezen) are large, soft and salty – the dream snack to enjoy with a frothing pint of German beer and a cheap and easy way of giving your Oktoberfest that authentic feel.

Oktoberfest Bites

• Bratwursts or Currywursts
• Hendl (1/2 Roast Chicken)
• Sauerkraut
• Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel)
• German Potato Salad (Veggie Option)

Condiments 

• Mustard
• Curry Ketchup

Decorations & Dress Code

Decorations

Get the full beer hall experience by erecting a marquee and adorning it with the traditional blue and white Bavarian colours, and set up a table at one end with all your German beers and cuisine.

If you don’t have a marquee and don’t fancy splashing out for one, simple Oktoberfest table covers, bunting and streamers can really transform your outdoor space.

Dress Code

Lederhosen and dirndls (traditional German dress) spring to mind straight away, however, we understand not everyone has these lying about in their closets.

A simple solution, if you don’t have either, is a simple checked-shirt and suspenders combo.

Music

If you can’t afford to draft in an oompah band, there are many playlists knocking about with all your authentic Bavarian tunes to get the party started and keep it pumping.

Games

As well as a beer-drinking contest, there are plenty of other great games to play!

1. Stein Racing – Not only do you have to carry as many steins as you can at once, you’ve got to try and do it without spilling a drop of beer (water also works if you don’t want to waste beer!).
2. Stein Holding – Who can hold a stein the longest with their arm extended out in front of them?
3. Yodelling Competition – Get your yodel on!
4. Fancy Dress Competition – This will at least encourage guests to dress up if you incentivise them with a prize!

The post How to Host Your Own Backyard Oktoberfest Party appeared first on Party On.

There are plenty of things to do and see in the daytime, and plenty of pubs, bars, restaurants and clubs for your nighttime entertainment.

Being based in Bath ourselves, we know the city better than anyone and have discovered all of its hidden secrets which we’re going to generously share with you below (you can thank us later!).

Jump to:

• Sights
• Dining Out
• Drinks
• Nights Out

Sights – The Best Things to do in Bath

Royal Crescent

A short stroll from the top of town, the Royal Crescent is a great spot to saunter to for a bit of sightseeing and to snap some photos to splash over social media.

The Circus

En route to the Crescent, you can pass through the equally impressive Circus and marvel at its majestic curves.

Bath Abbey

Smack bang in the centre of the city, Bath Abbey is all sorts of impressive and makes for a great backdrop for that big squad selfie.

Pulteney Bridge

Round the back of the Abbey, you will find the resplendent Pulteney Bridge where you can gaze across the picturesque weir.

Roman Baths

Attracting a million-plus visitors annually, this is Bath heritage at its finest. Set in the centre of town, you can check out the thermal springs with Bath Abbey looming gloriously overhead.

Thermae Bath Spa

Time for a little indulgence! Head to the Thermae Spa for a pampering experience of a lifetime and take a dip in the open-air rooftop pool.

Rugby

Bath is one of the country’s premier rugby cities, so head to the Recreation Ground and watch some highly-tuned athletes battle it out.

Eating Out in Bath

Quick Bites

Bath has plenty of food stalls and sandwich shops dotted about the city if you’re looking to grab something on the go! Check out Chai Walla for some insanely delicious Indian Street Food.

Pub Grub

The Raven

Brilliant ales and an extensive list of incredible pies with a choice of different gravies.

The Garrick’s Head

Upmarket pub classics cooked to perfection. The fish and chips are truly sublime.

The Salamander

A Bath Ales pub with a great selection of drinks made by the local brewery, plus all your pub food favourites.

Claim 8 free beers today!

High End

The Ivy

Weekend brunches, a la carte, a fantastic cocktail menu, all in spectacular surroundings.

The Circus Restaurant

A fantastic independent eatery serving fresh seasonal food, complement by a brilliant wine list.

The Mint Room

Fine Indian dining using the best ingredients with spice inspired cocktails to go with each dish.

Drinks

As well as your chain bars and pubs, Bath boasts a great selection of independent bars and charming boozers you’re going to want to check out when you’re in this buzzing city.

Top Three Bars for a Cocktail

1. The Dark Horse – A chic, low-lit, underground cocktail joint with inventive concoctions and a mellow vibe.
2. Opium Bar – A vintage boutique-styled bar with quirky décor and fabulous drinks.
3. Sub 13 – Boasting a late-night subterranean club, a gin bar, a cocktail bar and a terrace, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Top Three Pubs in Bath

1. The Raven – A foodie favourite as we’ve mentioned, but it’s a great place to whittle away an afternoon or evening with a few pints or wines.
2. The Bath Brew House – With a small brewery on-site you can try some hyper-local beers in amongst a fun and friendly atmosphere.
3. The Pig & Fiddle – Attracting a vibrant crowd, The Pig & Fiddle is a great place to go if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere.

Nights Out

Komedia

Regularly hosting comedy events during the week, they put on an incredibly popular club night on Saturdays belting out Motown, soul, and funk classics.

Second Bridge

A nightclub with an exclusive VIP vibe, one of Bath’s leading clubs and always bustling at the weekend.

Sleight Bar

Cocktails and beers with some close-up magic: what’s not to love?

The post Series: Forty-Eight Hours Partying in… Bath appeared first on Party On.

Whilst some simpletons may think you just put it in your mouth and light the other end, you’re obviously more switched on and know there’s a little more to it than that.

So here’s a quick and easy guide which will teach you how to smoke a cigar like the sophisticated, refined character you were born to be.

How to Smoke a Cigar

Jump to:

• Choosing a Cigar
• Where to Smoke a Cigar
• Cutting a Cigar
• Toasting a Cigar
• Lighting a Cigar
• Smoking a Cigar

How to Choose a Cigar

If you’ve already sourced your cigar, feel free to skip this section, but if you’re looking for some guidance on just where to start on your cigar smoking adventure, you’re going to want to hang around for this bit.

The best advice to give is research, research, RESEARCH!

Everyone’s tastes are different, so make sure you research a variety of cigars to gauge what you think would suit you.

Party On Tip – Just because it’s expensive, it doesn’t mean it will result in a better first-time experience!

To start, you’re going to want to look for a mild cigar, nothing too overpowering – you can gradually build up to stronger varieties.

People often confuse mild with bland, but just because it’s a bit more subtle, it doesn’t mean it isn’t top drawer.

Mild curries are chocked full of flavour and, like with cigars, you wouldn’t order a vindaloo on your first outing, you’d build-up to it.

Where to Smoke a Cigar

Possibly not something you would have considered, but choosing the right environment to smoke your cigar is vital to the experience.

You simply can’t be rushed, distracted or tense otherwise it will sully the whole event.

Find a nice calm place, whether you prefer to unwind in silence or with a bit of music and a drink, kick back, follow the steps correctly, and enjoy!

How to Cut a Cigar

If you want the perfect cut, it may be worth investing in a bespoke cigar cutter, however, as it’s your first foray into the wonderful world of cigars, a sharp knife will suffice.

Be sure not to cut too far down, just the end will do (about an eighth of an inch), and ensure you do it in one swift motion so as it burns evenly.

How to Toast a Cigar

No, this doesn’t mean to toast as in with drinks.

Toasting the cigar is when you apply heat to the end to warm the tobacco and blow for an easier and even burn.

Simply hold your cigar at and angle and rotate above the head of the flame without actually touching the end of the cigar.

How to Light a Cigar

Using your lighter or matches, light then end of your cigar, puffing as you do so (don’t inhale).

Once you feel smoke in your mouth you know your cigar is lit.

Check the end to ensure it is burning evenly.

How to Smoke a Cigar

Now for the crescendo – actually smoking it!

First off the bat, you’re going to want to blow out and not in to allow the smoke that has built up inside the cigar to be released.

Once this is done, you can draw back on your cigar, allowing the smoke to enter your mouth – again, don’t inhale, simply blow out when you feel you’ve enjoyed the tastes.

Remember to take your time and enjoy it!

Party On Tip – Don’t tap the ash, let it fall off naturally. The ash prevents the cigar from over-heating and leaving a bitter taste.

The post Survival Skills: How to Smoke a Cigar appeared first on Party On.

London loves a rooftop alfresco boozing joint and it can be hard to know which one to head to, so we’ve scoured the city and comprised a list of our ten favourites.

Aviary – Finsbury Square

Kicking off our rundown in lavish style is a luxurious cocktail joint located on the 10^th floor of the rather upmarket Montcalm Royal London House. Soak up the sights of London’s spectacular skyline as you kick back with an expertly crafted cocktail and relax in the elegant ambience!

Royal London House, 10^th Floor Montcalm, 22-25 Finsbury Square

Website | Facebook

Bar Elba – Waterloo

Exuding a fabulous boho party vibe, Bar Elba in the heart of Waterloo is an unpretentious pick for people looking for an easygoing, welcoming and sociable atmosphere. From craft beers to creative cocktails, to deliciously dirty bites, it’s a little rooftop oasis in the centre of the capital!

Rooftop Mercury House, 109-117 Waterloo Road

Website | Facebook

Big Chill – Kings Cross

Big Chill in Kings Cross is the spawn of a music festival and has still kept its soul, culminating in a wonderfully chilled yet voraciously vibrant vibe. The rooftop terrace is ideal for brunching, boozing or simply basking in the summer sun and having a catch up with your closest pals.

257-259 Pentonville Road

Website | Facebook

Bussey Rooftop Bar – Peckham

Love, peace and great views is their mantra… and love, peace and great views is exactly what they deliver. Lovingly crafted drinks, a fun and peaceful atmosphere, and simply stunning views. What more can you ask for?

Roof B, Bussey Building, 133 Rye Lane

Website | Facebook

FEST Camden – Camden

Possibly London’s coolest district, Camden is quirky, alternative and hive of activity, and FEST embodies everything good and great about it. Enjoy the down to earth atmosphere and kick back with a cocktail and a delicious slice of pizza.

Horse Hospital Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, Camden

Website | Facebook

Frank’s Café – Peckham

Located on the rooftop of a multi-storey car park, Frank’s Café boasts some sensational views of the London skyline where you can grab an equally exquisite cocktail to enjoy as you watch the sun dip beyond the horizon.

Bold Tendencies, 7^th-10^th Floor Multi-Storey Car Park, 95A Rye Lane

Website | Facebook

Lost in Brixton

With a retractable roof to stave off the rain, this fabulous rooftop joint can be enjoyed in all weathers! Not only do they boast an expensive drinks menu, but you can also order food from some of Brixton’s best food traders direct to your table!

Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane

Website | Facebook

Radio Rooftop – Strand

With breathtaking views of some of London’s most iconic sights, including the Shard, St Paul’s, the Eye and Big Ben, this is the perfect place to come for a spot of sightseeing… because you can soak it all in with a cocktail in hand!

336-337 Strand

Website | Facebook

Roof East – Stratford

Roof East claim to be London’s best rooftop bar, and though it’s a big statement they’re certainly in the mix because they have it all: comfy deck chairs, film screenings, games (baseball batting cages, curling and crazy golf), plus a great food and drinks menu! See… Everything!

Floors 7 & 8, Stratford Multi-Storey Car Park, Great Eastern Way

Website | Facebook

Netil360

One of east London’s finest, Netil360 offers stunning panoramic views of the capital’s skyline from their fantastic rooftop garden. With chilled drinks and an even cooler atmosphere, it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

1 Westgate Street, Hackney, E8 3RL

Website | Facebook

The post For Sunny Days and Balmy Evenings: The 10 Best Rooftop Bars in London appeared first on Party On.