This summer has been a busy one so far — packed with cigar events — but I’ve finally had some time to share a spot I visited back in November 2022!

After exploring many of the cigar shops, sampling lounges and terraces across London, I’ve got a bit of a backlog, and there are still a few I haven’t gotten around to writing about yet. One place I couldn’t leave out is The Gods Rooftop Bar at the Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square.

This venue is fantastic because it stays open until 4 AM on Fridays and Saturdays! 🤯😄 It features an outdoor smoking terrace and offers the chance to sample a cigar. Whether you’ve missed the last train or just want to extend your night out, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Background

Celebrating 125 years of history, the London Hippodrome has been one of the city’s most iconic entertainment venues since it first opened in 1900. Designed by Frank Matcham for Moss Empires, it originally featured circus and variety shows, complete with a water tank for spectacular aquatic performances. In 1909, it was transformed into a theatre, hosting legendary acts including the first UK jazz concert in 1919, the English premiere of Swan Lake, and performances by stars like Julie Andrews and Ivor Novello.

In 1958, it became The Talk of the Town, a famous nightclub where legends like Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, and Stevie Wonder performed. The building later went through several changes, including time as a nightclub and cabaret theatre. In 2012, after a £40 million restoration, it reopened as the Hippodrome Casino, blending Matcham’s historic design with modern entertainment. Now home to gaming, restaurants, bars, and live shows like Magic Mike Live, the Hippodrome remains a vibrant symbol of London’s entertainment scene, continuing its legacy into a second century.

What to expect

Hidden above the busy tourist area around Leicester Square, The Gods Rooftop Bar is spread over three floors, each with its own style.

There’s a relaxed open-air terrace (where you can smoke cigars), a stylish cocktail lounge, and a lively late-night bar — all serving great drinks.

The top terrace is covered and heated, so it’s comfortable all year round (even in the chilly November when I visited). It’s surrounded by plants and feels like a quiet oasis in the middle of the capital.

You can book a table on the terrace, while the two floors below are for walk-in guests.

My experience

I first visited on a quiet weekday evening in town.

Getting to the venue couldn’t be easier — it’s right in the heart of Leicester Square, one of London’s most iconic tourist hotspots and the home of major film premieres. The closest tube station is Leicester Square on the Piccadilly Line, but it’s also just a short walk from both Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross stations, making it easily accessible by tube or bus.

I had made a reservation at the time, but when I turned up, the place was fairly empty—which I didn’t mind. I’m always a bit self-conscious about filling the air with cigar smoke, especially when it’s not inside a dedicated cigar sampling lounge.

I ordered a drink through the table service — I figured it was only right if I was going to use their terrace — and decided to try one of the cigars from their menu.

While they didn’t have every cigar listed available, it was still great to browse and choose one to unwind with.

I smoked a Bolivar Belicosos Finos and it was an enjoyable cigar!

A few notes:

• There’s a smart casual dress code.
• Bring valid ID, no matter your age—the security here is pretty strict, they literally ask everyone for ID.
• Don’t expect cigar sommeliers; it’s more of a bar vibe.
• I’m not 100% sure if you can bring your own cigars or cigarettes, but since it’s a designated smoking area, I’d guess that it’s okay.

There’s plenty more to discover inside the Hippodrome itself — from award-winning restaurants and lively bars to a full casino floor with slots, poker, and classic table games like blackjack and roulette. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, it’s still well worth a wander. The venue also houses a cabaret theatre, hosting regular live performances ranging from burlesque to comedy and magic shows. The building has a unique charm, and stepping inside feels like uncovering one of London’s hidden gems — a place everyone should experience at least once.

This is a great spot to bring friends who are new to cigars — it’s low-key, unpretentious, and offers a relaxed setting to enjoy one casually with a drink in hand. It’s ideal for a pre- or post-evening cigar during a night out. Fridays and Saturdays tend to be busier, so if you prefer a quieter vibe like I do, the midweek evenings are a better bet.

You’ll find the Hippodrome Casino London at:

Cranbourn Street
London
WC2H 7JH

View on Google Maps

Telephone: 020 7769 8888

Want to secure your spot?
You can reserve a table directly on their website (see bottom half of page).

For more info:
Email | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X

If you like this review, check out my other reviews of cigar shops, sampling lounges and terraces.