Waxy O'Connor's - Soho - Pub Reviews

Waxy O'Connor's is a distinctive Irish pub nestled in the heart of Soho, London, renowned for its labyrinthine interior and lively atmosphere. Located at 14-16 Rupert Street (W1D 6DD) – just a few minutes' walk from Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square – this pub has earned a solid reputation (around a ★★★★☆ 4.0 rating) among both locals and tourists. With its multi-level layout, rich wooden decor, and a claim to some of the best Guinness in Soho, Waxy O’Connor’s offers a pub experience unlike any other in the city. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore what makes Waxy O'Connor's a must-visit Irish pub in Soho, from its unique atmosphere and offerings to practical tips for visitors.

Overview and Atmosphere

Stepping into Waxy O’Connor’s is like entering another world. The pub spans four interconnected bars spread across six levels, linked by a maze of staircases and passages. This unusual design creates an exploratory experience for patrons – “a labyrinth where you want to stick around to be sure to see all the details”. In fact, one reviewer described walking into Waxy’s as “like stepping into a Catholic-church-turned-Diagon-Alley shop straight out of Harry Potter”, alluding to the pub’s dramatic and whimsical character.

Interior decor: The moment you walk in, you might feel as if you've entered a traditional church or a fantasy set. Ornate carved wood panels, stone walls, stained-glass windows, and even church pew-style seating lend a quasi-gothic charm. The dim lighting and winding nooks contribute to a cosy, cavern-like feel. At the heart of the pub stands the famous Waxy’s Tree, an actual preserved beech tree trunk with branches stretching through the different levels. This 250-year-old Irish tree installation is a centrepiece that captures the imagination and reinforces the pub’s organic, folk character. Every corner of Waxy’s reveals another surprise – from tiny rooms and snug alcoves to unexpected balconies overlooking the bars. The design invites you to wander and explore; many first-time visitors find themselves roaming through narrow corridors and staircases before even ordering a drink.

Ambiance: Thanks to its unique layout and decor, Waxy O’Connor’s has an ambiance that is both lively and inviting. The atmosphere is often described as vibrant and friendly. In the evenings, the pub buzzes with conversation and the sound of clinking glasses, all set against a background of upbeat music or live performances. Despite its size (it can hold a large crowd across multiple levels), the many nooks and crannies create an illusion of intimate spaces. You might find a quiet corner for a chat or head towards one of the bars where the energy is high. The diverse clientele – a mix of Londoners, office workers, tourists, and expatriates – contributes to the inclusive vibe. Waxy’s is the kind of place where “pub lovers and especially Irish ones will obviously be pleased”. The pub embraces its Irish roots wholeheartedly, so expect a genuine Irish pub atmosphere complete with rustic decor and warm hospitality.

One notable aspect of the ambiance is how it can change depending on when you visit. Daytime visitors often enjoy marvelling at the singular interior design in a calmer setting, which really lets one appreciate details like the woodwork and the tree. Even the venue’s own promoters suggest that visiting during the day allows you to “better enjoy the singularity of this venue”. At night, especially on weekends, Waxy’s becomes far more animated – the energy ramps up with live music and the after-work crowd, making it an ideal spot if you’re seeking a lively night out in Soho.

A Bit of History and Character

Waxy O’Connor’s is not just a pub in name – it carries a bit of story and recognition behind it. The pub’s name comes from Finbar “Waxy” O’Connor, a famous 18th-century candle-maker from Dublin. This nod to Irish history and craft is fitting, as the pub chain (with sister locations in Glasgow and Manchester) has gained recognition for its warm Irish welcome and traditional charm. In fact, Waxy O’Connor’s London won the award for “Irish Pub of the Year – Europe” in 2018, cementing its status as one of the top Irish pubs on the continent. It was celebrated as London’s “most original pub” in one lifestyle blog, which isn’t surprising given the one-of-a-kind interior and atmosphere on offer.

The management emphasises an authentic Irish experience. As their own tagline suggests, Waxy’s aims to be “London’s biggest and best Irish bar”, and it has certainly made a name for itself. The pub prides itself on warm hospitality, friendly staff, traditional homemade dishes, and an extensive range of drinks. Many elements, from the live Irish music sessions to the Gaelic sports on TV, are geared towards creating a home-away-from-home for Irish expats and a rich cultural experience for everyone else. Despite being part of a chain, Waxy O’Connor’s Soho feels deeply individual and characterful – a fact noted by visitors who often forget it’s a chain at all.

Another charming detail is that Waxy’s actually has two entrances, one on Rupert Street and another on Wardour Street. This adds to the feeling of entering a hidden warren; you can literally come in from different sides and find yourself in a different section of the pub’s maze-like interior. It’s touches like this that make Waxy O’Connor’s stand out from more conventional pubs.

Food and Drink Offerings

On Tap – Beer and Whiskey: As an Irish pub, it’s no surprise that Waxy O’Connor’s takes its beer seriously. The bar features a great range of beers on tap, from popular lagers to craft brews. Of course, the highlight for many is the Guinness – you’ll frequently hear that Waxy’s pours one of the best pints of Guinness in town. The pub even boasts on social media about serving “some of the best Guinness in London”, inviting patrons to come in for “a pint… in town”. For anyone on a hunt for the perfect Guinness in Soho, Waxy’s is a strong contender. The pints are known to be well-poured (with the proper two-part pour and settled creamy head) and taste wonderfully fresh. Additionally, Waxy’s is famous for its large selection of Irish whiskey. Whiskey lovers will find an extensive list of Irish whiskeys behind the bar – from Jameson and Tullamore D.E.W. to rarer single malts and special editions. The emphasis on whiskey even earned the pub accolades, as noted by an Instagram blurb declaring Waxy’s “famous for [its] large selection of Irish whiskey, live music & sports”. Whether you fancy a neat dram or an Irish whiskey-based cocktail, there’s plenty to choose from.

Other drink options include a variety of spirits, wines, and cocktails, but the ambiance really encourages sticking with the beer and whiskey theme. The craft beer selection rotates and often features Irish or British craft brewers. And if you’re not sure what to try, the bartenders are generally happy to recommend a beer or whiskey to suit your palate – part of that warm Irish hospitality.

Bar Menu and Food: Waxy O’Connor’s offers a bar menu with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable produce, meaning the dishes are crafted with fresh ingredients and an eye toward quality. This is not a gastropub per se, but the food is hearty and complements the drinks well. Signature items include Irish and British pub classics. For example, one can usually find a Steak and Guinness Pie – a rich pie that pairs perfectly with a stout. Another favourite is Waxy’s Fry, essentially a platter akin to a full Irish breakfast (served perhaps all day) featuring Cumberland sausage, bacon, Clonakilty black and white puddings, potato scone, eggs, and more. It’s a plate that truly reflects an Irish heritage and certainly fills you up. Other offerings might range from fish and chips, burgers, roasted meats, to lighter snacks and vegetarian options, depending on the season’s menu.

The pub’s commitment to homemade dishes is noted in reviews and descriptions. Patrons have praised the food for being comforting and tasty – just what you’d hope for with a pint. Do keep in mind that at peak times (like weekends evenings), Waxy’s can be very busy, and the wait for food might be longer. It’s primarily a drinking venue, but having food available means you can settle in and make an evening of it without having to leave for dinner. If you plan to eat, scouting for a table in one of the bars or levels earlier might be wise, as spaces to sit can fill up during rush hours.

Whether you’re in for a perfectly poured Guinness, a tasting flight of Irish whiskeys, or a hearty meal like a steak pie, Waxy O’Connor’s delivers quality that befits its reputation. The prices are in the ££ moderate range, fairly reasonable given the central London location and the portion sizes.

Entertainment: Live Music and Sports

One of Waxy O’Connor’s strong suits is its entertainment offering, which keeps the venue lively throughout the week. Live music is a staple here, further enhancing the authentic Irish pub feel. The pub regularly hosts live bands and musicians; in fact, there is live music on most nights. Traditionally, Waxy’s features Irish folk and trad music sessions – notably, there are Irish traditional music sessions every Sunday night (often around 8:30 PM) where you can enjoy fiddles, tin whistles, and Gaelic songs creating a true pub sing-along atmosphere. But the live music isn’t limited to Sundays; you might encounter anything from acoustic cover artists to energetic bands playing pub classics on other nights. The pub’s events page indicates they have live music four nights a week or more. If music is a priority for your night out, it’s a good idea to check “What’s On” on their website or social media to see the line-up for the evening.

In addition to music, sports are a big deal at Waxy O’Connor’s – despite some outdated listings that might say otherwise. The pub is actually equipped with numerous screens for watching live sports. According to official sources, Waxy’s boasts eight large screens (including three big projector screens) throughout its bars, showing all major sporting events. So, if there’s a big match on – whether it’s Premier League football, rugby, or a GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) game – chances are Waxy’s will be airing it. This makes it a popular spot for sports fans, especially those interested in Irish sports like Gaelic football or hurling that might not be on everywhere. The atmosphere during big games can be electric, with crowds gathering in the various nooks to cheer on their teams. Given its Irish identity, expect a strong turnout for Six Nations rugby matches or any Ireland national games.

It’s worth noting that while Waxy’s is sports-friendly, it’s not a rowdy sports bar in the traditional sense – meaning, it doesn’t compromise the Irish pub character. Instead, live sports are an addition to the pub’s offerings, so you can enjoy a match without feeling out of place if you’re not a hardcore sports fan. There are no pool tables or dart boards (space is at a premium in this multi-level pub, and it’s more about socialising than gaming) – Darts & Pool are not available here, so those looking for pub games might be disappointed. However, the lack of pub games is more than made up for by the music and the unique environment.

Events and Special Nights: Waxy O’Connor’s often puts on special events. They famously celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with great fanfare – being one of London’s most prominent Irish bars, March 17th is a big day with extended hours, live music marathon, and plenty of Guinness flowing. The pub also occasionally hosts themed nights, corporate events, and private parties. In fact, they have rooms available for private hire if you’re looking to host an event in an unforgettable setting. From birthday parties to corporate gatherings, the staff can section off areas or even entire bars for a function (advance booking required). Table bookings are accepted as well – if you plan to visit with a large group especially, reserving a space is recommended given how busy the pub can get.

Customer Service and Staff

The customer service at Waxy O’Connor’s garners mixed but generally positive feedback. Many patrons rave about the “friendly staff” and warm welcome they receive at the door and the bar. Being greeted with a smile and sometimes an Irish accent is part of the charm here. The pub’s team seems to embrace the idea of céad míle fáilte – a hundred thousand welcomes – making visitors feel at home. A number of reviews highlight how attentive and accommodating the bartenders and servers can be, even amid the crowds. For example, a TripAdvisor snippet from 2024 mentions “very friendly staff... a good place to relax over a well poured glass of beer”, which captures that hospitable vibe.

However, Waxy’s can get extremely busy, especially on weekend evenings or during special events. At peak times, some visitors have noted that service can slow down. It's not uncommon to wait a bit longer to get a drink when the bar is packed shoulder-to-shoulder. A few reviews mention instances of slow service during busy periods or difficulty catching a staff member’s attention when the pub is at capacity. For instance, some patrons recalled waiting quite a while for drinks, saying they “waited an eternity for drinks service” on a packed night. These experiences suggest that while staff are doing their best, the sheer popularity of Waxy’s can lead to occasional lapses in attentiveness. If you visit during off-peak hours (weekday afternoons or early evenings), you’re likely to get quicker service and more chances to chat with the bartenders about the drink selection. During rush times, just remember to bring a bit of patience – the bar staff are pouring pints as fast as they humanly can, and they do try to keep a cheerful demeanour even under pressure.

Overall, the consensus is that staff at Waxy O’Connor’s are friendly, hard-working, and contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere. Management’s influence is evident in the team’s energy – they often engage in some banter and are quick with recommendations for indecisive customers. If something isn’t right with your food or drink, they generally make efforts to fix it. It’s also worth noting that security/doormen at Waxy’s (especially during late nights) maintain a polite but firm presence, as the venue has a strict over-18 policy and an eye on safety. As a result, despite the crowds, it remains a safe and enjoyable environment.

Practical Information and Facilities

Before heading to Waxy O’Connor’s, here are some practical details and tips to keep in mind:

• Opening Hours:

  • Monday – Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM (afternoon/evening only)

  • Wednesday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM (midnight)

  • Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM (noon) – 12:00 AM (midnight)

  • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM (closing a bit earlier on Sundays)

  (Hours may be subject to change on special occasions; always check the latest schedule on their official site. Notably, the pub opens later on Mondays and Tuesdays, and stays open until midnight on most other days.)

• Location: Situated on Rupert Street on the edge of Soho, Waxy’s is extremely central. The nearest Tube stations are Piccadilly Circus (about a 2-minute walk) and Leicester Square (4-5 minutes). Being in the West End, it’s surrounded by theatres (the Prince of Wales Theatre is just around the corner), cinemas, and the buzz of Chinatown and Covent Garden nearby. The location makes it a perfect pit stop if you’re exploring central London or a starting point for a night out in Soho.

• No Parking: As with most Soho venues, parking is not available. The area is best accessed via public transport or on foot. If you must drive, the closest public car parks are in Chinatown or Trafalgar Square, but expect steep fees. We recommend taking the Tube or a bus to get here.

• Age Restriction: Waxy O’Connor’s is a strictly over-18s venue. They enforce a Challenge 25 policy at the door, so bring valid ID (passport or driving license) if you appear under 25. This means it’s not a place for families with young children – the focus is very much on adult clientele enjoying drinks and music.

• Accessibility: Due to the historic and unusual layout (with many stairs and split levels), Waxy’s can be challenging for those with mobility issues. There is no mention of an elevator/lift for wheelchair access in the official info, and given the warren-like design, much of the pub is not wheelchair-accessible. If mobility is a concern, it might be worth calling ahead to see if they can accommodate or if there’s a ground-level area that could be accessed. Unfortunately, accessibility is limited, which is an area for improvement in the future if possible. Similarly, there’s no noted outdoor seating – this is an indoor-focused venue (which makes it great for rainy days, but less so if you wanted to sit outside).

• Reservations: The pub accepts table bookings. If you have a large group or you’re planning to visit during a big sports event or Friday/Saturday night, consider booking in advance via their website or phone. They also have options for private hire – sections of the pub or even entire bars can be booked for events, depending on the size of your party. Given the unique setting, those private spaces (with their own bars) are popular for corporate events or special celebrations. The staff are quite experienced in handling events, given Waxy’s long-running popularity.

• Pricing: Waxy O’Connor’s falls into the “££ Moderate” price range. A pint of beer or Guinness is around the London average (perhaps slightly above a regular pub in the suburbs, but expected for central London/Soho). Food dishes are reasonably priced for their size and quality – you can get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank, but it’s not “cheap eats.” There is no obligatory service charge for drinks; for food, a service charge might be added for larger groups, as is common in London. Tipping is not required but appreciated if you feel you got excellent service.

• Facilities: There’s no dedicated smoking area inside (smoking indoors is not allowed in UK pubs), but smokers typically step outside either of the two entrances. No darts or pool tables are on the premises, as mentioned, so the entertainment is mainly social (conversation, music, watching sports). Restroom facilities are present on some of the levels – be prepared that you might have to navigate stairs to find them. The pub is known to be kept quite clean given the high turnover of guests.

• Dress Code: There isn’t a strict dress code – casual attire is perfectly fine. You will see everything from tourists in jeans and sneakers to office workers in suits who’ve popped in for after-work drinks. St. Patrick’s Day will of course bring out the green outfits and jerseys! Essentially, come as you are, but remember they won’t allow any outside drinks or your own food.

The Soho Surroundings

One of the advantages of Waxy O’Connor’s is its prime location amid Soho’s vibrant scene. Soho is famous for its nightlife, theatres, restaurants, and eclectic street life. Step out of Waxy’s and you have a world of options: from West End shows to buzzing nightclubs, late-night eateries in Chinatown, and the shopping of Regent Street just a short stroll away. If you’re making a night of it, you could easily start at Waxy’s for drinks and music, then catch a comedy show in Soho, and perhaps return for a nightcap (Waxy’s close-to-midnight closing time means it’s not a super late venue, but there are clubs nearby if you want to continue).

For tourists, Waxy O’Connor’s often features on pub crawl itineraries because it offers that authentic Irish pub vibe right in central London. It stands out in an area dominated by bars and clubs by offering something more traditional and cosy. The fact that it’s minutes from major squares and tube stations makes it an accessible meeting point. The surrounding area is generally safe and very lively in the evenings, with plenty of police presence around Leicester Square. Of course, as with anywhere in London, mind your belongings in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings late at night.

While in the area, you might also check out other notable pubs (Soho has many historic pubs like The French House or The Coach & Horses), but none quite match Waxy’s in terms of quirky layout. If you’re on a “Guinness in Soho” mission, another nearby spot is the Irish pub O’Neill’s (just up the street), but locals often argue that Waxy’s pint has the edge. For a quieter atmosphere, the smaller sister pub Waxy's Little Sister is actually located just across the street on Wardour Street – it’s a separate, cosier bar under the same ownership, which can be an alternative if the main Waxy’s is too packed.

Conclusion

Waxy O’Connor’s provides a distinctive and memorable pub experience in the heart of London. Whether you’re a tourist hunting for an authentic Irish pub in London or a local looking for a fun night out in Soho, Waxy’s has something to offer. Its unique interior, with multiple bars and a tree growing through the building, sets it apart from any pub you’ve seen before. Coupled with a diverse clientele, hearty food, top-notch drinks (that famed Guinness and whiskey selection), and lively entertainment, it’s no wonder Waxy O’Connor’s has earned awards and a loyal following.

Sure, it can get busy and a bit boisterous – but that is part of the charm of a popular Irish watering hole. The next time you crave a pint of Guinness in Soho or just want to lose yourself in a multi-level pub adventure, head over to Waxy O’Connor’s. It’s a Soho pub that truly encapsulates the spirit of craic (Irish fun and enjoyment) in London. As one Yelp reviewer aptly put it, “Waxy’s... delivers the ultimate pub experience.” So grab a pint, find a cosy. corner under the branches of the old beech tree, and enjoy the friendly chaos that is Waxy O’Connor’s – a little slice of Ireland in the middle of Soho.