The London Music Scene

London offers some of the most impressive music venues in the world. It’s easy to be distracted by the pull of behemoth venues such as Wembley, the O2, the Olympic and hotspur stadium that showcase global talent to pulsating crowds of 90,000+ fans. In this post however we’ll explore London’s hidden gems often overlooked by visitors that will give you up close, intimate experiences with talented world artists you might be yet to discover. 

Gigs in a Garden 

Dalston Curve Garden

A totally unexpected gig space set in the heart of bustling Dalston. As you walk through the doors  you’ll find lush greenery, a roaring pizza oven and wooden bar, created and managed by a community social enterprise. Gigs are typically on between Jun-Aug and the garden provides a enchanting and intimate setting for evening gigs for a couple hundred people. You can typically book via the DICE event app. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalstongarden/?hl=en

Address: Dalston Lane, London, United Kingdom E8 3DF.

Web: https://dalstongarden.org/activities/

Atmospheric churches 

St Pancras old church 

This church has hosted some of my all time favourite gigs. I was lucky enough to witness Silvana Estrada angelic vocals reverberating through his old church said to be one of Europe’s most ancient sites of Christian worship with most suggesting it was founded in 313 or 314. This Church is on the smaller side so book ahead to avoid disappointment. 

Socials: https://www.facebook.com/parishofoldstpancras

Address: Pancras Rd, London NW1 1UL

Website: Events: https://www.songkick.com/venues/563056-st-pancras-old-church

Union chapel 

A much larger church venue can be found in Islington. Union Chapel is an architectural treasure and an iconic award winning venue. Performances are set below a stunning stained glass window. The space boasts floor and balcony seating and there are food and drinks offered at a large atmospheric bar upstairs often used for film shoots.

The profits from their shows, bar and space hire go towards our charitable work, supporting and empowering the hardest hit in our communities and saving the building for community use.

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/unichapelchurch/

Address:19b Compton Terrace, London N1 2UN

Website:https://unionchapel.org.uk/whats-on

Post apocalyptic Cinema 

Earth

In September 2018, the former Savoy Cinema, built in 1936, was given a new lease on life as a cultural center comprising three spaces: EartH Hall, EartH Theatre, and EartH Kitchen. This venue offers excellent and eclectic programming, ranging from pop, electro, and afrobeat to indie. This is a captivating space that and whilst seated, provides plenty of room to get up and dance mid gig. As this is a popular venue, book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/earthackney

Address: 11-17 Stoke Newington Road, London, N16 8BH

Website: https://earthackney.co.uk/events/

Casual Walkins 

Jamboree

This spot is a lesser known hidden gem, situated down a quiet street just 5mins from kings cross station. It’s known for its eclectic and bohemian charm.There are often jam sessions featuring folk and world music artists, you can often just walk in and listen in with a delicious pint.

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jamboreevenue

Address: 6 St Chad's Pl, London WC1X 9HH

Website: https://www.jamboreevenue.co.uk/

Epic Jazz nights

Ronnie Scott’s

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Bar, nestled in the heart of London’s Soho, is a legendary music venue that has been a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant jazz scene since its opening in 1959. Founded by saxophonist Ronnie Scott and fellow musician Pete King, the club quickly became a haven for jazz enthusiasts, hosting performances by some of the greatest names in jazz history, including Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Chet Baker. The club’s enduring legacy and commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent make it an essential destination for seeking an authentic taste of London’s rich musical heritage.

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/officialronnies/

Website: https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk/find-a-show

Address: 47 Frith St, London W1D 4HT

Much more than a Venue

The Barbican Centre

Situated within the Barbican Centre (arguably the greatest piece of urban architecture of post-war Britain). This is a premier cultural venue known for its architectural grandeur and world-class acoustics. Since its inauguration in 1982, the hall has been at the forefront of London’s performing arts scene, hosting an eclectic mix of classical, contemporary, and experimental music and is Home to the London Symphony Orchestra. Arrive a few hours before your gig time and explore the Barbican’s stunning brutalist architecture, art gallery and even a large conservatory featuring tropical plants, trees, birdlife and exotic fish.

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/barbicancentre

Website: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on

Address: Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS