The best live music venues in London

An internationally famed music venue that has put on shows by the biggest music stars in the world during its nearly half a century of operation, Brixton Academy is a 5,000-capacity venue in a striking Grade II-listed building. With sloping floors, a high, arched ceiling and a gorgeous stage inspired by Venice’s Rialto bridge, the legendary concert hall has both seen and made music history, and is regarded as one of the most important music venues in the world.

Village Underground is a Shoreditch hub for all kinds of creativity and cultural activities, born out of a couple of shipping containers and four tube carriages stacked on a viaduct. From club nights to exhibitions and coworking spaces, nothing is off the menu, but the wide range of international and local music stars of all genres that play here have established it as one of the capital’s top venues for live music.

The iconic Electrowerkz spans three floors of a seemingly dilapidated warehouse in Islington, with the gritty setting well-suited to the metal, industrial and other alternative live acts it puts on. The venue also operates as a popular nightclub, hosting everything from the famed Slimelight goth parties, raves, LGBT+ nights to sober get-togethers.

The award-winning Shepherd’s Bush Empire has a capacity of just 2,000, yet it has still hosted some of the biggest names in music, for example The Rolling Stones, Prince and Adele, who often take advantage of its more intimate setting to warm-up before a major tour. The Grade II listed former theatre has been around for more than 100 years, turning into a concert hall in the early 1990s and quickly establishing a reputation as an acclaimed live music and comedy venue.

One of the most famous gay clubs in the world, Heaven, located in the arched vaults beneath Charing Cross station, is known not just for its wild club nights and historic importance to rave culture, but also its gig listings. It has hosted legendary gigs by acts such as New Order, The Birthday Party and Throbbing Gristle, which are still spoken about decades later, and continues that tradition today with shows by stars such as Lady Gaga and Tame Impala.

O2 Forum Kentish Town has been many things during the past century, including a cinema, bingo hall and dance hall. It was turned into a live music venue in the 1980s, soon becoming a hotbed of indie rock, with a who’s who of the scene playing there, from Arctic Monkeys and Oasis to Jack White. Today, it programmes a varied array of veteran masters such as Robert Plant and the latest generation of stars, for example Machine Gun Kelly and Yungblud.

In the heart of London’s music hotbed, Camden, in a basement beneath the famed World’s End pub, lies The Underworld, a 500-capacity live music venue that enjoys iconic status among alternative rock and metal fans. Packed crowds have rocked out to big names such as Placebo, Foo Fighters and Radiohead at this intimate, low-ceilinged venue that oozes attitude.

The 1,500-capacity Electric Ballroom is one of the best-known live music venues. Across its main concert hall, dance floor and several bars, it puts on a varied programme of events, including pop music and bingo nights. The busy concert listings are slanted towards rock, metal and other related genres, with acts that have played here including U2, Prince, Megadeth, Sir Paul McCartney and more.

The vibrant Islington Academy is part of the Angel Central shopping mall and puts on a varied club and live music programme, including pop music extravaganzas, indie disco nights, student-only parties and more. The concert listings span a wide range of genres, with the 800-capacity venue having hosted big names such as Eminem, Halsey and KISS.

The glittering gold backdrop of the pub-like MOTH Club next to Hackney Central station is arguably one of the more memorable settings for live music in the city. Regularly hosting gigs from a variety of promotors, the line-ups here showcase young, up-and-coming music talent in addition to veteran names such as Dave Grohl or Bat for Lashes. MOTH Club also puts on different themed club nights.

An established stop for up-and-coming indie talent making their way in the world, The Shacklewell Arms’ back room is the place to go to for the satisfaction of seeing bands "back before they were big". That doesn't mean you can't still be surprised by a DJ set or impromptu show from a major star, however. The cosy pub with Lebanese street food in the front and the garden smoking area out back help pass the time while waiting for the show to start.

London’s beloved “Ally Pally” is an iconic Victorian complex atop a hill, surrounded by parkland that’s very convenient for hosting festivals or large-scale outdoor concerts. With its stately appearance, retro atmosphere and halls of varying size, from the 10,000+ capacity Great Hall to smaller areas, the Palace itself is a popular choice for concerts as well. It regularly hosts major acts such as Bloc Party and Michael Kiwanuka.

Hidden away in a railway arch, Bermondsey Social Club is a compact, intimate venue with a garden smoking area in the back. It can hold just 120 people, but the sound system and lighting rigs are top-notch, so there’s no compromising on the live gig experience. The listing feature concerts by rising local talent, as well as club nights. The space can also be hired for private events.

Located in the, er, heart of Camden, the beloved Black Heart venue for alternative music encompasses a large, lively pub area downstairs and a stage upstairs. The decor consists of music posters and religious iconography, while the bar serves an eclectic array of craft beers. The gig listings are primarily of the rock, metal and punk variety, with names such as Scott Kelly, Nick Oliveri and Orange Goblin having performed here.

Eventim Apollo, previously known as the Hammersmith Apollo, is a legendary Art Deco concert hall with immense historical significance and global recognition, to the point where it’s regularly among the top live show filming locations for the biggest names in music. Since first opening nearly a century ago, the 5,000-capacity venue has hosted major acts such as The Beatles, David Bowie and Kanye West.

The Dome is located above a pub in Victorian building complex next to Tufnell Park. The listings feature a varied array of up-and-comers looking for a big break and veterans wanting to treat their fans to more intimate gig. The 500-capacity venue with top-notch sound and lighting has seen stars such as Lily Allen, The 1975 and Florence + The Machine, as well as alternative music icons such as Gorgoroth.

An intimate 250-capacity venue formerly known as Boston Music Room,, Downstairs At The Dome has a knack for booking frenzied punk and rock gigs where sweat starts flying around quickly. Acts that have graced its stage include legends such as Fugazi, The White Stripes and Blur, as well as the new mosh starters on the block like Turnstile and Soul Glo. The independent concert hall shares the old Victorian complex it's located in with its larger sibling The Dome.

Hidden beneath the big fashion brands of Oxford Street, the illustrious 100 Club is considered to be the oldest independent venue in the world. The framed photos on the walls of this legendary basement venue feature the venue’s iconic performers such as Muddy Waters, Sex Pistols and Suede. Having maintained a sharp ear for ground-breaking music, The 100 Club still keeps ahead of music trends, regularly booking the buzziest new talent around.

Xoyo in the heart of Shoreditch complements its legendary club nights such as Pleasurehood with a selection of live gigs from across the musical spectrum. Acts such as Republica, DIIV and Pongo come to take advantage of the venue’s state-of-the-art sound system, not to mention its venerated status.

Rough Trade East is a well-known record store in Brick Lane, but it's not just the hundreds of vinyl records on offer that draw in music fans from around the world. The store features a small stage and puts it to good use hosting intimate release day concerts by rising talent as well as artists that have long since outgrown its meagre capacity. Tickets are usually bundled along with the new album, and post-gig signing sessions are not uncommon.

Windmill Brixton is a legendary London dive that is considered to be one of the best live music venues in the UK, in part also to its dedication to championing up-and-coming talent. As a result, many a future star has graced its stage and contributed to its music legacy. In the 2020s, it established itself as one of the hotbeds of the flourishing South London rock scene that includes bands such as Black Country, New Road and Squid.

A creative events space beneath London Bridge’s recently revitalised railway arches, Omeara provides a space for music gigs, art exhibitions, stand-up comedy and more. The main room is distinguished by a striking, ornately gilded theatre stage and can hold up to 320 people. Expect both rising talent and established acts on the bill, in addition to various regular and one-off club nights.

Housed in a former railway engine repair shed, Roundhouse is a well-known cultural centre in Chalk Farm that puts on gigs, theatre shows, film screenings, workshops, stand-up comedy and more. Iconic musicians such as George Michael and Bob Dylan have played at this Grade II listed building, and you can expect to find a hefty measure of indie rock in the concert listings, as well as a smattering of other genres.

When the biggest stars in the world want to put on the biggest spectacles in the world, Wembley Stadium is one of the top choices they turn to. The stadium with 90,000 seats has hosted superstars such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Harry Styles, as well as historic events such as Live Aid 1984.

Housed within the Millennium Dome, the O2 is a massive entertainment complex in Greenwich that also features an indoor arena with 20,000 seats. The famed venue regularly hosts concerts by international superstars, including multi-night residencies – the longest of these was Prince’s sold-out 21-night series in 2007, amounting to a total audience of over 350,000.

A British national treasure, the Grade I listed Royal Albert Hall with a distinct iron-wrought dome, terracotta façade and mosaic frieze is a popular London landmark. It serves primarily as a concert venue for classical music, hosting the popular BBC Proms summer concert series, as well as rock and pop shows from stars such as David Gilmour and Kylie Minogue.

A prominent symbol of brutalist architecture, the Barbican Centre opened in 1982. It hosts events covering all kinds of topics, from art, design, fashion, photography to film and music. The concert listings cover classical and contemporary music, with past performers including Damon Albarn, Nick Cave and Bon Iver. The venue also often welcomes experimental or one-off projects by established musicians.

The historic Koko in Camden came out of lockdown with a glow-up after a major three-year renovation project. Madonna played her first UK gig here, Prince was a regular and numerous other major stars have performed at this iconic venue. In addition to live gigs, it also hosts the Koko Electronic club nights with acts such as Todd Terje, Eats Everything and Skream.

The Garage is an iconic music venue in Highbury that puts on a broad range of primarily alternative genres. The varied programming here features both established and rising acts, with names that have performed at the venue over the years including Green Day, Jack White, Muse and more. There are two areas that make up the venue, a 600-capacity main hall and a 150-capacity upstairs room.

The multi-purpose Evolutionary Arts Hackney cultural hub strives to curate a progressive, inclusive programme that showcases rising acts and daringly creative artists. Past performers at this restored venue with a 1,200-capacity hall and 680-capacity seated theatre include Little Simz, Foals and The Beastie Boys. In addition, regular club nights ensure there’s something exciting going on throughout the year.

A historic concert venue that dates back to the 1930s, the Grade II-listed Troxy is distinguished by a soft carpeted interior and signature booths. Major acts such as Garbage, Swans, Patti Smith, Flying Lotus, Friendly Fires, and Diplo have all graced its stage, and the Art Deco building is used for high-profile awards shows, boxing and MMA fights, and other notable events as well.

The London Palladium is a renowned theatre and concert venue in a Grade II-listed West End building. It has hosted a varied range of acts, including evergreen performers such as Tom Jones, Seal, and Ella Fitzgerald. In addition, the 2,000+ capacity theatre puts on all sorts of musical, comedy, and theatrical performances, including a traditional Christmas pantomime.

Its name might suggest that Camden's renowned Jazz Cafe books exclusively jazz gigs, but it actually complements its programme with soul, hip-hop, reggae and more. What's more, the first floor is a restaurant that overlooks the stage, meaning you can attend the concert from the comfort of your table, wining and dining while the crowd dances away beneath.

A trendy spot in Hackney Central, Paper Dress Vintage is a boutique vintage store by day and a funky bar with a garden by night. Additionally, they have a snug stage upstairs, where you can catch live gigs by talent on the rise. The venue’s unique aesthetic and convenient location make it a popular spot for organizers of multi-venue festivals such as Visions or The Great Escape’s First Fifty.

Above the high-ceilinged bar with down-to-earth Kentucky charm, a comprehensive range of American craft beers and bourbon, and a selection of tacos and other authentic Mexican food, The Lexington runs a concert room. The varied line-up of up-and-coming talent at this award-winning joint aims is definitely here to rock. If you need to rest your feet afterwards, there are comfy sofas downstairs.

Many a festival headliner has come up through this East End boozer, including acts such as Charli XCX, Courtney Barnett and Sunflower Bean. Catching buzzy bands on the rise is a common feature of Sebright Arms, a popular neighbourhood pub that places an emphasis on live music but also hosts quizzes, serving a broad array of craft beers no matter the occasion.

A vibrant bar and club in Hoxton Square, Colours puts on a stacked line-up of fun, inclusive events beneath its striking LED ceiling installation. Collaborating with fellow multi-arts spaces Village Underground and EartH, the 300-capacity venue books local and international talent on the rise, as well as intimate shows from established artists such as Rebecca Black, Bree Runway and Sóley.

Part pub, part live music stage and part nightclub, The Old Blue Last is an iconic venue that is known for hosting some of the biggest names in contemporary music before they hit the big time. Its stage has been graced by the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Charli XCX, Florence + The Machine, Diplo and Lily Allen, and you never know when the band you've never heard of before seeing them here becomes a world-conquering superstar.

Aiming to redefine what it means to be a brewery, Signature Brew showcases its passion for music not just through the craft beers it brews up in collaboration with bands such as al-J, The Darkness and Idles, but also by hosting live music at its venues in Blackhorse Road and Haggerston. The former is especially worth checking out, as the stage is set among the brewery’s gleaming beer vats, making for a unique industrial setting.

Wembley Arena might seem small next to its neighbour, the massive Wembley Stadium, but size is relative – the indoor arena has a seated capacity of 12,500. It’s used for sports events, concerts and other entertainment. The venue was built in 1936 and has since hosted concerts by global stars such as Prince, Britney Spears, Pearl Jam and Burna Boy.

Launched right after lockdown, Lafayette is a modern live music venue within the Goods Way complex in King's Cross that also includes a food court and a bar. With a capacity of 600 and a state-of-the-art sound system, the venue hosts ascending talent and more established indie and hip-hop acts. Among the first to douse that “new venue smell” in beer were Fat White Family and Talk Show.

HERE at Outernet is a cutting-edge venue for concerts and clubbing located in the futuristic Outernet entertainment complex. The live event space, which is situated four stories below the West End, covers an area of 25,000 square feet and is fitted with top-of-the-line lighting and sound equipment, including a massive 6K screen. The venue hosts a diverse range of events and genres, from live performances by acts such as Enter Shikari and Flo, to 90s club nights, drag shows, and other exciting events.

A former cinema, Scala has been turned into a multi-purpose venue with a 1,145-capacity main hall, two dance floors, three bars and a rich history. Iggy & The Stooges and Lou Reed used photos taken at the venue for their albums, and it has featured an eclectic line-up of established acts since, from Moby and Gorillaz to P!nk and Gorgoroth, as well as putting on reggaeton, pop, metal and other club nights.

One of the last remaining London venues from the era, Troubadour is a classic destination for live music that opened in 1954. This is a bar and restaurant with a rich heritage and a decor to match. Loads of ticketed events are on but there are also weekly free jazz nights.

The ABBA Arena offers a truly unforgettable experience as it transports audiences to a world where every night is an ABBA night. Utilising state-of-the-art equipment, this purpose-built venue brings digital avatars of the beloved Swedish pop group to life with ABBA Voyage, a spectacular blend of live and recorded music, stunning lighting, and cutting-edge technology. Prepare to be amazed as the digital avatars perform ABBA's greatest hits with such realism that it may be hard to believe the band members aren't actually there.

Don't miss The Post Bar in North London if you're a fan of eclectic global sounds. This place is down-to-earth and diverse with live gigs every week showcasing everything from innovative electronic music to traditional Latin American and African rhythms. There's a spacious garden at the back and the bar sells a varied range of drinks. Food from the grill is also on offer.

Located in Camden Town, the award-winning Green Note is a cosy, intimate live music spot that doubles as a laid-back vegetarian café-bar. It offers a nightly dose of live tunes, featuring genres from jazz and folk to country and world music. Complementing the musical vibes, it serves a rotating menu of straightforward hot and cold dishes daily.

The last of a trio of dancehalls built in 1904, Bush Hall has a rich musical history, having served as a rehearsal space for the likes of The Who and Cliff Richard in the 1950s and 60s. Restored in 2001, the grand Edwardian concert hall has seen the likes of Amy Winehouse, Alicia Keys, and Ed Sheeran play its stage, and hosts a regular programme of concerts by both established and rising acts across a range of genres.

Islington Assembly Hall, an exquisite Art Deco concert venue nestled in central Islington, boasts a Grade II-listed status. With both a ground floor and a balcony, it offers a rich mix of performances, from rising stars to industry heavyweights. Notable artists like Ed Sheeran, Foo Fighters, Vampire Weekend, and Lingua Ignota have graced its stage in the past.

Having hosted shows by artists like Blondie, Coldplay, Etta James, Foo Fighters, R.E.M, and George Ezra, as well as played a significant role in Camden's punk scene with regular appearances by The Clash, Sex Pistols, and The Ramones, Dingwalls is one of the area's most famous live music venues. You can catch a broad range of rock and alternative shows here, or relax with a drink in one of the three different bars.

Lewisham venue Fox & Firkin is a quirky pub that's known for its massive beer garden. It's also known for its buzzing line-up of live gigs and DJ sets. Acts like Congo Natty and Mad Professor have performed here as well as lesser-known artists. You can enjoy live music for free here on Sundays when a big band performs in the garden.

Nestled within the Old Truman Brewery complex on Brick Lane, 93 Feet East is a vibrant live music hub and nightclub, boasting an industrial setting and outdoor spaces. The twin primary halls are kitted out with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, having welcomed music bigwigs like Radiohead, Burial, Little Simz, and The xx. Regular club events spotlight genres like house, techno, garage, and disco.