The very best 12 nightlife spots in London, United Kingdom
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Welcome to the city where dreams are conquered by the night! Pounding music, dazzling lights, and drinks that make you question your dance moves - welcome to London's nightlife scene! From the classy corners of Mayfair, where you might just bump into a secret agent stirring his Vodka Martini, to the wild and unpredictable streets of Shoreditch, where beards are mandatory, the Big Smoke promises an unforgettable night out. So, channel your inner party unicorn and prepare to disco until the early hours – just be sure to bring some aspirin for the morning after!
Save destination1. Printworks
Surrey Quays Rd, London SE16 7PJ, UK
Nestled in the heart of London, the Printworks is a quirky destination that will reel you in like a fish on a line, but without the slimy mess. No longer a mere printing factory, this industrial marvel has transformed into a vibrant venue where art, music, and good vibes take center stage. With its towering ceilings and labyrinthine layout, the Printworks may give you a slight maze-induced panic, but fear not, for this wonderland is worth exploring, even if you accidentally stumble upon the restroom twice.
Learn more2. O2 Academy Brixton
211 Stockwell Rd, London SW9 9SL, UK
Welcome to the O2 Academy Brixton in London, a place where the gods of music descend upon mortals to give them night-long eargasms! This iconic venue, once a cinema that realized standing ovations are better served with a guitar solo rather than popcorn, welcomes music lovers from far and wide. With a capacity that rivals the population of a small country, you'll be part of a crowd so electrifying that you might just find yourself spontaneously breakdancing with a complete stranger. So, leave your inhibitions at the door, and prepare to rock your socks off in this mecca of musical magnificence!
Learn more3. Ministry of Sound
103 Gaunt St, London SE1 6DP, UK
Tucked away in the vibrant South Bank of London, lies the pulsating heartbeat of music mania, the Ministry of Sound. This renowned temple of grooves offers an otherworldly experience that can shake your very soul loose—for better or for worse. Brace yourself for a night of unapologetic dancing, where the beats are so contagious that even plants start shuffling their leaves next to the thumping speakers.
Learn more4. The Jazz Cafe
5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG, UK
Welcome to The Jazz Cafe in London, a true delight for music lovers and jazz enthusiasts. This hidden gem is a harmonious haven nestled in the heart of Camden Town. Once you enter its domain, you'll be transported to a magical world of smooth tunes, cozy ambiance, and an irresistible urge to snap your fingers in rhythm, even if you're rhythmically challenged. So, prepare to immerse yourself in a melodic paradise, where the clash of instruments is as harmonious as your questionable dance moves.
Learn more5. XOYO
32-37 Cowper St, London EC2A 4AP, UK
Tucked snugly in the bustling heart of London, XOYO stands tall as a sanctuary for music enthusiasts and party animals alike. As you step foot into this mecca of rhythm, be prepared to embark on a sonic adventure that will make your eardrums tingle with excitement. A true musical haven, this venue offers a vibrant and intoxicating atmosphere, where the bass pumps through your veins like a coiled spring, and dancing becomes an involuntary reflex – so, bring your dancing shoes and abandon all dignity, because at XOYO, it's all about unleashing your inner groove!
Learn more6. Corsica Studios
4, 5 Elephant Rd, London SE17 1LB, UK
Prepare to dive headfirst into an electrifying labyrinth of rhythms and beats at Corsica Studios, the London hotspot that promises an avalanche of fun. Nestled beneath railway arches, this underground haven beckons party animals with its minimalist charm and booming sound system that can make even the shiest wallflower bust a move. With its eclectic mix of DJs and lively crowd, you might just find yourself dancing your socks off... or in this case, your sandals, because who wears socks to a club anyway?
Learn more7. Electric Brixton
Electric Brixton, Town Hall Parade, Brixton Hill, London SW2 1RJ, UK
Located in the vibrant heart of south London, Electric Brixton effortlessly channels the electrifying spirit of its lively neighborhood. This iconic venue is a melting pot of pulsating beats, outrageous dance moves, and the occasional rogue disco enthusiast. As the holy grail for music aficionados, Electric Brixton promises an unforgettable night where even the most rhythmically challenged are sure to boogie their way to temporary fame.
Learn more8. Fabric
77A Charterhouse St, London EC1M 6HJ, UK
Ah, London's very own Fabric – the legendary superclub that promises a night like no other! Brace yourself for a sensory overload as you step into its hallowed halls, where music reigns supreme and dancing is a religion. This labyrinth of beats is an architectural marvel, cunningly designed to make you forget about time, space, and any semblance of a hangover cure. Just remember, if you spot someone resembling a sloth on the dancefloor, fear not, for they're probably just enjoying the hypnotic tunes a little too much!
Learn more9. The Old Blue Last
38 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3ES, UK
Welcome to The Old Blue Last, a London pub that has stood the test of time, much like those obscure items lurking in the back of your fridge. Nestled in vibrant Shoreditch, this quirky establishment boasts a lively atmosphere that's as unpredictable as British weather. With an impressive selection of craft beers and a stage that's seen more indie bands than a thrift shop, it's no wonder this place is a favorite haunt for hipsters and music enthusiasts alike.
Learn more10. Scala
275 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9NL, UK
Welcome to the enchanting city of London, where locals affectionately refer to Scala as the 'Swiss Army knife' of entertainment venues. Nestled in the heart of King's Cross, Scala is where flamboyant charm meets rebellious artistry. With its eclectic mix of live gigs, club nights, and film screenings, Scala is a cultural playground for those seeking a vibrant escape from the monotony of life – think Alice in Wonderland, with a rocking soundtrack.
Learn more11. Egg London
5-13 Vale Royal, London N7 9AP, UK
Welcome to Egg London, a vibrant and somewhat eccentric nightclub that will have you cracking with excitement! Situated in the heart of the city, this quirky establishment offers a unique nightlife experience that's simply egg-cellent. With its vibrant music, impressive sound system, and labyrinth-like layout, be prepared to navigate your way through this bustling venue to find your groove and dance like nobody's watching. With a mix of local and international DJs, this iconic party destination guarantees an unforgettable night out - just remember to bring your dancing shoes and an appetite for fun.
Learn more12. Village Underground
54 Holywell Ln, London EC2A 3PQ, UK
Welcome to Village Underground, the quirkiest spot in London that's part nightclub, part creative hub, and all-around hipster paradise. Nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, this converted warehouse boasts a labyrinth of graffiti-covered walls, providing a refreshing escape from London's perfectly manicured façade. Whether you fancy dancing the night away beneath the disco ball or finding inspiration among the bearded poets sipping fair-trade coffee, Village Underground has got you covered.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to London by plane is to fly into London Heathrow Airport, which is one of the major airports in the city. Other good options include London Gatwick Airport and London City Airport.
Car
Driving to London is possible too, but you will need to consider the heavy traffic and parking issues in the city. The best way to get there by car is to take the M25 motorway, which circles around the city, and follow directions to the city center.
Train
If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take the Eurostar from Paris to London, which arrives at London St. Pancras International Station.
Boat
There are no direct boat services to London, but you can take a ferry or cruise to a nearby port and then take a train or bus to the city. Southampton port is the closest port to London that has good transport links.
Bus
To reach London by bus, you can take the National Express coach service, which operates from various cities throughout the UK and arrives at Victoria Coach Station in London.
