Are you heading into London for a night out and really want to hit the live music scene hard? You’re going to be spoilt for choice, almost too much choice but when you don’t want to be stuck in the centre, jam packed into a bar with loads of other tourists, we bring you some great live music venues out of the city centre and much, much more fun.
Guaranteed to have atmosphere, great music and a little more room to breathe. Grab your travel card and head out of Leicester Square with our handy blog.
The Cat and Mutton
Head on down to East London and more specifically to Dalston for this pub. You’ll find this venue on Hackney’s Broadway Market and be spoilt for choice with themed nights on every night of the week. Monday night is the best night to be there with live jazz on offer. With great food and great music, it’s a relaxing way to kick off the week.
The Hope and Anchor
This iconic bar in Islington has seen many a new band make their debut, including Keane. In the 70s it championed the punk movement and continues to give new bands the chance to take their music to wider audiences with band nights held regularly. If you’re the sort of person who takes their music seriously and has lana del rey albums ranked from best to worst, then this venue is definitely for you.
The Hawley Arms
Found in Camden Market, this is the place to go if you want to spot a celebrity or two. It’s also a great place to go to catch some seriously good live music and counted the late, great Amy Winehouse among its regular performers.
It also goes a long way to help non-celebrity acts take to the stage with Monday nights given over to live performances to unsigned bands. With great bar snacks (served in pint glasses) and great music, you’ll be in musical heaven.
The Lexington
Finally back to Islington for The Lexington and a trip the more surreal side. You’ll find hair melting rock, belted out upstairs or take a trip downstairs for some sleazy blues and classy jazz. The setting is quirky and stylish and just far enough away from the city centre to make it a great alternative pub night out.
London is home to many things but music is at the heart of its many venues and entertainment centres. You don’t need to pay a fortune to go and see live bands, you just need to keep an open mind about the venues and music you’re willing to spend your time and money in.
From laid back jazz to blues and rock. There’s something for everyone. Combine that with some great cocktails and tasty food and you’ve got all the ingredients right there for a fantastic night out. Get your travel card out and prepare to do some serious exploring around London’s best and quirkiest music venues.
