London's Best Independent Music Venues

I love London. Growing up it seemed like one of the coolest cities in the world. And having been a resident for the past decade, I’m more convinced of that than ever.

And for all the big offices and chain coffee shops, there’s still a strong independent creative heart, of which music plays a huge part.

Music venues are in trouble and shutting at a rate of knots, but thankfully London is still home to some of the best independent venues in the world.

These spaces, often run by fanatics with a passion for music, provide a crucial platform for emerging artists and established names alike, whilst offering unique, intimate experiences for music lovers.

So to show some love back to the institutions behind some of the best nights out of all time; yep, no hyperbole!; this blog delves into the very best of London's independent music venues, each with its own distinct character and contribution to the city's vibrant cultural tapestry.

Best for Biggish Gigs:

Electric Ballroom (Camden): A Camden institution, the Electric Ballroom has been a cornerstone of London's live music scene for decades. Its sticky floors and no-frills aesthetic are part of its charm, having hosted countless iconic bands over the years. With a capacity of 1,500 it’s the biggest venue on our list and offers a significant step up for emerging acts, while retaining an intimate feel compared to arena shows.

Best Mid-Size Venue:

New Cross Inn (New Cross): Tucked away in South East London, the New Cross Inn is a fiercely independent venue with a loyal following. Its tight capacity for gigs creates a wonderfully intense atmosphere and surprisingly clear sound with a bit more space in the basement to mill around.. The promoters have a knack of booking bands and you’re like ‘Oh really? That seems quite a small venue for a band of that size!’. This means that either the artist's management are terrible at maths or they know that the energy in the place is worth far more than selling an extra chunk of tickets. Huge kudos to The New Cross Inn.

Best Small Venue:

The Old Blue Last (Shoreditch): A Shoreditch stalwart, The Old Blue Last, above a traditional pub, is a legendary small venue with a knack for spotting future stars early in their careers. Its tiny stage and low ceiling create an incredibly intimate atmosphere, making every gig feel like a special, almost secret performance. The close proximity to the band means you can feel the energy and witness every nuance of their performance. And if you think the stairs are tough as a fan, just be thankful you’re not the one loading in a bunch of guitar amps and a drumkit.

Best Historic Venue:

The 100 Club (Oxford Street): This legendary venue has been a vital part of London's music scene since 1942. Its intimate setting has witnessed some huge names and pivotal moments in musical history, solidifying its place as a true London gem. Louis Armstrong, The Rolling Stones, Sex Pistols, Black Flag, Ronnie Scott (more on him later) and many more have all graced the stage here. Walking through its doors is like stepping back in time, feeling the echoes of countless iconic independent artists who have graced its stage.

Best New Venue:

LVLS (Hackney Wick): A stones throw from the London Stadium in Hackney Wick is LVLS. It’s a new, independent venue which has quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to showcasing exciting new talent across various genres, often with a focus on the more alternative and cutting-edge sounds. Its modern setup provides a great platform for both artists and audiences looking for fresh musical experiences in a dynamic environment. It’s also right on the canal which is absolutely amazing in summertime. Trust me.

Best Multi-Purpose Venue:

Moth Club (Hackney): This quirky Hackney gem; located in a former servicemen's club and complete with golden tinsel curtains; truly embodies the multi-purpose ethos. While renowned for its intimate and often raucous gigs, its unique aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere also make it a popular spot for club nights, comedy shows, and other creative events. I once turned up late to a comedy show and had to sit in the front row. I was mocked by every single act. This is why I prefer music.

Best Multi-Location Venue:

Signature Brew (Haggerston and Walthamstow): Signature Brew has established itself as a significant supporter of independent music with multiple venues across London. Their collaborations with the likes of Hospital Records, Flogging Molly, Mogwai and more show that they’re serious about this. This unique model, combining craft beer with a passion for independent music, creates a vibrant and supportive ecosystem for artists and fans alike. It also goes without saying that if you go to a gig here, you’re guaranteed a decent pint.

Best Specialist Venue:

Ronnie Scott's (Soho): Remember his name from the 100 Club? While often associated with the broader jazz scene, you’ll find hip hop, house, soul, latin and more going on here. Ronnie Scott's has long been a champion of independent artists, both established and

emerging. Its intimate and sophisticated setting provides the perfect backdrop for experiencing the nuances and artistry of independent jazz musicians from London and beyond. It’s also a very unique experience, kinda like the club from Goodfellas except safer.

Best Club:

Fabric (Farringdon): Because sometimes, I don’t want guitars. Fabric is a legendary name in London’s club scene and remains one of THE places to play. Despite being one of the biggest brands in dance music globally, Fabric remains fiercely independent and a vital platform for promoting underground and independent electronic music. Its dedication to creating an immersive experience for clubbers has solidified its reputation as a world-renowned club that continues to evolve.

Conclusion:

From the grand(ish) stage of the Electric Ballroom to the sweat-soaked intimacy of The Old Blue Last, and the genre-bending nights at Ronnie Scott's, these venues are more than just bricks and mortar. They are incubators of talent, curators of unforgettable experiences, and vital threads in the rich tapestry of this incredible city. In a world of increasing homogeneity, these fiercely independent spaces stand as testaments to the power of passion, community, and the undeniable magic of live music.

But don’t just take my word for it though, go and explore. Find your own favourite spot and be sure to share it.

So next time you're looking for a night out that truly resonates, skip the predictable and dive headfirst into the vibrant, independent soundtrack of London. You won't regret it.

To get a better grasp on which clubs and gigs are happening in which venue, check out our listings HERE.