Calling all music lovers! If you want to be engaged in the most euphoric musical experience, then you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to all of the live gig venues on offer in London!
This incredible capital city is home to some of the best and most legendary music venues where everyone from pop icons from the 90s to classic 80s rock bands and underground indie groups would perform. Join us as we explore the top locations you have to visit upon your next trip to London!
The O2 Academy, Brixton
What had originally started life as the mere Millennium Dome – often deemed more of a political mess than anything of cultural significance – later became one of the most celebrated and most successful venues in London! Every season this venue bills some of the biggest artists in the world and has since garnered the reputation for hosting elaborate stage shows that bring in large, eager crowds.
What makes the arena particularly enthralling is the fact that the entire experience is highly organised and streamlined. From the surprisingly speedy ticket booking process to the swift and smooth transport link, it is clear that the O2 has thought everything through.
Wembley Stadium
This addition to our list of the top 10 legendary music venues in London may come as a shock to many of you, primarily since Wembley is best known for all of the famous football matches that it hosts; however, there is more to this multifaceted venue than you may realise.
Since 1972 Wembley Stadium has been host to some of the world’s most influential musicians. Better yet, this iconic location has also been used to hold exclusive historical events, including Former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday concert. The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, holds the record for the highest number of performances at Wembley Stadium, after having performed there 15 times!
Union Chapel
The Union Chapel live music venue is not only home to some of the greatest musical acts but is also a functional, working church. An evening spent sitting in the pews, gazing at the delicate and colourful hues of the stained glass windows and the somewhat gothic architecture, makes for a unique musical experience.
Given the natural acoustics of this venue, this is the spot to indulge in slower musical genres. You will also notice that this building acts as a beautiful place of refuge in and amongst all of the chaos of Upper Street in North London.
The Underworld
Now seems as good a time as any to look at a music gig venue that is in complete contrast to the last one. It is called the Underworld, and as the name suggests, you can expect an alternative, more grunge atmosphere, which has brought about some of the best underground, formerly smaller rock bands of the 90s and early 2000s!
If you are into more heavy metal and alt-rock kinds of music, then this is without a doubt the spot for you. From the moment you walk through the doors of the Underworld, expect to be surrounded by mosh pits, a sweat-covered ceiling, smoke and your new favourite emo club that will have you jamming the night away.
The Roundhouse
Any quick Google search will prove that of all of the legendary music venues in London, the Roundhouse is by far one of the most celebrated – and for good reason too! From the moment you walk into this performing arts space, you will be greeted immediately by stunning iron columns, high ceilings and a unique take on architecture in general.
This makes for the most epic venue that continues to round up some of the best in the music business. The state-of-the-art sound systems that have been expertly engineered throughout the building ensure that no matter where you are seated, you are granted access to crisp audio from all of your favourite artists.
KOKO
If you are looking to engage in a conversation about internationally recognised music gig venues, then you’ll want to make sure that you bring up KOKO! This legendary theatre has been made famous by all of the renowned musicians who have graced its stage before.
Unfortunately, after experiencing severe water damage, KOKO was almost completely shut down. Thankfully the powers that be helped revive KOKO, and it has since been resurrected to its former glory with billboard-chart topping performers returning to the stage once again!
Victoria Park
We would not be doing this list any justice if we didn’t mention Victoria Park, especially for those of you who prefer a more outdoor musical experience/festival vibe! This incredibly popular East London Park makes for the perfect location as its greenery spans 213 acres and easily transforms into a great outdoor arena.
Given the fact that it is the perfect summer location to be out and about, listening to your favourite music, this spot has become the favoured venue for many musical festivals to headline their concerts. Many of the industry’s most respected artists continue to make appearances at Victoria Park, which you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
The Royal Albert Hall
Did you know that Queen Victoria first opened this musical venue in 1871? Talk about iconic! It is easy to see why she was a part of its opening as this location is the perfect ode to the arts – both musical and architectural. From its distinct terracotta colours to the prominence amongst other nearby buildings, this place is all the rage.
If you are in the mood for a more intimate performance by world-famous acts, then this is where you will want to see them. The happenings in this location range from live orchestras to film screenings, ballets and more.
Bush Hall
It is human nature to be attracted to natural beauty, which is probably why Bush Hall continues to attract such massive crowds. This glamorous and glitzy venue was actually once a former dancehall that hosted some of the grandest soirees. From the décor to the chandeliers – everything screams opulence.
Better yet, Bush Hall continues its high level of sophistication and class with the likes of the musicians that walk on its stage. You will see a number of musical superstars perform here as well as comedy gigs that are sure to get a laugh out of you.
Somerset House
Last but definitely not least is Somerset House which is as much a music venue as it is a beautiful building of cultural significance. In fact, the complex is constructed on the site of a Tudor Palace, making it one of London’s oldest cultural attractions.
Beyond its cultural significance, this spot is also steeped in musical history, with high-profile artists performing their newest ballads within the courtyard. The music is gently carried throughout the space.
Now, all that is left for you to do is experience all 10 of these legendary music venues in London!
