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London's Music Scene

London has produced more influential music than perhaps any other city — the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, David Bowie, the Clash, Amy Winehouse, Adele and thousands more grew out of specific London neighbourhoods. The live music scene today ranges from enormous arena shows to 50-seat basement jazz clubs.

Major Venues

The O2 Arena in Greenwich (20,000 capacity) hosts the biggest global tours. The Royal Albert Hall in Kensington is one of the world's great concert halls — everything from classical to rock. The Roundhouse in Camden has a history stretching back to the 1960s and is one of the best mid-size venues in Europe. Brixton Academy is famous for its raked floor and excellent atmosphere. The Barbican hosts classical, contemporary and world music of consistently high quality.

Small Venues

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in Soho has run since 1959 and remains one of the world's great jazz venues — book in advance. The 100 Club on Oxford Street is older still (since 1942) and has hosted the Sex Pistols, the Rolling Stones and countless others. Many of London's best small gigs happen in pub venues — the Dublin Castle in Camden, the Water Rats in King's Cross — with tickets under £15.

Finding What's On

Time Out London's music section, Resident Advisor (electronic music), and venue-specific mailing lists are the most reliable ways to find current listings. Last-minute availability often appears through venue social media the day before a show.

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