London is the biggest city in the UK and that can make it an incredibly daunting prospect just because there is so much to do. But have no fear, you have more than enough time to explore the capital and the multi-culturalism that such a diverse city provides.
Every borough has its pubs, clubs, gigs and nights out. Once you master the tube, you can hop between all the best places with ease and get comfortable in the biggest city.
View Freshers Events in London Here >>
Student Nights
It is that time of the year where students are about to flock to cities across the UK for university. So your feet have landed in London, one of the most intimidating places in the country, but have no fear! We have got your back with this guide to London that will show you some of the best places to start with.
Here you’ll find all the different areas, clubs, bars and venues that are real highlight in London, there’s so much to explore and enjoy here so get out there!
Camden
Camden is one of the most vibrant areas in the whole of London, the markets and the whole area that surrounds them is covered in colour, great food and a buzzing atmosphere. It’s not the cheapest place to be but there is so much to do here from shopping to the many pubs littered around such as The Hawley Arms and Camden Town Brewery.
Brixton
Brixton is an absolute dream for going out. With access to 02 Academy Brixton, Electric Brixton and Windmill Brixton, this is absolute gig heaven. With South London having such a strong music scene, it can be no real surprise with all these amazing places for bands to play. Brixton has an unbeatable atmosphere for a night out.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch is another thriving and busy part of London, the oldest market in the city is on Rivington Street and there are art displays everywhere. You can hang out at Old School Records who always have the best playlist going whilst you drink, there’s also Nikki’s and Ballie Ballerson which should not be missed.
Clubs
View this post on Instagram
Fabric is known as one of the best clubs in London. First opening in 1999, it took three years prior to change the venue into a club. This is a club that was made by people who club for people who club and that is why it has been so successful.
It boasts a ridiculous sound system and prides itself on showcasing underground DJ talent but also brings in those big-name heavyweights.
View this post on Instagram
The Roxy is a huge hit with students often putting on dedicated nights through the different decades and genres. A highly stylish venue with a comfortable interior, this club always manages to have a great atmosphere.
View this post on Instagram
XOYO is a haven for electronic music, dedicating both Friday and Saturday to the genre, so the weekends always go the hardest. Established in 2010, it very quickly established itself as one of the sharpest club spaces in London.
With bookers that look beyond genre to discover the true talent, it makes for some truly wild nights. With two different floors, it gives the club that underground feeling.
View this post on Instagram
Ministry Of Sound. It’s pretty much impossible to have not heard that name at some point in your life. The iconic club and record label have been a dance music fixture in the UK. The club features five different areas, has a specially built roof to contain the sound and even a sprung floor to make sure you don’t tire as easily.
They’ve really thought of everything and that extends to the DJs that they invite, only the biggest and the brightest sparks will be spinning records here.
Studio 338 in Greenwich is a music and arts venue that puts on some of the brightest clubbing events in all of London. The events here absolutely go off, with it being an Ibiza-styled club that brings in some of the biggest names in electronic music.
It also has one of the biggest terraced arenas in Europe so Studio 338 is surely a place that you must go to at some point.
Live Music
02 Academy Brixton has been one of the leading venues in the country since 1983 but started its life as a cinema back in the 1920’s. It has a huge capacity of 5000 which means that it puts on some of the best mid-level gigs in the whole of London.
Its art deco interior is incredibly striking, making it one of the most visually impressive live venues around. It's had Madonna, The Clash and Bob Dylan all grace the beautiful stage and many more legends will in the future.
View this post on Instagram
The Lexington is a classic London pub that has been turned into a lounge bar. All you have to do is head upstairs and you’re into the much louder venue space. This is a place where you can dance the night away to your favourite DJs or indie bands.
With a small capacity of 200 people, we hope you like it to get a bit sweaty out on the dancefloor.
View this post on Instagram
Scala is a multi-purpose building that you can find located in the King’s Cross area. It has four main floors and can fit in just over 1000 people. You can get a balcony view of the stage or be on the floor right in the middle of the action as guitars wail on stage.
They have a few regular club nights, and you can almost guarantee that a band will be taking to the stage on most nights.
Islington Assembly Hall is another one of those beautifully renovated buildings in London that have been converted into a space for live music. Once the home of other events such as tea parties and variety shows, it was restored in 2010 and has since put on some amazing gigs.
It’s now a part of London’s thriving live music scene and is one of the most picturesque venues around.
View this post on Instagram
The Jazz Café in Camden is a beautiful venue that has hosted some truly wonderful intimate shows. It is best known for showcasing well known jazz, hip hop, R&B, Soul, reggae and funk artists on a regular basis.
A mixture of both homegrown and international stars, The Jazz Café is a fantastic cultural hub that is an essential stop for fans of jazz. With it being right in the heart of Camden, you can make a whole day out of it.
Freshers FAQ’s
When does Freshers week take place in London?
Freshers week in London takes place from Sunday 12 September to Saturday 2nd October
Do I need to provide ID at events?
Yes, as a requirement of law all bars, pubs, clubs and venues will require some form of valid ID which proves you are at least 18 years of age. Accepted forms of ID include a driver’s license or passport.
Will I need a facemask?
Yes. Although the law has now changed, within some premises, you may still need to wear a mask, with each individual hospitality venue able to apply their own rules. You may be asked to wear one when moving around a restaurant or bar for example but not when seated. You’ll also need to wear a mask if travelling on public transport.
More about London
Irrespective of whether you're a first time visitor to the city, a frequently returning guest or a lifelong inhabitant, our guides are essential reading for anyone looking to make the most of their time in London.
nightlife
London is the biggest city in the UK and that can make it an incredibly daunting prospect just because there is so much to do. But have no fear, you have more than enough time to explore the capital and the multi-culturalism that such a diverse city provides. Every borough has its pubs, clubs,…
