UK nightlife takes another serious hit as London's Printworks closes

Iconic rave venue Printworks in London closed its doors for good last night (1st May) in preparation for the building to be demolished and rebuilt into offices. 

Last night was Printworks’ final bash. The club was one of London’s best-loved clubs for electronic music, fitting up to 6,000 music-loving punters who wanted to dance, connect, and unite to the music. 

Photo: Printworks London / Facebook.com

Michael Kill, CEO of The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), said "Printworks has been described as ‘the theatre of dreams’, a ‘cornerstone of culture for the capital’, and as this iconic space closes it will leave a huge void in London's music venue scene. Playing host to some of the biggest names in the music industry and for many fans this venue will be hard to let go. It has shaped communities, nurtured talent and has an emotional connection with millions of music lovers from around the world."

"As we say goodnight to this iconic space, we recognise that clubs and venues across the country are in crisis, with recent figures showing 32% of clubs closing since 2019, and only 865 nightclubs remaining in the UK, with 10 nightclubs closing permanently every month."

"With the impacts of Brexit, Energy & Cost inflation biting, we need the Government to address the immediate issues faced by some of the hardest hit business sectors. The night time economy has already suffered irreparable damage, and similar to the wider hospitality sector will face further losses over the coming months, if we do not see immediate and decisive support from the Government for the remaining businesses."

Photo: Printworks London / Facebook.com

"The long term strategy for recovery has seen our industry suffer a huge amount of collateral damage, with independent businesses and culture being hardest hit. It will require swift and direct action in terms of a sector wide VAT reduction, strict management of energy supply and relief by OFGEM, a re-evaluation of business rates relief particularly for late night businesses and a lowering of visa thresholds for international workers."

Fighting to return, just before a surprise set from Bicep at the closing party, the venue operators announced a provisional deal for Printworks to reopen on the redeveloped site in 2026. But still, its future, for now, remains uncertain. 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

Header image credit: Printworks London / Facebook.com