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The Best Gig Venues in London

London has always been a music lovers haven, it pioneered the punk scene and has had a continual subculture of loyal music lovers ever since. London has now fractured into different sects of subcultures following their own paths, this top 5 list gives you the knowledge to find the best in those sects by offering the top five music venues in London.

 

5.  The Brixton Academy, Brixton

One of the jewels in London’s musical crown, The Brixton Academy has, in recent years, become one of the hottest music venues for some of the world’s biggest artists. The philosophy behind it is quite simple, cram people into to a classic gig atmosphere with modern facilities and great live music. Recently it has been championed by Madonna, Ian Dury and The Kings of Leon.

 

4. Half Moon, Putney

The Half Moon opened as a haven for folk in the 1960′s with acts such as Ralph McTell gracing the stage. A quick look at the memorabilia gracing the walls and you discover why the Half Moon is on the list. The who’s who of music have played including U2′s first sell out gig, early performances from The Rolling Stones and a residency from Elvis Costello.

 

3. The Dublin Castle, Camden

The Dublin Castle is steeped in musical history, becoming a second home to Madness in the 70′s and housing London’s Rockabilly renaissance in the 80′s it is now a home away from home for indie kids. Each night you are guaranteed 3 bands for under £10 and chances are you will discover a big name or an up-and-comer. Amy Winehouse played a chaotic set there last year just before she hit global fame.

 

2. The Old Blue Last

This pub has really earned its position as number two on the list. Despite the lack of a backstage area the pub mixes iconic London cool with the decadent interior of a Victorian era parlour. There are bands and DJ’s on every night and there is no cover charge the majority of the time. It has been voted the coolest pub in the world by NME and even the Times newspaper has voted the jukebox to be the best they have come across.  Every now and again The Old Blue Last hosts surprise and secret gigs form some major artists, playing host to The Arctic Monkeys and Lilly Allen in the past.

 

1. The Roundhouse, Camden.

The Roundhouse is one of the most iconic venues in London, if not the UK. The grade 2 listed building has been lovingly refurbished and is boasts some of the worlds most legendary musicians on it’s roster. Jimmi Hendrix, Bob Marley and Pink Floyd have all graced its famous stage. The venue is going through a period of revitalisation now and once again is hosting some of the world’s best new talent in music and theatre.

 

If you don’t live in London then it is not really a problem any more because there are fantastic transport links available. With buses offering fares to London from £1 and cheap flights to London becoming more and more abundant there is no reason why you can’t check these venue’s out.

 

London is a metropolis of different cultures and tastes, and when taking a trip there it’s definitely worth spending a night it at least one of these venues to get to know what London is really about.

About the Author

I liike to write about things that interest me,  i like music and travel

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