London is a city that is never silent - and its heart beats strongest precisely where live music resounds. In the maze of streets and neighborhoods, you'll find dozens of pubs where evenings turn into concerts, jam sessions and spirited performances. From legendary venues where the greatest artists made their debuts to intimate venues with soul, the British capital is a true paradise for lovers of live music.
In this listing we present TOP 15 pubs and bars with live music in London - places to visit whether you love blues, jazz, punk, soul or are just looking for a good atmosphere and a real scene. All locations have been vetted and are currently operating - so there's nothing left to do but.... embark on a tour of London!
1️⃣ The Dublin Castle (Camden)
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📍 Address: 94 Parkway, Camden Town, London NW1 7AN
🌐 Website: thedublincastle.com
🎟️ Introduction: Often free or very cheap (£5-10), possible discounts with a flyer.
🍺 Promotion: cheap drinks before 18:00.
🎧 After the concerts: DJs play every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The Dublin Castle is one of London's most iconic live music pubs - a true legend of the borough Camden Town. It was here that such artists as. Madness, Blur, The Libertines whether Amy Winehouse, who was often here not only as a performer, but also as a guest.
The pub has a separate, intimate concert hall for about 200 people. Concerts are held almost daily - from Wednesday to Sunday, often featuring several bands on one evening. Dominant genres include. rock, indie, punk and alternative, but there are also jam sessions and special events.
The vibe of the place is raw, authentic, with no overtures - exactly what you'd expect from a real London gig pub. It is an ideal choice for those looking for live, independent music and spontaneous performances In the legendary atmosphere of Camden.
2️⃣ The Blues Kitchen (Shoreditch / Camden / Brixton)
📍 Addresses:
- Shoreditch: 134-146 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3AR
- Camden: 111-113 Camden High St, London NW1 7JN
- Brixton: 40 Acre Ln, London SW2 5SP
🌐 Website: theblueskitchen.com
🎟️ Introduction: During the week usually free, weekends - tickets £5-15, depending on the event.
The Blues Kitchen is a vibrant chain of bars and restaurants that turn into true temples of live music after dark. Each of the three locations offers almost daily concerts at the highest level - from blues and soul to funk and R&B.
The interior is reminiscent of American bars from New Orleans - with dark wood, neon lights and a dance area in front of the stage. In addition to the music, you can count on delicious US Southern-style food (ribs, burgers, grilled shrimp) and great cocktails.
In the evenings, the premises are transformed into a club - the DJs often play after concerts. It's the perfect place for a fun-filled evening of music, dancing and good food.
📌 On weekends, it's worth reserving a table - it can be crowded!
3️⃣ Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club (Soho)
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📍 Address: 47 Frith Street, Soho, London W1D 4HT
🌐 Website: ronniescotts.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: From about £10 (late show) to as much as £65 - prices depend on the artist and day of the week. Booking required.
Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club it's One of the most prestigious jazz clubs in the UK, in continuous operation since 1959. The greatest have performed here: Chet Baker, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse, Jamie Cullum - and many others.
The premises have two levels: main concert hall with atmospheric lighting, numbered tables and waiter service, and the more intimate Ronnie's Bar upstairs, where jam sessions, concerts by young talents and dance nights with DJs are held.
This place is more than a concert - it the full jazz experience: perfect acoustics, cheese boards, cocktails and exceptional service. A relaxed dress code and listening culture - the audience focused, the stage sacred.
4️⃣ The Jazz Café (Camden)
📍 Address: 5 Parkway, Camden Town, London NW1 7PG
🌐 Website: thejazzcafe.com
🎟️ Introduction: Tickets from £10 to £30, depending on the artist and event. Online booking recommended.
The Jazz Café is one of London's most important and renowned live music stages, located in the heart of London's vibrant Camden Town. Despite the name, the club is not limited to jazz - you will hear a full spectrum of sounds here: jazz, soul, R&B, hip-hop, afrobeat, electronica, and even alternative pop projects.
The premises are divided into two zones: first floor with a dance area i a mezzanine with seating, from which you can enjoy music with dinner and wine - with a beautiful view of the stage. This is the perfect place for both romantic evening, as well as an energetic concert ending with dancing.
On stage appear both emerging talents, as well as world stars. After the concert part is often organized afterparty with DJs, which last until late at night, especially on weekends.
5️⃣The Old Queen’s Head (Islington)
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🎤 The Old Queen's Head (Islington)
📍 Address: 44 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 8LN
🌐 Website: theoldqueenshead.com
🎟️ Introduction: usually free during the week, on Fridays and Saturdays tickets from about £6-10. It is worth checking the schedule online.
The Old Queen's Head it's stylish and atmospheric pub in the district Islington, which combines a classic British atmosphere with a modern music and party scene. The interiors attract attention -. Baroque details, velvet armchairs, fireplaces and chandeliers, all in the climate vintage with a touch of casual.
On the first floor there is concert hall and club room, where several times a week are held Acoustic concerts, jam sessions, DJ sets and themed events (e.g., karaoke nights, quizzes, silent disco). The repertoire is varied: indie, pop, folk, house, sometimes hip-hop or funk.
This place is ideal for both Spontaneous outing with friends, as well as evening with a drink and live music. It attracts a creative, young audience from all over London and tourists looking for an alternative to the crowded center.
6️⃣ The Half Moon (Putney)
📍 Address: 93 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, London SW15 1EU
🌐 Website: halfmoon.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: Tickets usually from £10 to £20, some events free. It is worth checking the online calendar.
The Half Moon it's a real A legend among London concert pubs. Works uninterruptedly since 1963, and over the decades giants have performed on its stage: The Rolling Stones, Kate Bush, U2, Elvis Costello, Frank Turner and many others.
Pub connects traditional, cozy decor z a large, professional concert hall at the back of the building, which can accommodate up to several hundred people. Concerts are held almost daily, and the repertoire covers a wide range of styles - rock, blues, indie, pop, as well as popular tribute bands and acoustic music.
Beyond music The Half Moon also offers comedy nights, open mic, sports broadcasts and good pub food. This is one of those places where rock history meets modern energy and friendly atmosphere.
7️⃣The Lexington (Angel)
📍 Address: 96-98 Pentonville Road, London N1 9JB
🌐 Website: thelexington.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: Usually £5-15, depending on the event. It is worth booking in advance.
The Lexington it's a great combination american new york style bar z an intimate but well-publicized music stage. Located right next to the station Angel, the venue has become a favorite for fans of the indie rock, alt-pop and new independent artists.
The interior is reminiscent of the style of Brooklyn's bars. Lots of wood, comfortable lodges, neon signs, walls full of posters. Plus a huge selection of kraft beers and American whiskeys, which are served at the classic bar on the first floor.
The concerts are held on the first floor - the stage is not large, but for this proximity to the audience and raw atmosphere create a unique atmosphere. Dozens of bands that later broke through to the big stage have performed here - that's why Lexington is a place where you can often Hear the "future stars" before they make a name for themselves.
8️⃣The Bedford (Balham)
📍 Address: 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, London SW12 9HD
🌐 Website: thebedford.com
🎟️ Introduction: Many events free, concerts usually £5-15. Seats often require reservations.
The Bedford is one of south London's best-known live music pubs. Located in the bustling neighborhood of Balham, attracts both lovers of good music and those who appreciate stylish interiors and intimate atmosphere.
The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored Edwardian-style building and features a a professional concert hall with a mezzanine and excellent acoustics. Among those who started their careers on this stage were. Ed Sheeran, James Morrison i Paolo Nutini.
The concerts are held several times a week, covering a variety of species: acoustic pop, soul, folk, jazz, as well as evenings stand-up and DJ-sets. In addition, the menu features good pub-style food and a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
9️⃣ Ain’t Nothin’ But… (Soho)
📍 Address: 20 Kingly Street, Soho, London W1B 5PZ
🌐 Website: aintnothinbut.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: During the week usually free, on Fridays and Saturdays about £5-10. It's a good idea to come early - the place fills up quickly.
Ain't Nothin' But... it's a real A blues mecca in the heart of Soho and one of the few places in London where the live blues plays every day - from the classic Chicago and Delta Blues, to more contemporary sounds with a touch of jazz and rock.
The interior is narrow, darkened and full of pictures of music legends. Small stage right next to the bar makes the musicians almost at arm's length. The audience sits or stands very close - which builds the intimate, raw and authentic atmosphere.
Particularly popular are jam session evenings, which attract both experienced musicians, as well as random artists from around the world. There is no room for appearances here - what matters is pure music played straight from the soul.
🔟 The Troubadour (Earl’s Court)
📍 Address: 263-267 Old Brompton Road, London SW5 9JA
🌐 Website: troubadourlondon.com
🎟️ Introduction: Tickets usually from £8 to £15, there are also free evenings. Reservations recommended.
The Troubadour is one of London's oldest and most iconic music venues, operating continuously since 1954. It was here that they played Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Paul Simon whether Adele - Before they became global icons.
The venue combines the functions of a cafe, pub, restaurant and concert hall in the basement. The stage is not large, which creates a a very intimate atmosphere and allows you to feel a real closeness with the artists. The music played is mainly acoustic folk, jazz, indie and singer-songwriters, although there are also experimental sounds.
The decor is rustic, full of memorabilia from the history of music, and the whole thing keeps independent, artistic atmosphere, which attracts both local regulars and tourists looking for something authentic.
1️⃣1️⃣The Windmill (Brixton)
📍 Address: 22 Blenheim Gardens, Brixton, London SW2 5BZ
🌐 Website: windmillbrixton.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: Tickets usually from £5 to £12. Often available locally, but it's worth buying online - sometimes a set.
The Windmill is one of the most authentic and influential concert venues in London - especially for fans of underground, punk, indie and experimental sounds. Although located a bit out of the way in Brixton, the pub has gained a cult status Among local bands and alternative fans.
The scene is small, the audience close by, sound system strong, and the atmosphere is raw and uncompromising - everything that defines an independent, live scene with character. This is where bands such as black midi, Goat Girl or Fat White Family.
The Windmill It is also known for promoting young artists and organize unusual events - From mini-festivals to peculiar performances. It is a place for those who are looking for musical discoveries, not polite concerts with predictable repertoire.
1️⃣2️⃣ The Green Note (Camden)
📍 Address: 106 Parkway, Camden Town, London NW1 7AN
🌐 Website: greennote.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: Usually between £10 and £15. An intimate venue - tickets sell out quickly.
The Green Note is a small, independent music club in the heart of Camden, which is regarded as one of the London's most charming acoustic music venues. Both local artists and musicians from around the world perform here - playing folk, blues, jazz, country, world music and other niche genres.
The restaurant is very intimate - just a few dozen seats, with candlelight and a homey atmosphere. There is no no noisy bar or big stage - just a music, artist and audience. This place puts silence, focus and authenticity.
The Green Note also runs an additional basement stage and off-site concert series. He has won numerous awards, including. "Best Live Music Venue". From Time Out and other music media. The perfect place for a quiet evening with beautiful music.
1️⃣3️⃣Troy Bar (Hoxton)
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📍 Address: 10 Hoxton Street, London N1 6NG
🌐 Website: troybar.co.uk
🎟️ Introduction: Mostly free or a nominal fee (e.g., £5). It is advisable to come early - places are limited.
Troy Bar is a true gem on the map of London live music - a small, family-run venue in the Hoxton neighborhood that has been bringing together lovers of jazz, soul, reggae, funk i jam sessions. Although it looks inconspicuous from the outside, a hot atmosphere and true musical passion await inside.
The best known are Wednesday jam sessions, during which young and experienced musicians from all over London come together to improvise and create unforgettable performances. The audience is highly engaged, and the distance between the stage and the audience - virtually non-existent.
The restaurant also serves Caribbean food, cocktails and beer at affordable prices. Troy Bar is not a "pub" in the classic sense, but it meets all the conditions: live music, casual atmosphere, local artists and zero artifice.
1️⃣4️⃣ Piano Smithfield (Farringdon)
📍 Address: 14 Long Lane, Barbican, London EC1A 9PN
🌐 Website: pianosmithfield.com
🎟️ Introduction: Admission is usually free or nominal (about £5-10), depending on the event.
Piano Smithfield is an atmospheric bar and concert hall near the Barbican, specializing in jazz, soul and acoustic music. The small space, with a piano and stage, is conducive to intimate performances - both by debutants and established musicians.
Jazz evenings are held almost daily, and the venue also has special events: jam sessions, author's song evenings or open mic. The audience sits close to the stage, in a darkened interior with atmospheric lighting and an excellent sound system.
1️⃣5️⃣ Amersham Arms (New Cross)
📍 Address: 388 New Cross Road, London SE14 6TY
🌐 Website: https://amershamarms.co.uk/
🎟️ Introduction: Many events free or with cheap tickets (£5-10). Popular concerts are worth booking in advance.
Amersham Arms is an iconic concert pub in the district New Cross, known for his young, energetic and alternative scene. It's right next to Goldsmiths University, making the place bustling with artistic activity - one of the best locations in London to explore new talents.
In the evenings, the pub turns into a lively concert hall, with indie, punk, hip-hop and electronic bands playing, as well as stand-up nights, spoken word and club events. The stage is small, the audience close by - all in the spirit of DIY and independence.
This place is ideal for those who want to feel the authentic atmosphere of London's emerging music scene, listen to something fresh and drink beer in good company.
✅ Summary
London is a true live music capital - from historic stages to alternative clubs to atmospheric pubs with jam sessions. This list includes 15 proven venues, in which concerts are held regularly - Regardless of the day of the week or music genre.
This is an ideal list for those who want:
- discover legends of the London music scene (like The Dublin Castle whether Ronnie Scott's),
- listen to great music over a beer and a burger (The Blues Kitchen, The Bedford),
- Or immerse yourself in an intimate atmosphere with soul (Green Note, Troy Bar).
Whatever your preference - you'll find something for you here. Check out the venue, choose your evening and... enjoy live music in one of the world's most inspiring cities!
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