Nightclubs in London: 10 Hottest Spots To Dance the Night Away!
Dancing, good music, and delicious drinks? Who could say no to that? London is known as a city that never sleeps, and it doesn’t take a genius to see that.
With the many nightclubs and bars, it’s easy to blow off some steam and vibe with the music after those gruelling hours at work!
I still remember that night my mates and I spent nightclub hopping. It was one for the books, with the electric energy, fantastic drinks, and great company—the perfect way to unwind after a long week!
Hey, don’t tell the boss, but here are the best nightclubs in London we’ve been to that keep us going after being on the screen all day! Time to dress up and party!
Why is London considered a clubbing capital?
London’s after-hour party scene was already booming back in the 1960s when Annabel’s nightclub was a hotspot for the British aristocracy. In the following decades, the nightlife continued to flourish for all types of crowds.
Now, London’s vibrant nightlife offers something for everyone. With exclusive nightclubs, trendy bars, and relaxed venues, partygoers (both young and old) can find the perfect club, no matter what kind of vibe you’re looking for.
There’s also a diverse music scene in London. 90s babies can head over to retro-themed clubs, while Gen Z can enjoy the pulsating beats of today’s top hits.
Exclusive and VIP Nightclubs in London
Cirque le Soir
Media credit: cirquelesoir
Location: 15-21 Ganton St, Carnaby
Contact: 020 8137 4516
Business Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 11 pm – 3 am
Best For: VIP nights, live entertainment, over-the-top entertainment
Mayfair’s Cirque le Soir loves to play! It’s all about over-the-top entertainment and exhilarating times. Everything is grandiose and unpredictable, perfect for partygoers who want an unforgettable London VIP nightlife experience.
Club guests must look their best! Ladies, wear that very classy yet sexy dress and high heels you’ve been storing in the wardrobe. For the gentlemen, bring out your most stylish look meant to impress!
You should also get ready to see wild acts while enjoying RnB, hip-hop, and electro music! This London nightclub brings forth the most outrageous circus-themed entertainment and immersive experiences, like the hottest fire dancers!
Pro Tips:
The queue gets long, like really long. To get in smoothly, book an invitation (basically a reservation) or get a table reservation via WhatsApp (this one requires a minimum spend).
Even though the club gets super crazy and risque, make sure you’re wearing a stylish and classy outfit. You can dress sexy but avoid looking like you’re performing for the circus (unless there’s a special event that requires a costume).
Libertine
Media credit: wearelibertine
Location: 4 Winsley St
Business Hours: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:15 pm – 3 am
Best For: High-end crowd, exclusive evenings, celebrity-like experience
Libertine knows how to throw the most sophisticated and exclusive parties in London. This guestlist nightclub is a magnet for celebrities, which makes it a totally exclusive destination (really, it’s so hard to get in!).
The vibe is sophisticated but energising, with music like RnB, house, and hip hop. It’s the ultimate spot for partygoers looking for an exclusive night scene with the highest standards.
So, make sure you’re dressed to impress—Libertine has a very strict dress policy. Ladies, wear your chic, sexy outfit and pair it with high heels and seductive makeup (wear these with confidence). Men must dress smart and look clean and expensive.
Pro Tips:
It’s no secret that this London nightclub has high dress policy standards. Leave those casual outfits at home and look sleek and sophisticated because the doorman can refuse entry to anyone who doesn’t have the Libertine dress code.
Ladies, arrive before 11 pm for a chance to get free entry (the door fee is £20). This isn’t guaranteed, though!
Alternative and Underground Nightclubs in London
Fabric London
Media credit: fabriclondonofficial
Location: 77A Charterhouse St
Contact: [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Friday – Saturday: 11 pm – 6 am
- Sunday: 11 pm – 4 am
Best For: Fans of underground DJ music and electronic music, all-night dancing
Something cool is brewing in Farringdon— Fabric London is a nightclub for party people who love electronic music and listening to underground DJs. Get ready to dance all night long at this inclusive club (there’s a ramp for wheelchair users).
There’s a diverse range of music, but focusing on electro. Fridays are usually for celebrating UK sounds, while Sundays are for a wider range of music with a mix of techno and house.
There’s no paying guests list here. Instead, you can join a membership that will give you exclusive perks, like jumping the queue and discounted tickets.
Enjoy a comfortable dress code. There are no strict policies, but stick to something that will suit the vibe at the club— avoid business suits and dont bring flags.
Pro Tip:
There’s a “No Photo and Video Policy” at this club to ensure everyone is enjoying the moment. Avoid sneaking in some photos because you’ll be asked to leave.
The Cause
Media credit: thecauselondon
Location: 60 Dock Rd
Contact: 07933 898079
Business Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 12 pm – 5 pm
- Friday: 5 pm – 12 am
- Saturday – Sunday: 12 am – 6 am
Best For: Alternative clubbing, club dancing, underground music experience
After the pandemic, The Cause moved to an old factory in Docklands, its new home that was renovated for 18 months. There’s an industrial and DIY vibe, perfect for an underground nightlife experience.
It’s now better than ever. This mainstay in the London night scene can now accommodate over a thousand partygoers, a massive change from the previous 400. It has five rooms, DJ booths, sound systems, and massive speakers.
This unpretentious nightclub provides a wide range of music for different types of party people who are always down to have fun. They don’t just stick to house and techno, as they now offer a broader range of music from up-and-coming DJs.
Pro Tip:
There’s no dress code, but do wear something comfortable because it can get crowded inside.
Trendy and Themed Nightclubs in London
Trapeze
Media credit: trapezebar_club
Location: 89 Great Eastern St
Contact: 020 7739 6747
Business Hours:
- Wednesday: 5 pm – 2 am
- Thursday: 5 pm – 2:30 am
- Friday- Saturday: 5 pm – 3:30 am
- Sunday: 5 pm – 2:30 am
Best For: Circus glamour club experience, circus-themed acts
There’s no place like East London when it comes to themed nightclubs! Trapeze is a circus-themed bar that was inspired by the National Centre for Circus Arts, one of the oldest circus schools you’ll find in the UK.
There are no books and studying here— you’ll enjoy delicious cocktails, music mashups, and live entertainment. There’s a wide range of sounds for partygoers of all legal ages, including house, EDM, indie, disco, classics, and popular club tracks.
With three rooms and a total of 520 guests capacity, this trendy club has something for everyone. The ground floor is for fun parties and unique cocktails, the basement is for all-night dancing, and the mezzanine gives you the VIP treatment.
Pro Tips:
If you’re coming to Trapeze, bring a friend or two (or more!). There’s a “no single-entry” policy, which means you cannot go alone.
Book a reservation to secure your entry. The slots get full fast, and there’s no surefire way to get in from the queue.
Queen of Hoxton
Media credit: queenofhoxtonldn
Location: 1 Curtain Rd
Contact: 020 7422 0958, [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Tuesday: 5 pm – 9:30 pm
- Wednesday: 5 pm – 12 am
- Thursday – Friday: 4 pm – 2 am
- Saturday: 2 pm – 2 am
- Sunday: 2 pm – 9:30 pm
Best For: Dancing, get-togethers, casual nights, event parties
For a trendy club that’s not too wild but still offers a fun and fabulous time, Queen of Hoxton is a must-visit in Shoreditch! As a stylish club and hangout spot, it’s the ideal place for after-hour get-togethers with friends.
The club hosts many events that will keep you dancing all night long. Expect retro music, classic jams, pop hits, and drag cabaret (this one happens every Saturday night!).
As an inclusive space, people of all genders are welcome. It’s all about non-stop, safe night-outs!
Pro Tip:
Dress for dancing! Avoid formal outfits and stick to casual wear (but do add a stylish touch). You can even come in trainers for a comfortable night of dancing!
LGBTQ+ and Inclusive Nightclubs in London
Dalston Superstore
Media credit: dsuperstore
Location: 117 Kingsland High St
Contact: +44 (0) 207 254 2273, [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Monday: 5 pm – 12 am
- Tuesday: 4 pm – 12 am
- Wednesday: 4 pm – 2 am
- Thursday: 4 pm – 2:30 am
- Friday: 4 pm – 4 am
- Saturday: 12 pm – 4 am
- Sunday: 12 pm – 2 am
Best For: Drag performances, all-night dancing, basement raves
No, Dalston Superstore is not for the bargain hunters— this is a queer-friendly nightclub in East London that hosts dance parties and drag performances. As it welcomes the LGBTQIA+ community, it also gives back by donating to charities.
Start with a drag brunch on weekends when most fabulous drag queens (and kings!) come back the the hive for the most dazzling performances. Then, continue on for a night of dancing to classic club bangers, like pop, house, and electro.
There’s something wild happening every day, which includes unadulterated mayhem, banging music, and dancing babes! Many events are for charity, so you can have fun while supporting charities that help the queer community.
Pro Tip:
If you have low or no income and would like to visit an event, don’t be shy and contact them regarding discounted ticket prices. There are seats reserved specifically for individuals who cannot pay for the standard ticket price.
G-A-Y & Heaven Nightclub
Media credit: heavenlgbtclub
Location: Under The Arches, Villiers Street
Contact: 0844 847 2351
Business Hours: Thursday – Monday: 11 pm – 5 am
Best For: Large-scale LGBTQIA+ events, live shows, drag performances, gigs
You’ll find G-A-Y & Heaven Nightclub at Embankment, which has been at the forefront of London’s LGBTQIA+ scene for decades. It’s not easy to find, given that it’s located under Charing Cross Station— there’s no massive signage that will point you here.
If you’re searching for the most fantabulous events, head over here and cheer for the hottest drag shows, sexy performances, and thrilling contests. On Mondays, join Popcorn, a cheeky night of dancing with the most thrilling RnB and house music.
The place is the only venue for live music in London that can hold 1,000 people— no wonder entertainment is always mind-blowing! And no, there’s no strict dress policy, so just stick to your fantastic, casual outfits and enjoy the high energy!
Pro Tip:
Make sure you don’t bring large bags and cases because you might not get in. These aren’t allowed inside, and you want to avoid looking for a locker in Charing Cross before the club event.
Relaxed Nightclubs and Lounge Bars in London
The Piano Works
Media credit: thepianoworks
Location: 113-117 Farringdon Rd
Contact: 0207 889 1966
Business Hours:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5 pm – 1 am
- Friday: 5 pm – 2 am
- Saturday: 12:30 pm – 2 am
Best For: Interactive live music performances, get-togethers, all-night dancing
If you’re looking for a way to relax with your mates after a tiring day at the office, try The Piano Works in Farringdon for a fun night out. Vibe with pop songs, rock music, and the current hottest hits!
It’s the kind of place that has a wicked happy hour vibe, and there’s live music every day the club is open! The only thing you need to worry about is your outfit, which should be casual, comfortable, and stylish.
The sesh starts at 5 pm, where you can wine and dine while the pianist performs music requests. Then, a couple of hours later, the vibe starts getting livelier with louder music. And as time goes by, you can enjoy dancing the night away until closing!
Pro Tip:
Book a table if you want priority entry and to avoid lining up. If you reserve one for dinner and would like to keep your table until the end of the night, remember to note that during checkout so the staff can arrange it for you.
The Blues Kitchen
Media credit: theblueskitchen
Location: 111-113 Camden High St
Contact: 020 7387 5277, [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 12 pm – 1 am
- Friday: 12 pm – 2:30 am
- Saturday: 11 am – 3 am
- Sunday: 11 am – 1 am
Best For: Relaxing nights, jazz music
If you want to experience a blues nightlife, The Blues Kitchen is the grooviest place to go! It’s a relaxing bar that turns into a lively club, serving the most heavenly cocktails all night long!
Listen to soulful music seven days a week— talented performers will serenade you with jazz, soul, and funk music. Most nights have free entries, so we strongly suggest you take advantage of that.
On nights when you do have to pay an entrance fee, tickets are usually cheap and you do get live DJs who will play the most soulful bangers to keep you glued to the dancefloor!
Pro Tip:
Visit on a Monday to get £6 margaritas from 4 pm until closing. And on Wednesdays, you can enjoy £6 cocktails.
Quick Comparison of the Best London Nightclubs
| Nightclub | Neighbourhood | Main Music | Dress Code |
| Cirque le Soir | Mayfair | RnB, hip-hop, house, electro | Stylish, classy, sexy |
| Libertine | Near Oxford | RnB, hip-hop, house | Classy, smart |
| Fabric London | Farringdon | Electronic | Relaxed, casual, comfortable |
| The Cause | Docklands | Techno, electro, dance, house | No dress code |
| Trapeze | Shoreditch | EDM, house, indie, disco, classics, popular hits | Hip, smart casual |
| Queen of Hoxton | Shoreditch | Retro, classic, pop | Casual |
| Dalston Superstore | Dalston | House, electro, disco, pop | No dress code (dress to impress) |
| G-A-Y & Heaven Nightclub | Embankment | RnB, house, techno, disco | Smart casual |
| The Piano Works | Farringdon | Pop, rock, current hits | Smart casual, elegant |
| The Blues Kitchen | Camden | Jazz, soul, funk, blues | Casual |
How to Get on the Guestlist in London Nightclubs
London’s VIP nightclubs are tough to get into. Even lining up outside doesn’t guarantee entry because it will be ridiculously long!
But you know, the guestlist actually doesn’t mean you’ll get inside the club. It’s just a list with your name on it that gives you a chance to enter the nightclub— you can still get rejected if you don’t follow the dress code (unless you’re a celebrity, most probably).
But we’re pros in London’s nightlife scene, so here are tips on getting on the guest list. But keep in mind these are still not fool-proof because, at the end of the day, it still depends on the discretion of the staff.
- Get your name on the guest list. Yes, we already said this doesn’t guarantee entry, but having your name means you can jump the queue and someone can assist you. If the doorman thinks you’re dressed for the club, you might get in!
- Look for club promoters, and by that, we mean real club promoters. Look for legitimate club promoters who can put you on the guestlist for exclusive clubs. Don’t fall for fake ones!
- Join the club membership. Some nightclubs in London don’t have guest lists but do have memberships that serve like one. This will allow you to waltz in without queueing up!
- Follow the dress code. Even if your name is on the guest list, you cannot get in if you aren’t wearing the right clothes. Exclusive nightclubs have strict dress policies, so follow that and make sure you look the part.