Live Music In London: Unmissable Gigs & Events

• 47 Frith Street, Soho, W1D 4HT

Ronnie Scott's is one of the most famous spots for live music in the entire city, situated in Soho. Opened by Ronnie Scott and Pete King in 1959, this place was originally on Gerrard Street, before relocating to its current venue in 1965 - where it has seen decades of live jazz.

Some iconic artists have performed here over the years, including Jimi Hendrix, Lady Gaga and Amy Winehouse. There's a fresh lineup of shows every single night of the week, and the intimate space is always packed out with fans.

• Gillian Lynne Theatre, Parker Street, WC2B 5PW

With locations in both the West End and Farringdon, The Piano Works is a lively bar that promises non-stop music and entertainment throughout the week. Every song played is requested by the audience, so you can slip the musicians a piece of paper with anything you want to hear.

Expect professional piano vocalists and singing waiters to begin the evening, before a house band takes to the stage - followed by a DJ on weekends. Plus, you'll find musical bottomless brunches on Saturdays.

• 20-24 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EU

You'll find some form of live music every night of the week at Albert's Schloss Soho. Tickets to catch the live haus band play are free, so you can simply rock up for the entertainment, and then browse the delicious Bier hall's menu to see if an ice-cold Pilsner or themed cocktail takes your fancy.

That's not all here though, as they also host piano sessions, house bands, Sunday roasts with DJ sets and more.

The Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch puts live bands on the stage, banging out the very best hip hop, RnB and afrobeats anthems. Between sets, there's epic DJs behind the decks to keep the energy high and the tunes in full flow.

Bag a bottomless ticket and you can up the ante with unlimited booze for a solid 90 minutes. Need something to soak up the sauce? No problem. The BBQ here is well worth bragging about.

• St. Thomas's Church 9a, St. Thomas Street, SE1 9RY

For an epic night of live music and food, you'll want to check out Amazing Grace - situated in a former church and still maintaining its stained glass windows and altar. Along with delicious cocktails and craft beer, the trendy spot in London Bridge and Canary Wharf features killer bands and DJs so you can dance the night away.

The performances are complemented by cutting-edge audiovisual displays and 3D light projections, as well as a cracking pan-Asian menu featuring everything from pulled beef brisket bao buns to lime and chilli corn ribs.

• Various locations

Venues in Soho, Camden, Mayfair and beyond will be paying tribute to the Detroit culture that became the heartbeat of American music when Soul Supper Immersive Dining Experience takes over. The event will include non-stop live Motown music along with drinks and a two-course dinner.

That's not all that's on offer with XT Events though, as they also host Soul Bingo, daytime parties and so much more.

• 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF

One of the most iconic attractions in London, Sky Garden is hosting a slew of unique events. Head to check out its music-themed nights for cracking cocktails and terrific tunes.

These cost as little as £15.50 per person to attend, including a glass of wine or mocktail on arrival. Expect live bands and DJs playing throughout the night, all while looking out over the stunning sights of London.

• 78 Venn Street, SW4 0BD

One of the best alternative nights out in Clapham, Venn Street Records is a vinyl-clad, rock 'n' roll drinkers den covered with NME posters and other iconic music memorabilia. The venue hosts regular live music and DJ nights, with great tunes guaranteed every single night.

They also offer a brilliant happy hour deal that promises two-for-one cocktails from 5 until 8pm every day, and you can enjoy tasty pizzas here as well. Not in the area? These guys have got spots all over the city, including Eastcheap, Old Street and Northcote.

Hux Bar is quickly becoming one of London's premier live music venues, perfectly blending a chic bar experience with an intimate concert vibe.

Every Thursday to Saturday from 9pm to midnight, the stage comes alive with some of the most exciting up-and-coming artists, creating an immersive atmosphere where music lovers can discover new sounds while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. The acoustics and lighting create a captivating setting, whether you're up close with friends or unwinding at the bar. It's a perfect way to combine your love for music and cocktails in one unforgettable evening.

• 451 Queensbridge Road, E8 3AS

Located in Dalston, The Victoria has been the home of buoyant gig-goers for years, welcoming crowds from around the capital for intimate yet raucous nights out. Expect a striking 1950s bar island in the centre, as well a stage where you can catch a regular lineup of live bands and musicians.

With a host of cracking drinks and regularly rotating kitchen residencies, there's no shortage of reasons to spend a night here. Plus, you can check out their sister venues Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes and Hand of Glory.

• Charing Cross Road, WC2H 8LH

A futuristic venue in the Soho area, HERE At Outernet is a technologically-advanced event space, complete with a stunning, colourful design. Their immersive 360-degree screens and high-tech sound systems create an unbeatable atmosphere, perfect for live music.

They host a range of public events here, alongside private hire options for putting on your own show. With room for up to up to 2000 guests, there's so much to enjoy here.

• 13 Kingly Court, Carnaby, W1B 5PW

An immersive bar that transports you back to the 1940s, Cahoots keeps the Blitz spirit alive in Soho. Underneath Carnaby Street, this hidden bar serves up classic and signature cocktails in a quirky, old-school setting.

There's always a party going on here, so you can dance the night away to live music while soaking up the atmosphere.

• 147 St John's Hill, SW11 1TQ

Head down to St John's Tavern every Friday and you'll be treated to a night of live music alongside South London's best craft beers. With reasonably priced pints and tunes from up and coming artist Billy Keane, you're in for one hell of a treat.

Saturday nights also see an exclusive DJ set taking over the venue, which you can enjoy alongside their selection of 20 different pints. And if you're hungry, they also serve the likes of sourdough pizzas, Korean fried chicken burgers and pork schnitzel.

•  34, Charlotte Road, EC2A 3PB

Looking for classical music in London? DEBUT at Shoreditch Treehouse is doing a secret concert in its stunning loft space. The evening will kick off with their resident pianist offering improvised tunes before you enjoy two magical performances from up-and-coming and renowned stars.

This is a BYOB event, so you can bring along your favourite drinks to enjoy while you're there - with tickets starting from only £20 per person.

• Secret location

Catch some sultry live jazz or cabaret acts at Central London's finest: The Candlelight Club. Not only does this venue offer first-class entertainment, but it's also touting 1920-inspired everything, from the atmosphere to the drinks and food. 

This secretive event is held at a mystery Central London location, revealed by email only two days before. Tickets start from only £27.50, with the option to add on drinks, a reserved table or even a sumptuous three-course dinner.

• 4a Station Way, SE15 4RX

As the renovation remains underway at the CLF Art Lounge's stunning rooftop in Mountview, the CLF Art Lounge Pop Up is here to fill the void in style. On the Mountview ground floor, it serves up all the same spectacular drinks, Patio Pizza, DJs and immaculate vibes you know and love from the OG venue.

That said, this is much more than a stopgap until the summer opening. With an extensive calendar of live music, comedy, spoken word and art, this is an incredible venue for entertainment in its own right.

• 252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN

A stylish cocktail bar in Holborn, Scarfes Bar has a cosy, drawing room feel to it, inspired by gentleman's clubs. They've got shelves filled with over 1,000 antique books, hand-picked by a Portobello antique dealer, alongside cosy booth seating and lots of lamps.

They host free live music performances six nights a week, with a wide range of artists playing. Plus, their talented bartenders will make you some truly excellent drinks to enjoy while you listen.

Looking for a hub of creativity right in the heart of London? Setlist can be found on the terrace of Somerset House, promising breathtaking views of the Thames while you enjoy their regular lineup of live music and DJ sets, as well as the odd art installation.

They showcase the very best of local, up-and-coming talent, hosting a diverse range of acts. There's plenty of great food available too, prepared by a team of female chefs - we're talking pistachio pesto pizzas, steak and chorizo tacos or fried plantain.

• 77 Bedford Hill, SW12 9HD

Considering Ed Sheeran once played here, years before he reached international fame, The Bedford is without a doubt a fantastic place to catch exciting up-and-coming artists. The Balham institution hosts live sets in their club room most nights of the week from 8pm.

The historic building dates back to 1931, and you can expect elegant red and gold interiors. Feeling peckish? They're also cooking up everything from chorizo and goat's cheese pizzas to bacon and blue cheese burgers.

• 70 Hoxton Street, N1 6LP

A haunt boasting live music and an eclectic mix of artists, Shoreditch destination The Macbeth is a more than suitable choice.

Decked out with sleek decor, this stylish pub promises a cool and casual vibe as you sip on the likes of espresso martinis while checking out artists such Peter Doherty, Damien Marley and Florence And The Machine.

•  Old Trades Hall, Valette Street, E9 6NU

Boasting one of the best live music programmes in Hackney, the Moth Club brings together fresh talent and established acts every month. Head down for the chance to catch your favourite new band or catch a little something you didn't know existed.

This place has been around since 1972, hosting everything from bingo nights to cabaret shows, karaoke and stand-up comedy alongside the live music. 

• 126 York Way, Kings Cross, N1 0AX

A King's Cross favourite for after work drinks and nights out with entertainment in London, The Star of Kings is quite the social hangout. A no-frills boozer boasting quite the legacy of live music sets, this pub has an epic set up for bands to rock out on. 

There's also a karaoke room if you fancy putting on a performance of your own, and a fully-stocked bar to keep you fuelled. Hungry? Filthy Buns are in the kitchen, cooking up everything from crispy Swiss cheese and beef patties to chicken burgers coated in miso mayonnaise.

• 16 Bury Street, SW1Y 6AJ

Loud, proud and stylish as hell, Quaglino's is a fabulous live music venue in the West End. Head over in the evening where DJs and artists will take to the main stage from 9pm to sing and serenade you with sweet tunes.

This well-known restaurant hosts performances almost every single night. While you watch, sip cocktails or dine on premium dishes like lobster bisque, chargrilled tomahawk steaks and asparagus and ricotta tortelloni.

• Railway Arches, 340 Acton Mews, E8 4EA

A taproom and live music venue in Haggerston, Signature Brew is championing craft beers and talented musicians. Located under a railway arch, this gem has a whole number of IPAs and lagers on-tap, perfect for sipping on while watching wicked sets.

Expect to see everything from brass bands playing noughties hits to spring festivals and music quizzes at this unique spot, and there's even an outdoor terrace overlooking the canal.

• 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB

Recently crowned the third best bar in the world, Nightjar in Soho and Shoreditch's dazzling speakeasy atmosphere owes much to its live music schedule. Settle in for a night of highly innovative, multi-sensory cocktails on the side of a line-up of top vintage performers.

They host musical performances from 9pm every single night, with a small cover charge paid directly to the artists. There's often a late-night set too, so sip signature drinks like the manuka honey and bourbon Southern Cross while enjoying the show.

• 38 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3ES

Looking for a music venue with style and some seriously impressive acts? The Old Blue Last in Shoreditch is the place to be. With a cool upstairs space that hosts the best up-and-coming bands and DJs seven nights a week, this is a must-visit spot for any music lover.

There's a cracking selection of beers, wines and cocktails available at the bar, and you can even order to the pub from Yard Sale Pizza if you're feeling peckish.

Jumbi is Peckham's soulful heartbeat where live music takes centre stage. On Rye Lane, this intimate venue celebrates Afro-Caribbean sounds, reggae, dub, and jazz, often hosting live sets and listening sessions that draw music lovers from across London.

The warm, eclectic interior, vinyl-lined walls, and earthy tones make it a gorgeous place to spend time with friends. Expect rum-forward cocktails, natural wines, and locally brewed beers - perfect accompaniments to a night of discovering new grooves and soaking up timeless classics.

• 310c, Earls Court Road, SW5 9BA

One of the most unique cocktail bars in London, Evans & Peel Detective Agency sees you mingling with some of the biggest crooks in bootleg liquor. this is one of the quirkiest ways to experience live music, in an immersive experience that will make you feel like you've stepped back to the 1920s.

From the Italian American stakeout menu and candlelit atmosphere, to the live jazz, swing and blues all night long, this Prohibition-style secret spot oozes cool.

• 26 E Bay Lane, E15 2GW

Fronting a lineup of live traditional Irish music, The Lock Inn is the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park pub that's keep you entertained. Topping that off? Darts, local craft beer, pub quizzes and a huge screen showing all the biggest live sporting action.

Sip a refreshing pint while the show is on, and be sure to check out their food menu too. We're talking homemade pizzas, juicy burgers and one of the best Sunday roasts around.

• 9 Holles Street, W1G 0DB

Fronting live music every Thursday to Saturday evening, alongside their usual lineup of creative kitchens and two stocked bars, Market Halls is the perfect place to go to get your weekend off to a flying start. Nab a table with all your mates to chow down and drink up just shy of Oxford Street.

There are nine different vendors selling scrumptious street food, promising everything from tasty tacos to hearty burgers and delicious dumplings. Plus, there are often bigger events for special occasions.

At London Wing Fest 2026, the beats are just as bold as the wings. This festival combines street food with a summer-long soundtrack, featuring live DJs, bands, street buskers, and roaming entertainers all weekend long.

With tickets starting from £25, it's your chance to soak up the sound while enjoying smoky BBQ wings, bourbon cocktails and plenty of outdoor party energy.

• Bradmore House, Queen Caroline Street, W6 9BW

With stunning interiors and a specially-built stage with impressive lighting and sound, Kindred is a top choice for live music in London tonight. Expect everything from smooth jazz to pop and RnB, all inside a Grade II-listed Georgian mansion.

What's more, the Hammersmith bar and restaurant has a range of fine wines, draught beers and cocktails, perfect for your viewing pleasure. And if you're feeling peckish? There's fresh pizzettes, small plates and bar snacks available.

• 111-113, Camden High Street, Camden, NW1 7JN

For a night of epic live music, Blues Kitchen Camden, Brixton and Shoreditch are hard places to beat. You'll get to enjoy show-stopping tunes while checking out their incredible food and drink offerings.

Past artists include the likes of Seasick Steve, Pete Doherty and The Dirty Pretty Things, and you'll find regular jazz nights throughout the week too. Sip premium liquors or cocktails while you watch, alongside a hearty burger, fried chicken and gravy or American-style small plates.

• 91-95 Clerkenwell Road, EC1R 5BX

Fidelio Café is home to some of the best live music nights in Central London, pairing its sublime European dishes with refreshing drinks and live performances. Head here for an evening of drinking and dining in an undeniably romantic setting.

There's a particular focus on classical music, with a weekly lineup of events to look forward to. Think jazz trios, fantastic vocalists and piano concerts.

• Cabot Place, Canary Wharf, E14 4QT

Offering one of the best spots for London live music, this gorgeous Canary Wharf venue is a one-stop-shop for jazz, soul and blues. Hosting a stunning range of events here and in Belgravia, Boisdale is one for the musos. 

Check out their Sunday blues brunch of you fancy great food and drink alongside the performance, or they're also offering Saturday soul lunches, tribute acts and live bands.