London Music Venues

An account of one of London's most important music venues

London Music Venues

The very existence of the Handel & Hendrix House in London is an indicator of the city’s diversity when it comes to music. And while the house itself is not a music venue, but a place where music lovers can feel closer to one of the most influential composers of all time, it does show that London is one of the best cities to experiment music, and that it has something to offer to everyone. From huge arenas to intimate indie venues, here are some of the best places to go for a unique night of live music:

Brixton Academy

Brixton Academy has become a landmark of the London music scene, and it has been home to some notable concerts throughout the years, including The Smith’s final concert back in 1986. From punk performances from the Sex Pistols, the Ramones, The Clash, to pop acts from Madonna and heavy metal concerts from Iron Maiden, The Brixton Academy has been home to some of the most legendary live music performances. If you are curious and want to learn more about the tales behind this venue, you can read Simon Parkes’ ‘Live At the Brixton Academy: A riotous life in the music business’. Or, even better, book yourself a ticket for a gig and feel the magic of the place live!

 Omeara

Omeara doesn’t yet have such a rich history as the Brixton Academy, as it is a more recent venue, but it’s starting to build its reputation. This offers music lovers a chance to be part of the beginning of the venue’s rise to popularity, experiment it while it’s still new, but bearing the promise of becoming a leading venue in the London music scene.

The Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the most prestigious and iconic music venues in the UK, and it has been home to a variety of acts, from rock and pop concerts, to classical music and opera. While on the fancier side of the music venues in London, the Royal Albert Hall is still a welcoming place for any music lover, and it surely promises to offer an epic experience.

The O2 Arena

Annually, The O2 Arena hosts concerts from one of the biggest artists in the world. The grandeur of the place allows you to completely lose yourself in the moment, to immerse yourself in the music that fills the huge venue. One of the best places to experiment large scale concerts.

Wembley Stadium

Much like the O2 Arena, Wembley Stadium is also home to concerts from renowned artists, such as Rihanna, Green Day, Roger Waters, Adele, Beyonce . It is the largest stadium in the UK, and very likely to host the concerts of one of the most popular artists of the moment.

If you want to experiment the alternative music scene, then London is one of the best places to do that. You can enjoy alternative and more experimental and underground music in places such as The George Tavern, The Windmill in Brixton, The Dublin Castle in Camden, The Hope & Anchor in Islington. These venues welcome independent artists, and offer an amazing opportunity to discover new music and new bands. These places might offer you a more authentic way of experimenting the London music scene, and you should definitely check out these places if you’re open to new music and want to support musicians at the start of their careers.

Whether you’re into mainstream music, opera or alternative music, London has you covered! The diversity of the music scene is what makes London one of the best cities to experiment live music.

Header Image Credit: Wendy Wei

Author

Oana Velicu

Oana Velicu

I am an English Literature student at Queen Mary, University of London, going into my final year. I am interested in literature, which is why I have chosen my current degree, as well as in all forms of arts, from music, to theatre and visual arts. I love writing and expressing myself artistically, and I am interested in engaging in activities that allow me to do so.

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