Planning a night out? Keep it local! We’ve rounded up just a few of our favourite local haunts to whet your appetite

For gigs, concerts and singing your heart out:

Islington Assembly Hall

Since its opening in 1930, Islington Assembly Hall has been a cornerstone of the local music scene. With stunning art deco design, it has hosted a real mix of performers, from folk sensations to rock legends like the Foo Fighters. This venue’s charm and acoustics make every gig unforgettable.

The Betsey Trotwood

A much-loved Victorian pub in the historic district of Clerkenwell. Whether you’re visiting for lunch, checking out a band, poetry or comedy show, or hiring your own space for the night, there’s bound to be something that tickles your fancy.

Egg London

A renowned nightlife destination set within a historic Victorian warehouse in King’s Cross.

Electrowerkz

Known as a hub for alternative culture, Electrowerkz is a treasure trove of live music, DJ sets, and unique events. Located behind Angel tube station, this venue is beloved for its inclusive ethos and ever-changing schedule of exciting happenings.

Fabric

The iconic nightclub Fabric is based in Farringdon and showcases underground DJ talent, internationally renowned electronic music legends and other well-known live acts. The DJs and artists that play there are dedicated to cutting-edge house, techno, electro, disco, dub-techno and drum & bass.

The Garage

The Garage is a long-standing live music and club venue in Highbury. When it opened in 1993, The Garage quickly became the capital’s finest indie and rock venue. Many bands see performing at the venue as a rite of passage. The venue has become a staple in north London’s nightlife scene and continues to bring music and cultural events to the community.

Kings Place

Kings Place is an adventurous music and arts venue with an ambition to inspire the local community and promote the power of the arts. Its venues enable learning, discovery, debate and experiences that are powerfully intimate, creating human connection between artists and audiences.

The Lexington

This Victorian pub-turned-music-venue offers tasty vegan eats at its pop-up kitchens downstairs, and incredible indie music acts upstairs. The Lexington has seen performances by artists such as Billy Bragg and Joan As Policewoman, making it a go-to spot for music enthusiasts.

Lucky Voice

The only karaoke bar in Islington with an iconic ‘thirsty’ button in every private karaoke room – press for cocktails, room service, tasty pizza and an unforgettable night out. Choose from more than 13,000 songs to sing along to and hit the dancefloor for late night party vibes with a live DJ on weekends.

Slim Jim’s Liquor Store

Rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts will feel right at home at Slim Jim’s on Upper Street. With live music, karaoke nights, and an unforgettable atmosphere, you never know who might turn up – like when Billie Joe Armstrong surprised everyone at a Green Day tribute gig!

Union Chapel

This stunning Grade I-listed building serves as both a working church and an award-winning music venue. Its acoustics and ambiance are unmatched, making it a must-visit for intimate concerts.

XOYO

XOYO is one of London’s most respected clubs. Delivering an unrivalled weekend soundtrack to the capital, the venue’s line-ups see global names coupled with some of the best trail-blazing artists around.

Hope and Anchor 

Everybody who was anybody passed through the doors of the Hope and Anchor in the seventies and eighties: The Clash, The Cure, The Jam, The Police, Dire Straits, The Specials, The Stranglers, The Damned, Dr Feelgood, X-Ray Specs, Eurythmics, Elvis Costello and Madness to name just a few! U2 (infamously in front of eight people) and Joy Division whose frontman Ian Curtis had his first epileptic fit as he returned home from the gig), both had their debut London shows here!

Theatre:

King’s Head Theatre

A trailblazer in London’s theatre scene since 1970, the King’s Head Theatre was instrumental in launching stars such as Hugh Grant and Joanna Lumley. Now entering a new chapter, it has moved to Islington Square, offering a state-of-the-art 200-seat theatre and a 50-seat cabaret space. The revamped venue promises to continue its legacy of nurturing emerging talent and delighting audiences.

Almeida Theatre

The Almeida is a 325-seat theatre on Almeida Street, just off Upper Street. The theatre opened in 1980 and now makes it its mission to launch the next generation of British artists onto the world stage. Through new work made in-house or putting a new spin on the classics, they make live art to excite and entertain.

National Youth Theatre

National Youth Theatre is a multi-award-winning building based on Holloway Road. A pioneering youth arts charity that nurtures creative expression, personal wellbeing and skills development, engaging thousands of young people aged 11- 30.

See what’s coming up at the National Youth Theatre, plus other winter events 

Pleasance Theatre

With their year-round home based near Caledonian Road, their diverse programme of theatre, comedy, dance, circus and children’s shows creates a compelling venue for all.

Rosemary Branch

A beautiful local pub on the border of Islington. Set back from the Regent’s Canal, their award-winning theatre hosts all types of performance and community experiences: theatre, comedy, live music, improv, puppetry, family shows, drag, cabaret, podcasts, burlesque and workshops.

For comedy and art:

Angel Comedy

For a hearty laugh without breaking the bank, Angel Comedy is the place to be. Known for its free shows and affordable ticketed events, this club gives comedians a platform to test new material, while you enjoy an unforgettable night out. Big names often drop by, so keep an eye on the lineup! 

The Bomb Factory

The Bomb Factory Art Foundation’s site in Archway is housed in a Victorian warehouse. It offers a welcoming experience and includes a free programme of exhibitions, film screenings, performances, and workshops open to everyone.