29 Sep Intro
London’s nights are a patchwork of neon, jazz, and secret bars that feel as old as the city itself. If you’re planning a weekend out, you’ll want a mix of the familiar and the unexpected. Below are ten spots that have kept the city’s pulse alive for years, each with its own flavour and a concrete detail you can use to plan your evening.
1. The Nightjar – 10 pm to 2 am
Located under a disused post office in Soho, The Nightjar opens its doors at 10 pm. The venue is famed for its live jazz and speakeasy vibe. The bar’s signature cocktail, the “Pousse‑Cola”, is a rum‑based drink with a hint of mint that you can’t find elsewhere. A single note: the entrance fee is £12 on Thursdays, so plan your budget accordingly.
2. The Piano Works – 9 pm to 3 am
Every Friday, The Piano Works in Covent Garden hosts a piano competition that attracts up to 50 musicians. The live music lasts until 3 am, but the real draw is the “Piano Bar” section where patrons can play an instrument themselves. The bar offers a 20% discount on all cocktails between 10 pm and midnight.
3. The Shady Lady – 11 pm to 4 am
Hidden behind a brick wall in Camden, The Shady Lady is a dive bar that specialises in craft beers. Their tap list changes weekly, and on Mondays they serve a free pint of the local brew “Camden Ale” to anyone who can name the street the bar was first opened on. The bar’s lack of a formal dress code makes it a safe bet for casual crowds.
4. The Queen’s Head – 10 pm to 2 am
In the heart of Shoreditch, The Queen’s Head has a rooftop terrace that offers a 360‑degree view of the city skyline. The terrace opens at 10 pm, and the bar serves a special “Shoreditch Sunset” cocktail that mixes gin, lemon, and a splash of saffron. The only downside: the terrace closes early on Sundays, so it’s best to visit on a weekday.
5. The Blue Note – 8 pm to 1 am
From the West End, The Blue Note hosts a weekly jazz night on Saturdays that attracts up to 200 listeners. The venue’s acoustics are praised by musicians for their clarity, and the bar offers a complimentary “Blue Note” cocktail for the first 30 patrons each night. A small drawback is the limited seating during peak hours, so arriving early is advisable.
6. The Velvet Room – 9 pm to 3 am
Located in the basement of a former bank in Mayfair, The Velvet Room is a speakeasy that requires a password. The password is revealed on the venue’s Instagram stories 30 minutes before opening. The bar’s signature drink, the “Velvet Martini”, is a dry gin cocktail with a dusting of edible gold. The strict entrance policy can be a hurdle for those who forget to check the socials.
7. The Old Blue Last – 10 pm to 2 am
In Shoreditch, The Old Blue Last is known for its eclectic live music lineup. Every Friday, a local band performs a set of original songs that lasts until 1 am. The bar offers a “Band of the Night” discount of £5 on all craft beers. The venue’s limited capacity means that tickets for the front row sell out within minutes.
8. The Night Shift – 11 pm to 4 am
Situated in a former warehouse in King’s Cross, The Night Shift is a club that plays techno and house from 11 pm onward. The club’s lighting system is state‑of‑the‑art, and the DJ booth is visible from the dance floor. The club’s entrance fee is £15 on Wednesdays, which is lower than the usual £20 on other nights.
9. The Green Man – 10 pm to 2 am
In Soho, The Green Man is a historic pub that hosts a weekly trivia night every Thursday. The pub’s trivia questions focus on British pop culture and have a 70% success rate for regulars. The bar offers a “Trivia Night” special: a pint of the house ale for £4. The only inconvenience is that the pub closes at 2 am, so plan your return trip accordingly.
10. The Roxy – 9 pm to 1 am
In the heart of Soho, The Roxy is a legendary club that has hosted famous DJs since 1978. The club’s sound system is considered one of the best in London, and the club offers a free “Roxy Welcome” drink to anyone who arrives before 10 pm. The club’s dress code is strict: no sneakers, no hoodies, and a mandatory jacket on the entrance.
Between jazz nights, craft beer tastings, and techno beats, London’s nightlife offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for a break from the usual club scene, consider a night of online gaming and entertainment. For instance, you can unwind with a casual poker game before heading out, and the best place to do that is https://statementofpurposegraduateschool.com.
Conclusion
Plan ahead, check the opening times, and remember that some venues require passwords or dress codes. With these ten spots, your weekend will have the rhythm of London’s best nights, from jazz to techno, and everything in between. Happy nights out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does The Nightjar open?
The Nightjar opens its doors at 10 pm and stays open until 2 am.
Where is The Nightjar located?
It is tucked beneath a disused post office in Soho, London.
What kind of music can I expect at The Nightjar?
The venue is renowned for live jazz performances, featuring both classic and contemporary acts.
Do I need a reservation for The Nightjar?
Reservations are recommended, especially for live jazz nights, to secure a seat or a table.