The 50 best nights out in London for 2025

We are officially in the era of the pop girlie, and it’s only right that London’s nightlife should reflect this. Whether you worship at the altar of Chappell Roan, think Sabrina Carpenter reigns supreme, or spent all summer chasing the Brat lifestyle, Pop Never Dies will have something for you. This is a night of balls-to-the-wall, scream-your-heart-out bangers from the alt-pop world: Clairo, MUNA, Ariana Grande, Rina Sawayama, the list goes on. It may be pop, but don’t expect a night of cheesy Top 40 tunes. 

What’s the vibe? This is one for the gays and girls. Get ready to be surrounded by superfans who know all the words. 

Where is it? Varies. Usually: The Lexington, 96-98 Pentonville Rd, N1 9JB; The Waiting Room, 175 Stoke Newington High St, N16 0PE. 

Time Out tip Keep an eye out for artist-specific nights.

Is this London’s coolest LGBTQIA+ night? It just might be. If you combine a Central Saint Martins fashion show, a high-concept performance-art piece and a techno rave, you might get something resembling a Riposte night. Since launching in 2024, Riposte has gained a name for itself as the pinnacle of avant-garde nightlife in London. Expect a multi-room wonderland with roaming performers, immersive theatre and banging techno (they even have a sex-positive play room, if that’s your thing). They get big names too, with previous lineups featuring the likes of Sim0ne and Nadine Noor. 

What’s the vibe? Art student meets techno goth. 

Where is it? Varies. Usually: The Cause, 60 Dock Rd, E16 1YZ; Electrowerkz, 7 Torrens St, EC1V 1NQ.

Time Out tip Every party has a different theme – in the past there’s been ‘clowns’, ‘witchcraft’ and ‘fight club’. Find out what it is and dress accordingly. 

Despite being out at the arse end of Hackney next to the not-so-chic Lea Bridge roundabout, only a fool would turn down a night at Church of Sound. Journeying through jazz, funk, afro and psychedelic sounds, musicians play from the centre of a majestic church hall, making full use of the excellent acoustics, surrounded by a sold-out crowd perched on wooden pews. Past guests have included Kahil El’Zabar and The Comet Is Coming, and there are frequent tribute nights to the catalogues of musical greats like Don Cherry and Roy Ayers. This is a hidden gem if there ever was one, though nights sell out fast, so keep an eye on their socials for details of upcoming events.

What’s the vibe? Like you’re hanging out in the living room of a relative with impeccable taste in music. 

Where is it? St James the Great Church, Lower Clapton Rd, E5 8EH.

Time Out tip Don’t eat before – eat there. Community-run Made Up Kitchen will be on hand on entry, offering gorgeous, veggie-friendly, home-cooked buffet style meals. 

You can’t miss the glowing neon lights of this retro bowling alley when you step out of Finsbury Park station. A proper den of entertainment, Rowans has been around since 1913, surviving two world wars and even playing host to The Beatles in the sixties. These days, it’s a north London staple – and a night out here involves a lot more than hurling balls at pins (though there’s plenty of that). There are two floors of bowling lanes, plenty of karaoke booths, an arcade, pool tables and a dancefloor. Plus, it’s open until 2am on weekends, with a DJ taking over the downstairs and turning the whole place into one mass of singing and dancing.

What’s the vibe? A kiddies birthday party for adults. In a non-cringe way.

Where is it? Rowans, 10 Stroud Green Road, Finsbury Park, N4 2DF.

Time Out tip Don’t you dare leave without trying their alcoholic slushies.

Read more: an oral history of Rowans Tenpin Bowl.

It might be more accurate to describe this as one of London’s best days out, because unFOLD takes place every other Sunday, usually kicking off around noon – so if you’re the type of person that needs a boogie to hard and fast techno to wind down before the week head, this is the place for you. Taking place in the depths of non-residential Canning Town, this is a stripped-back clubbing experience: no photos or videos are allowed and the line-up is unannounced until you’re in there. The door policy can be strict, so get down early and prepare to make pals in the famous queue.

What’s the vibe? A sweaty, underground dance music marathon attracting London’s alternatives, queers and club kids.

Where is it? Fold, Stephenson St, E16 4SA.

Time Out tip This party is queer-focused, so keep that in mind – the club offers plenty of other excellent nights, too, with 7am finshes on weekends.  

What goes down at a ‘wine rave’, I hear you ask? It’s not quite popping pills and two-stepping in bottle shops – it’s more chic than that. One for the foodies, hospo big dawgs Jake Norman of Trullo and Joshua Bratt of Carousel have been running Close Ties since 2021, sharing lesser-known bottles of vino (often picked from their own cellars) with delicious picky food bits cooked up in collab by some of the most buzzy chefs in the city. It’s all soundtracked to a banging rotation of live DJs, with nights tending to run from 7pm until late (we’re talking 3am late), usually priced at a very reasonable £5 on the door.

What’s the vibe? A hospitality-leaning crowd with a taste for hedonistic fun.

Where is it? Varies. Often: Shoreditch Arts Club, 6 Redchurch St, E2 7DD. 

Time Out tip Probably leave the white shirt at home. 

Recommended: the best wine bars in London.

Folk collective Broadside Hacks are anything but young fogies. Hosting events across London – including on the floating Theatreship arts centre on the Canary Wharf docks – they’ve been behind everything from rowdy Bob Dylan tribute nights at Moth Club to celebrations of iconic 1960s Soho club Les Cousins at St Giles Church. Expect occasional bouts of morris dancing, a capella song circles and a clued-in 20-something crowd that’s as committed to the groundbreaking new wave of folk music talent as they are dedicated to honouring the veterans of the scene.

What’s the vibe? Fantastic folk gigs all across town.

Where is it? Varies. Often: Theatreship, South Quay Plaza, Theatreship, E14 9SH.

Time Out tip Look out for their tribute nights. Recent odes to Dylan and The Pogues have been epic.

Bank adverts, Rupi Kaur and Goldsmiths University have a lot to answer for when it comes to destroying the reputation of poetry events, but if the concept of ‘spoken word’ makes you cringe so hard it counts as a core strength workout, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by DJ and poet James Massiah’s event series. Adult Entertainment regularly sees hordes of eager partygoers cram into the upstairs room of an east London boozer to hear performances from some of the best talents in London’s literary scene before DJs keep the crowd dancing until late. Shon Faye, Caleb Femi, Ella Frears and Raymond Antrobus have previously taken to the mic, while the night has also collaborated with the likes of Rally festival, Foundation FM and Adwoah Aboah’s Gurls Talk. If you thought poetry wasn’t for you, Adult Entertainment will make you think again.

What’s the vibe? The best-dressed students in your English lit class, all grown up. 

Where is it? Varies. Often: The Haggerston, 438 Kingsland Rd, E8 4AA.

Time Out tip Nights tend to be free but capacity is limited, so get down early.

Dankie Sounds first came onto my radar post-lockdown: I’d fallen deep into amapiano basslines and R&B edits through the Amapiano Balcony Mix from Major League DJz and TXC’s Apartment Life set and I needed to feel those basslines in real life. A few months later, I headed to my first Dankie Sounds event after seeing one of their DJs, Nicky Summers, pop up on my Instagram feed. The whole night was a vibe: horns, whistles and inflatables flying through the crowd, all immersed in rich South African basslines, with an added live drummer. 

What’s the vibe? Like you’ve been dropped right into the centre of Johannesburg’s nightlife, with a touch of Ibiza cool.

Where is it? Varies. They’ve hosted events in Manchester, Dublin, Birmingham, and in London venues like Boxpark, the Steel Yard and Koko.

Time Out tip Bring a portable fan: things can get seriously sweaty.

Everyone knows saunas are the hottest place to socialise in London right now (no pun intended). In fact, the hot boxes are so trendy that DJs have started playing at them. Sauna Social Club in Peckham has got the whole shebang: a sauna (of course), a bar, DJ booth and a vibey Japanese-style lounge. As this is a chill place, prepare your ears for downtempo and ambient listening sessions (sometimes accompanied by harp players and groovy visuals) organised by some of London’s coolest DJ collectives. 

What’s the vibe? Inner zen. This is relaxation for health-conscious music heads. 

Where is it? Railway Arch, 842 Brayards Rd, SE15 2AG.

Time Out tip Sauna Social Club does serve booze, but there’s also a big emphasis on their selection of teas and alcohol-free cocktails, including palomas, negronis and spritzes.

Read more: sauna culture is heating up London’s nightlife.

Every Friday evening, this old-school boozer in Mile End Park comes alive with the sweet sounds of live swing and joyus jazz played by a house band. Expect to hear the sort of stuff your grandparents listened to – Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett – in  surroundings they might recognise, too. With a vintage cigarette machine, heavy red curtains and musical memorabilia in pride of place above the curved bar, a trup here is like being transported back in time to the 1950s – apart from you’re just as likely to see old time East Enders as you are trendy Gen Zs with tooth gems, swinging each other around, jiving side by side. A big character of a pub, packed with even bigger characters. 

What’s the vibe? Unpretentious East End cool with an old school edge.

Where is it? The Palm Tree, 127 Grove Rd, Bow, E3 5BH. 

Time Out tip Take cash out before your journey over: this place doesn’t fuck around with card readers and it’s not in close proximity to an ATM. Very important. 

On the last Friday of every month (bar December), art lovers head into the vast turbine halls of Tate Modern for their legendary Lates events. These giant arty parties are packed with all sorts of performances, music, films, artist talks and DJ sets –and the best part is that it’s all completely free. Previous events have been curated by Little Simz and themed around a current exhibition, so keep an eye on their calendar to see what’s in the pipeline. 

What’s the vibe? Creativity here, there, everywhere.

Where is it? Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG.

Time Out tip Some sessions during certain nights could be ticketed (especially live talks with big names). Be sure to cop yours on the Tate website well in advance to avoid disappointment.

A pub in Highgate might not be the first place you think of when you picture a big night out, but this queer country night ticks a hell of a lot of boxes (people have travelled from as far as Birmingham, New York and even Deptford to get to Bonanza). Held on the first Thursday of every month, founder Sophie Ward sums up the vibe as ‘country, without the ‘‘O’’’, and we couldn’t agree more. Expect cabaret and live music from visiting performers, a DJ spinning pop bangers from Dolly Parton to Kesha, plus a live line-dancing class. There’s a real community feel to this night, which is probably testament to why it sells out month on month. 

What’s the vibe? Pink fluffy country fabulousness – in a pub. 

Where is it? The Boogaloo, 312 Archway Rd, N6 5AT.

Time Out tip Tune into Boogaloo Radio for their pre-party on air show and get in the mood for a boogie. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your cowboy hat.

Sworn enemies of compressed sound files and distracted Spotify listening, the people behind Pitchblack Playback dish out eye masks and invite you to sink into a comfy cinema seat, before dimming the lights and hitting ‘play’ on classic albums in full surround sound. After 70-odd minutes locked into a great record, the effect is indescribable: like a deep-tissue massage for your brain. There’s no ‘typical record’ here, with Miles Davis’s Bitches Brew or Angelo Badalementi’s Twin Peaks soundtrack one week, Hans Zimmer’s Gladiator score the next. Tickets come in at around £13. 

What’s the vibe? Music lovers ready to embark together on a solo sonic trip. 

Where is it? Riverside Studios, The Castle Cinema and Phoenix Arts Club are regular venues.

Time Out tip Dress for a long-distance flight.

Kink and sex parties are still enjoying a moment in London. And after the demise of Crossbreed, events like Joyride have stepped in to fill its big black boots. This queer sex rave takes place at Corsica Studios on a Sunday afternoon once a month, with hard techno, performance artists and a tantalising playroom all coming together to create a suitably debauched atmosphere. This party is less about getting fucked up, and more about intentionally exploring sexuality in a safe space. 

What’s the vibe? Unapologetically sex positive, queer and fabulous. Joyride has a tight community of regular attendees (we recommend getting to know their community guidelines before dipping a toe), but they’re a friendly, welcoming bunch.  

Where is it? Corsica Studios, 4/5 Elephant Road, SE17 1LB.

Time Out tip Get to know the dress code. You don’t have to wear black leather, but latex, lingerie, lace, leather, wet-look, PVC and mesh are all encouraged. No tighty whities, please.

Read more: the best adult nights out in London.

Built in the 1920s as a cinema, Brixton Academy is one of London’s best music venues, with a rich history and a head-turning weekly programme of live gigs. It’s hosted everyone from Madonna to The Clash, Bob Dylan and The XX, and it’s always worth checking out what they have on if you fancy a spot of moshing (or standing at the back). Of course, no two gigs are ever the same in London. Every month, we wrap up the most exciting gigs across the city into one neat little (sometimes, actually quite long) list, broken up into genres and vibes to help you find what you’re interested in. Whether you fancy getting rowdy at a hardcore punk show, embracing the spaceyness of free jazz show or singing along to your favourite pop girlie, you’ll find it all here. 

What’s the vibe? Gigs, gigs and more gigs.

Where is it? 211 Stockwell Rd, London SW9 9SL.

Time Out tip: If tickets are unavailable, get yourself on a waitlist (Dice is the best for it) and you might still make it. 

Read more: the best gigs in London this month.

In the words of event founder and DJ Alterum, ‘come to Mums Against Donk and you’ll find people with brilliant outfits; music that is hard, fast and silly; you can laugh, you can cry.’ Nights here are rooted in happy hardcore and bounce, so you’ll likely hear some kind of My Chemical Romance remix that sounds like it’s been fast-forwarded over a bouncing bassline, or maybe even an ABBA classic with a donk on it. Look out for their regularly-moving night that honours the cartoonish absurdity of donk’s early years while making it accessible to a new audience. 

What’s the vibe? Fashion kids rubbing shoulders with Bangface regulars to hard and fast remixes.

Where is it? Varies. Often: Venue MOT, Surrey Canal Rd, SE14 5RT; Corsica Studios, 4, 5 Elephant Rd, SE17 1LB.

Time Out tip: Don’t video people on the dancefloor. This is a judgement-free space that encourages everyone to get a little bit silly. 

Read more: the unstoppable rise of donk.

London is not short on excellent karaoke bars – just check out our list for the full run-down. New places are popping up all the time, but perhaps the hottest singing spot in the city remains the Karaoke Hole, AKA queer bar Dalston Superstore’s little sister. Taking the mic here means you’ll literally be on the main stage, where you can belt out your favourite tunes accompanied by a crooning drag-queen host. Affectionately known as ‘K-hole’, the place is hidden under pizza shop Voodoo Rays and is open until 2am. Be sure to cop tickets beforehand if you want to make a night of it. 

What’s the vibe? Like a wonderfully high camp X-Factor (in the chaotic audition stages). 

Where is it? 95 Kingsland High St, E8 2PB.

Time Out tip They also host a programme of queer cabaret and drag events: check out their site for more info.

Tucked away in a South Bermondsey business park, our favourite club in London for 2025 has previously hosted big-name DJs like Hudson Mohawke, A.G. Cook and Demdike Stare alongside killer regular nights from local promoters such as percussive bass-heavy party starters Dusty Dan ’nd Pals. Last year, I managed to bag a ticket to the finale of Jamie XX’s 10-night residency with 2manydjs, and yes, it was bloody brilliant. You couldn’t help but embrace the hazy, sweaty euphoria of hearing Baddy on the Floor blasted through the bone-rattling system into the intimate 300-cap space. 

What’s the vibe? In-the-know clubbers standing within arms reach of world-class DJs at a grimy former garage. 

Where is it? Venue MOT, Orion Business Centre, Surrey Canal Rd, SE14 5RT.

Time Out tip: Be ready for a late one, nights here don’t tend to end until 6am, at least. 

Read more: the 40 best nightclubs in London in 2025.

Perhaps one of the best-known music venues in London, Ronnie Scott’s is a Soho institution: a jazz club which has hosted everyone from Nina Simone to Amy Winehouse, Stevie Wonder, Lady Gaga and Jimi Hendrix. Come Friday and Saturday night, the venue presents the Late Late Show, hosting hot musical talent playing everything from jazz and R&B to soul and electronic music in an intimate, old school environment. Doors open just after 11pm and music starts at midnight, running all the way through to 2am – and it’s only £12 a ticket. Who said Soho was dead? 

What’s the vibe? Musical discovery in romantic (sometimes, really quite rowdy) surroundings.

Where is it? Ronnie Scott's, 47 Frith St, W1D 4HT.

Time Out tip Couldn’t get your hands on an advance ticket? Fear not – get down early and you stand a good chance on the door.

As anyone who missed out on Chappell Roan tickets last year will know, London is currently undergoing what some are referring to as the ‘Lesbian Renaissance’, with two whole venues and countless new club nights launched in the last year to cater to London’s WLW population. Booters is one of the most fun and original events to have emerged during this cultural phenomenon; a queer reimagining of American diner chain Hooters, featuring Doc Marten-clad butch waiting staff serving up vegan burgers and fries while drag kings and cabaret performers regale guests with stripteases, lip syncs and all manner of sapphic silliness. At the moment, it’s a mid-week pop-up happening once a month, with two sittings per evening.

What’s the vibe? Midwestern diner meets London gay bar.

Where is it? Currently takes place at Hackney Downs queer boozer the Wing and a Prayer, 181 Clarence Rd, E5 8EE.

Time Out tip Organisers have worked out a clever way of getting around the fact that tossing pound coins at your favourite performers might well constitute a health and safety hazard: instead, you can purchase ‘Butch Bucks’ on the door.

This mysterious after-dark hideout, found in the far reaches of north London, is pretty much only available to attend if you know the promoters throwing a party there. It’s so exclusive that The Goose’s club nights are essentially private events. Still, this small but mighty venue hosts some of London’s best DIY DJ collectives, and the parties go on late. For the wellness heads, they also throw sober daytime raves which have seen the likes of Voigtmann and Robert Dietz behind the decks. 

What’s the vibe? A dark, sweaty canal boat. It might sound DIY, but it’s actually pretty swanky inside, with a high-quality soundsystem, psychedelic stained glass windows and moody red lighting. 

Where is it? In a secret north London location, only revealed to ticket holders 24 hours before the event. A clue: you have to walk down some fairly sketchy canals to get there. 

Time Out tip To get in, you’ll want to get to know some people who’ve been before. Or throw a party there yourself.

It’s hard not to get up and dance at this hi-fi bar helmed by Rhythm Section founder Bradley Zero – also crowned our No. 1 bar in London. On the weekend it’s usually packed with Peckham’s trendiest who come to see selectors spin vinyls from Zero’s extensive collection that lines the walls. And in the summer, everyone spills out onto the terrace, where they serve up delectable BBQ grub. It’s a community-minded venue, with regular events including open decks and Orii Community every Tuesday (see below), which welcomes spoken-word poets, singers, rappers and more to jam together. 

What’s the vibe? Vinyls, cocktails and food all from the Afro-Caribbean diaspora. Jumbi is music-led but not pretentious – a good time is encouraged. 

Where is it? Unit 4.1, Copeland Park, 133 Copeland Rd, SE15 3SN.

Time Out tip Don’t miss the food. Jurkish is in charge in the kitchen, serving up Jamaican Turkish fusion. 

Read more: the best bars in London.

Almost anything goes at HOWL, the legendary queer rave known for its epic 15-hour day-to-night marathon parties. Sexual pleasure and positivity is at their centre of their ethos – check out their Insta grid for some genuinely useful taboo-busting content that will put your sex education class to shame – but really, it’s all about having fun. Previous events have included a bouncy castle, cabaret performances, dancers, open decks, dark rooms and speed dating. Music wise, expect everything from techno to house and Afrobeats: this is club music that knows no bounds, keeping the energy high and the dancefloor moving.

What’s the vibe? Inclusive raving, bringing together all genders and LGBTQ+ communities under one roof.

Where is it? Varies. Often: Number 90, 90 Wallis Rd, E9 5LN; Colour Factory, 8 Queen's Yard, 9 5EN.

Time Out tip HOWL is also a sexual wellness brand. They even have a ‘find your lube’ quiz to help you find the best stuff suited to your sex life.

Sadie Coles HQ is one of the coolest commercial galleries in the city, so it’s no surprise that the art students and fashion bods were out in force at the inaugural edition of its new mid-week event series Gargle earlier this year. Gargle sees the gallery collaborate with some of the city’s most exciting arts platforms, publications and creatives on a line-up of readings and performances in the Mayfair gallery’s upstairs space. Former Dazed editor and Climax Books founder Isabella Burley as well as contemporary culture magazine Real Review have taken up the mantle so far, with the likes of Alvaro Barrington, Rene Matić and Del LaGrace Volcano featured on line-ups that speak to the wealth of artistic talent that London has to offer.

What’s the vibe? Sophisticated, well-read art world types. 

Where is it? Sadie Coles HQ, 62 Kingly Street, W1B 5QN.

Time Out tip No need for a ticket, but make sure you rock up on time if you don't fancy spending the entire event straining to hear what's happening from another room.

One of the maddest series of entries in the annual London theatre calendar are the Globe’s Midnight Matinees, wherein three of the shows in the iconic venue’s outdoor summer season will do a single show of their run at midnight (technically 11.59pm to avoid confusion over which night it is). The vibe is young-ish, good natured and somewhat pissed: booze is available until the interval and the Globe’s vibe has always skewed boisterous, though clearly you’re still expected to be reasonably attentive. 

What’s the vibe? Middle class and tipsy.

Where is it? Shakespeare’s Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT.

Time Out tip: You can bring your own food and drink to the Globe so long as there’s no glass (but please, pace yourself).

Erm, are we back in the sixties? Up and down the country,  Northern Soul is truly having a moment right now. There’s the Bristol Northern Soul Club, which went viral on TikTok for its videos of Fred Perry-clad Gen Zs practising their footwork; there’s the packed-out La Beat Soul Club in a basement bar in Edinburgh; there’s the long-running staple, Deptford Northern Soul Club in Moth Club in Hackney. Perhaps the hottest addition to the London scene right now is Heart of Soul, who host raucous danceathons to indulgent grooves and hearty vocals, all under one motto: ‘good soul music’. 

What’s the vibe? High energy soul music played on rare vinyl. 

Where is it? Zhulin Hidden Village, 100-104 Lewisham High St, SE13 5JH.

Time Out tip Look out for their ‘all nighters’ where dancing runs from 9pm to 4am. 

Describing themselves as ‘the home for alternative Asian culture’, the beauty of an Eastern Margins night is that you never quite know what you’ll get until you’re there, bopping and bouncing along in the thick of it. This series is all about platforming talent from east Asia, south-east Asia and the diaspora: we’re talking dazzlingly fluorescent Japanese cloud rap, Chinese-instrument-laced club tunes, head-smacking hyperpop, crooning alt-R&B, hypnotic tape music and much, much more. Not just a club night but a collective and label too, Eastern Margins has taken over some of London’s most happening venues. Over the years it’s been graced by the likes of rappers Tohji and Lil Mariko, as well experimental vocalist Organ Tapes and Japanese ’90s Shibuya-kei pop legend Miho Hatori. 

What’s the vibe? Whatever the line-up and whatever the venue, an Eastern Margins night is always an unruly blaze of cross-genre, cross-continental glory. 

Where is it? Venues vary. Past London events have taken place in EartH, Village Underground and Corsica Studios, though they’ve now expanded their events to elsewhere in Europe and even as far as China and Australia. 

Time Out tip This is also a label, so check out their excellent roster of artists for some pre-party tunes.

Late openings are still a novelty at most of the big London galleries. Not so at the ICA, where after-hours art is a daily occurrence. Sick of schlepping into central London on the weekend to get your cultural fix, because you work an office job and all the galleries are closed by the time you get to leave your desk? The ICA now stays open til 11pm six days a week, meaning you can join your colleagues for a couple of after-work pints, stop somewhere for dinner and still have plenty of time to catch the latest exhibition, before heading to the ICA bar for a few winningly-priced spicy margs. 

What’s the vibe? Chin-stroking after dark, because it shouldn’t be reserved for just daylight. 

Where is it? The Mall, SW1Y 5AH.

Time Out tip Be sure to check out its programme of evening entertainment, encompassing cutting edge gigs, film screenings, performance art and even the odd club night.

Recommended: the top 10 art exhibitions in London.

Before Dinner For One Hundred (D4100) was a mini pizza empire, they threw incredibly fun supper clubs. We’re glad they’ve stuck to their roots and are still putting on the nights that feel like a dinner party at your mate’s house. Their most popular event is probably the singles night, where organisers play Cupid over pizza and cocktails. Hopeful romantics fill out a form prior to rocking up, with the hope of getting seated next to their new future boo. To break the ice, they have games and entertainment, and the party keeps going until 2am, so if you’re not seated next to your Prince Charming there’s still a chance to meet someone when everyone starts mingling. 

What’s the vibe? A non-lame singles night, with interesting, cool people! What a concept. 

Where is it? BAR D4100, 143 Evelina Rd, SE15 3HB, and other locations. 

Time Out tip Set your alarms for those singles nights drops. Tickets – especially the straight women’s allocation – have been known to sell out immediately.  

The vinyl revival is still going strong and Next Door Records – now with venues in both east and west London – is one of the best places to get your wax fix, especially if you want to make a night out of it. Operating as a record store, café, bottle shop and live performance space all at once, the Hackney venue has a suitably clubby vibe, with free DJ sets until 1am in the basement. The Shepherd’s Bush spot is a little more refined, hosting live gigs and previously kitchen residences in the lower level. Choose your poison.

What’s the vibe? Day-to-night crate-digging cool.

Where is it? Next Door Records (one), 304 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ; Next Door Records (two), 182 Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 7UY.

Time Out tip You can book tables for a large group at the west London location and order freshly-made pizza to share.

Read more: the 30 best records shops in London.

Defining themselves as a ‘multi-genre, inclusive, safe space to rave’, Jungyals and Gays is a relatively new collective that aims to promote queer and female talent on the rave scene. Nights here are made up of jungle, breaks, footwork, hardcore and all kinds of 2-step inducing tunes (the likes of which you can find on their Soundcloud). What started off as a uni project by its founders Daya and Chloe has snowballed into regular parties and an equally thriving social media presence where they discuss pressing topics on the scene such as spiking, harassment and how to party safely. 

What’s the vibe? Stripped-back raving to UKG, dubstep, jungle and everything in-between. 

Where is it? Varies. Often: Venue MOT, Orion Business Centre, Surrey Canal Rd, SE14 5RT; Dalston Den, 91-93 Kingsland High St, E8 2PB.

Time Out tip Read their party rules shared on Insta before the event (especially related to booth etiquette) and abide by them. 

Bermondsey’s Beer Mile used to get all the hype, but this smaller, east London-ified version is beginning to steal its crown – and for good reason. The Blackhorse Beer Mile is a string of breweries along the Walthamstow Wetlands, with eight members of the family: Exale, Hackney Brewery, Signature Brew, Pretty Decent, Renegade, Burnt Faith Brandy House and Big Penny Social (one of the largest beer halls in the country). They’re nice and cosy in winter but really reach peak vibes in summer, when they’re decked out with outdoor seating, and the pizza and pints are flowing. Closing times vary, but you’re alright as long as you end your crawl at Exale, open until 2am on weekends.

What’s the vibe? Wood benches, craft beer and industrial vibes in Walthamstow.

Where is it? Various addresses along Blackhorse Lane, Walthamstow, E17 5RB.

Time Out tip: There’s simply no better place to watch the footie than Big Penny Social, but be warned: if you’re hoping to watch the latter stages of a tournament, you’ll need to be on the booking page the second tickets go live for a chance to cop them.

One of the best things about the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is how time seems to lose all meaning and it becomes perfectly reasonable to go out and see a show at 11pm. London, by contrast, is a city aggressively welded to the concept of the 7.30pm start for basically any form of entertainment. One of the few exceptions to that rule is the vibrant Soho Theatre, which is essentially a permanent mini festival. While lateness has its limits, there are plenty of shows – often some of the biggest name comics – that don’t get started until well after 9pm which is, frankly, extremely civilised.

What’s the vibe? Perky young people who don’t need to get up the next morning, but aren’t necessarily looking to get hammered either.

Where is it? Soho Theatre, 21 Dean St, W1D 3NE.

Time Out tip: Be sure to check all performances if you’re looking for a cheap ticket as there can be massive differences in price.

From the no-frills booths at Rowan’s to the chic Korean-inspired private dining pods at Bao City, London has a karaoke venue for just about every occasion. The one thing it has been lacking? Somewhere where you’re free to belt out back-to-back album tracks from the catalogue of cult NYC indie rockers the Lemon Twigs without having the microphone prized from your hands by an exasperated friend who just wants to do Bohemian Rhapsody. Niche Karaoke caters to the real stans with its monthly nights dedicated solely to one specific artist, whether that be Irish singer CMAT, indie supergroup Boygenius or masked queer country singer Orville Peck. 

What’s the vibe? Megafans en masse.

Where is it? Music Room London, 116-118 New Cross Rd, SE14 5BA.

Time Out tip Got a specific artist in mind? Drop the organisers a message, and they might well make your dream karaoke party come true.

This iconic LGBTQ+ venue has welcomed everyone from Lily Savage (slaying on stage) to Princess Diana (enjoying a sneaky night out in the ’80s). A former Victorian music hall which is now Grade II listed and reasonably safe from developers, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern is open seven nights a week for drinking, dancing and drag shows, with doors closing as late as 4am on Fridays. It was home to legendary night Duckie for almost three decades, and these days continues to thrive as a gay pub, hosting everything from pub quizzes to Jukebox disco, Sunday cabaret and raunchy high energy club events.  

What’s the vibe? South London gays on their day off. 

Where is it? 372 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5HY.

Time Out tip If you want to turn your night out into a bit of a crawl, there are plenty more gay bars in the area: from queer nights at FIRE to Eagle London.

Read more: the best gay bars in London.

When Virus popped up on my feed, with its raucous Young Lean-looking crowd and achingly cool line-ups, my interest was immediately piqued. A few weeks later I found myself with the party starters in what seemed to be an Airbnb in Hoxton, at a night that felt a little like an illegal sixth form houseparty. Run by an elusive duo that must be barely over 20, Virus have masterfully tapped into the Gen Z appetite for mystery, hosting shows with fashionable US rapper Nettspend, Trance Party founder Evian Christ and indieclash duo The Hellp. Being underground in nature, it’s not the sort of party you can just rock up to, but once you’re in, you’re in for a good night.

What’s the vibe? Everyone here dresses like they’ve been lifted from the pages of The Face. 

Where is it? Varies: from Venue MOT to Pacha in Ibiza to some random living room in east London. 

Time Out tip Make sure to follow their socials closely. Virus nights drop irregularly and you can never predict if it’s ticketed or an RSVP kind of situation. 

Born out of Afro-Brazilian culture in ’70s Rio de Janeiro, Baile funk is making some serious waves across global dance music right now. Its blossoming popularity in London in recent years has been helped by eclectic genre DJs like Jyoty incorporating its soul-shaking rhythms into sets, as well as a slew of party promoters popping up across the city. Baile TRAMA is one of the biggest and best, blasting high-energy  funk paulista and funk carioca tunes fused with influences from grime, garage, gabber and beyond. They frequently book artists directly from Brazil for their nights: expect big bass, infectious rhythms and pulsating percussion that will keep you moving all night long.  

What’s the vibe?  Electrifying dance music from the best of the Brazilian underground. 

Where is it? Varies. Previous events have been in Omeara, 6 O’Meara St, SE1 1T. 

Time Out tip Dress to seriously sweat.

Run by the inimitable Mikey Dread, Channel One Sound System has been blasting reggae, roots and dub since 1979 and they’re still keeping it up to this day. A regular fixture at Notting Hill Carnival – where they set up their hand-built sound system as one of the most popular stages – they also frequently run club nights at Village Underground in Shoreditch, featuring quality selectors and killer MCs.

What’s the vibe? Heavyweight bass and Carnival-esque Caribbean rhythms. 

Where is it? Varies. Often: Village Underground, 54 Holywell Ln, EC2A 3PQ.

Time Out tip Bring earplugs! Use them! We mean it. 

Founded by writer (and staunch advocate of physical media) Steven T Hanley, Deeper Into Movies is a ‘boutique’ film club for people who find conventional film clubs a bit uninspiring. At first, it was basically an excuse to show grimy and unloved movies in the backs of grimy and unloved bars, but it soon evolved into something more unique and special. In the past, Hanley’s presented every Joe Exotic music video back to back, shown the batshit Holy Mountain with a live score from long-haired freakout specialists Bo Ningen, and screened Nirvana’s legendary Unplugged concert film at Blondies. What’s more, he’s even secured appearance and intros from the likes of Sofia Copola, Gasper Noe, Charli XCX and Rachel Sennot.

What’s the vibe? A gratifying mix of old-school cinephiles and Gen Z cool kids, all united by their love of the silver screen’s weirder side.

Where is it? Varies. Often: Farr’s Dalston, 17, 19 Dalston Ln, E8 3DF; Peckham Levels, 95a Rye Ln, SE15 4ST.

Time Out tip Deeper’s new ‘Mystery VHS Night’ screens oddball and eclectic gems from overlooked corners of cinema history. It’s a kind of lucky dip for film lovers, and tickets are affordable at £5.

Described as ‘London’s hottest new club night’ by British Vogue, this party blends high fashion with experimental Latin club sounds. Founded in 2024 by Moroccan-Spanish DJ Mina Galán, Club Stamina is a queer-focused party ‘by trans women, for trans women’, and has swiftly gathered a cult-like following in the trans femme creative community. Past events have had dolls only line-ups, as well as talent bookings from further afield, including Spanish trap star Yung Beef and Glasgow hyper-pop electronic artist Taaliah.

What’s the vibe? Sizzling hot femme energy, serving some serious looks. 

Where is it? Varies. Previous events have been hosted in Sui Generis, The Standard and Omeara.

Time Out tip Stamina draws a majority trans crowd, so be aware of the space you’re in, and show respect. 

Orii (meaning ‘soul’ in Yoruba) is a full-frontal midweek night jam session run by artist Neue Grafik, featuring a full stage of drums, keys, trumpet, MC(s), guitar, bass and whatever else the audience throws in. The talent is usually incredible and for the most part, the vibes are immaculate – a comforting confirmation that live music is still alive and well in London. 

What’s the vibe? Funk, soul, jazz, Afro, RnB and much more from some of the city’s most exciting rising musical talents.

Where is it? Mondays at Colour Factory, Hackney Wick, E9 5EN. Tuesdays at Jumbi, Peckham, SE15 3SN.

Time Out tip You don’t need to be a musician to go, though if you’ve got it in you, bring your instrument, get down early, and let them know you fancy your time in the spotlight.

Created by the same minds behind Brilliant Corners and also hosting a yearly stage at Houghton music festival, Giant Steps is a travelling sound system – and a bloody good one at that. It sets up shop in London throughout spring and summer, hosting semi-frequent day parties every other Sunday. The event starts slow, with bean bags dotted around the floor so you can sit back, relax, and indulge your auditory canals. Gradually, the proper dancing starts, and by the end of the night, the place is packed. Expect eclectic selections journeying through all sorts of wordly, interesting sounds (past DJs have included Donna Leake, Ron Trent and Charlie Dark). 

What’s the vibe? NTS listeners winding down for the week.

Where is it? Varies. Events have previously been hosted at The Baths in Hackney Wick, 80 Eastway, E9 5JH.

Time Out tip If you really want to make a day of it, book into Hackney Community Saunas for a sweat sesh before the dance (they are literally right next door).

You’ll want to pace yourself at Continuum, the marathon electronic dance event series taking place at one of London’s most iconic nightclubs, Fabric. Nights here last for more than 24 hours and some run all the way to 30, taking place across three rooms of top-notch soundsystems and a dancefloor steeped in history. You can expect a range of excellently curated line-ups across different genres, spotlighting freshly emerging DJ talent alongside dance music legends like Craig Richards, Ricardo Villalobos and VTSS.

What’s the vibe? Dance music lovers from London and much further afield – a dance at Fabric is on bucket lists all over the world.

Where is it? Fabric, 77A Charterhouse St, EC1M 6HJ.

Time Out tip Tickets usually allow re-entry, so you can come and go throughout the weekend (or just pop out for a bite to eat). 

Love Club, a workshops and events org which aims to help folk discover their creative side, has been hosting vibey life drawing sessions in Doña since 2021. This Dalston basement bar boasts picture-perfect hot-pink décor, mezcal-based cocktails and, in the restaurant upstairs, a Latin-inspired food menu that includes chunky cassava fries, tightly-packed empanadas and totopos with creamy and spicy dips. Drawing seshes take place semi-regularly throughout the year (keen an eye on socials for info), from around 6.30pm until 10pm. No skills are needed, and they kick things off with a set of drawing exercises to ease you budding artists in.

What’s the vibe? Relaxed nudey drawing in a fabulous fuchsia drinking den.  

Where is it? Doña, 92 Stoke Newington High St, N16 7NY. 

Time Out tip Order their famous Mezcal Margaret to sip on as you sketch. There’s an array of options: spicy, classic or cucumber and coriander-infused.

Hooray for OAPs and their dabber pens: Bingo is (somewhat) cool now, and young people are getting in on the act. Dabbers launched its first London venue back in 2018, and it now has a spot in Hackney, too, with comedians, dancers and other performers popping up between rounds. This place wholeheartedly embraces tacky to a new extreme: old-school floor-fillers pump from speakers, retro-inspired treats keep bellies full throughout the night and bingo calls are swapped out for modern-day variations like ‘oat milk obsession – 37!’. You’re only in it to win it. 

What’s the vibe? Extremely organsied fun.

Where is it? Dabbers Hackney, 270 Mare St, E8 1HE; Dabbers City, 18 - 22 Houndsditch, City of London, EC3A 7DB.

Time Out tip On Saturday nights at the City venue, they host ‘jackpot’ night, where you can find yourself taking home a rather smug cash prize. 

Drinkers and diners are both happy at this brick and timber 1930s boozer, open until 1am on the weekend. The former get a sterling selection of cask and craft ales, plus cocktails and an acceptable wine list. The latter get a menu that changes regularly, depending on the pop-up kitchen, plus hefty Sunday roasts. There’s plenty of seating: at large wooden tables next to the central bar, in the back garden and in the front yard facing Nunhead Green. You’ll also find an array of entertainment here, including DJs, folk nights and a comedy club. And the name? A nunnery once occuped this site; the rebellious Mother Superior was murdered during the Reformation and her head stuck on a pikestaff on the green.

What’s the vibe? Wholesome boozing with variety. 

Where is it? The Old Nun’s Head, 15 Nunhead Grn, SE15 3QQ.

Time Out tip If it’s pubs you’re after, look no further than our list of the 50 best pubs in London.

Occupying the 140-year-old former railway building that was once Hackney Central station, Oslo is a double-decker bar that has been around for more than a decade now. They host various nights here, including Shameless (proper Y2K pop) and the newer (and ever-popular) Pink Pony Club. Head here to hear all sorts of modern girly pop: from your Chappell Roan, of course, to Charli XCX, Billie Eilish and other decent current stuff. It’s a proper singalongenon.

What’s the vibe? Student disco with plenty of pink cowboy hats.

Where is it? Oslo, 1A Amhurst Rd, E8 1LL.

Time Out tip Feel like exercising those lungs? There’s also a karaoke den on the second floor.

It’s south London’s most notorious trash den. Known for its banterous clientele, cheesy music and a smell that will last up to four washes, Infernos its a must for any big night out that doesn’t want to end. With multiple rooms, light-up dancefloors and even a fish tank, this club experience is character building at its finest. And while you might not enjoy the experience at the time, you will almost definitely have excellent stories to tell your mates the next day.

What’s the vibe? Sticky floors, carpets, trashy tunes: this is Marmite, in club form.

Where is it? 146 Clapham High St, SW4 7UH.

Time Out tip You get a free jager bomb if you download their app.

Read more: euphoria, filth and mayhem: why do people love Infernos nightclub?

Sleep… pah, who needs it? Instead, burn your midnight oil at one of the Prince Charles’s fabled all-nighters. Not only is it a chance to luxuriate in a back-to-back marathon of absolute classics – Lord of the Rings, David Lynch, even The Twilight Saga are all on the slate – but there’s every chance you’ll make lifelong friends with the only other people willing to be up at 4am to watch Edward Cullen and Bella Swan gazing wanly at each other. The welcome is always warm. And here’s plenty of coffees shops nearby for that caffeine-fuelled journey home in the morning.

What’s the vibe? A mass of movie megafans in an iconic picture house.

Where is it? Prince Charles Cinema, 7 Leicester Pl, WC2H 7BY.

Time Out tip There are a few rules – no booze, no noisy or smelly snacks, don’t drag your bed in with you – but yes, pyjamas are fine.

Read more: an oral history of Prince Charles Cinema