THE NIGHTLIFE ULTIMATE GUIDE
Nightlife and London have always been synonymous with each other. So if you’re looking for places to go in London’s thriving nightlife scene, it doesn’t really matter what neighbourhood you’re in… or does it?
Perhaps it may go without saying that some of London’s neighbourhoods are more popular than others when it comes to a fun night out in London. While tourists linger around Soho for its hip-and-happening nightclubs, locals often venture to London’s East End (or more specifically, Shoreditch) for more of London’s alternative bar and club scene.
But with such a variety of clubs, bars and pubs in London to choose from, missing out on any of the most popular neighbourhoods for a night out in London would be a true crime.
Here are some of the best London neighbourhoods known for their party and nightlife scenes:
Shoreditch
From comic book bars, circus-themed pubs and even cabarets, there’s no guessing what kind of club or bar you’ll stumble upon during a night out in Shoreditch. As a matter of fact, Shoreditch has become known as a hub for the most unique, niche-y and cutting-edge bars you won’t find anywhere else in the world (let alone London). You can also consider joining a pub crawl in Shoreditch to explore this fun neighbourhood.
Party places to visit in Shoreditch: Trapeze, Queen of Hoxton, Village Underground, XOYO, The Princess of Shoreditch
Soho
It may be a tad on the expensive side, but Soho is the be-all, end-all of party neighbourhoods for first-time visitors to London. Soho is also known for its risqué nightclub scene, as it has a ton of gay and lesbian-friendly clubs in the area as well. If you have already joined a free walking tour in Soho during the day, think about exploring the area by night with a pub crawl.
Party places to visit in Soho: Experimental Cocktail Club, Blind Pig, Milk & Honey, Bar Soho
South Bank
No mention of South Bank’s nightlife scene would be complete without a shout-out to The Ministry of Sound (arguably the most famous nightclub in London); but the fun in South Bank doesn’t just stop there. The popular London neighbourhood also offers a ton of different wine bars, cocktail lounges and electro nightclubs which are known to host wild parties that last until the week hours of the morning.
Party places to visit in South Bank: The Ministry of Sound, Skylon Bar and Grill, OXO Tower Bar, Dandelyan Bar
Clapham
In recent years Clapham has become known for its trendy dance floors, beer gardens, discos, DJs and club nights, and its lively population has helped transform it into one of the most popular party areas in London. While the clubs and bars in Clapham North and Clapham Junction tend to be cheaper and have more of a youthful vibe, the area surrounding High Street is also a popular hangout among expats and young professionals.
Party places to visit in Clapham Common: Clapham Grand, Gigalum, Infernos Nightclub, The Rookery
Hoxton
In recent years, this western section of Shoreditch has morphed into a hip-and-happening party scene that is starting to take on a world of its own. Friday nights are especially popular in Hoxton for a night out, as the bars and clubs along Old Street are packed full of the fashionable, hip and local.
Party places to visit in Hoxton: Bar Music Hall, Electricity Showrooms, The Macbeth, Plastic People
Peckham
Peckham may have more of a laid-back, bohemian vibe; but in 2013 it was declared as “the new place to party in London” and was even dubbed as “The New Dalston.” From cocktail joints to low-key cubs, you’ll find almost anything in this popular London neighbourhood; (although Rye Lane and its adjoining streets are the most popular amongst locals).
Party places to visit in Peckham: Bussey Building, Canavan’s Peckham Pool Club, Frank’s Cafe
Islington
From classy cocktail lounges, gastro pubs, late-night wine bars and so much more, Islington has some of the most popular drinking spots in London. In recent years celebrities, models, and musicians have been spotted on a fun night out in Islington, which isn’t surprising giving the area’s thriving theatre scenes.
Party places to visit in Islington: 69 Colebrooke Row, Hoxley & Porter, The London Cocktail Club, The Ladybird Bar
Dalston
Offering some of the most diverse clubs and bars in London, Dalston has become a hub for university students who are looking for a fun night out, any day of the week. The majority of Dalston’s best nightclubs are located around Stoke Newington and Dalston Kingsland, and can range from jazzy clubs, live music venues with dance floors and much, much more.
Party places to visit in Dalston: Railway Tavern, Ruby’s, Dalston Superstore, Dalston Jazz Bar, The Alibi
Are you ready to party? Then consider joining one of the many pub crawls and free tours in London departing every day.
