Ten of the best gig venues in London

The gorgeous façade of this Grade II* listed former railway engine shed in Chalk Farm is just part of its charm, for the inside has been turned into a stunningly modern venue and performance space. From contemporary classical music and avant-garde theatre to modern indie and pop, The Roundhouse is as flexible as it is enjoyable; few musical experiences are better than standing in the middle of the room, immersed in the world class lighting and sound. roundhouse.org.uk

Liverpool’s Cavern Club is rightly feted for its place in rock and roll history, but London’s 100 Club is every bit as storied. Having hosted live music since 1942, this dingy, basement space on Oxford Street has rightly attained legendary status; not only was it one of the focal points during the rise of punk, but it’s seen the likes of Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, Louis Armstrong, David Bowie, and Oasis take to its cramped stage. Musical history doesn’t get much richer. the100club.co.uk

The Lexington is a true London institution. With a ground floor lounge bar that’s like the world’s best living room and an ace selection of craft beers and bourbon, it’s a great place to head any day of the week. Upstairs though, is where things get interesting; from buzz bands of the day to more established acts doing warm up shows, it’s one of the best places to see acclaimed indie and alternative music. Add in a crisp, modern sound system and reasonable (for central London) prices and it’s easy to see why it’s considered such a gem. thelexington.co.uk/

As the venue’s own website states, Village Underground is “part creative community, part arts venue”. With a capacity of around 1000, this renovated warehouse hosts club nights, concerts, exhibitions and more. A favourite choice of big name indie, alternative, and urban artists, smaller, more niche acts are equally as welcomed; they pride themselves on their inclusivity. The founders have also signed up to numerous directives regarding sustainability, equality, prevention of harassment, and protecting London’s culture and nightlife, providing a much needed oasis for the artistic community. villageunderground.co.uk

When coming to the capital, some of the biggest names in music have a simple choice; one night at the O2, or a residency at Brixton Academy. Selling out multiple nights is a badge of honour, but even those who only play once in this imposing old room have fond memories. Famed for its atmosphere and the fact that for a venue of this size, almost everyone gets a good view, it’s still the Grand Dame of live music. Despite being a little shabby around the edges, a night at the Academy is still a rite of passage. academymusicgroup.com

Reverential and regal, there’s something about live music in a church that stirs the soul. This Grade I listed Gothic Church in Islington boasts a diverse program of events that leans to the softer side of music, some of which utilizes the unique organ. Many an artist has performed stripped down, acoustic shows from the famous altar, and if you go at night, be sure to grab a spot on the balcony, all the better to drink in the incredible lighting. unionchapel.org.uk

Dalston’s Café Oto might primarily be known as a jazz venue, but they program a genuinely eclectic range of artists, from Yoko Ono to Jandek to Howe Gelb. The low, wide room and the tables and chairs arranged at the front give the space a air of reverence, and you’ll find some of the most knowledgeable and respectful music fans anywhere. That’s not to say it’s pretentious though; far from it. It’s simply a venue that puts the emphasis wholly on the music, and makes sure that fans have the best possible atmosphere in which to appreciate it. cafeoto.co.uk

Of all the dive bars on the so-called toilet circuit, this place has by far the most quirks and charm. From the dog that (allegedly) lives on the roof to the free barbecue on Sundays in the summer, The Windmill has revelled in its shabby eccentricity for years. And with a music program that’s simply dictated by what the owners think is “good”, a night out here, in the backstreets of Brixton, is sure to be anything but boring. windmillbrixton.co.uk

West London isn’t all that well served for venues, but one exception is the lovingly restored Bush Hall, a 1920’s dance hall that has been completely renovated, crystal chandeliers and all. There are few more spectacular rooms for watching live music in London, and with a capacity of just over 400, it feels special and intimate in a way similar sized spaces and basements just aren’t. Catch a bigger band here – and a few do play – and you’re in for a real treat. bushhallmusic.co.uk