London Clubs
London's explosive club and dance scene caters for every taste and persuasion, and the biggest dilemma you should face before embarking on a night out on the town, is which big party to head to.
It really depends on what you want from a night out. Sophistication and mainstream disco (and expensive drinks to boot) can be found in Mayfair, Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge and parts of the West End. Smart attire is usually essential for these venues, as well as a healthy bank account.
London's trendy young things, however, are more likely to grace the presence of one of almost two hundred 'one nighters' occurring throughout the week. Details of these one nighters will be posted here, on LOL, on a regular basis, but it makes sense to ring the venue before venturing out, as one-nighters have a habit of disappearing or cancelling. The selections listed below are some of the more established nights. Dress code at these venues can vary depending on the music policy, and some venues are tightening up - again, check with the venue.
London's nightlife begins in the West End and ends somewhere near the M25. The West End has a fair share of excellent venues, and a fair share of tourist rip off joints. The sheer scale of nightlife in London means that word of mouth is by far the best policy. Try to avoid the fancy coloured fliers given out around Leicester Square - often these lead to over- priced tourist traps. Do, however, pick up fliers from clubbier clothes stores, and independent record shops.
Clubs are generally licenced for alcohol until about 3am. Many clubs now operate until dawn, thanks to new legislation, but after 3am the only drink you'll be able to buy is Lucozade, Diet Coke or some mind bending 'smart' drink.
- Imperial Gardens
Once you find the place you'll be pleasantly surprised, phone before you go though. R' B, Hip Hop, Soul, Trance etc...
Address: 299 Camberwell New Road, SE5
0871 332 3359
Admission charge: £3-£15 depending on promoter
Nearest tube: Oval (Northern)
(Updated: 14-Dec-2005)
- Stringfellows
Stringfellows - the all time great of British clubland continues to pack 'em in with its LA style tableside dancing Mondays to Thursdays, and its classic club nights on Friday and Saturday. Arrive early. Dress smart (especially during the week)
Address: 16-19 Upper St Martins Lane, WC2
0171 240 5534
Admission charge: Usually around the £15.00 mark.
Nearest tube: Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo or Piccadilly)
http://www.stringfellows.co.uk
(Updated: 14-Dec-2005)
- Equinox
Leicester Square, W1 Leicester Square Tube
Another large venue, again offering the staple fair of house and chart hits to
the unsuspecting tourist. Holds 1500 people.
Address: Leicester Square, W1
0171 437 1446
Admission charge: £5-£10
Nearest tube: Leicester Square (Northern or Piccadilly)
(Added: 26-Aug-1998)
- Hippodrome,
Huge, cavernous discotheque aimed squarely at the tourist and out of town
clubber. Expensive drinks, chart sounds.
Address: Leicester Square,W1.
0171 437 4311
Admission charge: £4-£12
Nearest tube: Leicester Square (Northern or Piccadilly)
(Added: 26-Aug-1998)
- Limelight
The toast of the town when it first opened, this converted Church still has
much to offer as long as your musical tastes aren't too demanding. The main
dancefloor is decidedly more commercial than the funkier downstairs.
Address: 136 Shaftesbury Avenue,WC2.
0171 434 0572
Admission charge: £5-£12
Nearest tube: Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo or Piccadilly)
(Added: 26-Aug-1998)
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