London is known for its music scene and is full of venues that showcase incredible musical talent. Though you can find music venues dotted around the city, one of the best ways of enjoying live music is with a pint at an authentic British pub!
Many pubs in the capital have played their part in London’s music scene in the past, and still give young and emerging musicians opportunities to show off their skills today.
If you’re looking for some of the best live music pubs in London, you don’t need to travel to the heart of the city, as several intimate live music venues are located in London’s outskirts as well.
Let’s dive into 5 of the best pubs with live music in London, so you catch some great performances on your next visit to the capital.
1. The Lexington – Islington
Located a small distance from King’s Cross, The Lexington is different from other pubs in London. The popular drinking spot looks like a classic Victorian pub on the outside, but enter and this changes to feel like the American Kentucky South. With several types of bourbon and American craft beers on offer, Lexington also has a range of Mexican food dishes to try.
The Lexington is also known as one of the best places in London for enjoying live music.. Travel upstairs and you’ll find the live stage where many bands and DJs showcase their musical talents. The pub is known for up-and-coming musicians but has been host to noteworthy performers in the past, like Graham Coxon (Blur) and Billy Bragg. Its intimate setting is great for discovering new music and enjoying live performances.
The Lexington is a unique blend of Southern American charm and London’s eclectic music scene. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or looking for a lively night out with great food and drinks, the pub is certainly a standout destination within Islington.
Have a look at Billy Bragg’s performance at the Lexington on the 27th of February, 2013 below.
2. The Half Moon – Putney
Known as one of the longest-running live music venues in London, The Half Moon is an incredibly well-respected pub that has hosted some noteworthy names throughout its history.
Since its beginnings in 1963, The Who, U2 and The Rolling Stones have all led performances on the pub’s stage. Now, many bands take to the Half Moon and draw in many visitors, filling the venue with music lovers from all over the world.
The live music room is kept separate from the main bar, so if you need a break from the hubbub, you can relax and enjoy a drink in the next room, just a few steps away.
The Half Moon also has lots of British comfort food on offer, keeping its traditional English pub feel. From hearty fish and chips to scrumptious apple crumble, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
With a rich musical heritage, tasty food and drink, and a welcoming local pub setting, The Half Moon continues to be a cherished spot for anyone seeking an authentic live music experience.
If you’re interested in checking out some of London’s live music pubs, why not make the job easier with a custom guide tour?
At Yellow Moon Tours, we’ll help you create the perfect live music tour on your visit to London. Whether you want to visit boozers steeped in musical history or explore new bands in a particular area in London, our personalised tours are made to fit you.
To find out more, give us a call at +44 (0) 20 3290 3665, or send us an email at info@yellowmoontours.com.
3. The Old Blue Last – Shoreditch
Found right in the centre of Shoreditch, The Old Blue Last is known as one of the best live music pubs in London. Amazingly, the pub is an example of incredible historical pubs in London, as it’s over 300 years old! To this day, the venue continues to retain its classic local pub feel, along with a bustling live music scene.
By day, East End regulars frequently enjoy a pint with their friends. By night, the live room plays host to grassroots music events throughout the week. The pub is certainly a ‘no frills’ drinking establishment, with basic, yet delicious, lager, beer, and wine on offer.
The pub is spread over two floors, each attracting a very different crowd. Downstairs, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, presenting the perfect spot to chill with friends. Head upstairs and the setting becomes lively and intense, as people queue to enjoy live acoustic events or thrilling DJ sets with their friends.
Incredible acts have performed at the pub over the last decade, with Lily Allen and the Arctic Monkeys among the more well-known. The Old Blue Last still hosts amazing new talent, so it’s a great place to check out if you want to discover new music.
4. The Good Mixer – Camden Town
The Good Mixer is a well-known pub in Camden, and it’s certainly not to miss if you’re into live music! Camden is known for its musical heritage and The Good Mixer has been home to many famous bands and artists since its beginnings.
Legends from Amy Winehouse to Noel Gallagher have either performed or drank here. It’s even rumoured to be the origin point of the Blur and Oasis feud, which led to the fight to top the UK charts during the Britpop chart battle in the 90s.
The Good Mixer continues to host live music with many up-and-coming musicians taking to the stage, as well as a live DJ set every Saturday night that plays classic Camden hits.
Though The Good Mixer has a musical heritage, it retains its authentic pub feel. Known as a ‘proper’ boozer, visitors can enjoy a large variety of ales and beers or tuck into some traditional pie and mash. The pub’s warm atmosphere makes it a favourite among locals and tourists, delivering a great blend of music, history, and traditional pub culture.
5. The Shacklewell Arms – Dalston
With space for just 200 people, this little pub is proof that good things come in small packages. The Shacklewell Arms is separated into three different sections, a traditional British pub, a heated outdoor courtyard, and a back room with a dance floor and stage for live music events.
The dancehall itself has Caribbean-inspired decor, with vibrant images decorating the outdoor rooms and corridors. This changes as you walk into the main pub area, which has medieval beams that give the pub a classic British feel.
Previous performers include Solange Knowles, Jamie XX, and DJ Mark Ronson, who turned up one day and asked to perform a spontaneous set. Today, the Shacklewell Arms hosts many bands and artists throughout the year and is known to host secret shows, made known to the public just a few hours before on social media.
Pubgoers can enjoy several real ciders and ales on tap, as well as Lebanese street food from the kitchen in the front of the house. Thanks to the heated courtyard, the pub is ideal for those visiting London this autumn or winter, as you’re kept cosy and safe against the cold.
With an eclectic mix of decor, extensive drink selection, and a booming live music scene, The Shacklewell Arms is a hidden gem for people who want to enjoy a memorable night out in London.
There we have it! We hope you enjoyed this post on 5 of the best live music pubs in London.
If you’re thinking about booking a tour of London’s many landmarks, we can help! Whether you’re looking to explore some of the best pubs with live music in London, or try different pints as you roam around the capital, discuss your ideas with Yellow Moon Tours and we’ll create a bespoke tour that’s made to accommodate you.
For inquiries or questions, send us an email at info@yellowmoontours.com or give us a call at +02032903665 to book your private tour today.
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