Looking for the best jazz clubs in London? Here’s 5 of the best places to have a jazz-filled evening — from a Londoner!
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The London Eye is nice. But spending an evening sipping on speakeasy cocktails in a jazz bar in London is second to none.
Since the 1920’s Britains gone through its own ‘jazz age’, adopting the soulful swing of the US tunes right in their own backyard.
Present day London’s jazz scene is vibrant and soul-moving — with jazz clubs a plenty! If you know where to look…
Don’t worry, I’ve taken all the guesswork out for you. Here’s the best jazz bars in London to feel like you’ve got lost in time.
The Best Jazz Bars & Clubs in London
1. Ronnie Scott’s
47 Frith St, London W1D 4HT
Ronnie Scott’s has all the ingredients for the perfect jazz club in London. Named after the British jazztenor, the club was founded in 1959, going from a humble basement joint in Soho to London’s most popular jazz club (and one of the oldest jazz clubs in the world).
A night here will includes live acts from some of the best musicians across the world in an intimate sit-down venue, all while being well-quenced and well-fed.
As you might imagine, tickets sell out fast here, so make you book early to avoid disappoint. The dress code is casual, but most people tend to go for smart casual wear (but no flip-flops or shorts allowed).
Opening times: Monday and Tuesday: 5.30pm-12am, Wednesday-Saturday: 5.30pm-3am, Sunday 12pm-4pm, Sunday 6.30pm-10.00pm
Website: https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk/
2. The Jazz Cafe Camden
5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG
Funny enough The Jazz Cafe in Camden is where I had my first date with my now boyfriend, and let’s just say it made it easy to impress.
Just a skip from Camden Town station and you’ll be whisked away into a night of soulful jazz, Wild Cherry Champagne and everything that comes to mind when you think of a jazz club night out.
If you want to be in on the action I suggest sticking to the seating on the ground floor, otherwise you can enjoy food and a view at their restaurant on the mezzanine level.
Opening times: Monday-Thursday 7pm-11pm, Friday & Saturday 7pm-3am
Website: https://thejazzcafelondon.com/
3. One Night Records
Wardens Grove, London SE1 0HT
I’ve never seen anywhere in London like One Night Records, (or the world) but then again, it is London’s first immersive live music venue.
This characteristic hidden gem is quite literally in a tunnel, where you’ll walk through a night of every type of music genre under the sun, matched with striking designed sets and immersive theatrical performances.
But if you’re reading this post I know you came for the jazz. Waltz your way to their Jazz Speakeasy set and instantly be transported to the 1920’s, accompanied by bespoke cocktails and themed food for the night too.
Opening times: Thursday-Friday 7pm-11pm
Website: https://www.onenightrecords.com/
4. The Dalston Jazz Bar
4 Bradbury St, London N16 8JN
The Dalston Jazz Bar is as monumental to East London as the Hackney Town Hall itself.
Think jazz club meets restaurant meets insanely good time. Portions are plenty and operate on a ‘pay what you think its worth’ philosophy (yes, it’s as cool as it sounds — but please don’t take advantage!).
Prepare to lose yourself in the music (and food) and let down your inhibitions for a boogie.
Opening times: Friday 6pm-2:30am, Saturday 6pm-2:30am
Website: https://www.dalstonjazzbar.co.uk/
5. Vortex Jazz Club
11 Gillett Square, London N16 8AZ
The Vortex is one of London’s most unique jazz clubs as it also doubles as a non-profit!
The innovative jazz club runs off volunteers and lovers of improvised and experimental jazz. It’s a place famed Saxophonists describe as their spiritual home, which should tell you a bit what to expect from the music scene here.
Tickets float between £5-£15 (sometimes free!) — a great cozy place for a low-key jazz night in East London.
Opening times: Wednesday-Saturday: 7pm-11pm
Website: https://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/
Tips for Visiting Jazz Bars in London
Dress Smart Casual
Although there’s no strict rule for most jazz bars in London, it’s always best to stick to dressing on the smarter side for your night out.
Always book in advance
Unfortunately jazz bars in London aren’t the kind of places you just show up on a whim. Always book in advance to avoid disappoint.
Be mindful of chatter
In most jazz clubs in London the vibe is quite loud and buzzing, so you can talk during performances. However you should feel the room, and if it’s a solo performance or on the quieter side, try to keep talking to a minimum.
Happy Londoning,
Liked this post? Don’t forget to check out:
- The Best Things to do in Camden for Day & Night (super close to The Jazz Cafe!)
