20 Exciting Live Music Spots in South London

Music plays an enormous role in our everyday lives. It accommodates the good, the bad, the great and the ugly. With apps such as Spotify, our favourite songs and musicians are only a few fingertips away. But sometimes we need something new, something that our apps cant offer; that’s live music. Nothing compares to listening to your favourite tracks live or discovering new musicians/bands that you would’ve never found anywhere else. So sit back and relax as we show you 20 exciting live music spots here in South London.

HOTBOX

99 George Street, Croydon, CR0 1LD

HOTBOX is an independent live music night in Croydon, South London. This buzzing space in the middle of Croydon's Boxpark plays host to some big artists for a regular schedule of incredible nights.

With unbeatable sound quality, an awesome stage and a big -but not too big- capacity, HOTBOX is set to become one of South London's favourite music venues.

Expect some of the world's most influential artists across a whole spectrum of genres, countries and sounds. From David Rodigan to P Money; HOTBOX has it all.

Check out upcoming events here and get 25% off tickets with your South London Club Card.

The White Lion

232 Streatham High Road, Streatham SW16 1BB

The White Lion is an independent pub in Streatham, South London. Specialising in their live music offering, diverse menu and astonishing selection of drinks, this historic pub is one of few venues that has continued rolling with the times and who have made a conscious effort to offer something new, whether that's a new artist, exciting food dish or interesting drinks selection.

Get 20% off food and wine with your South London Club Card.

 
 
 

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There's No Place Like Streatham Unisex T-Shirt

 

The Grand

21-25 St. Johns Hill, Battersea, SW11 1TT

The Grand is an independent nightclub, bar and venue in Battersea, South West London. Almost directly opposite Clapham Junction station, The Grand has been entertaining the people of Battersea and Clapham for generations.

Built in 1900 as a theatre and space for the dramatic ventures of actors, comics and performers like Dan Leno, Herbert Campbell and Harry Randall, The Grand has been a centrepiece of entertainment in Battersea for over 100 years.

Having become a cinema, then bingo hall, then surviving an application from JD Wetherspoon to become an enormous boozer, in 1989 The Grand was then returned somewhat to its original purpose, only this time to be used as a live music venue and event space.

Big names like Paul Weller, Jamiroquai, Oasis, Madness, The Kinks and Chip-diddy-chip (Chipmunk) have all graced The Grand with their performances. 

Nowadays, expect a regular line-up of ever-changing, ever-varying events, including film screenings, themed parties, momentous sports screenings and, of course, regular raucous parties on Friday and Saturday nights.


Free entry + queue jump before 12 am every Saturday night. The Grand also offer some one-time offers, check their Twitter for details! Email: info@claphamgrand.comto book your table, quoting "SOUTH LONDON CLUB"

Admiral Hardy

7 College Approach, Greenwich, SE10 9HY

Admiral Hardy is an independent pub in Greenwich, South East London. Admiral Hardy is a trendy pub offering a vibrant and characterful pub experience. Perfectly situated just seconds away from Greenwich Market, the pub offers big, comfortable sofas, great music and good food; all at affordable prices.

Integral to the overall design of Admiral Hardy is an impressive collection of rock 'n' roll ephemera and music-themed art and photography display, which documents a variety of musical genres and iconic British and American bands and artists.

The pub offers regular events such as Quiz Nights, Champions League Action, Live bands and Open Mic nights, meaning there is something on for all. So if you are looking for a welcoming, community-oriented pub with great events and friendly owners, Admiral Hardy is the place to go! Pop in and say hi or check out their website for events and offers.

Receive 10% off with your South London Club Card.

 
 
 

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Windmill Brixton

22 Blenheim Gardens, Brixton Hill, London SW2 5BZ

Windmill Brixton is an independent live music venue in Brixton, South London. Described by Billboard Magazine as “a divey hangout for indie-spirited DIY musicians.”

Built in 1971, and named after the neighbouring heritage site of the only lasting (and working) windmill in the London area. From being a bar in the early days to now being a thriving live music spot. 

With their small but brilliant venue, good selection of drinks and amazing up and coming musicians and bands, this is definitely a spot to go to. Get immersed in a gritty, real but relaxed atmosphere.

The Control Room

Upstairs at The Signal, 7 Devonshire Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3HE

The Control Room is a live music, comedy and entertainment venue in Forest Hill, South East London. As Forest Hill's "hottest new venue", The Control Room offers a regular and varying schedule of entertainment. From their Friday Funk Club DJ set to comedy, live music, film screenings and more; The Control Room hosts it all.

Situated on the upper floor of The Signal, the team works hard to pull the best musical and comedic talent from across London, whilst leaving plenty of room for local artists and comics to take the stage.

In addition, The Control Room hosts events organised by external groups, such as Featured Fifteen - a night of cultural expertise from a range of diverse backgrounds - and Pink Walrus - a night of fabulous frivolities and catastrophes - amongst others!

Expect laughter, proper entertainment and a convivial community vibe. Check out upcoming events here!

You can get 50% off comedy, live music, funk club and signal screening nights with your South London Club Card

 
 
 

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Made In Forest Hill Sweater

 

The Amersham Arms

388 New Cross Road, London, SE14 6TY

Set in the heart of New Cross, across the road from New Cross station, and a stone’s throw from Goldsmiths University, The Amersham Arms is the nucleus of the South-East London music scene, providing a stage for numerous up and coming artists and for bigger names that just can't get enough of its bohemian, charismatic reputation.   

Part student hang-out, part long-standing local favourite, it is a well-known venue and pub that effortlessly blends the local pub vibe with cool music and comedy nights.

It offers events for most days of the week, including music, comedy, poetry nights and more, and serves a wide range of cooked, homemade food. 

Whether you're looking to dance the night away in ecstasy with your friends, or are just looking for a quiet drink and a meal, the Amersham Arms, with its two, large separated rooms, can cater perfectly for any vibe. A newly refurbished Garden area is also featured which offers great views in the summer. 

Receive discounts on events (check Facebook & Twitter)

The Birds Nest

32 Deptford Church St, London, SE8 4RZ

The Birds Nest is a locally renowned pub and hostel located in the heart of Deptford.

Located at the end of Creekside and on the borders of Greenwich and Deptford, the pub is a hub of artists and musicians. Live music varies from folk to hardcore punk, Blues to Ska, established well-known bands, to up-and-coming local talent. Art exhibitions are held monthly at their own gallery, named "Undercurrents Gallery" and showcases emerging, underground and more established visual artists. The Birds Nest always has quality music and art.

Their food menu is extensive, to say the least, and includes a huge range of burgers; bar classics such as Calamari, Chunky Chips, Whitebait and more; all-day breakfasts; and a delectable Sunday Roast. Check out the full menu here.

Formerly The Oxford Arms, the pub has hosted such big names as Squeeze and Dire Straits and continues today to bring top bands to Deptford. Further back in the 16th century, the pub was a centre for arts. Deptford Theatre was joined to the pub, and through this, the legendary playwright Christopher Marlowe was connected to the pub.

Get 10% off food with your South London Club Card.

 
 
 

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I Heart Deptford Mug

 

Temple of Art and Music (TAM)

42 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6DR

Formerly known as Theatrery, The Temple of Art and Music (TAM) is an integrated arts and hospitality hub hosting quality live music seven days a week, nourishing up and coming artists and providing talent with a performance platform to showcase their abilities.

They strive to bring an immersive musical experience that delivers happiness and touches the souls of all who attend.

With an amazing venue, great selection of food and a great view of the front stage, the Temple of Art and Music is a must.

The Fox and Firkin

 316 Lewisham High Street, London SE13 6JZ

Situated near the centre of Lewisham, the Fox & Firkin is undoubtedly one of the borough's best pubs, and a local favourite to many of Lewisham's residents both old and new.

Much more than just a pub, the Fox & Firkin boasts an ongoing stream of Live music events on a weekly basis - from reggae and dub to funk and soul, or blues and rock to gypsy swing - encompassing as much of the South London music scene as is humanely possible. Many artists from all over the world have passed through and performed at the pub, and it has built up a strong reputation as one of London's best small music venues.

With a large and easily accessible garden and an ever-changing decor that boasts vintage furniture and chandeliers, the Fox & Firkin is a world unto its own and makes use of this by providing many different types of events both day and night. 

Homemade pizzas and classic English dishes are on offer from the pub's fantastic kitchen, serving high-quality food at very reasonable prices.

With your South London Club Card, you can get £2 off ticketed events above £5 (pay at door only)

 
 
 

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Straight Outta Lewisham Hoodie

 

The Magic Garden

231 Battersea Park Road, Battersea, SW11 4LG

The Magic Garden is an independent pub, kitchen and live music venue in Battersea, South West London.

Famed for its eccentric garden, raucous roster of live music nights and an adventurous yet comforting menu of delicious dishes, The Magic Garden is a beloved local pub with a varied and amiable clientele.

Visit during the week for a quiet drink with friends, or to sample some of the morsels on the menu, and choose from exquisite cocktails and carefully selected beers and wines. From the menu, expect the likes of Porcini and Truffle Arancini (Ve) and Black Pudding Scotch Duck Eggs for starters followed by Classic Fish and Chips or a SuperGreen Lasagne, amongst others, for your mains.

Other than the food, drinks and general warm pub atmosphere, The Magic Garden transforms at the weekend into an explorative and truly independent live music venue. From Jazz, Folk and Bluegrass to Reggae, Soul and Rock 'n' Roll, be sure to check out their line-up here when planning your visit!


Get 10% off food and drink Monday - Friday with your South London Club Card.

 
 

Amazing Grace London

9a St Thomas St, London, SE1 9RY

London Bridge’s brand new home for live music, DJ’s, food and drinks!

Housed inside St Thomas Church, which dates back to the 17th century, Amazing Grace is a stone's throw away from London Bridge station, nestled right in between The Shard and the world-famous Borough Market.

The venue boasts a large main bar, plenty of comfy seating throughout and a jaw-dropping mezzanine balcony equipped with its own bar overlooking the downstairs stage.

We’ve joined forces with London’s Kings of bao buns, Mr Bao, who offer a range of Taiwanese street food to keep you nourished throughout the evening. Alongside this our bars will serve an array of top quality craft beers including our very own in-house lager, cocktails and spirits.

 

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I Heart Elephant and Castle Mug

 

The Copper Tap

 190 Peckham High Street

The Copper Tap is a cosy, independent bar in Peckham, South London serving 16 different draft beers and ciders and classic cocktails shaken up before your eyes.

They bring Jam nights, live music and live sports on the small and big screen! They love a good party! So if in need of a space for hire ask them and they will accommodate! Outdoor seating is available all year round.

The Copper Tap know their customers and their customer know them. So if you don't then pop in and say hello!

With your South London Club Card, you get 20% off all day every day. This excludes items that are already on offer such as Happy Hour.

 
 

Sizzle ‘n’ Shake

80 Stafford Road, Wallington, SM6 9RY

Sizzle 'n' Shake is an independent American Diner restaurant in Wallington, South London. This vibrant & colourful restaurant truly does have both the look and feel of a genuine American Diner. Expect garish colours, faux-leather booth seats and gratifyingly greasy grub - all the things we love about American diners.

Sizzle 'n' Shake offers an American themed menu, drinks list (complete with American craft beers, wines, whiskeys and cocktails) and American music - each adding to the look and feel of the place.

On top of their standard offering, Sizzle 'n' Shake are also a live music venue and play host to a number of bands, musicians and pop-star covers.

Expect gourmet burgers, sizzling buffalo wings and refreshing milkshakes!

Receive 20% off food anytime with your South London Club Card.

 
 
 

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Toulouse Lautrec

140 Newington Butts, Kennington, London, SE11 4RN

Toulouse Lautrec is a restaurant, piano bar and jazz club located on a busy corner site in Kennington, London.

Come and indulge your love of food with an internationally renowned and seasonally inspired menu. They promise a unique, intimate and relaxed dining experience that offers something different to local and foreign patrons.

Enjoy their first floor piano room as great artists grace the stage with awesome notes bouncing off the rafters. With a red carpet separating classic cabaret seating, feel like a star yourself as you saunter to your seat and watch the performance come alive in the space. Head to their second-floor Jazz Club for a suitable pre-theatre menu or their extensive drinks list including cocktails and a top selection of Belgium beers.

 

Credit: Toulouse Lautrec

 

The Old Tiger’s Head

351 Lee High Road, Lewisham, SE12 8RU

The Old Tiger's Head is an independent pub in Lee, South East London. The Old Tiger's Head is a lively local pub with a solid selection of cask ales, crisp lagers and fine wines.

Under new management since 2017 and with a chic refurb, The Old Tigers head are clawing their way back to the top of local pub ranking here in Lee and will soon be offering traditional pub grub alongside their well thought out drinks menu and current snack offering.

Expect regular live music, screening of all the important sports fixtures and a friendly, amiable clientele.

With your South London Club Card, you can get 20% off all bottled wine, bottled prosecco, cider, spirits, cocktails and selected cask ales (cannot be used in conjunction with other offers).

 
 
 

Lambeth Typography SE1 Giclée Art Print

Lewisham is Where The Heart Is Mug

 

Isla Ray

37 Deptford Street SE8 4AD

Isla Ray has a simple yet delicious brunch/lunch menu is served during the day and a snack/sharing menu in the evening, along with coffee, cocktails, wine and local beer.

You can relax within the “open house” retro, tropical vibes and get lost amongst the brightly coloured plant-filled interiors.

Isla Ray is also a platform for creatives. With art exhibitions, bench space to work remotely, live music every Thursday and decks for small music events. With private hire available you could also have the opportunity to use the space freely.

It’s a comfortable and casual place to hang out no matter the time or occasion.


Receive 10% off with your South London Club Card.

Bianca Road Brewery

19 Pages Walk, SE1 4SB

Bianca Road Brewing Co. is an independent brewery and bar in Bermondsey, South London. Specialising in West-coast American style beers, Bianca Road has quickly made a name for themselves in South London's independent brewing scene, since their opening early in 2016.

Utterly astonished and motivated by a beer-fuelled expedition from Francisco to Miami, the team at Bianca Road spent two years sourcing everything they needed to bring a slice of American style to South London. 

Inspired by the exotic and creative flavours, the attitudes to brewing and the roles of the American breweries in their local communities, Bianca Road Brewing Co. are committed to keeping these three principles at the core of everything they do.

Along with their move from Peckham to Bermondsey comes a new and improved taproom open Thursday-Saturday, an expanded core range of seven beers, as well as a schedule of live music and other events. Sound interesting? Check them out!

 

Deptford Anchor SE8 - Giclée Art Print

Bermondsey Born and Bread Unisex T-Shirt

 

The Book and Record Bar

20 Norwood High Street, West Norwood, SE27 9NR

Conveniently located just a short walk from West Norwood Station, The Book & Record Bar is a book and record shop with a bar included. Focusing on selling a wide range of second-hand vinyl & books records, books, coffee, the bar is also open for regular live music events, DJ, open decks and play your own records nights.

The owner, Michael Johnson, is an avid vinyl collector and music enthusiast. He lives locally in West Norwood and began to sell his vast record collection at Feast, a monthly market in the area. His stall was so popular that he decided to open his own shop in August 2013, offering a wide range of music genres, soul and bring your own record nights, live bands and a radio show, the West Norwood Broadcasting Company.

Selling locally based Volcano coffee, the shop is fully licensed and serves a selection of beer, wine, cider and spirits. A hidden gem with a great vibe and a hub for creatives and music lovers - pop in and say hi!

Get 10% off with your South London Club Card

Hootananny Brixton

95 Effra Rd, Greater, London SW2 1DF

Hootananny Brixton began life in the 19th century as George Canning before becoming Hootananny Brixton in 2007 after being taken over by owner Sophie Yates and her Brother Kit Fraser.

Hootananny Brixton is a raucous music venue with an amazing bar and a lively beer garden. Make sure to visit their pop-up food stall and dig into their mouth-watering food.

With the reputation of Hootananny Brixton, you're going to have to be quick. Their first-come-first-served policy means not all can make it into this awesome venue. Visit their website to get your tickets and a place at this exciting music venue.

 

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What IS The South London Club?

 
 

The South London Club is a local discount card to help support small independent businesses across South London whilst saving all who live, work & play in South London money! With over 850+ local discounts to choose from, you will discover & explore all the best hidden gems in South London. Join over 7,000 of us & celebrate all that's independent & South London!