10 Oldest Music Venues In London

Wilton’s Music Hall (Est. 1859):
Wilton’s Music Hall, located in Whitechapel, stands as the world’s oldest surviving grand music hall. This historic venue exudes a unique charm with its Victorian architecture. Over the years, it has played host to a wide array of performances, ranging from music concerts and theater productions to dance shows.
The Royal Albert Hall (Est. 1871):
Situated in South Kensington, The Royal Albert Hall is an iconic concert hall renowned for its distinctive circular design. Since its establishment, this prestigious venue has showcased an eclectic mix of performances, including classical music concerts, rock shows, ballets, and even sporting events.
Union Chapel (Est. 1877):
Nestled in the heart of Islington, Union Chapel offers a captivating blend of spirituality and music. Originally built as a church, it has since been converted into a cherished music venue. The venue’s stunning acoustics make it a popular choice for artists from various genres.
The Half Moon (Est. 1963):
Located in Putney, The Half Moon is a historic pub and music venue that has witnessed the rise of numerous iconic musicians. From hosting intimate gigs to larger concerts, this venue has been a pivotal part of London’s live music scene for decades.
The 100 Club (Est. 1942):
Situated on Oxford Street, The 100 Club carries a rich musical heritage. Originally a jazz club, it gained prominence during the punk rock and alternative music explosion of the 1970s. The venue continues to showcase a diverse range of genres, attracting both established and emerging artists.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club (Est. 1959):
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Soho, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club holds legendary status among jazz enthusiasts. Established by saxophonist Ronnie Scott, this iconic venue has hosted countless jazz luminaries, offering an intimate setting for immersive musical experiences.
The Roundhouse (Est. 1846):
Located in Camden, The Roundhouse is a historic venue known for its unique circular structure. Initially built as a railway engine shed, it transformed into a prominent music venue in the 1960s. The Roundhouse has hosted legendary artists and continues to showcase a diverse range of performances, including music, theater, and spoken word events.
St. John’s Smith Square (Est. 1728):
Situated in Westminster, St. John’s Smith Square is a Baroque church that has served as a remarkable concert venue for centuries. Known for its stunning architecture and exceptional acoustics, it is a favored destination for classical music performances, recitals, and choral concerts.
The Old Blue Last (Est. 1700s):
The Old Blue Last, located in Shoreditch, has a long-standing history as one of East London’s oldest music venues. This intimate pub and performance space has witnessed the growth of various music genres, including indie, rock, and alternative. It remains a hub for emerging talent and underground music scenes.
The Troubadour (Est. 1954):
Nestled in Earl’s Court, The Troubadour is a legendary coffeehouse and music venue that has played a significant role in London’s folk and acoustic music scene. It became a hotspot for artists and musicians during the folk revival of the 1960s, hosting notable performers such as Bob Dylan and Paul Simon.

These ten music venues showcase London’s rich musical heritage and continue to captivate audiences with their historical significance and vibrant performances. Each venue carries a distinct atmosphere and contributes to the city’s reputation as a thriving hub for live music.