The blues will transport you to another world with its twangy guitar and melancholy lyrics. It has had an influence on some of the world’s best musicians and is great to listen to in all its forms. To experience some of the best blues music in London, you should visit one of these great venues for a night you won’t forget.
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Boisdale, Canary Wharf
Boisdale has very quickly earned a reputation as a great venue for music in London. There is live music nightly (except Sunday when Boisdale is closed) with some of the best British and international blues, jazz and soul music artistes appearing on a regular basis. Throw in some of the best cocktails in London, delicious food offerings from the Scottish-themed restaurant and a great atmosphere, and you have the ingredients of the perfect night out.
Brooks Blues Bar, Hammersmith
The Brooks Blues Bar first operated in 2003 and despite the fact that was something of a gypsy and moved locations regularly, it established a reputation for some of the best blues music in London. Its latest unlikely home is in the basement of the Polish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith, but don’t be fooled as on one Saturday every month Brooks brings the top names in blues from Britain and around the world.
St Harmonica’s Blues, Southgate
Once a week, this unassuming club hiding away in a residential street in Enfield fills with the haunting sounds of brilliant blues musicians. From the outside it might not seem a likely place to be included in a list of the best blues venues in London but once the music starts you will be hypnotised. St Harmonica’s Blues is a must visit venue for the true blues fan.
Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues, Soho
Describing itself as ‘the best blues bar this side of the Atlantic’, Soho’s Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues lives up to its billing with great live music seven nights a week. The stage is small but the sounds are unbelievable. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and excellent bar snacks while listening to some fine blues music.
Round Midnight, Angel
Round Midnight is among the best no frills blues venues in London. It’s small and intimate but the friendly crowd gets to enjoy brilliant musicians playing their favourite music in a great atmosphere. Decent food and a well-stocked bar contribute to a fine venue for blues.
The Blues Kitchen, Camden
For blues music in London, the Blues Kitchen has to be on your list of places to visit. It boasts regular rock and roll and blues jam nights for music wannabes and some plays hosts to some of the best blues bands around. It gets busy, especially on Saturday nights, but if the crowds are too much for you, the Sunday afternoon jam sessions offer a great way to wind down after a hectic weekend. It serves excellent food in authentic Southern BBQ style and has an extensive selection of drinks available.
