VENUES

As former railway engine repair sheds turned music venues go, The Roundhouse is without doubt the best in the entire world… In all seriousness though, it’s an incredible venue, and its unique history and architecture is what makes it so sensational (see the incredible roof as evidence). The building was transformed into a groundbreaking performing arts venue 50 years ago, and has welcomed legendary performances by Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, The Ramones and one of only two UK appearances by The Doors with Jim Morrison. Biffy Clyro, Happy Mondays and Jake Bugg are some of the artists to expect at The Roundhouse this year – the only venue of its kind.

Ministry of Sound at Southbank Centre. Photo: @southbankcentre Built in 1951 as part of the Festival of Britain, Royal Festival Hall has become a truly inspiring arts centre. The hall is located on the banks of the River Thames at the heart of Southbank Centre, making for a remarkable location to go and watch some amazing music – from Ministry of Sound, to The Great Escape live in concert, with a load of jazz thrown in for good measure.

What started as a busy Irish club playing host to performers such as Jim Reeves, has (80 years on) become Camden high street’s iconic music venue, which sees people queueing round the corner every day to watch bands from U2, The Clash, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers to Joy Division, The Smiths, and Blur.

As a nominee for The London Venue Awards 2019 (and a champion of various other venue awards) it would be rude not to give Union Chapel a mention. An award-winning, architectural treasure, this working church is the perfect place to come and worship the music that you love. In 25 years, the venue has gone from facing demolition, to becoming a Grade I listed building. Not bad work, right? And a lot of this has got to come down to its title as a completely independent and non-for-profit venue, with acts such as Tom Jones, Amy Winehouse, Noel Gallagher and Elton John coming to bless the stage (yes, pun intended). When not hosting a concert or mass, the church is home to The Margins Project for those homeless and in crisis in London. Really, what’s not to love about Union Chapel?