Feeling like stepping back in time? London's got the ultimate retro scene that transports you straight back to the good ol' days. Whether you’re craving the glitz of the roaring 20s or the grooves of the 80s, this city has a spot to suit your nostalgic cravings. And let's face it, a night filled with vintage tunes and classic cocktails is hard to top.
One of the first places you might wanna check out is Going Underground, tucked away in Soho. Known for its vibrant 80s vibe, it’s like your favourite radio hits just came to life. Think neon lights, retro arcade games, and the kind of dance floor that screams for a moonwalk. For fans of The Smiths or Depeche Mode, this is pure heaven. And if dancing isn’t your thing, the themed cocktails will keep you entertained.
- Reviving the 80s London Style
- The Jazz Age Glamour
- Swing the Night Away at Vintage Dance Halls
- London’s Timeless Movie Bars
- Rock ‘n’ Roll Retro Vibes
Reviving the 80s London Style
When it comes to bringing back the 80s in style, London knows how to do it right. The city’s nightlife isn’t just about your typical bars and clubs. No, it's about creating an immersive journey back to the time of synth-pop and flamboyant fashion.
One of the coolest retro hotspots is Reflex in the West End. Now, if you’re yearning for neon colors, big hair, and hits from Madonna and Prince, this is where you wanna be. It's like a time capsule of everything amazing from that decade. They've got a dance floor buzzing with energy and occasionally, you'll see someone break out into a moonwalk or robot dance. And hey, don’t skip the bar which serves funnily named cocktails, a throwback to the drinks your parents might’ve had back in the day.
Feeling competitive? Head over to The Four Quarters in Peckham. It’s half-arcade, half-bar, and all 80s charm. Here, you can amuse yourself with vintage arcade games like Pac-Man and Space Invaders before grabbing a drink. Imagine blowing off steam after work by shooting aliens or gobbling up dots with a cold beer in hand.
- Neon signs and decor create a totally immersive atmosphere.
- Classic tracks from the 80s keep the vibes nostalgic.
- Unique-themed cocktails hark back to the era's famous drinks.
If you're looking to switch things up and have a more chill yet still epic 80s experience, try out Cafe Pacifico in Covent Garden. It's got that laid-back vibe where you can relax with friends and soak in the nostalgia. The decor, with its 80s film posters, sets the scene perfectly.
The Jazz Age Glamour
When it comes to experiencing the glitz and glamour of the roaring 20s in London nightlife, there's no place quite like The Candlelight Club. Hidden away in a secret location that's revealed only to ticket holders, this speakeasy takes you straight back to the days of flappers and prohibition-era excitement. You can almost imagine Gatsby himself dancing away the night here.
This pop-up bar offers an authentic 1920s experience complete with candlelit rooms, live jazz bands, and everyone dressed to the nines in vintage attire. For those who adore the classics, it's like stepping into a scene from the past. Don’t forget to practice your Charleston moves before you head out, because you'll definitely want to show them off once the music starts playing.
Aside from the remarkable ambiance, the cocktails at The Candlelight Club are a real treat. We're talking about some of the finest vintage-inspired concoctions crafted with all the charm and flair of the era. Sip on a traditional Sidecar, or perhaps try something a bit more exclusive that you've never had before. Bartenders here know their stuff, and they'll make sure your glass is right out of a history book.
If you're looking for other spots to soak in that Jazz Age glamour, check out The Nightjar. Situated in Shoreditch, it’s got an old-world charm that’s hard to beat. With a mix of live music and expertly crafted drinks, it keeps that 1920s spirit alive and kicking.
Swing the Night Away at Vintage Dance Halls
If you've ever wanted to glide across the floor like they did back in the golden era, London offers a fantastic retro experience in the form of vintage dance halls. These places are a true time capsule where the energy of a bygone age is just a dance step away.
One of the most iconic spots you should check out is the Rivoli Ballroom. Nestled in Brockley, it stands as a rare gem from the 1950s. With its plush red velvet interiors, golden drapes, and funky chandelier lighting, the Rivoli is a perfect throwback venue. They host regular dance nights where you can swing, jive, or foxtrot to your heart’s content. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to try something new, the Rivoli sees folks of all skill levels jiving the night away.
Don't worry if you have two left feet; many of these places offer dance classes before the main events. It’s a great way to meet new people and get in the groove. The atmosphere is always friendly, and the emphasis is more on having fun than on getting every step right.
Besides Rivoli Ballroom, The Vintage Ball in East London is another spot worth checking out. It’s held in various venues throughout the city, and each event captures a unique theme like The Great Gatsby or 60s Mod. Dressing up to the nines is part of the charm, so throw on your flapper dress or sharpest suit and get ready to step back in style!
The dance hall scene in London provides a delightful escape from the modern hustle and bustle. It's all about the music, the movement, and the memories you'll create—and maybe even a sneaky cocktail or two! So grab a partner and get ready to swing the night away in some of the most atmospheric London nightlife venues around.
London’s Timeless Movie Bars
If you've ever wished for a drink in Rick's Café from Casablanca or perhaps felt the pull of sipping cocktails like James Bond, then you need to check out some of London's classic movie-inspired bars. They're a perfect blend of cinematic charm and a killer drinks menu that'll make any film buff weak at the knees.
Take yourself over to The Cinema Bar Club in Leicester Square. It's practically a stone’s throw from some of London's most famous theatres and is filled with movie memorabilia that would make any collector green with envy. With its dim lighting and plush seating, it's not hard to imagine yourself on set. They do a particularly mean 'Manhattan'—word is, Sinatra might've approved.
Just a hop away, there’s the Picturehouse Central Bar. This one's a bit of an iconic haunt for cinema lovers, nestled right above the Picturehouse Central cinema. It’s understated but nails the retro feel with its mid-century decor. Famous critic, Mark Kermode, once said of the place,
"It's like stepping into a time machine, the way they preserve the heart of classic cinema is truly something special."Catch one of their film nights for a chance to see a cult classic followed by themed cocktails. Trust me, you can't beat watching Hitchcock’s 'Vertigo' with a 'Highball' to match.
And if the thought of some popcorn spiked with gin takes your fancy, then you should head to CellarDoor, a quirky yet chic speakeasy style bar. They mix some interesting cocktails, inspired by your favourite on-screen moments. Keep an eye out for their special events where they show film noir classics with a live pianist—such a mood, right?
Lovers of the movies and booze alike will find their happy place in these quirky and creative hotspots, making a night out in London feel like an escape into the silver screen itself.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Retro Vibes
If you're in London and looking to dive headfirst into a world of retro experience fueled by legendary rock 'n' roll, you've gotta hit up The Crobar. Nestled in the heart of Soho, this place is legendary among rock enthusiasts and has become a sort of pilgrimage site for those who want to revel in the grungy glory of past rock legends.
Walking in, you're greeted by walls adorned with memorabilia, from album covers to guitars signed by rock legends. The jukebox churns out classics from Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and other icons that defined the 60s and 70s. It’s a place where the music never seems to lose its edge.
One nifty tidbit? The Crobar has a selection of over 100 different whiskies — perfect for channeling your inner rock star. Plus, it’s one of the rare spots in London open until 3AM, so the party doesn’t have to end early.
For those who want a slightly different but equally exhilarating vibe, try Ain't Nothin' But... If you’re into blues with your rock, this is your spot. Smack dab in Kingly Street, this joint will have you tapping your feet and nodding along to live jams every single night of the week. It’s the perfect place to soak up some raw guitar solos while sipping on cold pints with a bunch of friendly locals.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in the mood for some quality tunes, London’s rock 'n' roll spots have got you covered. It’s not just about the music—it's a vibe, a culture that lets you celebrate the timeless appeal of rock legends with a bunch of new mates.
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