London After Dark: The Ultimate Guide to Late-Night Venues
29th October 2024
By Bethan Dadson
As the colder months settle in, many people retreat indoors, seeking warmth and comfort in cosy, quiet nights. But for me, autumn and winter is when London truly comes to life! The city’s bars, events, and restaurants transform into vibrant social hubs, bringing together friends, family, couples on dates, and anyone looking to make memories.
Here’s a curated guide to some of London’s hottest venues this season - perfect for dancing the night away and soaking in the city's electric autumn/winter atmosphere.
Hovarda
Location: Canary Wharf
Closing time: 2am
Price: £££
If world-class house DJs and exquisite dining are your vibe, this spot is a must-visit. Originally debuting in Soho in 2017, Hovarda has now expanded to Canary Wharf, and I was lucky enough to attend their launch party! Hovarda is Canary Wharf’s first and only late-night restaurant, offering an exclusive destination for late-night dining, drinks and dancing in the area. The opulent interiors, mouthwatering food, delicious drinks, and incredible tunes creates an unforgettable experience for all.
The Blues Kitchen
Location: Brixton/Shoreditch
Closing time: 12am-3am depending on the day
Price: ££
The first time I visited, I enjoyed a delicious chicken burger while being welcomed by some live jazz music! This spot quickly became one of my favourites to return to - especially when the night still feels young (I mean, 11 pm is way too early to call it a night, right?). With a lineup of DJs and live music sets spanning genres like Soul, Hip Hop, R&B, Jazz, Afrobeats, and so much more, it’s always a vibe!
Jazz Cafe
Location: Camden
Closing time: Sunday-Thursday, 11pm; Friday-Saturday, 3am
Price: ££
Jazz Cafe is a great place to go to if you want to hear live music featuring the best of Rap, RnB, Dub, Brazilian, Global, Soul, Jazz, New Wave, Electronic, and more. From Andre 3000 to Eddie Chacon, the lineup brings together a diverse and exciting mix of global icons and rising stars from the scene, promising an unforgettable time at this venue.
Late at Tate
Location: Pimlico/Blackfriars
Closing time: 10pm
Price: free
On the first Friday of every month, Late at Tate is a series of after-hours events held at Tate museums across the UK, such as Tate Modern and Tate Britain in London. These events combine art, live performances, workshops, and talks, often with DJs, music, and interactive experiences that explore themes relevant to contemporary culture. LAT offers a unique way to experience the museum in a lively, social atmosphere.