5 Notable Spots in London for Rock & Roll Fans

Abbey Road

In 1963, The Beatles stepped into the prestigious Abbey Road studios to launch their second studio album, Please Please Me. This was the start of a period where the iconic band would record some of their most beloved tunes. Recording sessions at Abbey Road Studios gave rise to some of their most renowned music, like the Sgt. Pepper 's Lonely Hearts Club Band and the ever-iconic album cover featuring all four members of the group on the zebra crossing close to the studios.

The Troubadour

This London coffee house, pub and nightclub, which has been around since the 1950s, has evolved into a renowned music venue. The Troubadour has seen the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Elton John, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, Jimmy Page, Sandy Denny, Davy Graham, and Morrisey grace its stage, among many others. Unlike many of the cafes and venues of this great era of live music, The Troubadour remains open and has never shut its doors since opening in 1954.

The Hundred Club

The punk rock movement of the 1970s was greatly impacted by the presence of 100 Oxford Street. It was on this street, The Sex Pistols, The Clash, The Stranglers and The Jam managed to reach a larger audience and make their mark as the latest generation of rock and roll. In 1976, they hosted the first International Punk Festival, bringing in an era of acts like The Adicts, Black Flag, & English Dogs. In 1982, The Rolling Stones played an unannounced show before their European Tour. In another vein, The Hundred Club also hosts/hosted a number of R&B and jazz acts since its opening in 1942.

The Savoy

An elegant and beautiful London institution, known and loved for a myriad of reasons, but it has a musical history too! Head to the back side of the Savoy Chapel, and you will discover a small alleyway, accompanied by some scarcely noticeable steps. This is where Bob Dylan shot his beloved music video for Subterranean Homesick Blues - which has been hailed as one of the most famous videos ever recorded. Dylan often stayed at The Savoy, and The Beatles were known to call on him there.

Brook Street

Along a quiet Mayfair street, two homes - 23 and 25 - are well known. Back in 1723, George Frideric Handel took up residence in the second one. Years later, the street's musical legacy inspired James Marshall Hendrix, a young guitarist, to purchase the neighboring house as a refuge when he was in the city. In fact, several writers, royal physicians, and artists have lived on this street.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club

Enjoy live jazz performances while savoring delicious food and drinks at this iconic venue.

The Troubadour

A historic coffeehouse where Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and other legendary musicians once performed. It offers a cozy atmosphere and delectable dishes.

The Scotch of St James

This upscale dining spot was a prominent hangout for musicians like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix during the '60s.

The Old Blue Last

A trendy pub in Shoreditch that hosts live music events and serves delectable pub grub.

The Pizza Express Jazz Club

Indulge in delicious pizza while immersing yourself in the vibrant jazz scene at this intimate venue.

The Dublin Castle

A historic pub in Camden known for its live music performances, where bands like Madness and The Arctic Monkeys started their careers.