In the early 1960s, many British blues bands began to form in an emerging London scene. Today, you can hear live blues gigs across the city at dedicated bars and large concert venues.
Check out some of the top blues bars London has to offer, or find out more about London’s music scene including jazz.
1. Ain't Nothin' But
Groove along to the music at Ain't Nothin' But, which calls itself the best blues bar this side of the Atlantic. Ain’t Nothin’ But has live music every night of the week, and admission is free from Sunday to Wednesday.
2. St. Harmonica's Blues Club
Tap your feet to the music at St. Harmonica’s Blues Club, located at the Southgate Club just outside Southgate Tube station. The venue puts on monthly blues jam sessions, which are free to attend and draw in local crowds.
3. Ronnie Scott's
Best known for its live jazz, Ronnie Scott’s also puts blues bands on stage at its Soho bar. Head upstairs to Ronnie’s Bar for a wide-ranging musical programme that includes blues, Latin music and more.
4. The Blues Kitchen
Dance to the tunes at The Blues Kitchen, which plays live blues music from DJs and the bar’s house band until late. The restaurant serves American soul food, and the bar has more than 80 different kinds of bourbon to choose from. The Blues Kitchen has locations in Brixton, Camden and Shoreditch.
5. The O2
Experience live blues music from big names and best-selling artists at The O2 in North Greenwich. Keep an eye out for multi-day blues festivals and other live performances on its busy event calendar.