KOKO: Camden's Iconic Live Music Venue and Historic Theatre

Historic Camden theatre turned vibrant live music venue, KOKO pulses with legendary performances and London nightlife energy.

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KOKO, located at 1a Camden High St in London, is a renowned live music venue housed in a Grade II listed building with a rich history dating back to 1900. Originally opened as the Camden Theatre, it evolved through various incarnations including a cinema, BBC radio studio, and nightclub. Since its 2004 restoration, KOKO has become a premier destination for concerts, club nights, and cultural events, hosting legendary artists and vibrant nightlife in Camden Town.

A brief summary to KOKO

1a Camden High St, London, NW1 7RE, GB
+442073883222
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 6 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 7 pm-11:30 pm
Tuesday 7 pm-11:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-11:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-11:30 pm
Friday 6 pm-5 am
Saturday 6 pm-5 am
Sunday 7 pm-11:30 pm

Local tips

Check the event schedule in advance as KOKO hosts a wide variety of concerts and club nights with varying entry prices.
Arrive early for popular shows to secure good spots and enjoy the venue's historic interior ambiance.
Dress stylishly to blend in with the fashionable Camden nightlife crowd, especially on club nights.
Explore nearby Camden Market and the vibrant streets before or after your visit to KOKO for a full cultural experience.

Getting There

London Underground

Take the Northern Line to Camden Town station, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to KOKO. The station is well-served with frequent trains running every 2-5 minutes during peak hours. No additional fare beyond standard London travel cards is required.
Bus

Several London bus routes, including routes 24, 27, and 88, stop near Camden High Street. The bus journey duration varies between 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares.
Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at KOKO’s entrance on Camden High Street. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting around £10-£20.

KOKO location weather suitability

Any Weather

Discover more about KOKO

A Storied Beginning as Camden Theatre

Opened on Boxing Day 1900, KOKO began life as the Camden Theatre, designed by W.G.R. Sprague. Initially a playhouse, it soon shifted to a music hall and variety theatre under Walter Gibbons in 1909, renamed the Camden Hippodrome. By 1913, it transitioned fully into a cinema, operated by Biocolour Picture Theatres Ltd from 1928. The venue also served as a BBC radio studio, recording iconic shows like The Goon Show and performances by The Rolling Stones, embedding it deeply in British entertainment history.

Transformation into a Live Music Hub

In 1977, the building reopened as The Music Machine, becoming a hotbed for new wave and punk music. It hosted legendary acts such as The Clash, The Boomtown Rats, and The Jam, and was immortalized in the 1979 disco dance film of the same name. Renamed Camden Palace in 1982, it became a magnet for London’s coolest crowds and international celebrities, including Madonna who gave her first UK performance here. The 1990s rave scene flourished with weekly events like "Clockwork Orange" and "Peach," making it a cornerstone of London’s nightlife.

Revitalization and Modern Era as KOKO

By 2004, the venue had fallen into disrepair. Oliver Bengough and Mint Entertainment purchased and undertook a multimillion-pound restoration, reopening it as KOKO. The renovation preserved its historic facade while modernizing interiors and technical facilities, enabling a diverse range of events—from live concerts and club nights to corporate and TV productions. The Daily Telegraph praised its blend of grandeur and modernity. Since reopening, KOKO has hosted album launches for Coldplay and Madonna, benefit events with Elton John, and performances by stars like Prince and Amy Winehouse.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

KOKO is a Grade II listed building, recognized for its historic and architectural value. The restoration uncovered a 50-foot fly tower housing original stage machinery, now repurposed as a unique venue space. Its auditorium and stage largely retain their original form, capable of theatrical use. The venue’s eclectic history—from theatre to cinema, radio studio to nightclub—reflects Camden’s vibrant cultural evolution and KOKO’s role as a living landmark in London’s music scene.

Atmosphere and Experience Today

Today, KOKO offers an immersive nightlife experience blending historic charm with cutting-edge sound and lighting. It hosts diverse music genres, club nights running into the early hours, and special events that attract a fashionable and energetic crowd. The venue is known for its charismatic ambiance, where the echoes of punk, rave, and indie scenes mingle with contemporary performances, making it a must-visit for music lovers and night owls alike.

Legacy and Ongoing Influence

With over a century of continuous reinvention, KOKO remains a cultural beacon in Camden Town. Its stage has launched careers, witnessed historic performances, and fostered community through music and nightlife. The venue's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern entertainment ensures it continues to shape London’s artistic and social landscape for generations to come.