Koko: Camden's Iconic Live Music Venue with a Storied Past
Koko is Camden Town’s iconic live music venue blending historic theatre charm with cutting-edge concerts and legendary nightlife.
Koko is a legendary live music venue located at 1a Camden High Street, London. Originally opened as the Camden Theatre in 1900, it has evolved through many incarnations including the Camden Hippodrome, a BBC radio studio, and the famed Camden Palace nightclub. Since its restoration in 2004, Koko has become one of London’s premier venues for concerts, club nights, and cultural events, hosting legendary artists from Madonna to Prince and Coldplay.
A brief summary to KOKO
- 1a Camden High St, London, NW1 7RE, GB
- +442073883222
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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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 enjoy the venue’s historic interior and secure good spots near the stage.
- Koko’s bars offer a range of drinks, but consider pre-drinking nearby in Camden for budget-friendly options.
- The venue is a Grade II listed building, so take time to appreciate its preserved architectural features.
- Late-night events often run into the early morning hours, so plan your transport accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Northern Line to Camden Town station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Koko. The route involves some uphill walking on Camden High Street. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Camden High Street, including routes 24, 27, 31, 88, and 134. Buses run frequently with journey times from central London around 20-30 minutes. Oyster and contactless payments are accepted.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxi or rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to Koko, with journey times from central London around 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £20.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Koko offers a chance to explore Camden’s vibrant streets and markets. Walking times vary but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes on mostly flat terrain.
KOKO location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about KOKO
From Theatre to Cultural Landmark
Koko’s story begins in 1900 when it opened as the Camden Theatre, a grand playhouse inaugurated with the pantomime 'Cinderella'. Over the following decades, it transformed into the Camden Hippodrome, a variety theatre and cinema, even serving as a BBC radio studio where iconic shows like 'The Goon Show' and performances by The Rolling Stones were recorded. This rich heritage established the building as a cultural hub in Camden Town, reflecting the area’s vibrant artistic spirit.The Music Machine and Camden Palace Era
In 1977, the venue was reborn as The Music Machine, becoming a hotspot for new wave and punk bands such as The Clash and The Jam. This era was immortalized in the 1979 disco dance film named after the venue. By 1982, it was renamed Camden Palace and became synonymous with London’s nightlife, hosting Madonna’s first UK performance and weekly rock and rave nights that defined the 1980s and 1990s club scene. The venue was a magnet for celebrities and music fans alike, embodying Camden’s edgy, youthful energy.Restoration and Modern Revival
After closing in 2004 due to disrepair, Koko underwent a multi-million-pound restoration led by Oliver Bengough and Mint Entertainment. The refurbishment preserved the historic Grade II listed façade and auditorium while installing state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Reopened in 2005 as Koko, it quickly regained status as a top London venue, hosting album launches by Coldplay and Madonna, benefit events by Elton John, and performances by contemporary stars. It blends historic grandeur with modern amenities, offering a versatile space for concerts, club nights, and private events.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Koko’s architecture retains much of its original early 20th-century theatre charm, including a recently rediscovered 50-foot fly tower that now serves as an intimate event space. Its Grade II listing underscores its importance as a preserved heritage site. The venue’s interior, painted in rich Admiral Red, and its ornate façade create a dramatic atmosphere that enhances every event. Koko remains a symbol of Camden’s enduring cultural relevance and musical innovation.Vibrant Atmosphere and Legendary Performances
The venue is renowned for its lively and eclectic atmosphere, attracting diverse crowds from indie music lovers to electronic dance fans. It has hosted legendary acts such as Prince, Amy Winehouse, The Rolling Stones, and Kanye West, becoming a rite of passage for emerging artists and a nostalgic haven for longtime fans. Its club nights run late into the early hours, continuing Camden’s tradition as a nightlife hotspot.Community and Future Outlook
Koko is more than a venue; it is a community cornerstone that champions music activism and venue preservation. It supports a wide range of events from live concerts to fashion and art parties, reflecting Camden’s dynamic cultural landscape. Ongoing renovations and programming ensure Koko remains a vibrant, relevant space for future generations, maintaining its legacy as London’s cathedral of indie and nightlife.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
0.9 km
Historic iron footbridge offering scenic canal views and vibrant access to Camden’s lively markets and cultural heart.
Euston War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
Hawley Street Art
1.0 km
Discover Camden’s vibrant Hawley Street Art, a dynamic outdoor gallery celebrating creativity, culture, and iconic urban murals.
St Pancras New Church
1.0 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Caithness House
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant residential life of London at Caithness House, a modern flat complex perfect for tourists seeking comfort and convenience.
Statue of Thomas Coram
1.6 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Middlesex House
1.6 km
Experience the blend of modern business and historical charm at Middlesex House in London, a vibrant hub for tourists and professionals alike.
Goodge St
1.7 km
Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Upper Wimpole St
1.7 km
Discover the quiet elegance and rich history of Upper Wimpole Street, a Georgian gem in the heart of Marylebone.
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
1.8 km
Discover Bedford Square & Montague Place, a serene Georgian oasis in Bloomsbury with elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant academic life at Marylebone Hall, a historic university in London surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
1 Queen Square
1.9 km
A historic London garden square, blending Georgian elegance, medical legacy, and tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
221B Baker St
1.9 km
Explore the iconic 221B Baker Street, the legendary home of Sherlock Holmes, and immerse yourself in the world of detective fiction and Victorian charm.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
1.9 km
Discover the charm and intrigue of London at the Sherlock Holmes Statue, a fitting tribute to the legendary detective and a must-see tourist attraction.
London Central Mosque
2.0 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
Comedy Carnival Camden
0.0 km
Award-winning international stand-up comedy in the heart of Camden—guaranteed laughs from world-class comedians.
Saint Martin's Gardens
0.5 km
A peaceful Camden garden with historic gravestones, family playgrounds, and tranquil green spaces just steps from the vibrant town center.
Camden High St
0.5 km
Camden High Street pulses with vibrant markets, eclectic shops, and a rich cultural vibe that defines London’s alternative spirit.
Jazz Cafe
0.6 km
Experience world-class live music and vibrant nightlife at The Jazz Cafe, Camden’s legendary venue blending soulful sounds with intimate charm.
Camden point
0.6 km
Discover Camden Market, London’s vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and independent shopping beside the scenic Regent’s Canal.
St Pancras Old Church
0.6 km
Discover one of London's oldest Christian sites, where Roman roots meet medieval stones and Victorian revival in a tranquil historic sanctuary.
Camden Town
0.6 km
Experience Camden Town’s vibrant market culture, eclectic shops, and canal-side charm in the heart of London’s alternative scene.
The Underworld
0.6 km
Experience the electrifying atmosphere of The Underworld, Camden's iconic live music bar and nightclub, hosting unforgettable performances and vibrant nightlife.
Green Note
0.6 km
An intimate Camden basement venue blending soulful live music with vibrant organic vegetarian cuisine in a cozy, bohemian setting.
The Camden Eye
0.6 km
Warehouse-chic Camden pub with craft drinks, pizza comfort food and a first-floor lounge for gigs, comedy and private parties.
The Music Walk of Fame
0.6 km
Celebrate Camden’s legendary music icons on a unique walk of fame honoring decades of musical innovation and culture.
Electric Ballroom
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Electric Ballroom, Camden's premier nightclub and live music venue, where unforgettable nights await.
Inverness Street Market
0.7 km
A vibrant Camden Town street market blending local charm, diverse stalls, and cultural gems in the heart of London.
BOXPARK Camden
0.7 km
A vibrant Camden hotspot blending street food, independent shops, and cultural events in a unique pop-up mall setting.
Rokit Camden
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style in the heart of Camden’s vibrant cultural scene.
Essential places to dine
Frida Camden
0.1 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Il Sugo
0.3 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Daphne Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Laz @Camden
0.6 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Jamon Jamon
0.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
0.6 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Mildreds Camden
0.8 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
wagamama camden
0.8 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Rossopomodoro Camden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
Portland
1.7 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
The Ninth
1.8 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Blanchette
2.2 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Noble Rot Soho
2.3 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Inamo
2.3 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Frinky
0.9 km
Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
KESKIN GIFT
0.9 km
Discover handmade wonders at Keskin Gift, where Camden's craft spirit shines through chess sets, masks, and artisanal jewelry in the iconic Lock Market.
Camden Gift
1.0 km
Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
To Home From London
1.0 km
Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
What Goes Around Comes Around
1.0 km
Dive into Camden's retro Americana vault at What Goes Around Comes Around, where vintage varsity jackets, Levi’s, and 80s tracksuits await in the Stables Market.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
1.0 km
Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
Zakka Camden
1.0 km
Discover artist-designed cushions and design-led gifts at this quirky Camden Market gem, blending Japanese zakka charm with London's creative pulse.
Cyberdog
1.0 km
Step into Cyberdog, Camden’s neon-lit rave shop where futuristic fashion meets pounding techno beats in a vibrant club-like setting.
Shop
1.1 km
A compact, ever-changing Camden Market shop serving eclectic vintage, designer finds and small-run curios in the Stables’ maze-like atmosphere.
Goodge Place Market
1.7 km
A vibrant street food market in the heart of Fitzrovia, offering diverse flavors and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from central London.
London Beatles Store
1.9 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Persephone books
1.9 km
Discover the hidden treasures of 20th-century women’s literature at Persephone Books, a Bloomsbury gem celebrating forgotten female voices.
Fancy That of London
2.0 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Souvenir Shop
2.1 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Primark
2.1 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Camden
0.2 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Camden Head
0.3 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
The World's End
0.6 km
Camden’s legendary pub and live music venue blending rich history, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local spirit in the heart of London.
Simmons Bar | Camden Town
0.6 km
Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
Bucks Head
0.7 km
Lively Camden pub with roof terrace views, pub grub, real ales, and festive vibes opposite Buck Street Market—perfect for soaking up the neighborhood's electric energy.
The Devonshire Arms
0.7 km
A cosy NW1 pub where grilled dishes and small rock gigs meet—intimate evenings, unpolished energy and classic pub bones in the heart of Kentish Town Road.
The Elephants Head
0.8 km
Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
All About Eve
0.8 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
Sunlight Lounge
0.8 km
An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Canalside Bar
0.9 km
Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
Spiritland
0.9 km
Immerse yourself in exceptional sound, creative cocktails, and a vibrant music culture at Spiritland King's Cross.
The Hawley Arms
0.9 km
Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
1.3 km
A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
1.7 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Max's Other Flat
0.1 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Club Swizzle
0.5 km
Dive into acrobatic cabaret mayhem at the Roundhouse: Swizzle Boys flip chairs, Reuben Kaye slays with wit, and the bar becomes your front-row thrill ride in Camden's hottest 2018 spectacle.
Soul City
0.6 km
A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Lockside
0.9 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Club Stable
1.1 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Monster Queen
1.2 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Egg London Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
101 Nightclub London
2.1 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
2.1 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
2.3 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
La Capannina Club
2.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Carwash Nightclub
2.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Sunset night club
2.4 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Club49Soho
2.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Roxy
2.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
