Shoreditch Balls
Historic gay venue reborn as Shoreditch's premier crazy golf and cocktail destination with underground stages.
A vibrant two-floor indoor crazy golf venue in the heart of Shoreditch, combining playful mini-golf challenges with expertly crafted cocktails and an energetic bar atmosphere. Set on the historic site of London's first gay club and the iconic Mother Bar, Shoreditch Balls resurrects the creative spirit of the location through immersive entertainment, live performances, and a rooftop garden perfect for after-work drinks and weekend celebrations.
A brief summary to Shoreditch Balls
- 333 Old St, London, EC1V 9LE, GB
- +442077295935
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekends if you want to play without queuing, as the mini-golf course becomes busy during peak evening hours. The course is more relaxed on weekday afternoons.
- Book The Green underground space in advance for private events or to secure a table during busy periods. Minimum bar spend applies, but the space offers excellent value for group celebrations.
- Visit the rooftop garden during daylight hours for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with excellent views over Shoreditch. It's perfect for after-work drinks before the venue becomes busier in the evening.
- Check the schedule for Stage Time improv comedy shows on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Tickets are affordable and the performances offer a unique entertainment experience separate from the main venue.
- Saturday nights feature DJ sets spinning 2000s R&B, making it an excellent night for dancing and socializing. Arrive after 10 PM if you prefer a more energetic, crowded atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground (Tube)
Old Street station (Northern, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) is approximately 7 minutes' walk from Shoreditch Balls. Exit the station and follow signs toward Old Street itself; the venue is located at 333 Old Street. This is the most direct public transport option and operates 24 hours on weekends.
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Overground and Bus
Shoreditch High Street Overground station is approximately 7 minutes' walk away. Multiple bus routes serve the Shoreditch area, including routes 243, 55, and 149, which stop near Old Street. Journey times from central London vary between 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and starting point.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt, Addison Lee) are readily available throughout London and can reach Shoreditch Balls within 10–25 minutes from central locations. Fares typically range from £8–20 depending on origin and time of day. The venue's address is 333 Old Street, London EC1V 9LE.
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Walking
From Liverpool Street station (approximately 1.2 km away), a 15–20 minute walk through Shoreditch's streets brings you to the venue. The route is straightforward and passes through the neighborhood's vibrant commercial and entertainment district, making it an enjoyable approach during daylight and evening hours.
Shoreditch Balls location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Shoreditch Balls
A Venue Reborn from Legendary Ground
Shoreditch Balls occupies a site steeped in London's cultural history. Once home to The London Apprentice, one of the capital's first gay clubs beloved by icons including Freddie Mercury, and later the Mother Bar—a legendary 1990s and 2000s music venue famously cherished by Amy Winehouse, The Libertines, and Michael Stipe—this location pulses with creative energy. The venue channels that heritage through a contemporary experience that celebrates hedonism, escapism, and inclusive nightlife. Every corner of Shoreditch Balls carries echoes of the artistic movements and musical moments that defined these earlier incarnations, making it more than just a bar; it's a continuation of London's storied entertainment legacy.Two Floors of Playful Chaos and Competition
The main attraction is a specially designed two-floor crazy golf course that prioritizes entertainment over precision. The nine-hole course features imaginative obstacles and varying difficulty levels, from straightforward putts to genuinely challenging holes that test even experienced players. Each hole includes a manual with tips, though some are notoriously difficult—the final hole is particularly demanding. The course's design ensures that players of all skill levels find moments of triumph and laughter, making it equally enjoyable for casual visitors and competitive groups. Beyond golf, the venue offers free-to-play pool tables, shuffleboard, and darts, ensuring multiple entertainment options throughout the space.Craft Cocktails and Vibrant Bar Culture
The venue's bar is fantastically stocked and stylish, with skilled bartenders preparing cocktails in front of patrons. The drinks menu caters to all preferences, from craft cocktails to cold pints and classic beverages. The bar atmosphere transforms throughout the week, with DJs spinning 2000s R&B tracks every Saturday, creating a lively dance floor environment. The recently opened rooftop garden extends the experience into daylight hours, offering a sky-high spot for after-work drinks, casual hangs, and social gatherings with panoramic views over Shoreditch. This outdoor space has become a sought-after destination for those seeking elevated cocktails with an urban backdrop.Hidden Stages and Private Entertainment Spaces
Beneath the main venue lies The Green, a secret underground stage area originally used for storage and now transformed into a dedicated performance space. This intimate venue hosts drag shows, comedy performances, magic acts, improv sketches, and live entertainment, creating a distinct atmosphere separate from the main floor. The space accommodates up to 80 guests standing or 50 in theatre-style seating, making it ideal for private events, corporate functions, and group celebrations. A full lighting system, projector screen, karaoke system, and stage equipment allow for diverse entertainment configurations. Stage Time, a monthly improv comedy showcase featuring London-based and international performers, regularly takes place here on the first and third Tuesday of each month, offering audiences unpredictable, never-to-be-repeated sketches and stories.Flexible Spaces for Events and Gatherings
The venue's layout accommodates everything from intimate date nights to large group celebrations. The main bar area welcomes walk-in visitors seeking casual drinks and games, while The Green provides a private sanctuary for organized events. Corporate teams frequently book the space for office socials, team-building activities, and after-work celebrations, with staff providing organized service and catering arrangements. The venue accepts reservations and offers internal catering facilities, making it adaptable to various group sizes and event requirements. Whether hosting a birthday party, corporate function, or casual night out with friends, Shoreditch Balls provides multiple configurations to suit different occasions.Inclusive Atmosphere in a Vibrant Neighborhood
Located at 333 Old Street in Shoreditch, the venue sits at the heart of one of London's most dynamic neighborhoods, known for its creative energy, diverse communities, and thriving nightlife. The space is explicitly welcoming to LGBTQ+ communities and transgender visitors, continuing the inclusive ethos of its predecessor venues. The casual, trendy atmosphere attracts groups seeking interactive entertainment, solo visitors looking for a lively night out, and couples seeking unique date experiences. The venue's positioning on historic ground combined with its modern entertainment offerings creates a unique space where London's past and present converge, making it a destination for those seeking authentic, creative nightlife experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shoreditch Church
0.2 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Arnold Circus
0.4 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
St Christopher's Inn Liverpool Street
0.8 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
182 Bishopsgate
1.0 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Northumbria University - London
1.1 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Liverpool Street
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant heart of London at Liverpool Street Station, a historic transport hub with modern amenities and access to iconic attractions.
Devonshire Square
1.2 km
A vibrant historic campus blending heritage, modern workspaces, and lively lifestyle spaces in central London’s City.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
1.3 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
1.3 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
St Giles Cripplegate
1.3 km
Medieval sanctuary where Milton rests and Cromwell wed, surviving 1,000 years of London's turbulent history.
St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate
1.4 km
Medieval dual-nave church with 800+ years of history, royal relics, and remarkable resilience.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
1.4 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
1.4 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
1.4 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
London City wall
1.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trafik
0.0 km
Discover Trafik, a lively club and bar in London's Old Street, offering a vibrant nightlife experience with eclectic music and delicious cocktails.
Sunset Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at Sunset Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere in a stylish setting.
Hoxton Square
0.1 km
Historic Hoxton Square is a vibrant garden oasis at the core of East London's creative and nightlife scene.
Callooh Callay
0.1 km
Discover Callooh Callay, an enchanting cocktail bar in London, where innovative drinks meet a whimsical atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Hoxton Pony in Shoreditch, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere make for an unforgettable evening.
Floripa
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Brazilian culture and London nightlife at Floripa, where creative cocktails and lively music meet.
Bounce Old Street
0.3 km
A lively ping pong bar and event venue in Shoreditch blending sport, food, and nightlife for unforgettable social experiences.
The Old Blue Last
0.3 km
Discover London's lively music scene at The Old Blue Last, a vibrant bar and live music venue perfect for an unforgettable night out.
The Craft Beer Co. Old Street
0.4 km
A beloved Old Street pub offering an exceptional craft beer selection and knowledgeable service in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
XOYO LONDON
0.4 km
Discover XOYO London: A dynamic nightlife venue with live music, eclectic events, and a stylish bar perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Village Underground
0.4 km
A vibrant East London cultural hotspot blending live music, street art, and creative community in a historic warehouse setting.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
0.5 km
A whimsical monster-themed gift shop in London supporting creative writing charity for kids with quirky treats and curious curiosities.
Shoreditch
0.5 km
East London's creative playground where street art, markets, and nightlife collide in authentic, ever-evolving style.
Museum of Methodism
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and enduring legacy of Methodism at John Wesley’s House and the Museum of Methodism in London’s historic City Road.
City Unscripted
0.6 km
Experience London through the eyes of a local with City Unscripted, offering personalized tours that reveal the city's hidden treasures and vibrant culture.
Essential places to dine
Nest Restaurant Old Street
0.0 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
0.1 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Lyle's
0.5 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Brawn
0.7 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.0 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
St. John
1.6 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
14 Hills
1.7 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Da Terra Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Madison
1.8 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
1.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Behind Restaurant
2.1 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
George
2.6 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Luna & Curious
0.3 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
0.8 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.9 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Barbican Shop
1.2 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.2 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
1.2 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Unique Gifts
1.5 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
1.5 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
The Royal Exchange
1.6 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Broadway Market
1.7 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
1 Poultry
1.7 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Smithfield Market
1.7 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
1.8 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
One New Change
1.8 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Camden Passage, Islington
1.8 km
Explore Camden Passage in Islington: A Vintage Market Paradise with Unique Shops, Cafes, and Artisanal Food Delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
0.0 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
0.0 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Happiness Forgets
0.1 km
Discover expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, candlelit basement bar with a welcoming no-standing policy in the heart of Hoxton Square.
Ballie Ballerson London
0.2 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
TT
0.2 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
Simmons Bar | Old Street
0.4 km
A retro-inspired cocktail bar in Shoreditch offering creative drinks and a lively, youthful nightlife atmosphere.
Nightjar Shoreditch
0.5 km
Step into Nightjar Shoreditch, a hidden gem where Prohibition-era cocktails meet live jazz in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
0.5 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Aviary
0.7 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.0 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Dirty Dicks
1.0 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.0 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Signature Brew Haggerston
1.1 km
Where East London’s craft beer culture meets live music, creativity, and canal-side charm in a vibrant railway arch taproom.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basing House - Shoreditch
0.2 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
London Best Night Clubs
1.6 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Steel Yard
2.0 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
2.4 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Carwash Nightclub
3.1 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
3.2 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Proud Late
3.2 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Roxy
3.5 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.
Egg London Nightclub
3.5 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
3.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Ministry of Sound
3.5 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Ivy Club
3.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
3.7 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Covent Garden Social Club
3.7 km
Discover Covent Garden Social Club: a lively cocktail bar blending exquisite drinks, comedy, and live music for an unforgettable night out in London.
Cirque Du Soul
3.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly