The Old Blue Last
Three centuries of history, from Shakespeare's theatre to London's most legendary live music venue.
A legendary three-storey live music venue and pub in Shoreditch with over 300 years of history. Once standing on the site of Shakespeare's original Theatre, this iconic corner boozer has hosted breakthrough performances by Arctic Monkeys, Amy Winehouse, and countless other artists who shaped modern British music. Known for its raw, energetic atmosphere, worn dark wood floors, and commitment to grassroots music culture, The Old Blue Last remains a rite of passage for emerging talent and a pillar of London's live music scene.
A brief summary to The Old Blue Last
- 38 Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 3ES, GB
- +442077397033
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 1 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12:30 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12:30 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12:30 pm-1 am
- Friday 12:30 pm-3 am
- Saturday 12:30 pm-3 am
- Sunday 12:30 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Check the venue's website or social media for secret shows and surprise performances by established acts. The Old Blue Last frequently hosts unannounced gigs that aren't widely publicised, making regular monitoring essential for catching rare performances.
- Arrive early if you're interested in a specific performance, as capacity is limited and queuing can be substantial. The venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis for most events, and pre-booked tickets do not guarantee entry if the space reaches capacity.
- Bring valid ID regardless of your age. Security staff rigorously check identification at the door, and entry is refused without acceptable documentation—no exceptions.
- Explore both floors to experience the venue's dual personality. The ground floor offers a more relaxed pub atmosphere, while upstairs delivers the intense live music and clubbing experience the venue is famous for.
- Attend on a weekday early bird session (1pm–5pm) for a quieter experience and to appreciate the venue's architectural character and historical details without the weekend crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground (Tube)
Old Street station on the Northern Line (Bank branch) is approximately 400 metres away, a 5–7 minute walk. Exit towards Great Eastern Street and follow signs towards Shoreditch. The venue is located at the corner of Great Eastern Street and Curtain Road. Alternatively, Liverpool Street station (Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) is approximately 600 metres away, a 8–10 minute walk through the heart of Shoreditch.
-
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area surrounding The Old Blue Last. Routes 26, 48, 55, and 135 stop on or near Great Eastern Street. Journey times from central London typically range from 15–25 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day and evening, with reduced frequency after midnight.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt, Addison Lee) operate throughout London and can deliver you directly to 38 Great Eastern Street. Journey times from central London (e.g., Oxford Street, Covent Garden) typically range from 10–20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Costs vary by time of day and demand, but expect to pay £12–25 from central locations. Evening and late-night fares may be higher due to surge pricing.
-
Walking
The Old Blue Last is accessible on foot from Liverpool Street station (approximately 600 metres, 8–10 minutes) or Old Street station (approximately 400 metres, 5–7 minutes). The route is straightforward through Shoreditch's urban streets with good pavement coverage and street lighting. The area is busy and well-populated, particularly in the evening.
The Old Blue Last location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Old Blue Last
Three Centuries of Transformation
The Old Blue Last occupies one of London's most historically layered sites. In 1576, venture capitalist James Burbage constructed The Theatre on this very ground—the first permanent playhouse in England and the venue where Shakespeare's early works were performed. When Burbage relocated his operation south of the river, where it became The Globe, Shoreditch transformed into a district of craftspeople and vice. In 1700, a pub called The Last was built on the abandoned theatre site, its name derived from the wooden block cobblers used to mold shoes, reflecting the neighbourhood's shoemaking heritage. The current building dates to 1876, when Truman's brewery demolished the original and rebuilt it as The Old Blue Last. The massive ornate mirror behind the bar survives from this Victorian reconstruction, having miraculously escaped destruction through decades of raucous nights.From Brothel to Cultural Powerhouse
Throughout the 20th century, The Old Blue Last reflected Shoreditch's shifting character. By the 1970s and 1990s, it operated as a rough East End boozer, its second floor functioning as an illegal strip club and brothel. The neighbourhood itself remained dangerous and marginalised, a far cry from its theatrical origins. This all changed in 2004 when VICE magazine purchased the dilapidated pub, recognising its potential as a cultural hub. The acquisition marked a turning point: VICE invested in transforming the space into a legitimate live music venue while preserving its authentic, unglamorous character. The shabby exterior and worn interior became assets rather than liabilities, embodying the raw energy that would define the venue's new era.The Golden Age of British Indie and Alternative Music
Between 2009 and 2017, The Old Blue Last became a proving ground for emerging British talent. Arctic Monkeys, Amy Winehouse, IDLES, George Ezra, Klaxons, Lily Allen, Hot Chip, and Simian Mobile Disco all performed early career shows here, many before achieving mainstream success. The venue's reputation for hosting breakthrough acts became so established that playing The Old Blue Last became a rite of passage for artists climbing the ranks of the British music scene. The band Fucked Up famously destroyed the furniture during a performance—an act of nominative determinism that left its mark on the venue's aesthetic. The ceiling has collapsed multiple times over the years, each incident becoming part of the venue's mythology rather than a reason for closure.The Physical Space and Atmosphere
The Old Blue Last occupies a distinctive three-storey corner building at the intersection of Great Eastern Street and Curtain Road, its curved brick facade resembling the bow of a ship. The ground floor functions as a traditional pub with a well-stocked bar, obligatory fairy lights, and a disco ball. Dark wood floors bear the grooves of countless dancers and crowd surfers, evidence of years of high-energy performances. The upstairs space transforms into a more intense live music and clubbing environment, with DJ sets ranging from deep house to techno. The venue operates without pretension—no craft beer connoisseurship, no culinary ambitions, no attempt at sophistication. Instead, it prioritises atmosphere, community, and uncompromising commitment to live music and grassroots culture.Contemporary Programming and Community Role
Today, The Old Blue Last maintains a seven-day weekly program of live music, DJ sets, and special events. Monday nights feature a pub quiz at 7pm, while weekday early bird drinks run from 1pm to 5pm. The venue remains free to enter on most nights, a rarity in contemporary London and a deliberate choice to maintain accessibility for emerging artists and their audiences. The programming reflects the venue's continued dedication to discovering and nurturing new talent while occasionally hosting established acts. The space has been adapted over the years—a second-floor flat was refurbished as a private hire bar in 2018—but the core identity remains unchanged: a loud, unpretentious, music-focused establishment where atmosphere and authenticity trump comfort and refinement.Cultural Legacy and Literary Presence
The Old Blue Last has transcended its role as a music venue to become embedded in London's cultural fabric. It appears in Robert Galbraith's crime novel "Career of Evil" as a meeting place for detective Cormoran Strike, cementing its status as an iconic Shoreditch landmark. The venue's history—from Shakespeare's theatre to illegal brothel to alternative music institution—makes it a physical embodiment of Shoreditch's transformation from marginal district to cultural centre. Staff members have reported unexplained phenomena, leading to the affectionate claim that the pub is haunted by Shakespeare himself, a fitting ghost for a building that once hosted his performances.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shoreditch Church
0.3 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
0.6 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
182 Bishopsgate
0.7 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Northumbria University - London
0.7 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
1.0 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
1.1 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)
1.1 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
1.1 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
1.1 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
St Giles Cripplegate
1.1 km
Medieval sanctuary where Milton rests and Cromwell wed, surviving 1,000 years of London's turbulent history.
Mitre Square
1.2 km
Mitre Square: A serene retreat in London’s financial district, blending rich history with beautiful landscapes for an unforgettable city experience.
Shoreditch Park
1.2 km
Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Shoreditch Park, an urban oasis in the heart of London.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
1.2 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Threadneedle St
1.2 km
Historic Threadneedle Street: London’s iconic financial artery, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Hoxton Pony
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Hoxton Pony in Shoreditch, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere make for an unforgettable evening.
Village Underground
0.1 km
A vibrant East London cultural hotspot blending live music, street art, and creative community in a historic warehouse setting.
Callooh Callay
0.2 km
Discover Callooh Callay, an enchanting cocktail bar in London, where innovative drinks meet a whimsical atmosphere.
Shoreditch
0.2 km
East London's creative playground where street art, markets, and nightlife collide in authentic, ever-evolving style.
Sunset Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at Sunset Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere in a stylish setting.
Floripa
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Brazilian culture and London nightlife at Floripa, where creative cocktails and lively music meet.
Trafik
0.3 km
Discover Trafik, a lively club and bar in London's Old Street, offering a vibrant nightlife experience with eclectic music and delicious cocktails.
Shoreditch Balls
0.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and miniature golf at Shoreditch Balls, a vibrant hotspot in London's eclectic Shoreditch district.
Hoxton Square
0.4 km
Historic Hoxton Square is a vibrant garden oasis at the core of East London's creative and nightlife scene.
Bounce Old Street
0.4 km
A lively ping pong bar and event venue in Shoreditch blending sport, food, and nightlife for unforgettable social experiences.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at The Cocktail Club near Old Street, a must-visit for nightlife seekers in London.
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.
Dennis Severs' House
0.4 km
Step into a candlelit Georgian townhouse and journey through centuries of Spitalfields’ silk-weaving heritage in a uniquely immersive theatrical museum.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
0.4 km
Discover The Cocktail Club in Shoreditch, a trendy cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night in London.
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.
Essential places to dine
Lyle's
0.3 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
0.3 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
0.3 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.7 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.
Brawn
0.9 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
14 Hills
1.4 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
St. John
1.5 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
La Dame de Pic London
1.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Madison
1.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Da Terra Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Behind Restaurant
2.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
George
2.3 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
0.6 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.6 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Middlesex Textiles
0.9 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Barbican Shop
1.1 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
The Royal Exchange
1.3 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.4 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Unique Gifts
1.6 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
1.6 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
Smithfield Market
1.6 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
One New Change
1.6 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Traders Gate
1.7 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Tower of London Shop
1.8 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Broadway Market
1.9 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
2.0 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ballie Ballerson London
0.1 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
0.3 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
0.3 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Happiness Forgets
0.4 km
Discover expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, candlelit basement bar with a welcoming no-standing policy in the heart of Hoxton Square.
Simmons Bar | Old Street
0.5 km
A retro-inspired cocktail bar in Shoreditch offering creative drinks and a lively, youthful nightlife atmosphere.
Aviary
0.5 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
TT
0.5 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
0.5 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Nightjar Shoreditch
0.6 km
Step into Nightjar Shoreditch, a hidden gem where Prohibition-era cocktails meet live jazz in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.7 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Dirty Dicks
0.7 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.7 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
0.7 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
Discount Suit Company
0.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basing House - Shoreditch
0.5 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
1.5 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
1.7 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
2.2 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Carwash Nightclub
3.0 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
3.1 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
3.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Ministry of Sound
3.3 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 Roxy
3.4 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
3.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Cirque Du Soul
3.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
3.6 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.
The Ivy Club
3.6 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Adults Only
