Roundhouse: Historic London Venue for Music, Theatre, and Creative Arts
A legendary Victorian venue in Camden, blending historic charm with cutting-edge music, theatre, and creative arts.
The Roundhouse, located in Chalk Farm, London, is a Grade II* listed former railway engine shed transformed into a versatile performing arts venue. With a capacity of up to 3,300 standing or 1,700 seated, it hosts live music, theatre, circus, and new media events. Renowned for its Victorian gas holder structure and rich cultural history since 1964, the venue supports creative projects for young artists and offers state-of-the-art studios alongside dynamic performances.
A brief summary to Roundhouse
- Chalk Farm Rd, London, Chalk Farm, NW1 8EH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 2 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-9 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the event’s specific opening times as performance spaces open only when shows are on.
- The Roundhouse is cashless in bars and box office; bring a card for purchases but cash is accepted at cloakroom and merch desks.
- Use Chalk Farm tube station or nearby bus stops for easy access; parking is limited to street parking.
- For latecomers, entry policies vary by event; music gigs generally allow entry until near curfew time.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Tube
Take the Northern Line to Chalk Farm station, approximately a 2-minute walk to the Roundhouse. The station is well connected and accessible, with frequent service. No additional fare is required beyond standard London Underground pricing.
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Bus
Use bus routes 24, 27, 31, 168, or 393 to Chalk Farm Road stops near the venue. Buses run regularly throughout the day and evening, with journey times varying from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Standard London bus fares apply.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Camden or Kentish Town, walking to the Roundhouse is feasible within 15–25 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is wheelchair accessible and well signposted.
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Car
Street parking is available but limited and subject to local restrictions. It is recommended to use public transport due to limited parking and congestion in the area. Parking fees vary by time and location.
Roundhouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Roundhouse
Origins and Architectural Significance
The Roundhouse was originally constructed in 1846–1847 as a circular engine shed for the London & North Western Railway. Designed by architects Robert B. Dockray and Robert Stephenson, it housed a railway turntable and was known as the Great Circular Engine House. Although its initial use as a railway facility lasted only about a decade, the building’s unique cylindrical form and ironwork have made it an architectural landmark. It is now a Grade II* listed building, preserving its Victorian industrial heritage while serving modern cultural purposes.Transformation into a Cultural Hub
In 1964, the Roundhouse was repurposed as a cultural centre named Centre 42, spearheaded by playwright Arnold Wesker. It quickly became a cutting-edge venue for the counterculture movement, hosting legendary musical acts such as Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, and The Clash. After a period of closure due to funding issues in 1983, the venue was purchased in 1996 by philanthropist Torquil Norman, who established the Roundhouse Trust to oversee its redevelopment.Renovation and Modern Usage
The Roundhouse underwent a major £27–30 million refurbishment, reopening in 2006 with a flexible auditorium capable of accommodating 3,300 standing or 1,700 seated guests. The renovation was led by architects John McAslan & Partners with engineering support from Buro Happold, blending original Victorian features with contemporary design elements. Since reopening, the venue has hosted a wide range of events including concerts, theatre productions, circus performances, and digital media showcases.Creative Studios and Community Engagement
Beyond performances, the Roundhouse is home to the Paul Hamlyn Creative Studios, a vibrant space open seven days a week offering 24 state-of-the-art studios for music, TV, radio, and media production. These studios nurture young talent aged 11 to 25, providing year-round creative projects and workshops. The venue actively supports emerging artists and community engagement, fostering a dynamic creative environment.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The venue features multiple performance spaces, including the Main Space and Studio Theatre, with accessible facilities such as step-free access, hearing loops, and tactile signage for visually impaired visitors. The Roundhouse Bar & Café offers a relaxed atmosphere with seating and occasional pop-up performances, operating primarily during show times. The venue is cashless in bars and box office but accepts cash at cloakrooms and merchandise desks. It is located near Chalk Farm tube station with convenient bus connections.Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Roundhouse remains a symbol of London’s rich cultural history and ongoing artistic innovation. It has hosted iconic performers from the 1960s to today, including David Bowie, Radiohead, and The Chemical Brothers. Its blend of historic architecture and contemporary arts programming makes it a unique landmark where history and modern creativity converge, continuing to shape the cultural landscape of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hawley Street Art
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Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
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London Central Mosque
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5 Abbey Rd.
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3 Abbey Rd.
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World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
Euston War Memorial
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A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
Abbey Rd.
2.3 km
Discover Abbey Road, the iconic street in London where music history was made and the Beatles immortalized their legacy.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
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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.
St Pancras New Church
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A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
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Experience the vibrant academic life at Marylebone Hall, a historic university in London surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
Caithness House
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Experience the vibrant residential life of London at Caithness House, a modern flat complex perfect for tourists seeking comfort and convenience.
Woburn Walk
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London's first pedestrianized shopping street, a beautifully preserved Regency gem in literary Bloomsbury.
Fitzroy Square
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Discover the serene beauty of Fitzroy Square, a historic garden square in London, where elegance meets tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Upper Wimpole St
2.5 km
Discover the quiet elegance and rich history of Upper Wimpole Street, a Georgian gem in the heart of Marylebone.
Baker St
2.5 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Baker Street, home to Sherlock Holmes and a hub of London’s iconic attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Amy Winehouse Statue
0.3 km
A heartfelt bronze tribute to Amy Winehouse in Camden, capturing the spirit of London’s iconic singer at the heart of her beloved neighborhood.
Dr. BR Ambedkar House
0.4 km
Explore the London home of Dr. BR Ambedkar, a global icon of social justice and architect of the Indian Constitution, now a memorial and museum.
The Lost Elephant's Kitchen
0.4 km
A boutique bistro in Camden offering artisanal coffee, creative brunch, and a warm, story-rich atmosphere near Camden Market.
Camden Market
0.4 km
Explore Camden Market’s vibrant mix of vintage finds, global street food, and alternative culture in the heart of London’s iconic canal-side district.
Amy Winehouse Mural by JXC.
0.5 km
A vibrant and soulful street art tribute to Amy Winehouse, capturing her spirit in the heart of Camden’s creative scene.
Jongleurs Comedy Club
0.5 km
Experience live stand-up comedy in the heart of Camden Lock’s vibrant nightlife at Jongleurs Comedy Club, London’s intimate comedy hotspot.
The Queens
0.5 km
Experience the heart of London at The Queens, a vibrant pub in Primrose Hill offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Camden Lock Market
0.5 km
London's legendary bohemian marketplace where 1,000+ independent vendors sell vintage fashion, global street food, and handmade treasures.
Cecil Sharp House
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant heart of English folk music and dance at Cecil Sharp House, a historic cultural centre in London.
The Good Mixer
0.7 km
Camden's legendary Britpop haunt where music history was made and rivalries were born.
Rokit Camden
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style in the heart of Camden’s vibrant cultural scene.
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.
Camden Gardens
0.7 km
Discover Camden Gardens, a peaceful green retreat with winding paths and lush greenery in the heart of lively Camden Town, London.
Electric Ballroom
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Electric Ballroom, Camden's premier nightclub and live music venue, where unforgettable nights await.
Essential places to dine
Rossopomodoro Camden
0.6 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
wagamama camden
0.6 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Mildreds Camden
0.6 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
0.7 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Jamon Jamon
0.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Laz @Camden
0.8 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Daphne Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Il Sugo
1.0 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Frida Camden
1.2 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
Portland
2.7 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
The Ninth
3.0 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
3.2 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Apricity Restaurant
3.3 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Mercato Mayfair
3.3 km
Experience diverse global street food in a stunning restored church at the heart of London’s Mayfair district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop
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A compact, ever-changing Camden Market shop serving eclectic vintage, designer finds and small-run curios in the Stables’ maze-like atmosphere.
Zakka Camden
0.3 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
0.3 km
Step into Cyberdog, Camden’s neon-lit rave shop where futuristic fashion meets pounding techno beats in a vibrant club-like setting.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
0.4 km
Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
What Goes Around Comes Around
0.4 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.
To Home From London
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Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
Camden Gift
0.4 km
Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
KESKIN GIFT
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Discover handmade wonders at Keskin Gift, where Camden's craft spirit shines through chess sets, masks, and artisanal jewelry in the iconic Lock Market.
Mr Frinky
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Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
London Beatles Store
2.2 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Church Street Market
2.5 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
The Brunswick Centre
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Iconic brutalist shopping and cultural hub where modernist architecture meets vibrant urban life in Bloomsbury.
Goodge Place Market
2.9 km
A vibrant street food market in the heart of Fitzrovia, offering diverse flavors and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from central London.
Unique London
3.1 km
A vibrant clothing boutique on Kilburn High Road, offering unique fashion finds and personal service in a diverse, lively London neighbourhood.
St Christopher's Place
3.1 km
Discover the charm of St Christopher's Place, a hidden shopping and dining haven in the heart of Marylebone, London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hawley Arms
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Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
Canalside Bar
0.5 km
Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
All About Eve
0.6 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
The Elephants Head
0.6 km
Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
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.
Simmons Bar | Camden Town
0.8 km
Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
The World's End
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Camden’s legendary pub and live music venue blending rich history, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local spirit in the heart of London.
Sunlight Lounge
0.9 km
An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Camden Head
1.0 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
Be At One - Camden
1.2 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Spiritland
2.0 km
Immerse yourself in exceptional sound, creative cocktails, and a vibrant music culture at Spiritland King's Cross.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
2.1 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
2.5 km
A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Purl London
2.8 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monster Queen
0.2 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.
Club Stable
0.2 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
0.4 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Soul City
0.8 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.
Club Swizzle
0.9 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.
Max's Other Flat
1.3 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Egg London Nightclub
1.9 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
3.3 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
3.3 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
Carwash Nightclub
3.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
St Moritz Club
3.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Sunset night club
3.5 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.
La Capannina Club
3.5 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Club49Soho
3.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Box Soho
3.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly