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.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

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
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.

Getting There

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.
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.
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.
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

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
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.