The Clapham Grand: London's Palace of Modern Variety
A majestic Victorian music hall turned vibrant nightclub and live venue, blending historic charm with cutting-edge entertainment near Clapham Junction.
The Clapham Grand, a Grade II listed building in South London, is a vibrant events venue blending historic charm with modern entertainment. Opened in 1900 as a music hall, it now hosts live music, comedy, club nights, drag shows, and private events within a stunning Victorian theatre setting. With a capacity of up to 1250 standing guests, it features a famous flashing dance floor, full lighting rig, and multiple bars, making it a key cultural hotspot near Clapham Junction.
A brief summary to The Clapham Grand
- The Clapham Grand, 21-25, St John's Hill, London, SW11 1TT, GB
- +442072236523
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 9 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Arrive early on event nights to enjoy the full atmosphere and avoid long queues at the bars.
- Check the schedule for special themed nights like Comedy Carnival or drag performances for a unique experience.
- Use Clapham Junction station for easy public transport access; parking nearby is limited.
- If mobility is a concern, contact the venue in advance to inquire about wheelchair access and seating arrangements.
- Consider booking private hire for corporate events or special occasions to enjoy the venue’s full facilities.
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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Public Transport
Take a train to Clapham Junction station, which is directly opposite The Clapham Grand. Trains run frequently from central London with journey times between 15 to 30 minutes. The station offers step-free access, making it convenient for most travelers. No additional fare is required beyond standard London train tickets.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve St John's Hill near The Clapham Grand, including routes 50, 155, and 345. Bus journeys from central London typically take 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are wheelchair accessible, but service frequency varies, especially on weekends.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Expect fares in the range of £15 to £30. Note that parking near the venue is limited and often restricted during events.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Battersea or Clapham, walking to the venue is possible and pleasant, with routes taking 15 to 30 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The area is well-lit and pedestrian-friendly but may be busy during event nights.
The Clapham Grand location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Clapham Grand
Historic Roots and Architectural Grandeur
The Clapham Grand first opened its doors in 1900 as The New Grand Theatre of Varieties, designed by Ernest Woodrow. Originally a grand Victorian music hall, it had a capacity of 3,000 and was a popular venue for variety shows and music hall performances led by notable artistes of the era. Its Grade II listed status preserves its rich architectural heritage, including a large stage and ornate interior features. Over the decades, it transitioned through cinema, bingo hall, and finally was restored to its theatrical glory in the early 1990s.A Versatile Venue for Contemporary Entertainment
Today, The Clapham Grand serves as a multi-purpose events space, renowned for its vibrant nightclub atmosphere, live music concerts, comedy nights, drag performances, and film screenings. The venue can accommodate up to 1,250 standing or 700 seated guests. It boasts a state-of-the-art Martin Audio sound system, a 25-foot cinema screen, and a full lighting rig, complemented by four operational bars. This combination of historic ambiance and modern technology creates a unique setting for diverse entertainment.Cultural Significance and Community Impact
The venue is a vital part of London’s nightlife and cultural scene, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a safe and inclusive space for queer promoters and performers. It regularly hosts the Comedy Carnival and other signature events, contributing to its reputation as a hub for modern variety arts. The Clapham Grand has welcomed legendary acts such as The Kinks, Chuck Berry, Madness, Oasis, and Jamie Cullum, cementing its status as a landmark live music venue.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors experience a blend of historic charm and lively modern energy. The interior combines Victorian grandeur with a ‘shabby-chic’ vibe, enhanced by excellent acoustics and well-equipped seating and bar areas. The famous flashing dance floor adds a nostalgic yet dynamic element to club nights. Staff are known for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.Accessibility and Facilities
While the building’s historic nature means some areas, such as the Upper Circle bar, lack stair-free access, efforts have been made to accommodate guests with disabilities, including wheelchair spaces and companion tickets. The venue offers multiple bars, cloakroom facilities, and a popcorn machine, enhancing the overall visitor convenience. Its location opposite Clapham Junction station makes it easily accessible by public transport.Private Hire and Event Hosting
The Clapham Grand is also available for private hire, providing a versatile space for photoshoots, filming, corporate events, and parties. It offers technical support including sound and lighting engineers, security teams, and catering options. The venue’s historic and atmospheric setting makes it a sought-after location for a wide range of events, from launches to music videos.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Bridge
2.1 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Cheyne Walk
2.2 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
2.7 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Béla Bartók Memorial
3.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
37 Thurloe St
3.5 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
3.7 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
142 Cromwell Rd
3.8 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Buckingham Palace Rd
3.9 km
Discover the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarchy, and immerse yourself in royal history and heritage.
Christ Church Streatham
3.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and community spirit of Christ Church Streatham, a serene London landmark in Brixton Hill.
Queen's Tower
4.0 km
A towering neo-Renaissance landmark in South Kensington, the Queen's Tower stands as the historic heart of Imperial College London and a symbol of Victorian ambition.
The Hole in the Wall
4.0 km
Uncover the historical charm of The Hole in the Wall, a hidden landmark in London that offers a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Vauxhall Bridge
4.0 km
Vauxhall Bridge: Historic iron origins meet modern steel, linking London’s south and north banks with art and engineering heritage.
Belgrave Square
4.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Belgrave Square, a historic gem in London, surrounded by elegant architecture and lush gardens.
Little Ben Clock
4.1 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Historic Houses
4.3 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Bank, Battersea
0.4 km
Classic British pub and bar on Battersea’s vibrant Northcote Road, known for friendly vibes, hearty food, and lively drinks.
Go Ape Battersea
1.5 km
Experience London's ultimate treetop adventure with thrilling ziplines and high ropes courses set in scenic Battersea Park.
Battersea Park
1.9 km
Explore Battersea Park, a 200-acre Victorian riverside oasis blending history, nature, and vibrant leisure on the Thames in London.
Cremorne Gardens
1.9 km
A tranquil riverside park in Chelsea preserving the legacy of London’s vibrant Victorian pleasure gardens with stunning Thames views and wildlife art.
National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road
2.1 km
Discover the extraordinary hand-carved artistry and cultural legacy within the modest Georgian home of Khadambi Asalache in London.
Chelsea Old Church
2.2 km
Historic Tudor church on the Thames with rich royal connections, stunning monuments, and a remarkable post-war restoration.
The London Peace Pagoda
2.2 km
A serene Buddhist stupa in Battersea Park symbolizing peace, spirituality, and cultural harmony beside the River Thames in London.
Infernos Nightclub
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Infernos Nightclub in Clapham, London, where music, dance, and karaoke come together for an unforgettable night out.
National Trust - Carlyle's House
2.3 km
Step into the preserved Victorian home of Thomas and Jane Carlyle, a literary hub in Chelsea where history and culture come alive.
Rococo Chocolates King's Road
2.4 km
Experience handcrafted British chocolates and immersive workshops in a charming King's Road boutique with a hidden secret garden.
Chelsea Physic Garden
2.5 km
Explore London’s oldest botanic garden, a historic sanctuary of medicinal plants and botanical heritage since 1673.
Chelsea FC Museum
2.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of Chelsea Football Club at the iconic Stamford Bridge through trophies, exhibits, and immersive stories.
National Army Museum
2.7 km
Explore the rich history and personal stories of the British Army through interactive galleries and engaging exhibits in Chelsea’s premier military museum.
Battersea Power Station
2.7 km
Discover Battersea Power Station, where iconic history meets vibrant riverside living with shops, dining, culture, and year-round events.
Brompton Cemetery
2.7 km
Discover Brompton Cemetery, London's serene Crown-owned garden cemetery blending Victorian grandeur, historic graves, and peaceful green sanctuary.
Essential places to dine
The Jam
2.5 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
2.6 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Rabbit
2.9 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
The Clink Restaurant Brixton
3.3 km
Dine inside a historic prison where prisoners train as chefs, blending fine European cuisine with a powerful rehabilitation mission.
Town House Kensington
3.3 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Brunswick House
3.8 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
The Courtesan
4.0 km
Experience authentic dim sum, inventive cocktails, and captivating cabaret in the glamorous, intimate setting of Brixton’s The Courtesan.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
4.3 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
The English Grill
4.3 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
The Grenadier
4.4 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
4.4 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Grato
4.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Il Portico
4.5 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
4.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Dishoom Kensington
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
3.2 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
V&A Shop
3.7 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
The Natural History Museum Shop
3.7 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Science Museum Shop
3.8 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Unique Maps Co.
3.9 km
Discover rare vintage maps and bespoke cartographic art crafted with passion in London’s Unique Maps Co. workshop.
Brixton Village
4.0 km
London's most diverse market where over 100 independent traders from 50+ nations create culinary and cultural magic.
Knightsbridge
4.0 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Harrods
4.1 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Cardinal Place
4.3 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Harvey Nichols
4.3 km
Discover timeless luxury and cutting-edge fashion at Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge’s iconic department store since 1831.
Cool Britannia
4.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
4.4 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
4.5 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
4.5 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
4.5 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sugar Cane Bar
0.5 km
Escape to a vibrant tropical tiki bar in Clapham with exotic cocktails, lively music, and private huts for unforgettable nights out.
Bar Social
0.5 km
Lively Battersea cocktail bar with award-winning drinks, private event spaces, and late-night dancing on Lavender Hill.
SIXTY/FOUR Cocktail Bar
2.5 km
A stylish Clapham hotspot offering creative cocktails, rooftop vibes, and soulful house tunes in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Landor
3.0 km
A lively Clapham pub with a heated beer garden, great sports atmosphere, and a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
3.3 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
K Bar
3.4 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
3.4 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
3.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
3.5 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Trinity Arms
3.5 km
Historic Young’s pub in Brixton offering traditional British fare, real ales, and a cozy atmosphere on a charming London square.
The Whiskey Tumbler
3.9 km
A cozy Brixton pub blending Irish whiskey tradition, craft cocktails, and lively live music in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dogstar
4.0 km
A multi-floor Brixton hotspot blending industrial charm with energetic music and a lively party pub vibe.
The Curtains Up
4.0 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
Morpeth Arms
4.1 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Brixton Brewery Tap Room
4.2 km
A bright, bustling brewery taproom in Brixton offering fresh craft beers and a lively local atmosphere beneath a historic railway arch.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Fez
3.3 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
B London
3.3 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
3.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Fire Nightclub
4.0 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Lightbox London
4.0 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
4.2 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Union
4.2 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Metric
4.2 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Ricco London
5.0 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Tabu London
5.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
5.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Notting Hill Arts Club
5.4 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Scotch of St James
5.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
5.5 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
The Castle
5.5 km
Classic Notting Hill gastropub where hearty British dishes, crisp ales, and lively vibes create the perfect London local escape.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly