Koko: Camden's Iconic Live Music Venue with a Storied Past
Koko, Camden’s historic live music venue, blends over a century of theatrical heritage with cutting-edge concerts and iconic nightlife.
Located at 1a Camden High St, London, Koko is a legendary live music venue housed in a Grade II listed building with over a century of history. Originally opened as the Camden Theatre in 1900, it evolved through various incarnations including the Camden Hippodrome, a BBC radio studio, and famed music venues such as The Music Machine and Camden Palace. Since its major restoration in 2004, Koko has become a premier destination for concerts, club nights, and cultural events, hosting legendary artists across genres.
A brief summary to KOKO
- 1a Camden High St, London, NW1 7RE, GB
- +442073883222
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 pm-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 pm-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 6 pm-5 am
- Saturday 6 pm-5 am
- Sunday 7 pm-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the event schedule in advance as Koko hosts a wide variety of concerts and club nights with different music genres.
- Arrive early for popular shows to enjoy the venue’s historic interior and secure a good spot.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife on Fridays and Saturdays when electronic music nights run until 5 AM or later.
- Koko is a Grade II listed building; take a moment to appreciate its preserved architectural features and theatre history.
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
Take the Northern Line to Camden Town station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Koko. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains, and the walk passes vibrant Camden Market. No parking is available nearby, so public transport is recommended.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Camden High Street, including routes 24, 27, 31, 88, and 214. Buses run frequently throughout the day with a travel time of 20-40 minutes from central London. Expect possible delays during peak hours.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes about 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking near Koko is limited, so drop-off and pick-up are advisable rather than parking.
KOKO location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about KOKO
A Historic Venue with a Rich Theatrical Heritage
Koko’s story begins in 1900 when it opened as the Camden Theatre, a grand playhouse inaugurated with a pantomime. Over the early decades, it transitioned into the Camden Hippodrome, a variety theatre and cinema, featuring notable performers like Charlie Chaplin and hosting early film screenings. From the 1940s to the early 1970s, the building served as a BBC radio facility where iconic shows such as The Goon Show were recorded. This period cemented its cultural significance in London’s entertainment landscape.The Rise as a Music Venue: The Music Machine and Camden Palace Era
In 1977, the venue reopened as The Music Machine, becoming a hub for punk and new wave music, with performances by bands like The Clash and The Boomtown Rats. Renamed Camden Palace in 1982, it grew into a hotspot for rock, pop, and rave culture, hosting Madonna’s first UK performance and legendary rave nights like Clockwork Orange and Peach. The venue was renowned for its vibrant nightlife, state-of-the-art sound, and UV-lit rave atmosphere, attracting both local and international crowds.Transformation and Modern Revival
By 2004, the building had fallen into disrepair but was saved by Oliver Bengough and Mint Entertainment through a multimillion-pound restoration. The renovation preserved the historic façade and theatre auditorium while modernizing technical facilities, enabling a versatile program of live concerts, club nights, corporate events, and TV productions. Rebranded as Koko, it quickly regained status as one of London’s premier live music venues, hosting album launches by Coldplay and Madonna and benefit events with Elton John.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Koko is a Grade II listed building, recognized for its architectural and historic importance. Despite numerous adaptations, the auditorium, stage, and front-of-house areas retain much of their original early 20th-century character. The venue’s blend of historic grandeur and contemporary amenities creates a unique atmosphere that enhances every event. Its cultural legacy is enriched by appearances from icons such as Prince, Amy Winehouse, and The Rolling Stones, making it a landmark in London’s music and nightlife scenes.The Contemporary Experience and Nightlife Vibe
Today, Koko offers a dynamic mix of live music genres, club nights, and special events, including electronic music parties running into the early hours. The venue’s interior features striking Admiral Red décor and a recently restored dome roof, contributing to its distinctive aesthetic. Koko continues to be a gathering place for music lovers, creatives, and nightlife enthusiasts, preserving its reputation as Camden’s cathedral of indie and electronic culture.Community and Legacy
Beyond entertainment, Koko plays an important role in supporting music activism and venue preservation in London. Its long history and ongoing relevance embody the spirit of Camden’s artistic community. The venue’s ability to evolve while honoring its past makes it a cherished cultural institution, offering visitors an immersive experience steeped in over a century of performance history and vibrant nightlife energy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
0.9 km
Historic iron footbridge offering scenic canal views and vibrant access to Camden’s lively markets and cultural heart.
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.
Hawley Street Art
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St Pancras New Church
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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.
Statue of Thomas Coram
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A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Middlesex House
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Experience the blend of modern business and historical charm at Middlesex House in London, a vibrant hub for tourists and professionals alike.
Goodge St
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Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Upper Wimpole St
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Bedford Square & Montague Pl
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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.
1 Queen Square
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A historic London garden square, blending Georgian elegance, medical legacy, and tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
221B Baker St
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Explore the iconic 221B Baker Street, the legendary home of Sherlock Holmes, and immerse yourself in the world of detective fiction and Victorian charm.
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.
London Central Mosque
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London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
Comedy Carnival Camden
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Award-winning international stand-up comedy in the heart of Camden—guaranteed laughs from world-class comedians.
Saint Martin's Gardens
0.5 km
A peaceful Camden garden with historic gravestones, family playgrounds, and tranquil green spaces just steps from the vibrant town center.
Camden High St
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Camden High Street pulses with vibrant markets, eclectic shops, and a rich cultural vibe that defines London’s alternative spirit.
Jazz Cafe
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Experience world-class live music and vibrant nightlife at The Jazz Cafe, Camden’s legendary venue blending soulful sounds with intimate charm.
Camden point
0.6 km
Discover Camden Market, London’s vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and independent shopping beside the scenic Regent’s Canal.
St Pancras Old Church
0.6 km
Discover one of London's oldest Christian sites, where Roman roots meet medieval stones and Victorian revival in a tranquil historic sanctuary.
Camden Town
0.6 km
Experience Camden Town’s vibrant market culture, eclectic shops, and canal-side charm in the heart of London’s alternative scene.
The Underworld
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Experience the electrifying atmosphere of The Underworld, Camden's iconic live music bar and nightclub, hosting unforgettable performances and vibrant nightlife.
Green Note
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An intimate Camden basement venue blending soulful live music with vibrant organic vegetarian cuisine in a cozy, bohemian setting.
The Camden Eye
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Warehouse-chic Camden pub with craft drinks, pizza comfort food and a first-floor lounge for gigs, comedy and private parties.
The Music Walk of Fame
0.6 km
Celebrate Camden’s legendary music icons on a unique walk of fame honoring decades of musical innovation and culture.
Electric Ballroom
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Electric Ballroom, Camden's premier nightclub and live music venue, where unforgettable nights await.
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
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A vibrant Camden hotspot blending street food, independent shops, and cultural events in a unique pop-up mall setting.
Rokit Camden
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Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style in the heart of Camden’s vibrant cultural scene.
Essential places to dine
Frida Camden
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Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
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Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Il Sugo
0.3 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Daphne Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Laz @Camden
0.6 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Jamon Jamon
0.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
0.6 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Mildreds Camden
0.8 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
wagamama camden
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Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Rossopomodoro Camden
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Portland
1.7 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
The Ninth
1.8 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Blanchette
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Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Noble Rot Soho
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A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Inamo
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Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Frinky
0.9 km
Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
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.
Camden Gift
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Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
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.
What Goes Around Comes Around
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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.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
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Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
Zakka Camden
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Discover artist-designed cushions and design-led gifts at this quirky Camden Market gem, blending Japanese zakka charm with London's creative pulse.
Cyberdog
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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.
Goodge Place Market
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London Beatles Store
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Persephone books
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Fancy That of London
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Souvenir Shop
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Camden
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Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Camden Head
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The World's End
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Simmons Bar | Camden Town
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Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
Bucks Head
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The Devonshire Arms
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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.
The Elephants Head
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Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
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All About Eve
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Sunlight Lounge
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An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Canalside Bar
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Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
Spiritland
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Immerse yourself in exceptional sound, creative cocktails, and a vibrant music culture at Spiritland King's Cross.
The Hawley Arms
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Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
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A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Max's Other Flat
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Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Club Swizzle
0.5 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.
Soul City
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A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Lockside
0.9 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Club Stable
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Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Monster Queen
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Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Egg London Nightclub
1.2 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
2.1 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
2.1 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
2.3 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
La Capannina Club
2.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Carwash Nightclub
2.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Sunset night club
2.4 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.
Club49Soho
2.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Roxy
2.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- 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
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly