Since opening in 1999, Fabric has been named among the best nightclubs in the world several times, claiming the top spot in 2007 and 2008. The intense dance music and superclub capacity mean substantial queues and security checks, but once you’re under the strobe lights and darting between DJ sets in misty rooms, the atmosphere is truly electric.
Address: Fabric London, 77A Charterhouse Street, London EC1M 6HJ
Website: fabriclondon.com
Heaven, Embankment
Best for: LGBTQ+ crowds
Heaven’s notoriety as one of the world’s first open gay clubs is part of the thrill, with thousands of dancers limbering up in the queue between Embankment and Charing Cross Underground Stations for thrillingly camp nights under the strobe lights. Expect commercial favourites and surprise performances from some of the biggest names in pop downstairs – things lean more towards R&B and dance upstairs, where you’ll feel the occasional rumble of a passing train in the early hours of the morning.
Address: Heaven, Under The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG
Website: g-a-yandheaven.co.uk
M.O.T.
Best for: Intimate raving
M.O.T. is one of the more underground nightclubs in London, frequented by those in the know – and those they’re willing to share their favourite spot with. It’s intimate, sweaty, and replicates the illegal rave feel with legalities in place (IDs at the ready, gang), with each month’s roster of DJs advertised on social media. Arrive late and stay early – you’ll be on your feet until starry nights become blue skies.
Address: Venue MOT Unit 18, Orion Business Centre, Surrey Canal Road, London SE14 5RT
Website: ra.co/clubs
FOLD, Canning Town
Best for: East London immersion
This East London nightclub sees techno and electronic DJs keep feet stomping well into the early hours of the morning. Music lovers rave about the sound system’s quality, returning time and time again to release their inhibitions each weekend in the capital’s quirky techno paradise.