The Disco Guide to London
As Londoners, we felt obliged to come up with a London guide to all the vintage and retro-inspired places in the city. Unfortunately, London is not what it used to be (yup, the swinging 60’s ended a while ago), and you won’t spot Mick Jagger running around Chelsea anymore, but there are still some cool things to do and see.
We came up with a list of places we love to visit, but we would love to hear from you about your favourite retro places in London. In case we missed out on something, let us know in the comments, and we will continuously update the list.
To make your lives easier, we also made a map on Google Maps that you can save to your account whenever you’re out in London.
WHERE TO EAT:
BOBBY FITZPATRICK
First on the list is Bobby Fitzpatrick, a funky 70’s styled bar and restaurant. The bar serves cocktails and pizza (I mean what could be better than that?); however, it is the decor that makes this place a must-see! With various rooms and floors, this retro bar is just naturally photogenic, from the wallpapers to the mid-century furniture.
Location:
273 West End Lane, NW6 1QS
LITTLE NAN’S FITZROVIA KITCHEN & BAR
Little Nan’s is possibly the most eclectic venue in London. The mixture of kitsch, vintage and antique (described as Royal Kitsch) creates a cosy atmosphere, perfect for evening drinks or afternoon tea. Our favourite bit? On the food menu, you’ll even spot “Fitzrovia Disco Fries”.
Location:
20-21 Warren Street, W1T 5LT
BLUES KITCHEN SHOREDITCH
While Blues Kitchen from the outside looks like just another nightclub, often what you’ll find inside is the complete opposite. If you’re in a mood for a special celebration party, within the bar, you can book the private Airstream Caravan. If you’re more into mingling with the others, there are live bands or DJ’s playing blues and soul on all weekends.
Location:
134-146 Curtain Rd, EC2A 3AR
GLORIA
GLORIA
This 70's Capri-style trattoria located in the centre of Shoreditch is simply something unique when it comes to its design. In the restaurant, you'll find two floors. The ground floor is filled with marble, florals and mustardy tones, while the basement decor is as if taken out of American Hustle. And of course, PASTA!!!
Location:
54-56 Great Eastern St., EC2A 3QR
FOR A NIGHT OUT:
HELGI’S
This hidden bar in Hackney is the go-to place for anyone searching for a 70’s psychedelic rock experience. On top of great music, Helgi’s hosts a variety of events weekly, from gigs to movie nights. Oh and we’re huge fans of their G&T’s!
Location:
177 Mare St, E8 3RH
TRAILER HAPPINESS
Described as a rum lounge, the bar is a mixture of retro, kitsch and tiki decor. This cosy basement bar also serves award-winning cocktails that are far from boring. Be sure also to check out their Caribbean snacks.
Location:
177 Portobello Road, W11 2DY
ORIOLE
A slightly fancier option for a night out, the Oriole Bar serves you all that fancy vintage night out vibe. Oriole is known for the live music in style of the New Orleans Jazz or the 50’s Rhythm and Blues. Be sure to dress nicely and make a reservation beforehand.
Location:
East Poultry Avenue, Smithfield Markets, EC1A 9LH
RIDLEY ROAD MARKET BAR
If you're looking for a night of dancing, then Ridley Road is your place. The type of music varies so be sure to check what's on earlier, but the bar often hosts a variety of 60's, '70s or funk n soul nights perfect for a boogie! The funky decor, a mix of tropical and ski lodge style, will not disappoint you.
Location:
49 Ridley Rd, E8 2NP
MOTH CLUB
An ex-servicemen's club is now home to the funkiest events ranging from karaoke nights to live gigs. If singing on stage is not your thing then make sure to check out an 80's party. As always check their calendar for what's on.
Location:
Old Trades Hall, Valette St., E9 6NU
WHAT TO SEE:
BARBICAN LAUNDERETTE
Launderettes are a quite famous spot for photos in London; however, it is said that the Barbican Launderette is the one to see. The launderette looks as if the time stopped, with wooden wall panels, teal washing machines and accents of vibrant oranges. Be sure to spot the funky Mr.Soapy detergent dispenser.
Location:
2 Fann Street, EC2Y 8BR
HANDEL & HENDRIX HOUSE
The museum, composed of two houses is dedicated to both the guitarist Jimi Hendrix and the 18th-century composer Handel. The museum is most famous for recreating the bohemian bedroom of Jimi Hendrix in which he lived during the late ’60s. On top of that, the museum often throws events such as guitar workshops.
Location:
25 Brook Street, W1K 4HB
ABBEY ROAD STUDIOS
Possibly the most famous recording studio, popularly known for its association with The Beatles. The Beatles recorded 190 out of their 210 songs at Abbey Road Studios. While you cannot visit the inside, just outside you can check out the famous crosswalk from The Beatles, Abbey Road album.
Location:
3 Abbey Road, NW8 9AY
DENMARK STREET
Famously known for its association with music, Denmark street used to be the home of artists such as Bowie, Rolling Stones, Elton John and the Sex Pistols. The street was mostly known and (is still known) for music shops and independent recording studios. It is also known that The Sex Pistols lived in a basement at No.6, that’s also where they recorded their first demo there.
Location
Denmark Street, WC2H 8LS
HEDDON STREET
Described by many as the Ziggy Stardust shrine, it is Bowie who posed outside of No. 23 for his Ziggy album. While the street looks completely different nowadays, you can still spot a plaque signifying the location where the photo was taken.
Location:
23 Heddon Street, W1B 4BQ
THE MARC BOLAN MEMORIAL
Bolan’s Rock Shrine is located at the site where Bolan died in a car crash in 1977. The memorial is considered as a pilgrimage site to fans of Bolan.
Location:
Queen’s Ride, Barnes Common, Barnes
WHERE TO SHOP:
POP BOUTIQUE
We love Pop Boutique not only for its funky decor but also for the gorgeous selection of the 1960s to 1980’s vintage pieces. If you’re tired of only seeing 90’s denim and neon windbreaker jackets in most of the London vintage shops, then Pop Boutique is a must-go definitely!
Location:
30 Short’s Gardens, WC2H 9PX
PAPER DRESS VINTAGE
Probably our favourite shop in London! They carry vintage from 1900 up to 1980 (the 60’s/70’s selection is to die for). Apart from being just a vintage shop, by night, the floor above hosts a variety of events and live music.
Location:
352A Mare St, E8 1HR
LONDON BEATLES STORE
Heaven for all Beatles fans! The insides of the store hold some of the most random Beatles memorabilia, from suitcases to branded lava lamps. Even if you decide not to buy more useless souvenirs, the shop is just a funky place to check out. The shop also holds a small selection of autographs ranging from £900 to £6000 (yup, because we obviously have that kind of money).
Location:
231-233 Baker St, Marylebone, NW1 6XE