The Most Underrated UK Music Venues
Are you the type who loves listening to your favourite bands in person? There is something magical about live music, from the vibe to the fact it lets you appreciate the many layers of the band’s voices and instruments. And while you’re probably all too familiar with the big music venues in the UK, what about the underrated ones?
Here, we’ll discuss venues that aren’t necessarily considered big, popular ones but still allow you to catch the latest shows. These underrated music venues each have a unique personality and could very well end up being your new favourite spot. So, let’s take a deep dive into the most underrated UK music venues.
Rock City, Nottingham
While this one may not have as long of a history as some others, Rock City in Nottingham certainly deserves a mention. People are often quick to pass it by, unfairly judging it from its rather bland and unimpressive exterior.
The thing about Rock City is the magic is inside the venue. It’s all about the energy that seems to ripple through Rock City. This is the kind of venue that artists look forward to playing at since they feel the love coming from the crowd. Be sure to check out Rock City’s website for a list of upcoming gigs – the variety will likely surprise you.
Roundhouse, London
London is teeming with live music venues, so how do you find the underrated ones? We’d have to say that Roundhouse belongs on the list, and even though it may be much better known than others on this list, it’s still underrated for what it offers.
The Roundhouse has been “the” place for performing arts and live music since it opened back in the 1960s. It does a great job of attracting creative types, so you’re more likely to find smaller, more obscure bands and performers here. For that reason, it oozes authenticity and is a must-visit for music lovers. The “What’s On” section of the website is dotted with an array of gigs in various genres, giving a little something to everyone. Be sure to check it often as new gigs are always being added.
King Tut’s Wah-Wah Hut, Glasgow
Don’t let the name of King Tut’s Wah-Wah Hut in Glasgow fool you because this one isn’t some silly little venue with a funny name. In fact, those in the know tend to consider King Tut’s Wah-Wah Hut legendary. Taking a closer look at the list of performers over the years would likely make your jaw drop to the floor in disbelief.
As you’d expect from a Scottish venue, this one does showcase its fair share of Scottish music – but it also welcomes international artists. If you plan on visiting, be sure to check out the timeline printed on the stairs of the venue that highlights all the big acts that performed there.
Cavern Club, Liverpool
When you think of Liverpool, do you automatically think about football? Sure, it’s a huge sport, but Liverpool is so much more than just sports. Let’s remember that Liverpool is home to music royalty as this is where The Beatles are from. Live music events occur almost daily in Liverpool, so you’ll never be at a loss for choice. But if there’s one spot worth checking out, it has to be the Cavern Club.
What makes this smallish venue so great? It’s the birthplace of The Beatles. That’s right, you can visit the very music venue where they played back in February 1961. Other huge acts that have played at the club include The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Elton John, The Who, and The Hollies. The Cavern Live Lounge is where live events take place regularly, including Beatles tribute shows.
Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
Underrated music venues are often independently owned, and frankly, that tends to help them so that they don’t feel like they are just another cog in the massive music machine. The Hare & Hounds in Birmingham is a great example of an independent venue that can compete with the big guys and provide an exemplary music experience.
A big draw of this venue is that it doesn’t focus on one genre; rather, every genre is represented. This ensures it appeals to the masses because they are sure to find at least a few acts on the upcoming list that they know and love. The Hare & Hounds began back in 1820, but its current iteration dates back to 1907.
If you’re planning to check out the spot, make sure you take a little extra time to explore the intricate beauty and architectural details of this piece of history. Another unique feature is that it houses multiple “venues”, each hosting different styles of music and activities.
The Local UK Pub Scene Is Thriving Where Live Music Is Concerned
While we’ve mentioned a couple of pubs on this list, generally speaking, pubs tend to be the most underrated music venues. Because it’s a pub, you tend to get a more intimate vibe that allows you to be closer to the band, connect with other audience members, and feel like you’re part of the action.
From an acoustics standpoint, smaller pubs can also offer superior sound quality. How many times have you found yourself in an arena venue only to find the band sounds sub-par? There’s a good chance the band isn’t to blame.
Another benefit to the thriving pub scene for live music is that many are hassle-free in terms of getting in and don’t require a ticket or a prepaid payment method like some other venues require to get in. The atmosphere of a pub is usually pretty relaxed, so you can enjoy music while sipping on a beverage, enjoying a meal, or chatting with friends. If you’re after a “chill” vibe, a pub is ideal for live music.
Live Music Is Where It’s At
As you can see from this list of underrated music venues in the UK, live music is where it’s at. Rather than the typical huge venues that can be overpriced, crowded, and not ideal acoustically, be sure to check out one of these underrated venues instead for a music experience you won’t forget.
