Roundhouse

Constructed in 1846 as a turntable shed for the London and Birmingham railway, the Roundhouse – a Grade II-listed building – has a long and illustrious history, including spells as a liquor warehouse and long periods of disuse. But it came into its own as a legendary music venue in the ’60s/’70s, when it hosted radical happenings of every flavour, including theatre critic Kenneth Tynan's scandalous nude revue ‘Oh! Calcutta’ in 1969. Work on the extensive overhaul/refurbishment began in 2004 and it reopened in 2006 as a modern arts and mixed-media performance space with strong community bias. The main room benefits from a high domed ceiling and Victorian metal 'ribs', and a flexible auditorium that can house seated audiences for theatre or cabaret shows, or standing crowds for gigs. 

Over the years its round brick walls have been rocked by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Jefferson Airplane and The Doors. These days it still plays host to an eclectic range of big-name music acts, from the likes of Alex G and Orville Peck to Imogen Heap. It also hosts live poetry, dance and a programme of arts courses and workshops for young people.