London

Now officially known as the HMV Apollo, Hammersmith Apollo has joined the ranks of venues bearing shamelessly corporate titles. Yet another live music emporium that began life as an art deco cinema, this 1930s building had a big refit in 2002 and still features the original 1932 Compton pipe organ. It now doubles as a 3,600-capacity all-seater theatre and a 5,000-capacity standing-room-only gig space, hosting everyone from Kenny Rogers to Slipknot. Highlights from Hammersmith Apollo's glittering history include 38 Beatles gigs from 1964-1965, David Bowie's last gig as Ziggy Stardust in 1973 and several concerts by Queen in 1979. It's also starred in various music DVDs from the likes of Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue and Kings Of Leon. Aside from music Hammersmith Apollo has a top-notch array of comedy, dance and kids shows from the biggest names in the biz, from 'Riverdance' to Russell Brand to SpongeBob Square Pants.