Union Chapel

This 500-capacity Victorian gothic church still holds regular services each Sunday, but it's also been one of London's best gig venues for the past decade. The acoustics in the Union Chapel are pretty poor for full-band rock, but great for unamplified world music acts and low-key solo performers such as Juan Martin, Baby Dee, Michelle Shocked and José Gonzaléz. The original pews are atmospheric although they aren't the comfiest of seats so be prepared to come away with a numb behind. Among its many claims to fame, the Union Chapel can boast being the original home of the Big Chill's club nights and hosting intimate gigs by greats such as David Byrne, Bjork and Patti Smith. Mencap's annual Little Noise Sessions series of charity gigs brings big-name acts like Keane, Amy Winehouse, Noel Gallagher and Lily Allen to the Union Chapel's modest stage.