Small Gig Venues for Hire in London

Small Gig Venues Hire Guide

London is a city jam-packed with culture and art, so it’s no surprise that its music scene is thriving. From Brixton, full of independent artists, to Soho, featuring some of the best-known concert venues, most areas of London seem to have their own musical microcosms. The rich heritage of London leaves no doubt that it’s the perfect place for kickstarting your musical career.

And while big concert grounds are often the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘live music’, small gig venues are in no way worse! There are many reasons why you should consider hiring a smaller venue for your next performance and we’ve made some them into a convenient list to dispel your doubts:

• They’re more affordable - If you are on a budget and don’t want to risk it, a smaller venue hire can be the perfect option for you. There’s no shame in starting small - every successful musician had to begin their journey somewhere! For you, that place might just be one of our small gig venues in London.
• They have a unique atmosphere - Yes, a huge arena filled with people is breathtaking, but there are other ways of achieving something beautiful! Small gig venues are often much more ambient and chill, so if an intimate gig is what you want, they are the right choice.
• They can provide a sense of exclusivity - A special gig with a limited number of tickets? Exclusivity draws attention and might even drive your sales up! When you want to organise a gig that feels unique and luxurious, you might consider turning to one of our great small gig venues in one of London’s fashionable locations.

Whether you’re searching for a small music venue in London for your debut concert, a routine gig for your loyal audience or an exclusive event, we’ve got you covered. If you’re still unsure how to choose the right place and host a gig of your lifetime, keep reading to find out our favourite tips and tricks!

Things to Check Before Booking a Small Gig Venue

• The acoustics. They’re a crucial part of any live music event - you wouldn’t want your music to sound off, right? The best way to ensure everything goes well with it is to talk to the venue manager and see if, how, and when you can arrange a sound check!
• The capacity. Look for a venue you can comfortably fill - it’s always better to sell out a smaller show than to perform in front of a half-empty room! That’s why hiring a smaller location is often a good choice. If you have played concerts before, you can try to calculate the expected attendance based on that. 
• The type of venue. Live music spaces are not only concert halls - there are gig opportunities in night clubs, pubs, bars, and restaurants. If the fresh air is more your thing, outdoor gig spaces are also an option to consider! Each of these types of places has unique characteristics and a usual audience, so keep those factors in mind before deciding on the kind of small gig venue you want to book.
• The vibe. There’s no point in organising a jazz concert in a small venue that’s well-known for hardcore punk gigs or playing heavy metal in an elegant restaurant. Considering the style of the place and the audience it’s frequented by can help you fit the general mood of the venue to the atmosphere you strive for during your concerts.
• The facilities and policies.  First and foremost, check what equipment is available on-site and what you’d have to bring yourself. It’s good to know if there are technicians at the gig venue to take care of all the specifics - it’s always a great help to have them! Other things you should pay attention to are the opening hours and how long you can play loud music for, as well as if the venue allows ticketed events!

After you’ve chosen your dream small gig venue in London, you can take care of some final touches!

• Promote your gig. It might sound like an obvious piece of advice, but it’s crucial not to overlook it. Sometimes we can get so caught up in the organisation and formalities that we forget we also need an audience!
• Review the setlist. Mix slow tracks with more upbeat ones to add variety and keep your audience hooked. And don’t forget to have an encore planned, too!
• Interact with the audience. Small gigs are much more intimate, which is why interaction is so important! Plan your gig to have space for a little chat with the listeners - it’s a great way to let them get to know you better and have a breather between songs!
• Have a chat with the staff. Getting to know people working at the venue can make you feel more confident! Additionally, having a good relationship with them might make organising future gigs much easier.

Do you feel ready to make playing a small gig in London your reality? Wait no longer and look through our list of venues that will fit your purpose perfectly. We are always  happy to help!

Promoting Your Gig: Strategies for Maximum Exposure

Securing a fantastic small gig venue in London is just the beginning. The next crucial step? Getting the word out. In London, standing out can be a challenge, but with a little bit of strategic promotion, you can draw a crowd that's as enthusiastic and dynamic as the performance you're planning. Here’s how to maximise exposure for your upcoming concert.

• Dive into Social Media - Social media platforms are your best friends when it comes to promotion. Create engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Use teasers, behind-the-scenes footage, and interactive posts to build anticipation. Don’t forget to create event pages on Facebook and Instagram stories to keep your audience engaged and informed.
• Collaborate with Local Influencers - Partner with local influencers and music bloggers who share a similar audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost your event's visibility. Offer them exclusive access or behind-the-scenes looks as an incentive to share your gig with their followers.
• Leverage Email Marketing - If you have a mailing list, now’s the time to use it. Send out personalised emails to your subscribers with details of the performance, including what makes it truly unique and why they shouldn’t miss out. Keep your communication clear, concise, and compelling.
• Engage with Local Media - Reach out to local newspapers, radio stations, and event listings in London. A feature or an interview can dramatically increase your gig's profile. Craft a compelling press release that highlights the best qualities of your event and send it out well in advance.
• Utilise Gig Promotion Platforms - Platforms like Songkick and Bandsintown specialise in promoting live music events. Listing your gig on these platforms can attract music lovers actively seeking new experiences.
• Create Visually Appealing Posters - Design eye-catching posters and distribute them in local cafes, music stores, and other community hubs. Ensure your branding is consistent across all promotional materials for easy recognition.
• Offer Early Bird Discounts - Encourage early ticket purchases by offering discounts or special perks to early birds. This strategy can help generate buzz and secure a base audience well before the event date.
• Foster Community Engagement - Engage directly with your audience through Q&A sessions, live streams, or by sharing personal stories related to your music journey. This personal touch can make a huge difference in how your performance is perceived.
• Partner with Other Artists - Consider partnering with other artists or bands to co-promote each other’s gigs. This cross-promotion can help you tap into each other’s fan bases, amplifying your reach.
• Measure and Adapt - Finally, keep track of which promotional strategies are working best for you. Use analytics tools available on social media platforms and your website to measure engagement and ticket sales. Learn from each gig to refine your approach for future events!

Promoting a live music event in London requires creativity, persistence, and a bit of savvy. By deploying a multi-channel approach and engaging with your potential audience on a personal level, you're creating an experience that attendees will remember and look forward to. We are sure your concert is going to be a resounding success!

Audience Engagement: Creating Memorable Experiences

When it comes to hosting a gig, especially in a city brimming with talent and attractive venues like London, ensuring your audience leaves with lasting memories is paramount. Small concert venues in the city offer an excellent opportunity for close, engaging experiences that can turn first-time attendees into loyal fans. Here’s how to make the most of these music spaces to deeply engage your audience and create moments they'll cherish.

• Personalise the Performance - This personal feeling is the key asset of small venues for gigs! Use this to your advantage by personalising your performance. Acknowledge your audience, share stories behind your songs, and if possible, tailor your setlist to the vibe of the room. This personal touch can transform a standard concert into a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Interactive Elements - Incorporate interactive elements into your show to make the audience feel part of the performance. This could be as simple as a call-and-response segment, a short impromptu jam session, or inviting an audience member onstage. Interaction not only entertains but also creates a bond between you and your audience.
• Unique Merchandise - Offer exclusive merchandise that’s only available at your concerts. This could be limited edition items or products that tie into the theme of the night. Merchandise not only serves as a physical reminder of the night but also supports your music journey.
• Social Media Integration - Encourage your audience to share their experience on social media with a specific hashtag. You could even set up a photo booth or designated photo spots with themed backdrops. After the gig, engage with your audience online by sharing their posts and thanking them for coming.
• Post-Show Engagement - The end of the show doesn’t mean the end of the experience. Host a meet-and-greet session where you can talk to your fans, sign autographs, and take photos. This direct interaction can significantly enhance the audience's experience and foster a deeper connection.
• Exclusive Pre or Post-Show Events - Consider hosting an exclusive event before or after the show for ticket holders. This could be a Q&A session, an acoustic set, or a preview of unreleased music. These events add value to the ticket and make the experience more memorable.
• Quality Sound and Comfort - Ensure the sound quality is top-notch and the venue is comfortable. Even the most engaging performance can be hindered by poor sound or an uncomfortable setting. Work closely with the venue to optimise the sound and layout for your audience’s comfort.
• Feedback Loops - Create channels for feedback, whether through social media, email, or a physical feedback box at the small venue. Understanding your audience’s experience from their perspective can offer invaluable insights for future events.
• Memorable Departures - Make the departure memorable by offering something small as attendees leave - a branded sticker, a setlist, or a thank you note. This small gesture can leave a lasting impression.
• Build a Community - Use your gigs to build a community among your audience. Encourage them to connect with each other, share your music, and support your journey. A strong community not only fosters audience engagement but also lays the foundation for a sustainable music career!

In the competitive landscape of London's music scene, creating memorable experiences through audience engagement is invaluable. By making each attendee feel valued and part of something special, you elevate your gig from a simple musical performance to an unforgettable event!

FAQs about Small Gig Venues in London

How much does it cost to hire a small gig venue in London?

Most small gig venues in London will charge based on hire fees per session or per day. In this case, you can expect the prices to start at around £150, however some venues can cost you up to £5,000. If you want to book a venue with an hourly rate, the costs usually begin at around £20, but expect most of them to average around £50-100 per hour. Keep in mind that prices will depend on the size and location of the venue, as well as the day you are booking it for! (All data from Tagvenue.)

Where should I organise a small gig in London?

When choosing your perfect small gig venue in London, make sure it’s conveniently situated! Usually, you would want your audience to be able to reach the destination easily, so well-connected areas are your best shot. Pay attention to nearby public transport links; booking a gig venue close to a popular hub like King's Cross or Waterloo Station means your audience should be able to get there easily! You can consider neighbourhoods that are associated with specific music genres. For example, Camden Town is famous for its punk and alternative scene, while Covent Garden is associated with classical music!

What are the best rated small gig venues in London?

Some of London’s small music venues most appreciated by Tagvenue users are:

• Backroom at The Cavendish Arms near Stockwell Station, a 50 capacity music venue, rated 4.9/5
• The Nave at St Ethelburga’s Centre near Liverpool Street Station, able to fit 150 people standing, rated 4.8/5
• Cobalance at Cobalance Cafe near Old Street Station, a cafe gig venue, rated 4.7/5
• AMP Studios near Queens Road Peckham Station, a blank canvas music venue for 100-250 guests, rated 4.6/5
• Hoxton Underbelly at Gigi’s Hoxton near Old Street Station, an iconic 200 capacity gig venue, rated 4.8/5

How do I hire a small gig venue in London?

We recommend looking through our Hire Guide first for tips on choosing the right venue. Then, use Tagvenue’s smart search engine to filter through all the available options and find your perfect match. When you have chosen which venue to hire for your small gig, contact the venue manager through the enquiry form you’ll see on the right side of the venue page.