It’s not every day you get to dance surrounded by thousands of people with some of London’s most historic buildings
Getting ready to go for a dance is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Feeling that unbridled joy as the music blares out and you stretch to the ceiling as the DJ plays your favourite song – live music is a great feeling.
Listening to live music in a beautiful venue further elevates the experience. London has its fair share of iconic locations that are a must-visit when you want to truly enjoy yourself. Whether it’s the Ally Pally or the Roundhouse to watch your favourite band, there is something for you.
Sadly, over the years, many of London’s best dance music venues have ceased to exist. The legendary Printworks in Surrey Quays hosted many of dance music’s biggest names from Bicep to The Chemical Brothers, but closed in 2023. Drumsheds, which took over the former IKEA site in Tottenham, has become a new favourite for many, but finding a place that provides exceptional views and sound to match is hard to come by.
Until now. That is because the Old Royal Naval College, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Greenwich, might be the best venue in London I have ever had the pleasure of listening to music in.
The historic site in Greenwich isn’t simply stunning to marvel at. The sound is also impeccable. Entering past security and into the open space, you are greeted by the impressive, historic Baroque buildings towering above you. Pillars and pillars are the focus of your attention as the 600-year-old estate is a sight to behold. Then, you add the music.
Thumping bass, a somewhat wind tunnel of sound is created as the main stage sits in between the King William and Queen Mary buildings, while the River Thames and London skyline behind it provide one of the best backdrops you could ever see. Music fills your ears as the rhythm and beat sweep you away.
Labyrinth on the Thames started using the Old Royal Naval College for events last year, with international DJs Solomun, Black Coffee, and Fisher descending on Greenwich for spectacular shows. This year is no different.
Australian Dom Dolla and The Kooks had kicked off proceedings for this year’s events, with Michael Bibi set to also headline. On Sunday, August 2, South Korean DJ Peggy Gou took to the main stage.
And she really put on a show. Fireworks, dancers, light shows, and a crowd vibing in sync as she took over on Sunday night after Prospa had adequately got the crowd ready. As the sun started to set, you fully appreciated how spectacular this venue is.
Turning to each side, you saw buildings steeped in history with stories to tell. In the present, you had thousands of people creating their own stories as they danced and made memories, while the London heat and sun made you appreciate the city’s beauty.
As the sun set on London, the skyline in the back was highlighted as flashing lights pulsated with every beat. It was simply the best venue I had ever been in.
To top it off, as the night drew to a close and Peggy Gou was about to call it a day, fireworks illuminated the skyline, bringing down the curtain on a spectacular few hours in South East London. She was the headline, but the Old Royal Naval College stole the show.
If you are one of the lucky ones to get their hands on tickets to the upcoming events there, you are in for a treat. If you weren’t, then there’s always next year.
Stay up to date about London’s hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!
