It was put on the market for £1.75m earlier this year sparking fears of redevelopment
A popular music venue has been saved after fears it would be forced to close when the owners retire. The Fiddler’s Elbow iin Kentish Town was put up for sale for £1.75m earlier this year, sparking fears the site could be lost to development.
Now, the grassroots venue will undergo a major makeover in 2027 after agreeing a joint venture with entertainment company Quiet Revolt Media Group. Bosses will continue to operate the historic building as a live venue and pub, whilst also using it as the ‘anchor’ for a ‘fan-first’ music platform. Plans include building an in-house recording studio for use by up-and-coming musicians.
Current owners Dan Maiden and Nancy Wild, who have been at the helm since 2009, are to remain somewhat involved too. Dan said: “It has been an absolute honour and privilege to work with so many incredible artists, bands and wonderful people over the years at The Fiddler’s Elbow.
“We’ve shared some unforgettable moments, overcome enormous challenges and weathered some incredibly difficult times. Thanks to the unwavering support of our music community, loyal customers, dedicated staff and the organisations such as Music Venues Trust (MVT) that stood by us, we not only survived but continued to keep live music alive.
“Now, after so many remarkable years, the time has come to pass the reins to an amazing company who share our passion and vision for this very special venue. With Quiet Revolt Media Group, The Fiddler’s legacy will live on and we truly believe the best is yet to come.
“But this is by no means goodbye for us. We are delighted to be continuing our involvement, working alongside the new team to build on everything we’ve achieved and ensure The Fiddler’s Elbow goes from strength to strength.”
Quiet Revolt will promote grassroots musicians by pairing physical stage time at The Fiddler’s Elbow with broadcasting across digital platforms and new streaming network GEN TV. This seems an apt future for the legendary venue, having grown a reputation for supporting and nurturing emerging talent.
A music venue of more than 50 years, singers such as Frank Turner and Courtney Hadwin have performed within its storied walls. The late Shane MacGowan of The Pogues was a regular, while James Bay filmed his If You Ever Want to Be In Love music video there.
The upper floors of the 150-capacity venue were listed as a “development opportunity” in a Rightmove advertisement in January of this year. Dan and Nancy had urged music lovers to “save a grassroots venue” as they planned to retire.
“This isn’t just a property; it’s a legacy. Whether you’re looking for a landmark investment or the ultimate passion project, this is your “once in a lifetime” moment,” an Instagram post read.
The Grade II-listed pub has stood on the site since 1845 and changed its name from The Mother Shipton in the 1990s. It is decked out with memorabilia, vinyl 45s, posters and a vintage 60s jukebox, and hosts solo musicians and bands every night.
In October 2020, speaking to MyLondon, Dan estimated he had lost over £200,000 in revenue since being forced to shut by the Covid lockdown in March.
You can find The Fiddler’s Elbow at 1 Malden Rd, NW5 3HS
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