
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
MOTH Club is Hackney’s most gloriously glittering secret: a former working men’s club that somehow managed to become one of London’s most beloved live music venues without losing its soul. You’ll step into a space where the ceiling sparkles like disco dust, the stage is practically in your lap, and the vibe swings between old-school pub charm and cutting-edge club energy. Whether you’re here for an intimate gig from a rising artist, a Krautrock Karaoke night, or just a pint in the cozy back bar (don’t miss the “All Children Off the Dancefloor by 9.30pm” plaque), this place feels like a party that locals have been throwing for decades.
Glittering Hackney gem with soul
MOTH Club is one of those rare places that manages to be both nostalgic and refreshingly current. The moment you walk in, you’re hit by the shimmering ceiling and the sense that this space has been lovingly curated rather than just renovated. It’s not a polished, corporate venue—there’s charm in the slightly worn edges, the old working men’s club paraphernalia, and the fact that you can still find comfy booths if you arrive early. The music programming is genuinely eclectic: from up-and-coming indie bands to psych nights, cabaret, and even film screenings with a cult following.
The bar area in the back retains that authentic pub feel, which is a nice contrast to the glittering dance floor. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the staff seem to actually care about the vibe they’re creating. It’s not always packed—sometimes that’s a blessing, sometimes a nuisance—but when it’s full, it’s electric. If you’re looking for a place where you can dance until 3am, catch a gig that feels personal, and still have a proper pint in a space that doesn’t feel like a chain, MOTH Club delivers.