100 Review - london Venue | Christoff

The 100 Club: London's Legendary Underground Music Institution

Where rock history lives in a basement beneath Oxford Street

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Descending into The 100 Club feels like stepping into a time capsule - and I mean that in the best possible way. This basement venue scores an impressive 9.0 for uniqueness, and you'll understand why the moment you walk in. The raw, unreconstructed decor hasn't been prettied up for Instagram - it's authentically gritty with that legendary energy that comes from decades of groundbreaking performances. The intimate 350-capacity space creates what I'd call a 'sweat-box' atmosphere where you're genuinely close to the action. With energy levels hitting 8.5 out of 10, this is standing-room-only territory where the focus is purely on the music. The basement setting gives it that underground music dungeon vibe that's become increasingly rare in central London. It's refreshingly no-frills with a sophistication score of just 2.5 - and that's exactly the point.

Food & Drink

Don't come expecting gastropub fare - The 100 Club keeps things simple with basic bar offerings that match the venue's no-frills ethos. Beer runs £4-5, which is remarkably reasonable for central London, and you'll find standard options like rum & Coke alongside the usual suspects. The food menu covers comfort basics including pasta dishes, chilli, and vegetarian options - nothing fancy, but it'll do the job if you need sustenance during a long gig. This isn't a dining destination by any stretch, but the affordable drinks are a genuine blessing in an area where a pint usually costs considerably more. The focus here is clearly on keeping costs accessible so punters can afford both the gig and a few drinks without breaking the bank.

Service & Experience

Service information isn't extensively detailed in what I know about the venue, but given the no-frills approach and standing-room-only format, don't expect white-glove treatment. This is a music venue first and foremost, where the staff's primary job is keeping the drinks flowing and the crowd safe in what can be quite an energetic environment. The venue operates with that relaxed flexibility typical of legendary music institutions - opening hours vary depending on events, so you'll need to check their website or social media for specific timings.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

Timing is crucial here - arrive at 7pm sharp if you want any chance of snagging one of the non-reservable tables. Since opening hours vary depending on events, always check their website or social media before heading over. The venue hosts regular club nights alongside live gigs, so there's usually something happening.

What to Focus On

Stick to the basics - a pint of beer at £4-5 is your best bet and excellent value for central London. If you need food, the chilli or pasta dishes will keep you going, but remember this isn't about the culinary experience.

Christoff's Insider Tips

The venue is down 24 stairs with no wheelchair access, so factor that in. Tables can't be reserved, so early arrival is essential if you don't fancy standing all night. Gig tickets range £10-30, making it one of London's most affordable live music experiences - book ahead as shows often sell out.

The Final Verdict

The 100 Club isn't trying to be anything other than what it's always been - London's most authentic live music venue. Yes, the facilities are basic and the seating uncomfortable, but that's missing the point entirely. This basement has been the birthplace of punk and host to legends since 1942, and it maintains that electric atmosphere through sheer authenticity. With affordable tickets and drinks, it's accessible in a way that many central London venues simply aren't anymore. The 24-step descent might put off some, but for music lovers, this underground institution offers an experience that's increasingly rare - pure, unadulterated live music history.

Christoff's Rating:

8.2/10

Perfect For:

serious music enthusiasts seeking authentic venuesbudget-conscious gig-goers who want central London accessibilityanyone interested in experiencing genuine rock and roll history

The 100 Club

The 100 Club

Christoff's Take

The 100 Club: London's Legendary Underground Music Institution

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Food & Drink

Service & Experience

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

What to Focus On

Christoff's Insider Tips

The Final Verdict

Perfect For:

Quick Details

The 100 Club

What's Great

Keep in Mind

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