
If you’re looking for a club that feels like the center of the action, XOYO should be at the top of your list. Tucked away in Shoreditch, it’s known for pulling in a crowd that actually came to dance, not just pose for Instagram. You won’t spend half the night fighting for your drink or worrying about a strict dress code—just real music fans, energy that doesn’t quit, and headline DJs dropping beats you actually want to hear.
XOYO isn’t just about Saturdays. Weeknights are just as lively with special DJ sets, themed parties, and one-off events you won’t find anywhere else in the city. That’s why you’ll spot groups of locals mixing with tourists—everyone knows the line-ups are the real deal here. And if you want to catch some fresh hip-hop, house, or legendary classics, odds are you’ll find it happening soon at XOYO.
- Key Takeaways: XOYO at a Glance
- Quick Answer: Why XOYO Is a Must-Visit
- Inside XOYO: What Makes It Stand Out
- The XOYO Experience: Music, Crowd, and Vibe
- Tips for Your Night at XOYO
- Frequently Asked Questions About XOYO
Key Takeaways: XOYO at a Glance
There’s no guesswork with XOYO—this club’s reputation is built on straightforward, good times. Here’s the gist so you know what you’re in for:
- Location: Dead in the heart of Shoreditch, London, just a stone’s throw from Old Street tube station. You can literally be inside the club in three minutes after hopping off the train.
- Music: This place is famous for world-class live DJs, especially in house, techno, hip-hop, and drum & bass. They pull in artists like Flava D, The Blessed Madonna, Skream, and house legend Kerri Chandler.
- Crowd: Expect real music fans, not people just hanging for clout. You’ll find everything from students to music heads who know their club history.
- Club Layout: Two main dance floors, a chill bar upstairs, and a proper sound system that will hit you right in the chest (in a good way). XOYO keeps things tight but never feels overly packed – they know their numbers.
- Event Nights: From Friday’s legendary Pleasurehood party to midweek artist residencies, there’s always something big on the calendar.
- Door Policy & Pricing: Not overly strict on the dress code, but they won’t let you in with sportswear. Tickets range from £7 to £20 depending on the DJ and night. Always book in advance for the big names—it sells out quick.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Opening Hours | Usually 9pm–4am (varies for special events) |
Nearest Tube Station | Old Street (Northern Line) |
Age Limit | 18+, ID required on entry |
Music Genres | House, techno, hip-hop, drum & bass, disco |
Capacity | ~800 people |
Drinks Price | Beers from £6, cocktails from £10 |
If you want an authentic London nightlife experience that’s all about the music, XOYO nails it every single weekend. Book ahead, bring your mates, and get ready to lose track of time on the dance floor.
Quick Answer: Why XOYO Is a Must-Visit
If you love live music, a wild dance floor, and a real crowd, XOYO is your go-to spot in London. This club isn’t just about its Shoreditch location—it’s about legendary nights, stacked DJ line-ups, and a reputation that stands out in the London nightlife scene. What sets it apart? No pretentious vibe, no ridiculously picky door staff, and definitely no stale playlists.
Every week, you’ll see artists here who headline music festivals or drop fresh tracks that get everyone moving. Guest DJs have included folks like Ben UFO and The Blessed Madonna. Fridays are famous for "XOYO Loves" nights, where the club turns into a packed house party—no fancy guest list required. If you check their events page, you’ll spot big-name takeovers and secret sets all year round. They host genres from house and techno to hip-hop, so there’s always something for everyone.
- Location? XOYO is right near Old Street Station—it’s literally a two-minute walk.
- Events? Live DJs almost every night, from up-and-coming acts to huge names.
- Crowd? Varies by night, but you’ll find students, locals, tourists, and die-hards all in the mix.
- Atmosphere? Super lively, open-minded, and unfussy—nobody’s judging what you wear.
If you want some numbers, check this out: In 2024, XOYO averaged over 700 guests every Friday and Saturday, and tickets usually sell out at least a day in advance. That says something—people make plans around this place.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Location | 32-37 Cowper St, Shoreditch, London |
Opened | 2010 |
Capacity | 800 people |
Famous Nights | XOYO Loves Fridays, Saturday Sessions |
Bottom line: If you want the real best clubs in London experience—one where the energy’s high and the music’s even better—XOYO is the answer. You walk in for the vibes and end up staying for unforgettable memories (and probably a few new tracks to add to your playlist).
Inside XOYO: What Makes It Stand Out
The minute you walk into XOYO, you realize this club isn’t trying to copy anyone else. The place packs two levels, each with a unique vibe. Downstairs is where the magic happens—that’s the main room with a killer sound system that can make your chest thump. Upstairs, you’ll find a lounge that’s perfect if you need a breather, but you’re still in the middle of the action. The layout keeps the energy up all night and makes it easy to hop from one vibe to the next.
What really cranks up XOYO over other London nightlife spots is its DJ calendar. We’re talking regular nights with big names like Honey Dijon, Ben UFO, and even Skream. On Fridays, XOYO runs a residency series, so top DJs hit the decks for months at a time—not just one-off shows. The regular programming means you always know there’s a credible artist behind the booth, not just some random playlist.
Drinks here are affordable for a London club, and you don’t have to wait forever at the bar. Most folks head for vodka mixers or beer, but the bartenders are quick with pretty much anything. The crowd stays friendly—no snobbery if you show up in trainers or a casual shirt—but expect everyone to be there for the music first. There’s a strict 19+ entry policy, which keeps things mature without losing the fun vibe.
Here’s a quick look at why XOYO keeps pulling big crowds:
- Top-tier DJs and live acts almost every week
- Central Shoreditch location—easy for late-night food runs and cabs
- Modern, powerful sound and lighting that’s been updated recently
- Multiple bars and chill spaces—no endless queuing
- Intimate dance floor that actually fills up but never feels cramped
Ever wondered how XOYO stacks up with other clubs in the area? In a 2023 survey by Time Out, XOYO ranked in the top 10 best clubs in London by both ticket sales and crowd satisfaction, putting it right up there with spots like Fabric and Ministry of Sound. The rotating themes, secret sets, and tight door staff just make it all feel a little more special and less chaotic than your average night out.

The XOYO Experience: Music, Crowd, and Vibe
XOYO nails what a London nightlife spot should feel like—non-stop music, all kinds of people, and a vibe that’s more about the party than the pose. As soon as you walk into XOYO, you feel it. The bass hits, the lights move with the beat, and the crowd genuinely cares about what’s coming out of the speakers. XOYO makes sure every night feels like an event, not just a Friday night out.
The music is where XOYO truly stands out. The club is famous for booking live DJs from all over the world, and we’re talking names you’ve likely heard on big festival lineups. Annie Mac, Benji B, and Honey Dijon have all played here. On Fridays, there’s a rotating resident DJ who plays month-long stints, so if you love what you hear one week, you’ll get more of the same energy next time. The focus is usually on house, techno, garage, and drum & bass, but XOYO isn’t afraid to throw in themed nights with hip-hop, pop, or retro classics either.
Wondering about the people you’ll meet? Expect a mix—regulars, hardcore music lovers, first-timers from across the city, even the occasional tourist who found XOYO on a list of best clubs in London. The crowd skews mid-20s to early-30s, but you’ll see faces of all ages as long as you’re up for a proper dance. No stiff vibe here; most folks come for the music, not for a glam fashion show. Trainers? Totally fine. Nobody’s judging your outfit, as long as you’re having a good time.
The energy level? It’s wild, but in the best way. Two main dance floors keep things moving, and there’s often a more intimate room upstairs if you want to chill out. The club’s sound system packs a punch, and XOYO’s recent renovations mean the lights and visuals feel modern but never distracting. The low ceilings help with that underground club feel too.
Here’s a quick look at the club’s weekly music schedule based on 2024 data:
Day | Genre | Notable DJs |
---|---|---|
Wednesday | Student Nights / Indie | Local rising talent |
Thursday | Garage / Hip-Hop | Special guests, pop-up acts |
Friday | House / Techno | Monthly resident DJ |
Saturday | House / Drum & Bass | International headliners |
Pro-tip: Big-name nights get busy fast. If there’s a headline act or a special residency you want to hit, book your ticket in advance. Same goes for birthdays or group nights out—the best nights at XOYO are packed, and nobody wants to be stuck outside reading about what they missed inside.
Tips for Your Night at XOYO
If you want your XOYO night to go smoothly, skip the guesswork and check out what regulars know. The place fills up fast, especially on weekends when top London nightlife DJs are spinning. If there's a big headliner, tickets almost always sell out in advance—so book online. That way, you skip the disappointment (and those long lines at the door).
XOYO's dress code is pretty chill compared to other best clubs in London: trainers and casual clothes are totally fine, but leave anything too scruffy at home. Door staff are friendly, but they don’t like big groups that look messy or too loud—even if it's your mate's birthday. Plus, you need valid ID (they scan it), so don't leave your driver’s license behind.
The bar queues move fairly quick, but if you want to save time and cash, grab a round in early. House spirits, beers, and mixers are decently priced for a city club, but premium brands and cocktails are pricier. Before 11pm, you can usually find a small discount on some drinks—just ask at the bar.
- Arrive before 11pm to avoid queuing outside for ages, especially if the weather turns brutal.
- Book your cloakroom spot if you're packing a bag or big coat. Space fills up fast.
- Keep cash and cards handy—XOYO is mainly cashless, but sometimes the machines glitch.
- Plan your ride home. Shoreditch is busy, so ordering a ride before the club shuts saves tons of waiting.
- Stay hydrated, especially if you hit the dance floor for hours. You can get free tap water at the bar.
If you want a quieter spot to chat or chill, head downstairs early, as it packs out once headliners start. And don't forget: XOYO loves a good photo booth—grab a snap with your crew before you hit the main room.
XOYO Must-Knows | Details |
---|---|
Opening Hours | Usually 9pm – 3am |
Nearest Tube | Old Street (2 min walk) |
Age Limit | Strictly 18+ with photo ID |
Cloakroom Cost | £3 per item (2025 rates) |
Knowing these little things takes a lot of stress out of the night. That way, you can focus more on the music, the vibe, and actually having a blast.
Frequently Asked Questions About XOYO
Been hearing about XOYO and wondering if it really lives up to the hype? Here are some straight answers to stuff people actually ask.
Where is XOYO located?
You’ll find XOYO in Shoreditch—specifically at 32-37 Cowper Street, London, EC2A 4AP. It’s a stone’s throw from Old Street station (literally about a two-minute walk). That makes it one of the easiest clubs in London’s nightlife scene to get to by Tube.
What music does XOYO play?
Music is what XOYO is all about. Most nights, you’ll get live DJ sets covering house, techno, drum and bass, and hip-hop. Well-known acts like Ben UFO and Eats Everything have played here. The club books a mix of big names and up-and-coming talent, so it’s a good bet if you want fresh music or classic party anthems.
How much do tickets or entry cost?
Typical entry for regular nights falls between £5 and £20, depending on the event or guest DJ. Big-name nights or special line-ups can push prices up to £25 at the door, but if you book online in advance, you can often snag cheaper tickets.
Event Type | Online Advance | At the Door |
---|---|---|
Standard Night | £7-£15 | £10-£20 |
Special Guest DJ | £10-£18 | £15-£25 |
Is there a dress code?
Not really. People go casual—think trainers, jeans, tees—but steer clear of tracksuits or anything too scruffy. If you look like you’re there for the music and ready for a good night, you’ll be fine.
What time does XOYO open and close?
Most nights, doors open at 9 PM or 10 PM and it runs until 3 or 4 AM. On Fridays and Saturdays, you usually get the full late-night treatment closing at 4 AM. Always check the XOYO website for specifics, as times can shift based on the event.
Is XOYO LGBTQ+ friendly?
Big yes. XOYO hosts LGBTQ+ nights regularly and has a reputation for being one of London’s more inclusive and welcoming nightlife spots.
Can you book tables or VIP?
XOYO keeps it pretty simple. Bookings for big groups or birthdays are possible, but don’t expect the velvet rope VIP scene. Most of the fun is on the main floor anyway.
What’s the security like?
Security is tight but fair. Be prepared for bag checks and ID checks (Bring a photo ID, even if you look 40). They take safety seriously, and you’ll see staff around the club if you need anything.
Is there a smoking area?
Yes—there’s a designated smoking area outside if you need a break from the dance floor.
Anything to know before you go?
- Get your tickets online—it saves cash and hassle at the door.
- Arrive early for headline DJs; the place fills up, and it’s no fun waiting in a long line.
- Bags and coats? There’s a cloakroom, but it fills up. Travel light when you can.
- Cashless bar, so bring your card.
Whether it’s your first time raving in London or you just need a new go-to spot, XOYO keeps the experience real and the party rolling late.
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