West London underground arts and music venue hosts club nights and live bands. (It’s where Lilly Allen famously launched her career). The space is small and not much to look at, but artsy types, cool kids and indie lovers will hear it here first.

Photo: Courtesy of Notting Hill Arts Club

Venue dedicated to international dance. Book early enough and you can catch performances ranging from popular to independent and obscure.

Photo: Courtesy of Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Multiarts conference and exhibition space includes concert hall, two theatres, three cinemas, two art galleries, a conservatory and library. Allow plenty of time before a performance; the massive concrete structure is hard to navigate.

Photo: Courtesy of Barbican

Legendary performing arts venue — a former steam engine repair shed — has hosted everyone from Jimi Hendrix to The Doors to Jarvis Cocker. Today it is used for large-scale theatre, festivals, installations, talks and screenings. It’s the perfect space (and shape) for audience interaction.

Photo: Courtesy of Roundhouse