Ain't Nothin But The Blues Bar image

Ain't Nothin But The Blues Bar

Bar Pub Wine bar Night club Blues club

Blues club hosting both local and American acts nightly, with jam sessions on Monday and Sunday. People often mention music, blues, live, great, atmosphere, night, London, drinks, Great, venue,


Address

20 Kingly St, London W1B 5PZ, United Kingdom

Website

www.facebook.com

Contact

+44 20 7287 0514

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (3.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 1 PM to 1 AM
  • Thursday: 1 PM to 1 AM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 1 PM to 2 AM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 1 PM to 2 AM
  • Sunday: 1 to 11:30 PM
  • Monday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Tuesday: 5 PM to 1 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: music (37) blues (23) live (17) great (16) atmosphere (15) night (15) London (14) drinks (12) Great (10) venue (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 David B. 1 year ago on Google
    Stalwart Soho venue showcasing top drawer blues artists. Lovely vibe in here, been going for over a decade and it never disappoints! Part of the Soho furniture, if you're in town it's a must.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yevhen I. 6 months ago on Google • 21 reviews
    I’m huge fan of live music, especially in the mix with great vibe, nice people and refreshing G&T. Highly recommend this place to enjoy music and atmosphere in Soho. No rush, just relaxing.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vic P. 1 month ago on Google • 380 reviews New
    amazing spot for free music. great musicians come here and take turns going on stage and jamming. time flies by. lots of fun
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Franciska S. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved it! A great grungy vibe and everything we were looking for. The live music was amazing and we had a great night. Make sure you check out the cool themed decor as well as the murals downstairs. Bathrooms are located downstairs.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Maria P. 1 year ago on Google
    The security man inside needs to chill. Was neither pushing him or anything. My husband wasn't even dancing, just following the beat and was told to stop, to move away saying that he works there for 8hrs and doesn't want to be pushed! Looked at us aggressively for no reason and pushed him away.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel 2 years ago on Google
    This is one of the best bars I've ever been to. I went there two nights in a row and saw four bands in total. Each band was fantastic. It's a small venue but that makes the atmosphere very special. The service was super quick and the drinks were very competitively priced. The next time I'm in London I'll be back for sure!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alice D. 1 year ago on Google
    True atmosphere for a real blues bar, where the music makes you move and the drinks help with the groove. Live music every night after 4pm. friendly staff. Even the road to toilets is an art gallery through blues history.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Firas A. 5 months ago on Google
    My first experience visiting a Blues Bar and it was amazing! Thank you to everyone suggesting to go early at 6pm on Friday as we just managed to get a table. The place is very small but cozy, extremely clean, and the staff is very friendly. The drinks and snacks were affordable (we only had sodas and some snacks). We watched the 6:30pm to 8pm performance by Nially Kelly Duo (with Marc Barguera). They played mostly blues with a bit of rock and folk. It was a great performance by both artists and extremely inspiring to watch live as a new guitar player. I highly recommend it if you enjoy live music.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cherry Brandy K. 1 month ago on Google • 300 reviews New
    Love this place! Must go if you like live music esp blues. Just be aware they have limited tables and seating so likely to be standing unless very lucky or early.

  • 5/5 Franco P. 1 year ago on Google
    This kind of places is unique and beautiful. Should be advertised a bit more so people can be aware. I find out trough recommendation.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Allan C. 2 years ago on Google
    The jam night on Monday 28 Feb was absolutely awesome. I have never seen so many high quality musicians in one venue. The quality music demands a larger venue but the intimacy of this place makes it all the more special. I will return, and urge anyone to visit this superb blues Bar.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Irena S. 2 years ago on Google
    Been here many times and every time had an awesome night! Excellent acoustics! Just wish there was a better selection of food/snacks available.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex M. 2 years ago on Google
    Best live music bar in London. The chances are you may not see the band unless you get on early, but that don't matter because this place rocks the blues. Great selection of drinks served by attentive staff. Not too shabby at all.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bruna W. 2 years ago on Google
    Never disappoints, jamm sessions are very exciting and the bands are always outstanding. It has a few tables where you can sit and relax listening to the blues, but it's very likely the rhythm will eventually catch you and you'll get up and dance!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nona 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely loved my trip to this hidden gem in London. I'm not big in blues, I've preferred jazz over it, but this place made me fall in love with live blues music! Very warm staff, great vibe, will definitely go again!!! <3 no reservations needed, and perfect way to end a day with great music :)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Themevify 6 months ago on Google • 114 reviews
    Blues bars don’t come much better than this. Have been here over the years and have always found the live music fantastic. Get early to get a seat. Great atmosphere. Gets warm so make sure you can take a layer off!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sanna 4 months ago on Google • 73 reviews
    Nestled in a cozy space, this blues bar may not be expansive, but it exudes an inviting atmosphere. Arriving early, we were fortunate to snag seating. The evening commenced with performances by the Big Joe Louis and Katie Bradley bands, both delivering exceptional sets. Big Joe Louis's rendition leaned towards mellower tunes, his voice carrying a magical quality. On the other hand, the Katie Bradley band brought in more tempo as the night progressed, perfectly matching the evolving ambiance. As the night advanced, the venue became packed, creating an intimate setting where moving around without accidentally bumping into someone became part of the experience. If you happen to be in the area, this spot is a definite recommendation for indulging in some truly outstanding music. The performances were top-notch, and the snug setting added to the overall charm.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Plamen T. 6 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    My favourite place in London! Great blues bar, great vibes! Thank you for having me. Every time is a night to remember, especially this evening when I celebrated my birthday and met so beautiful people,pure souls touched from the blues! Special thanks to Liv and Nigea who were the angels I met and hope to see them again!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Edeep 9. 3 months ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    I recently had a rather unpleasant encounter at Ain't Nothing But the Blues Bar, and I feel compelled to share my experience. As a frequent visitor to London, I've always enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and unique charm of this bar, particularly its dedication to the blues. However, my recent visit left me disheartened. I approached the bar and politely requested that the server pour my wine into the same glass. Unfortunately, this simple request led to a rather unpleasant interaction with one of the managers. Instead of accommodating my request, I was met with rudeness and condescension. To make matters worse, I was abruptly told to leave the bar with the remark that I had no right to dictate how and where the wine should be served. This unwarranted treatment was not only surprising but also deeply disappointing. It's disheartening to see such a beautiful establishment tarnished by such poor customer service. As someone who has consistently enjoyed the ambiance and music at Ain't Nothing But the Blues Bar, I expected a more welcoming and respectful atmosphere. While I understand that different establishments have their policies, a simple and respectful explanation would have sufficed. Being treated with disrespect and told to leave was not only unnecessary but also disrespected the spirit of hospitality that one would expect from such a venue. In conclusion, it's regrettable that my experience at Ain't Nothing But the Blues Bar took such a negative turn. I hope that management takes this feedback constructively, as addressing customer concerns is essential for maintaining the positive reputation and appeal of this otherwise fantastic blues bar.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deepak B. 1 year ago on Google
    The best Blues bar in the city of London. It's really small but that is what is unique and creates an intimate performing space for the bands that play there. Be prepared to wait to get in most evenings there is a queue to get in. Nice selection of beers and wines. Come early to grab a seat in front of the stage.,🎸🎷🎹🪗🎙️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simão S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful bar, they have musicians doing shows 7 days a week. It's a good place to have a drink with your friends. It's between Soho and Carnaby, a movimented and very known zone. We love the ambience!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew M. 1 year ago on Google
    Slight wait (25 mins) when we arrived at approx 11:45 on a Saturday. Once we were in the bar, the atmosphere was lively, friendly and surprisingly attentive for it being so busy. Staff were paying attention to make sure people ordered their drinks without a long wait. Music was fantastic and I wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to come back
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nathalie H. 1 year ago on Google
    Great little Bar with awesome bands. Lovely jam and cool crowd. The staff was nice and friendly. Prices okay. Can definitely recommend when you want to add some great music to your drinks night out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ellen F. 2 years ago on Google
    Really great bar! Exactly what we wanted in regards to the music. The only reason it isn't a 5* is because it's a smaller venue so really cramped and the staff behind the bar were incredibly moody - however the drinks were quick. Would really recommend
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sol Z. 1 year ago on Google
    We waited 1h in the que, the doorman sent the people in very fair and respectfully. We had a beer and could manage to sit in front of the stage in the break between two concert. The band music was authentic, awesome, real blues, and it was really worth the wait.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 RON 2 years ago on Google
    Crowded with people anger to listen blues music. Good atmosphere and better music. The only problem is about the size of the place. There are some tables outside as well, but yet little space for the people, specially in the late evening. Friendly staff, from the doorman to the waiters. Worth a visit of course!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ally 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing bar! I moved to London recently and struggled to find some good bars, me and my friend came across this one by accident and so glad we did!! Brilliant live music, lovely atmosphere and great staff and bouncer was lovely!! Wish it was bigger though as venue is small and wish there were more places to sit!! nevertheless i’ll be looking forward to going here more often and will definitely recommend this place to friends !
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Tom L. 2 years ago on Google
    Terrible experience, we will never return. What had been a lovely evening apart was let down supremely by the security staff who out of the blue told my boyfriend (who was the only Asian in the bar) that he wasn't welcome back in after we came outside for a cigarette. £6 for entry and then effectively being kicked out felt like daylight robbery and my boyfriend was left feeling like he didn't belong. What a shame people and places with these views still exist.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gordon F. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are a music fan, come and enjoy live music almost every evening. The place is small so maybe come early. If crowded, step out of the bar and grab your pint- you can enjoy the city centre vibes and still listen to some good music.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony T. 2 years ago on Google
    Nothing short of amazing ! Drinks and live blues … just one too is to get there a bit earlier and stay near the front for the best experience
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tony P. 2 years ago on Google
    Cracking night with the Jim Hammond Trio at the best blues bar in London. Always good beer, good company and great music at ANB!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Isabelle S. 2 years ago on Google
    Stumbled here by accident and was the best night of my trip to London. Great selection of beers, amazing music and a really intimate layout, very easy to make friends. Definitely going there again!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hakan I. 2 months ago on Google • 72 reviews New
    One of my favourite spots in Soho. This is one of the first place I visited after moving to London, and it has become somehow point 0 for me. Whenever I have a pint here, it takes me back to many years ago. Lovely music always guaranteed.

  • 5/5 Julia M. 3 months ago on Google • 39 reviews New
    Great live music and atmosphere!! A bit expensive and long wait to get in if you don't go early, but worth it!

  • 5/5 Irmak A. 3 months ago on Google • 36 reviews New
    We went there around 7, just between two performances. We still waited outside for at least 15 minutes. Luckily we got in and were able to sit near the stage. It got extremely crowded towards the 2nd show, which started around 9:30. The show was really good, loved the band. We didn’t eat anything, just drank few beers.

  • 5/5 Phillip M. 6 months ago on Google • 30 reviews
    What a cool discovery! We went twice and saw various local Blues bands play fantastic tunes. Very intimate venue, go early to get seats or dance with the rest. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Hector D B. 1 month ago on Google • 24 reviews New
    Pretty nice place I went with my coworkers afte a long shift and the place was amazing, nice ambience nice music the only thing I could say they could improve are the cocktail but as its not the main thing it's alright

  • 5/5 Mc d. 2 months ago on Google • 5 reviews New
    Great live music, very talented musicians the night I was there. The bar was very crowded so do not expect a seat or any personal space. However this did create a great atmosphere once the music started playing!

  • 5/5 Herman W. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful place for live Blues and drinks, everynight from Monday to Sunday.

  • 5/5 Jorge H. 2 years ago on Google
    What a fabulous experience. The band playing on 14/09 were amazing. Bartenders could do with customer care training though as they did not smile once. Although they sorted drinks quickly.

  • 5/5 Craig P. 2 years ago on Google
    Back to basics in the new normal. Hadn't been since pre-lockdown 1.0. Numbers are well managed thanks to friendly door team, usual two in two out on a busy and lively night. Great selection of bevys served by attentive bar crew and bluesy classics from the band on stage.

  • 5/5 karen w. 7 months ago on Google
    Utterly brilliant bar. Tiny but with an incredible atmosphere and fabulous blues bands. Love it.

  • 5/5 Calvin D. 2 years ago on Google
    There was a great atmosphere here during the weeknight live music session I went to recently. Free entry and reasonably priced drinks. Highly recommended if you like blues.

  • 5/5 Anna Maria S. 5 months ago on Google
    Nice atmosphere Live music was great The bar isn't spacious but we were able to sit at some point Drinks are very good price for London which kept us until late Totally recommend

  • 5/5 ingrid p. 2 years ago on Google
    I had an absolute blast at this place! The band was off the chain!!!!! I live here in London, but come from Chicago. I have so missed the sounds of home, but this was the real deal. I was the only one dancing, but within half hour half the club were right there grooving with me. I am really not a big bar person, but have every intention to become a regular. Thanks for alleviating my home sickness!!!

  • 5/5 Csaba L. 1 year ago on Google
    Live music, reasonably priced drinks and good stuff. I love that place...always crowded. Early hours quite a bit.

  • 5/5 Gonzalo C. 1 year ago on Google
    Best place for live music in London, every night there's a jazz or blues band playing quality music. This is the place to go for me if I'm in London for a night out or a few drinks after dinner or theatre. Now it's even better with a few seats outside and by paying a small fee to get in is not as crowded as it used to be

  • 5/5 Anthony B. 2 years ago on Google
    I would call this a traditional dive joint. Great place. Great music. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Simon C. 2 years ago on Google
    After many visits over the last 15 years we were amazed to see suble changes had really made the place top class.we arrived as the jam night started and it was well run and a great sound.

  • 5/5 Rio 0. 1 month ago on Google • 2 reviews New
    Incredible blues far exceeded expectations for free event. Tremendous evening stayed 5 hours. Highly recommend !!!


Call +44 20 7287 0514 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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