Near & Far Cocktail Bar, Peckham

Tonight’s the night! Near & Far, the newest venture of the team behind one of London’s most beloved and magical spots, The Magic Roundabout in Old Street, is opening its doors in the upcoming area of Peckham. Located on the 6th floor of the converted car park you enter a lovely bar with quirky decor and a mouth watering list of yummy cocktails served by a dedicated team. Top this off with feel good house and disco tunes and lots of happy people and you have all you need for a fun Saturday night!

Head down to Peckham from 6PM tonight and please arrive early as they’re expecting to reach full capacity. Also, it’s free entry! 🙂

 

 

Erdinger Oktoberfest @Greenwich

Get a taste of Germany’s most famous festival in a picturesque London location. Overlooking the river and Canary Wharf, a large tent with adjacent beer garden has been set up selling authentic German beer and specialities such as sausages, sauerkraut and pretzels. The whole experience is complete with cute little souvenir shops and a funfair. The festival is on every Thursday to Sunday until 22nd October. Ticket prices start from £5 and can be bought here.

Kings Head Private Members Club

It is as secret as you can get. But guess what… ClubCat will share the secret with you 🙂

Hidden in the depths of Kingsland Road, end of Shoreditch, there is a corner of an abandoned building. As if an old barber shop, but everyone knows that everything that starts with ‘Kings’, and has a certain body part in the name, as ‘Arms’ or ‘Head’, must be a pub.

Well, this corner is neither of those two. It is one of the craziest houses you might ever enter. It has the ‘Polar Bear’ room, a club, the ‘Rocky’ room, a bar with a tiger jumping out of it, the ‘Office’ room and the Bathroom (a real one and the glass one with peacocks and lions inside). Quick to mention that the animals aren’t alive! However, all the taxidermies are real.

The owner has an undeniable sense of style and the ability to transform a most ordinary room into something ‘wow’. Rocky owns seven venues around East London and each one of them has its specific strong style and design. However, guess which one is his favorite…

Putting all his heart and most of the investments, Rocky makes sure there’s always a new member of the ‘family’ added to the Kings Head. From hundreds of species of butterflies to giraffes, to the rare snow leopards and rhinos, the members club is a home for all.

As you buzz the ring, expect to enter a small, intimate space and be greeted by a big, tall man. Quite intimidating, as it should be. After getting the approval to proceed through the curtain, you can instantly feel like home. Well, a quite strange home.

The ground floor is centered around an impressive bar, offering any cocktail on any menu, comfy seats in the restaurant area, and a dance floor with a DJ booth, reminding a bears’ cave.

The Club

Only one floor down, on the weekends you can experience proper underground – deep house, techno, acid house and dance music DJ’s come to please the rare and diverse crowd that Kings Head is known for.

The Polar Bear Room

Try guessing why is it called like this. A giant polar bear is a great attraction to take pictures or to actually get an idea of how would a real one look like. Not to mention that athe experience of dining with a polar bear is not something everyone can brag about!

The room is the largest one in the venue, has its own bar and impressive atmosphere. Great for larger groups parties, drinks reception, and other events.

The Butterfly Room

Have you ever seen anything like it? Landed on the second floor, these butterflies must’ve seen quite a lot happening here. Great for friends and families lunch and dinners or just a cheeky evening drink.

The Rocky Room

Named by the name of the owner, and owning his heart, this room is the most special one. Lions, panthers, leopards, tigers, a giraffe and monkeys… Doesn’t sound like the best place to enjoy the steak!

However, this room can turn into a breathtaking place for your Christmas dinner. The animals, antique candles, and gold patterns create a scene from a movie. No doubt, the unique atmosphere can turn anything into a one-time experience.

It’s not surprising that Kings Head Members Club is often used for private events as fashion shows, photoshoots, themed parties or shooting films.

The access to all of the above is only for the members and their selected friends. All the information about the club rules, memberships and further requests you can find on their page: http://www.thekingshead-london.com/content/club-rules

Or by email:  ashley@thekingshead-london.com

 

 

The Lion & Lamb|Hoxton

Everyone on the East Side of London knows that the question of where to go to eat, have a beer, or go out, ends with the answer… Hoxton. Sometimes it is a lot of fun to go from one place to another, meet some friends there, and there, and some new people everywhere. That’s what Hoxton all about, isn’t it?

For some, it is. For ClubCat it is important to feel like home. In a sense that all your friends are in one place, you can all have some food, one or more drinks and then party till the dawn.

Try to search ‘The Lion & Lamb’ in Google, Facebook or anywhere on the internet. The place has a minimal publicity apart the events calendar and the location. Simply because it doesn’t need it. The word of mouth is the best promotion, and my, oh my, people talk about this place!

Being and empty space in an awesome area, over the last few years it underwent a lot of changes and had different purposes: an art gallery, an East-end boozer, and an underground club. The Lion & Lamb now has it all.

Over a year ago, a group of London-based, experienced, modern-thinking promoters, DJ’s, producers opened up this place to hide from the commercialised Shoreditch. Its purpose is to unite the community of the artists. And… the music!

Lion & Lamb is set to become a favourite destination for creative people and music lovers in the area. The plans are big. For now, let’s keep its secrecy and talk about what’s on.

Tonight: Alex Arnout and Clive Henry (DC-10)

23rd September Saturday 20/20 vision @The Lion&Lamb 

With: Ralph Lawson | Jonny Rock |Bobby Pleasure

Tickets here.

24th September Sunday | Craig Richards & Friends with One Records

Tickets.

See you there!

 

 

 

 

 

 

SMOKEY TAILS @ HOXTON SQUARE BAR & KITCHEN | TALES OF NORMSKI

Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen is one of the Hoxton originals and has been the center of action since 2001. It is a vital part of the scene and the definition of what Hoxton is all about – a combination of great food, drinks and arts. Together with the home inspired flavors it offers an experience of some wicked performances, including acts by Major Lazer, Foals and Florence & The Machine.

April 22, 2016, the heart of East London’s food scene became home to a new place! Although Smokey Tails opened only a little bit more than a year ago, this gem spreads its vibes all around the city.

Inspired by the home-cooked food, secret recepies and a funky design, the place gives the opportunity to feel like in the childhood home of… Seth Troxler.

Not sure if the man needs an introduction. Seth Troxler has not only been dominating the music scene but he also LOVES some BBQ ribs and a nice healthy chocolate smoothie 🙂

He loves it so much that he decided to open a restaurant, inspired by his secret family BBQ sauce recipe which’s main ingredient… love.

Three-time AD’s winner, named a potential culinary nemesis, Seth definitely has a strict quality check and high standards, when it comes to food… and music. The world’s famous DJ is also a lover of art and photography and always supports the artists.

© Photography by Khris Cowley for Here & Now (fb.com/wearehereandnow)

It happened that he came across the works of Normski. He felt an immediate connection and selected 16 photographs to be exhibited in his restaurant in Shoreditch. Having an outstanding portfolio gathered for almost thirty years, Normski always makes sure to capture the moments that are left unnoticed. The selected photographs each tell a story of their time with a positive vision and iconic outlook of varying people, places, events and culture.

Tales of Normski Photography Exhibition
Opening night Wed 6th Sept 2017 – 6pm – 10pm
Open to public daily from midday 7th Sept – 2nd Oct 2017
Smokey Tails 2– 4 Hoxton Square London N1 6NU.

The entry is FREE. RSVP here : https://www.facebook.com/events/158797751369330/

Or email: misternormski2012@gmail.com

So who’s Normski (aka Norman Anderson)?

If you happen to be out in Shoreditch and see a crazy person jumping behind the decks, that’s him. Meaning crazy in the best way possible.

You can hear him every Friday on Hoxton FM, hosting his radio show Get.Tronic… for the love of music.

You can also see him in the wicked ninety’s show called Dance Energy, bouncing around dressed like a ninja, crashing into a weather program, asking the forecast for his house. And guess what… the storm is kicking! As a BBC television representer, Normski had some cool things going on… one thing is sure – he never lacks energy.

You name it – he’s probably done it. For over three decades, Normski gained a profile in the field of music, television,  photography, fashion and journalism. Many know him as a multitalented master of London’s culture.

The passion for photography ignited at the age of thirteen and soon became an obsession.  Always carrying his camera, Normski never misses a good shot. If it would be a portrait of a friend, a stranger or a wild fox digging in the garbage; a picture a building, puddle or a fence. He sees things differently. It is not only things anymore – it’s a story.

Combining his talents for vision and music, Normski’s photographic credits have flown the world. In September 2003 he staged ‘Hip Odyssey‘ a prolific show of his urban street culture photography at the Proud Gallery and his photographs were used at the V+A ‘Black Britain’ exhibition.

You can see and purchase his works here.

Or pop into Smokey Tails and see the selection of top 16 right in front of you. Might get lucky and bump into Seth or Normski himself 🙂

Familia @ EGG London

Familia returns to EGG tomorrow night and the line up is nothing but impressive. Senso Sounds head-honcho Oliver Huntemann – one of my longtime personal favourites – will be joined by Brazilian rising star Victor Ruiz who is coming to London for his very first UK gig.

The Terrace will be headlined by Drumcode’s Timmo, another new face that’s promising fresh sounds and driving beats. The Loft will be taken over by Thesaurus with Critical Damage, VanDi and Alek Mater.

Altogether expect a lush techno bonanza in one of London’s most acclaimed venues. Tickets are available here.

Superstition w/ Floorplan, Efdemin, Jamie Haus

Head to Village Underground in Shoreditch tonight for some first class techno and a sick night out. The forefather of techno, Robert Hood, will be headlining this event working alongside his daughter. Also playing are Berghain resident Efdemin, who needs little introduction, and Superstition resident Jamie Haus. Expect a night full of positive energy and enigmatic vibes. Head to RA for remaining tickets – or drop us a line if you would like to get on the concession list.

Robert Hood // Floorplan
Efdemin
Jamie Haus

 

The Carpenters Arms, Fitzrovia

The Carpenters Arms in Fitzrovia, conveniently located just off Tottenham Court Road in-between Warren Street and Goodge Street station, is a very British pub with all its ups and downs. They sell a nice selection of ales and lagers as well as some decent wines and cocktails. The food menu is clearly aimed at students from nearby UCL with meaty and filling pub dishes and a very reasonably priced sandwich menu for lunch.

To put some icing on the cake, The Carpenters Arms has a lovely roof terrace tucked away from the buzz of Tottenham Court Road so you get to enjoy some peace and quiet here. Patio heaters make sure you don’t get cold during your night out but make sure you arrive early as the place gets pretty packed once the clock hits beer o’clock.

Of course none of this is particularly new or groundbreaking but if you’re in for a solid British pub serving traditional pub grub and an excellent selection of drinks then this is for you.

Where To Go Next . . .

It has been a while since the last post of How To Visit London The Right Way. Someone has been enjoying the sun too much…

We left off with Karl the alpaca in the Mudchute Farm. Saying goodbye is never easy, but… we move on! Pedaling all the way down the beautiful river path to Westferry, Limehouse (quickly passing Shadwell) and parking in the City.

City in the summer… I know! Suited-up people, always heading opposite to your’s direction. Sky scrappers blocking the sunshine… Well. You can see it in two ways. The tall buildings, blocking the sun, can be the shade that you desperately needed. And tall rooftops is the perfect spot to catch the sun.

The rooftop bars is one of the best advantages of the big city during the summer time.

ClubCat Tip: You must go to Madison Rooftop Bar. Situated right in front of St. Paul’s Cathedral, it offers a spectacular view of one of the most iconic buildings in London. Going up to the very top of the One New Change building, there is a charge free terrace for tourists and everyone else who are smart enough to see the city from above without paying £40. There are some cool events going on there, too. As a big screen translating Wimbledon games or cinema sessions. No drinks allowed… But. If you feel thirsty or a little bit fancier than secretly sipping wine from a carton box, Madison is the place. It is very popular amongst the city boys but still makes it to ClubCat top tops. Nothing better than lunching on a hot summer day, nice chill-out music… maybe a cheeky bellini. You can almost sense Ibiza vibes.

Getting closer to the sunset, the place transforms into a lively, almost club-like atmosphere. It still has some quieter corners and a restaurant area inside… But don’t expect a romantic date. It might be ruined by loud music or people, constantly pushing you. If you want to find your corner, the advice is to come early, maybe even sit there from lunchtime. Unless you willing to spend £1000 to get the table… Anyway. There is a reason why the place is super busy. Because it is simply amazing. From morning yoga sessions to Richy Ahmed, to cigar sessions – it has it all.

Hitting classic games @Pimpshuei

Until last night I had only a very vague idea of what an arcade bar was like – and no desire whatsoever to find out if my idea was right. Arcades were nothing but grim, insufficiently lit halls to me where sad, lonely old men gambled away their time. Luckily one of my friends was persistent enough to actually drag me to one of those places – and surprisingly (or not!) I actually had an absolute blast!

We went to Pimpshuei in Clerkenwell, a dive bar tucked away in a basement in an alley. There’s no way you would ever find yourself here by mistake, no, you must know about the place. Pimpshuei is a martial arts themed bar decorated with cool film memorabilia and lots of old VHS cassettes. They play classic kung fu movies on large screens, make kickass cocktails you will never find anywhere else and, most importantly, have different vintage gaming machines. The bar staff is super friendly and laid-back and the atmosphere in the bar is more like at a house party in someone’s basement than in an actual bar.

There’s no point in writing a novel about it – Pimpshuei is a brilliant place and one of the coolest bars in London! Check it out if you’re looking for a quality night with lots of cocktails, games and lovely company!

 

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Stay tuned!

After over two years of silence we now want to bring this blog back to life and we are currently giving this page a well needed makeover.

Expect an awesome new design and many other exciting changes. Soon we’ll be working with a whole team of writers checking out a broad range of activities all over London.

So stay tuned for fresh parties, book launches and shop openings, activities with kids and dogs, fashion events, outdoor gatherings and, as always, the best pubs and the hottest news from the underground music scene.

Time to unveil London!

Happy 2015!

Happy new year everyone!! 🙂

Hope you all had stunning Christmas and a massive party on New Year’s Eve and are now ready to rock 2015!

The insane work & exam marathon that was bugging me over the last couple of months is now finally over and after some well deserved partying and a week-long sleep I will hopefully find the time to update this blog again!
So long, have an awesome one! 😉

Fröhliches neues Jahr euch allen! 🙂

Ich hoffe, ihr hattet wundervolle Weihnachten, eine großartige Party an Silvester und seid nun bereit, 2015 endgültig zu rocken!

Der wahnsinnige Arbeits- & Prüfungsmarathon, der mich über die vergangenen 2 Monate auf Trab gehalten hat, ist nun glücklicherweise vorüber, und nach einigem wohlverdienten Partymachen und einem gefühlt wochenlangen Schlaf werde ich hoffentlich bald etwas Zeit finden, um diesen Blog wieder auf den neuesten Stand zu bringen!
Bis dahin, lasst es euch gutgehen! 😉

Happy Halloween!!

Happy Halloween people!! Here’s some tips for spooky activities in London this weekend!

Horror movie classic Halloween is being shown tonight only in a few selected cinemas, for example at ODEON Camden or Holloway! For a full listing of all participating cinemas, click here. If you’re in for a more extraordinary film experience, check this out: In Shoreditch, you can watch scary films while relaxing in a hot tub sipping a drink of your choice, and in Portobello Pop-up Cinema in Notting Hill you’ll have a hell of a time watching scary movies in their outdoor cinema.

If you plan on spending Halloween with your children, why not head down to London Zoo? It’s always a great experience for the whole family and extra for Halloween they’ve come up with some fun activities going on over the whole of the weekend!

Of course there’s plenty of Halloween themed pub and club nights going on; almost every London venue is hosting their very own party. Just check out your favourite’s website and get ready for jelly shots, costume contests and live gigs! These are my picks for awesome Halloween fun:
If you’re in for an all-nighter then come down to XOYO , their Bugged Out….! party night is always fun and tonight’s Halloween special won’t be any different. Or head down to the almighty EGG Club on York Way and rave to some Berlin inspired dance music. If you prefer pop and rock music, then the Phoenix on Cavendish Square close to Oxford Circus might be right for you. Or you give yourself the whole nine yards and check out the Halloween weekender at The Four Quarters – mad fun on a budget that is!

No matter where you go and what you’ll be up to this weekend, I hope it’ll be fun and you’ll have a blast. Now put on that spooky costume and happy Halloween, everyone!

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Fröhliches Halloween, euch allen!! Hier gibt’s einige Tips für gespenstische Aktivitäten an diesem Wochenende in London!

Der Horrorfilm-Klassiker Halloween wird nur heute Abend in einigen ausgewählten Kinos auf großer Leinwand gezeigt, zum Beispiel im ODEON in Camden oder in Holloway. Eine Liste aller teilnehmenden Kinos findet ihr hier. Falls es euch nach einem etwas abgefahrenerem Kino-Erlebnis gelüstet, könnt ihr euch in Shoreditch Horrorfilme ansehen, während ihr in einem Whirlpool sitzt und ein Getränk eurer Wahl schlürft; oder ihr zieht euch im Portobello Pop-up Kino klassische Gruselfilme unter freiem Himmel rein.

Falls ihr  das Halloween-Wochenende mit euern Kindern verbringen möchtet, kann ich den Zoo nur wärmstens empfehlen! Der ist immer ein tolles Erlebnis für jung und alt und besonders für Halloween hat man sich hier eine Reihe lustiger Aktivitäten ausgedacht, die über das gesamte Wochenende laufen.

Natürlich stehen auch jede Menge Halloweenparties an. Beinahe jeder Pub and jeder Club hier in London veranstaltet eine eigene Party, also schaut einfach mal auf die Website eurer Lieblingsbar und macht euch bereit für Jelly Shots, Kostümwettbewerbe und Live Musik. Hier ist meine Auswahl der besten Halloweenparties:
Falls euch der Sinn nach einer ganzen Nacht durchfeiern steht, dann ab ins XOYO. Deren Bugged Out…! Clubnacht ist immer ein Erlebnis und das heutige Halloween-Spezial wird keine Ausnahme sein. Oder ihr macht euch auf zum besten aller Clubs hier in London, dem allmächtigen EGG Club in der Nähe von Kings Cross, und zappelt die Nacht durch zu feinstem Berlin-House. Falls ihr doch eher auf Pop und Rockmusik aus seid, könnte der Phoenix in Cavendish Square beim Oxford Circus das Richtige für euch sein. Oder ihr gebt euch die volle Breitseite und macht aus dieser Nacht ein ganzes Wochenende voller irrwitziger Ideen zu guten Preisen im Four Quarters in Peckham.

Ganz egal, wofür ihr euch entscheidet, ich hoffe, ihr habt Spaß und eine richtig gute Zeit. Jetzt fix verkleidet und dann ab auf die Piste – happy Halloween!!

 

Happy Bank Holiday WKND!

…and if you don’t know yet what to do, join me and check out this massive bash at Madame JoJo’s!! Quite looking forward to this hehe

…und falls ihr noch keine Pläne für heute Abend habt und nach dem grandiosen Champions League-Finale von gestern den heutigen Tag nicht sang- und klanglos auf der Couch verbringen wollt, dann kommt doch einfach zu dieser Sause im Madame JoJo’s! Ich freu mich drauf!

 

April’s finally online!

…and better late than never!

Enjoy my April venue tip, it’s the Strawberry Moons in Piccadilly!

….besser spät als nie!

Genießt meinen Apriltipp; das Strawberry Moons in Piccadilly!