Soho, the heart of the British capital. Boasting with Rock 'n' Roll history that awaits you beyond every wall. From The Beatles to The Rolling Stones, from Punk to Heavy Metal: former legendary night clubs meet today's vibrant bar scene and independent records stores. Where famous album covers from Oasis to David Bowie have been shot. Where myths and big artists were born on live music stages, rooftops or recording studios. Still today, numerous plaques throughout the district tell of London's rich music history.
Join us on our Soho subTOURs. Either as single walks or combined in a triple subTOUR. Explore the inner heart of London and its abundance of Rock music tales.
This part 3 reveals famous album cover places from The Beatles and David Bowie along with a recording studio that has been the birthplace to legendary songs and albums. On your way, explore numerous live music venues, either former ones or still open. Where Rock history has been written. Sit down in one of the bars around. And finally, discover the location of a legendary rooftop performance.
Always a great choice for a guided tour to learn about the local music history is joining the guys from
London Rock Tours, Swinging 60s, or
Flipside London Tours. They will take you to the most important spots beyond the obvious ones and tell you legendary stories from the past. Partly also specializing in Soho and the Punk Rock movement.
For a deeper look into the history of the Punk movement in London and Soho, also watch London's burning, a German documentary with Die Toten Hosen lead singer Campino.
We recommend doing this single subTOUR or the Soho triple in the afternoon as some of the recommended spots such as bars are opening after noon.
Trident Studios (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Either as starting point for this single subTOUR or if you have already discovered the first and second part of the Soho triple: Trident is deeply connected to music history. It originally opened in 1968 and quickly became the probably most in-place to record, as launch pad for many legendary artists such as Elton John, Lou Reed, Genesis, Supertramp, and Black Sabbath.
Some of the world's most famous recordings have taken place here: David Bowie recorded many of his own albums here including Ziggy Stardust. The Beatles came here in 1968 to record Hey Jude. Some of the White Album tracks were also recorded here. Paul McCartney helped Queen on their road to success - he used to block-book the studio and not always turn up. Queen were allowed to use this down time for free and the result was Bohemian Rhapsody.
Marquee Club (Google Streetview)
Some steps further south lies the location of former Marquee Club, once a legendary live music venue. Originally opened as a Jazz club in 1958, its most famous period was from 1964 to 1988 at 90 Wardour Street in Soho. It was launchpad to numerous famous Rock bands.
Almost every major Rock band played the tiny stage. It was even the location of the first-ever live performance by The Rolling Stones on 12 July 1962.
Live acts during the 1960s included Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, Yes, Jethro Tull, and Pink Floyd.
In the 70s, Queen performed three times here in the beginning of their career.
The Marquee Club also embraced the Punk movement of the late 1970s and regularly promoted Punk and New Wave nights with bands such as The Sex Pistols.
During the 1980s the club became an important venue to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, with acts like Iron Maiden playing legendary sets.
Metallica performed their first ever UK show on 27 March, 1984.
Today, a blue plaque outside the Wardour Street location reminds of this unique music place. It is a homage to The Who drummer Keith Moon.
2 I's Coffee House (Google Streetview)
Follow your path to another former location: the 2i's Coffee Bar was a coffeehouse on Old Compton Street, that was open from 1956 to 1970. It played an important role in the emergence of Britain's Pop music culture in the late 50s, with several major stars including Cliff Richard were first discovered performing there.
The 2i's closed in 1967. Today, there's a plaque to commemorate this place.
MPL (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
MPL Music Publishing is a company for the business interests of Paul McCartney and was established in 1969. In addition to handling his post-Beatles work, MPL is one of the world's largest privately owned music publishers.
Bars and venues tips: if you aren't around too early, take the time for a break in one of our favourite spots on this Soho subTOUR. Either Garlic & Shots, or The Spice of Life - great for some proper food with drinks in a truly Rock and Metal atmosphere. Garlic & Shots also offers a nice backyard terrace in summertime. For inspirations for tonight's program, check out the event listings, also of the famous Borderline venue.
Denmark Street (Google Streetview)
Named after Prince George of Denmark, Denmark Street was being developed in the late 17th century and since the 1950s linked with British Pop music due to publishers, recording studios, and music shops that were based in this so-called Tin Pan Alley.
The Rolling Stones recorded at Regent Sound Studio at No. 4. David Bowie and other famous artists socialised in the Gioconda café at No. 9. Elton John wrote songs at offices here, while The Sex Pistols lived above No. 6, and recorded their very first demo tapes there. The famous Helter Skelter music bookshop also has been located on Denmark Street.
A blue plaque is here to commemorate its importance to music industry.
Sights tip: when around, why not discover the truly wonderful British Museum with its astonishing collection.
History tip:
if you want to visit an authentic former Punk Rock place, head to the location where The Roxy once was situated. Still today, a plaque outside the building reminds of this special place.
Covent Garden (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
If you love shopping and dining, then Covent Garden is the right place for you. Located in the West End, it is renowned for its luxury fashion and beauty stores as well as restaurants and theatres. Definitely one of the most popular tourist sites in the city.
Club tip: nearby Roadhouse is a great spot for a party night out.
Trafalgar Square (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Head to Trafalgar Square. This is definitely one of London’s most vibrant and busiest spaces just in the very heart of the city. Surrounded by museums, galleries, cultural spaces, and historic buildings and a major tourist attraction. Back in 1830, this site was officially named Trafalgar Square. In 1843, Nelson’s Column was erected to honour Admiral Nelson, after his victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
Club tip: Studio 88 offers live music every night. So why not come back here later in the evening?
Rex House (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Live at the BBC is a compilation album by The Beatles which featured 56 tracks in total. All of them were recorded from the band’s BBC radio shows that took place between 1963 and 1965. The album was released in November 1994, and the album cover shows the Fab Four walking outside the BBC’s Paris Theatre on Regent Street in London. The theatre is no longer today but the building is still standing.
Sights tip: Piccadilly Circus is a must-see when in town. Busy, vibrant and major hot spot.
Bar tip: check out this bar in a legendary place. Trendy and inspired by superstar David Bowie.
3 Savile Row, London (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Not far way lies one of the most renowned live performances in music history. The Beatles desperately needed a conclusion for their movie Let It Be. They decided to play an unannounced concert at lunchtime on the rooftop of the new Apple offices on Thursday, 30 January, in 1969. It was here in 3 Savile Row that the Fab Four played live together for the very last time. What followed still remains one of the all-time greatest moments in modern Pop culture.
Ziggy Stardust Cover, London (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Final destination of the subTOUR is at 23 Heddon Street, a small, block-long, dead end street, just near Carnaby Street.
Here, back in 1972, David Bowie as his then alter ego Ziggy Stardust has been photographed for the album cover of his album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars.
In March 2012, a plaque on the wall of 23 Heddon Street has been installed.
Take some pictures and why not enjoy a drink in one of the nearby bars and restaurants.
Camden Town. Where music history has been written. Where the 90s Britpop of Blur, Pulp, and Oasis is rooted. Where the Punk movement started in the 70s. Explore the life and death of Amy Winehouse, legendary singer and songwriter.
This vibrant area has more record stores, street art, and live music venues than you can shake a stick at.
Discover the unique atmosphere of independence and revolution in these streets and stalls.
When in London don't miss this place marking music history like no other: Abbey Road. Iconic and legendary recording studio from where world-famous tapes changed the history of music. Also a synonym for The Beatles and their album Abbey Road. With its cover featuring the band members walking across the zebra crossing in front of the studio. Is there a better place to take a souvenir picture of your London trip?
Also explore the spot that marks another great Rock band and one of its hit singles: Coldplay's Violet Hill.
Knightsbridge, Kensington, Hyde Park - names that are directly connected with noble housing, elegant restaurants, and leisure time in green surroundings. Take a bike to explore these streets. From famous shopping temple Harrods to live venue Royal Albert Hall and royal Kensington Palace - this is London at its best.
Nevertheless, this area also provides places telling Rock 'n' Roll history beyond the obvious:
visit the Sticky Fingers restaurant owned by former Rolling Stones member Bill Wyman for a deep dive into the world of music memorabilia. Then learn about Elton John and the life and death of legendary Queen singer Freddie Mercury.
Chelsea, Belgravia and around: the best from the best on bike. Start at London Eye with its spectacular views upon the city.
Afterwards, scratch Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street as well as Big Ben & Houses of Parliament from your bucket list. Iconic Hard Rock Hotel & Café is next.
When in Chelsea, discover Rock 'n' Roll history beyond the walls of rather unimpressive buildings. Learn about The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Both inextricably linked to London.
Want to explore a true Punk place? Legendary World's End is telling music tales from the 60s until today.
Soho. Heart of London. Boasting with Rock 'n' Roll history from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones and from Punk to Heavy Metal. Former legendary night clubs meet today's vibrant bar scene and independent records stores. Where famous album covers from Oasis to David Bowie have been shot. Where myths were born on live music stages, on rooftops or in recording studios. Still today, numerous plaques tell of Soho's rich music history.
Soho #1 reveals iconic music places from The Beatles and The Bee Gees to The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd. Not to forget legendary Jimi Hendrix.
Soho. Heart of London. Boasting with Rock 'n' Roll history from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones and from Punk to Heavy Metal. Former legendary night clubs meet today's vibrant bar scene and independent records stores. Where famous album covers from Oasis to David Bowie have been shot. Where myths were born on live music stages, on rooftops or in recording studios. Still today, numerous plaques tell of Soho's rich music history.
Soho #2 reveals the famous album cover from Oasis' (What's The Story) Morning Glory? On your way, take your time to discover the countless record shops in the district. It's time for some vinyl shopping!
Islington. Probably not on top of your London bucket list. But full of music history that just cannot be ignored.
Discover places that are inextricably linked to British superstars Pink Floyd. In Islington, the Punk movement with legendary The Sex Pistols and The Clash evolved in the 70s.
Finally, also learn about a men's prison and its famous inhabitants, when around here.
Shoreditch and Spitalfield. Immerse into this trendy district loaded with vibrant bars, intimate cafés, and independent shops. Stop for snacks at one of the street food booths. Shop vintage clothing, modern accessories, or street art. Browse the shelfs of numerous record stores. Dive into the busy atmosphere of Brick Lane. And come back in the evening for a live performance in one of the music venues.
Definite highlight of the walk is Columbia Road Flower Market with its lush and colourful scenery.
On the way, explore the location of a music video everybody knows.
Notting Hill. Known from all those love story movies. An idyllic and colourful place and characteristic part of today's London. Enjoy its lush greens, combined with small streets, intimate cafés, and independent shops. Famous Portobello Market is just around the corner. For all the lovers of vintage clothing, old furniture, and lots more antiques.
Don't forget to discover the musical importance of this area. Discover Samarkand Hotel, the place where legendary American artist Jimi Hendrix spent the last hours of his short life.
Global success made in London
A leading figure in music
Founders of Punk Rock
Lemmy’s legendary Heavy Metal
Once performing at Woodstock
Legendary Heavy Metal with Eddie
Key player in British Punk Rock
London Pop Rock superstars
Legendary Freddie Mercury
Britpop at its best
The one and only Rock stars
Formed in 1965 in London
British Rock with Sting
With origins in Blues music
Named from Shepherd’s Bush
Indie Rock since 1998
Indie from Southern London
From London to worldwide success
From the 60s until today
Alternative Rock from outsiders for outsiders
One of the Britpop giants
Just legendary
Part of Genesis or as solo artist
An 80s icon
Iconic Camden artist
Pop Rock meets Wave and Gothic
Legends from the 60s
Mark Knopfler and his fellows
Britpop meets Psychedelic