Islington - probably not the area that guides will lead you first when in London. But full of music history to discover. Either behind the walls of old buildings or inside one of the record stores around. On this subTOUR you will discover places directly connected to the history of British superband Pink Floyd. On the way, learn about a men's prison and its famous inhabitants. Finally, Islington is also where Punk evolved by legendary live performances of The Sex Pistols and The Clash.
Always a great choice for a guided tour to learn about the local music history is joining the guys from
London Rock Tours or Swinging 60s. They will take you to the most important spots beyond the obvious ones and tell you legendary stories from the past.
We prefer doing this subTOUR in the afternoon as some of the recommended spots such as bars are opening after noon. So either start the tour with a proper lunch in one of the locations mentioned. Or even better - why not take your time before a concert at O2 Academy Islington to check out this walk through the district.
Pentonville Prison (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Your starting point is Pentonville Prison. This men's prison received its first prisoners in December 1842.
Since then, it was host to numerous Rock stars such as George Michael or Pete Doherty. The latter, singer of the Babyshambles, even wrote a song about the place: Pentonville is a title on the band's hit album Down In Albion.
Bar tips: before heading to the next waypoint of this Islington subTOUR, why not have a seat and a snack or drink in one of the countless bars or cafés around? Just to name a few: Hope & Anchor, Slim Jim's Liquor Store, or The Old Queens Head all offer live music from time to time as well have some Rock music history to discover.
Flashback Records (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Head in southeastern direction to Flashback Records. This record store offers something for any taste. A wide selection of new and old vinyl and CDs. Also check out the list of regular instore gigs by well-known and up and coming artists.
Britannia Row (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Just a few steps further is the place where the Britannia Row Studios were located. These former recording studio was built by Pink Floyd in a block at 35 Britannia Row, just after their album Wish You Were Here was released in 1975. The band used the studio to record their album Animals as well as some parts of The Wall, including the school chorus on hit single Another Brick in the Wall.
The studio was closed in September 2015 and was converted into flats and office space afterwards.
City of London Academy Islington (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
This neighbourhood also hosts a school that is now called City of London Academy Islington. Formerly known as Islington Green School.
30 November 1979 marks a date that has lingered long in the memory of a group of its students.
It’s the day when Pink Floyd released their hit album The Wall with the single Another Brick in the Wall (Part II).
23 students formed a choir on this single
singing the chorus line We Don’t Need No Education.
Screen on the green (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Stroll back westwards again into the busier area of Islington. The Screen On The Green today is a cinema. But back in the 70s the place where a legendary The Sex Pistols show took place.
On Sunday, 29 August 1976, The Clash supported The Sex Pistols live on stage. This is the earliest known recorded performance and a rare recording of The Sex Pistols with Glen Matlock.
The Screen On The Green was also the location for the first performance of Sid Vicious with The Sex Pistols, on 3 April 1977, following the dismissal of Matlock from the band.
Concert time (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
The final destination of this subTOUR leads you to the heart of Islington. O2 Academy Islington offers the best in live music from both emerging artists to established acts since its opening in 2002. Notable performers include Queensrÿche, KISS, August Burns Red, Fall Out Boy, Paramore, Dimmu Borgir, and My Chemical Romance. The latter even recorded a music video in here.
Check out the event calendar to see if there are any interesting concerts coming up for you.
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!
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 #3 reveals famous album covers from The Beatles and David Bowie. Discover a recording studio that has been the birthplace to legendary songs and albums. Also explore live music venues where Rock history has been written. Finally, check out the location of a legendary Fab Four rooftop performance.
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
