Printworks London - The Ultimate Party Destination for Nightlife Enthusiasts
Printworks London isn’t just another warehouse party space-it’s the heartbeat of London’s underground electronic music scene, where bass drops echo through industrial halls and crowds dance until sunrise. If you’re looking for a night out that feels raw, real, and unforgettable, this is where you need to be.
What Makes Printworks London Stand Out?
Printworks London is a 30,000-square-foot former printing factory turned world-class music venue in Southwark, right next to the Thames. It opened in 2018 and quickly became one of the most talked-about venues in Europe-not because of fancy decor or VIP lounges, but because of its sound, space, and unapologetic focus on music.
Unlike typical clubs, Printworks doesn’t rely on flashy lighting or bottle service to sell tickets. Instead, it invests in top-tier sound systems, massive open layouts, and booking artists who push boundaries-think Four Tet, Charlotte de Witte, and Floating Points. The venue has three distinct rooms: the Main Hall, the Studio, and the Vault. Each has its own sonic identity, and each is engineered to deliver club-grade audio that makes your chest vibrate.
How to Plan Your Night at Printworks London
Going to Printworks isn’t like walking into a pub. You need to plan ahead, especially if you want to avoid long lines and sold-out shows.
- Check the calendar early-Events sell out fast. Popular DJs and labels like Boiler Room or NTS often announce tickets weeks in advance.
- Buy tickets online-Never buy at the door unless it’s a last-minute open event. Most shows are sold out before doors open.
- Arrive early-The venue opens at 10 PM, but the best energy builds between 11 PM and 1 AM. Getting there early means better access to the main floor and shorter bathroom lines.
- Dress for movement-Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be standing for hours on concrete floors. No suits, no high heels. Think streetwear, denim, and layers.
- Bring cash-While card payments are accepted, the bar queues move faster with cash. Keep £20-£30 on you for drinks and merch.
What to Expect Inside
Walk into Printworks, and the first thing you notice isn’t the music-it’s the silence. Then, a deep bass note hits. The walls shake. The floor rumbles. That’s when you know you’re in the right place.
The Main Hall is a cathedral of sound. With 16,000 square feet of open space and a custom-designed Funktion-One system, it’s one of the few venues in the UK where you can hear every kick, snare, and synth without distortion-even at 120 dB. The lighting is minimal: strobes, lasers, and fog machines used sparingly to enhance, not overwhelm.
The Studio is smaller, darker, and more intimate. It’s where underground techno and experimental sets thrive. You’ll find local DJs here spinning vinyl-only sets you won’t hear anywhere else.
The Vault is the hidden gem. Accessed through a narrow corridor, it’s a low-ceilinged room with industrial pipes and brick walls. This is where the most hardcore fans gather. The sound here is pure analog-no digital filters, no auto-tune. Just raw, uncut rhythm.
Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere
Printworks doesn’t serve fancy cocktails or gourmet snacks. That’s not the point. The bar offers a short, sharp menu: cans of lager, whiskey shots, soda, and water. Prices are fair-£6 for a pint, £8 for a spirit. No overpriced cocktails here.
There’s a small food truck outside serving burgers and loaded fries. It’s open during events and gets busy, but worth the wait. Most people grab a bite before the main set starts or during a break.
The vibe? No pretension. No VIP section. No bouncers judging your outfit. People come here to lose themselves in music, not to be seen. You’ll see students, engineers, artists, and retirees all dancing side by side. It’s one of the few places in London where class, age, and background don’t matter.
When to Go and What’s Coming Up
Printworks runs events almost every weekend, but the biggest nights are Friday and Saturday. Summer weekends draw huge crowds, but winter nights-especially December and January-are quieter and often more intense. The venue hosts themed nights like “Techno Tuesdays” and “Industrial Sundays,” which are perfect if you want to avoid the weekend rush.
In early 2026, Printworks is launching a new residency with Berlin-based label Perlon, bringing in minimal techno legends every other Friday. They’re also partnering with London’s iconic Boiler Room for a monthly live-streamed set, so even if you can’t make it in person, you can still feel the energy.
Getting There and Parking
Printworks is located at 114-120 Tooley Street, SE1 2TZ-right next to London Bridge Station. It’s a 5-minute walk from the tube. The closest stations are London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines), Borough (Northern line), and Tower Bridge (District and Circle lines).
There’s no parking at the venue. The area is a low-emission zone, and street parking is limited and expensive. If you’re driving, use Parkopedia to find nearby paid lots, but the best option is public transport. Uber and Bolt are reliable, but expect surge pricing after midnight.
Why Printworks London Is Different
Most clubs in London focus on image. Printworks focuses on sound. It doesn’t need influencers or branded cocktails to fill its rooms. It thrives because the music is good, the system is unmatched, and the crowd is there for the right reasons.
It’s not for everyone. If you want a night of cocktails, selfies, and background music, go to a rooftop bar. But if you want to feel the music in your bones, lose track of time, and leave with your ears ringing and your soul full-Printworks is the only place in London that delivers that every single time.
Is Printworks London open every weekend?
No, Printworks doesn’t host events every weekend. It runs around 15-20 events per month, mostly on Fridays and Saturdays. Check their official website or Instagram for the latest lineup. Some weeks have no events, especially during holidays or maintenance periods.
Do I need to be over 18 to enter Printworks London?
Yes, Printworks is strictly 18+. No exceptions. You must show a valid photo ID-passport, driving license, or UK proof-of-age card. Even if you look older, staff will check your ID at the door.
Can I bring a camera or phone to Printworks?
You can bring your phone, but professional cameras and DSLRs are not allowed. Most events have official photographers, and flash photography is discouraged. The venue encourages you to be present-not to document every moment.
Is there a dress code at Printworks London?
There’s no official dress code, but smart casual or streetwear works best. Avoid formal wear, flip-flops, or heavy coats. Most people wear jeans, hoodies, boots, and layers. The venue is cold in winter, so bring a jacket you can take off.
How long do parties at Printworks usually last?
Most events run from 10 PM to 4 AM, but some special nights go until 6 AM. The venue is licensed for late-night operation, and the crowd often stays until the final track fades. Last entry is usually at 2 AM, and doors close at 4 AM sharp.
Are there any events at Printworks London for beginners in electronic music?
Yes. Printworks hosts “Intro to Techno” nights and label showcases aimed at newcomers. Look for events tagged as “beginner-friendly” or hosted by collectives like Resident Advisor or RA Live. These nights often have lower ticket prices and more relaxed vibes.
Final Thoughts: Is Printworks London Worth It?
If you’ve never been to a real underground club, Printworks is your first stop. It’s not about the name on the poster-it’s about the way the music moves you. No distractions. No noise. Just sound, space, and people who care about the same thing you do.
It’s expensive-tickets start at £25 and go up to £50 for big names. But if you’ve ever wanted to feel what real club culture sounds like, this is the place. Skip the tourist traps. Skip the bottle service. Come here for the music. You won’t regret it.
