If you’re hunting for a top night‑out spot in London, XOYO Nightclub should be at the top of your list. Nestled in Shoreditch’s bustling streets, this venue has become a cornerstone of the city’s electronic music scene, drawing locals, expats, and tourists alike who crave high‑energy beats and unforgettable live DJ sets.
XOYO is a celebrated nightclub located on Great Eastern Street in Shoreditch, London. Since opening its doors in 2009, XOYO has earned a reputation for curating cutting‑edge line‑ups that span house, techno, disco, and emerging underground sounds. Its intimate 800‑person capacity gives every guest a front‑row feel, while state‑of‑the‑art sound engineering ensures the bass hits you as hard as the music.
Why XOXO Beats the Competition
London nightlife is packed with legendary venues - from the cavernous floors of Fabric to the iconic vibes of Ministry of Sound. Yet XOYO offers a sweet spot between massive clubs and hidden speakeasies. The venue’s flexible layout features a main dance floor, a mezzanine lounge, and a smaller back‑room for intimate performances. This versatility lets the club switch from marathon techno marathons on Saturday nights to soulful house brunches on Sundays.
For comparison, see the table below which highlights key attributes of three leading clubs:
Venue | Location | Capacity | Main Genres | Typical Night |
---|---|---|---|---|
XOYO | Shoreditch, London | ~800 | House, Techno, Disco | Resident DJ nights, special guest sets |
Fabric | Farringdon, London | ~1,500 | Techno, Drum‑&‑Bass, Bassline | Late‑night marathon sessions |
Ministry of Sound | Elephant & Castle, London | ~1,200 | House, EDM, Commercial | Chart‑topping DJ tours |
Getting There - A London Traveller’s Guide
Shoreditch is exceptionally well‑served by public transport. The closest Underground stop is Old Street (Northern Line), just a five‑minute walk away. If you’re coming from the south, catch a bus on the R86 route that runs along Regent Street and alight at the Great Eastern St stop. For those preferring rideshares, the club sits near the W1/W2/T1 taxi zones, meaning you’ll rarely wait long.
Tip: Grab a contactless Oyster or a travel‑card - the Tube fare from Victoria to Old Street is £2.90 off‑peak, and a quick stroll through Brick Lane’s street art offers the perfect pre‑night warm‑up.
What to Expect on a Night Out
XOYO’s programming is driven by a mix of resident DJs and world‑renowned guests. Monday kicks off the week with “FutureFunk,” a funk‑infused house night that draws a loyal crowd of 30‑plus‑somethings. Thursday’s “TechnoTuesday” (yes, it’s a Thursday) showcases deep‑cut techno selections curated by the club’s in‑house producers. Saturday’s headline slot often features names like Charlotte de Witte, Black Coffee, or The Blessed Madonna, booked through the popular ResidentAdvisor online ticketing platform.
Ticket prices vary: early‑bird entry starts at £12, while premium packages-including a priority line and a drink voucher-run £25‑£30. The club accepts both cashless payments and contactless cards at the bar, where you’ll find a curated cocktail menu featuring the “Shoreditch Spritz” and a selection of craft beers from local breweries like Beavertown.

Dress Code & Etiquette
London club culture values both style and comfort. XOYO’s dress code tips leaning‑toward smart‑casual: think sleek sneakers, dark denim, and a statement jacket. Avoid sportswear, head‑to‑toe trainers, or anything overly flamboyant on weekdays. On weekend headliners, you’ll see a blend of streetwear and high‑fashion, reflecting the city’s eclectic vibe.
Etiquette matters: the club enforces a no‑photography rule on the dance floor to protect artists’ performances. Respect the line, keep phones on silent, and be courteous to the bar staff-London’s night‑life thrives on mutual respect.
Special Events & Partnerships
XOYO isn’t just a weekly party machine; it hosts occasional pop‑up collaborations with brands that resonate with London’s creative scene. Recent examples include a limited‑edition gin tasting night co‑hosted with Sipsmith London‑based gin distillery, and an art‑installation event featuring works from the Saatchi Gallery contemporary art institution. These events often sell out fast, so booking through the club’s newsletter is a smart move.
Comparing XOYO to Other London Venues
While Fabric is famed for its marathon techno sessions that stretch well past sunrise, XOYO’s more intimate vibe makes it easier to get close to the DJ. Ministry of Sound offers a larger commercial experience with big‑budget productions, but can feel impersonal for those seeking a genuine underground feel. If you love discovering new talent, Egg London another prominent Shoreditch nightclub is worth a look, yet XOYO’s balanced booking roster-mixing veterans with fresh faces-keeps the night fresh without the overwhelming crowd sizes of larger venues.
Tips for First‑Timers
- Arrive early for popular nights - the door opens at 9pm and lines can form quickly after 10pm.
- Buy tickets online ahead of time via Resident Advisor or the club’s own site to avoid pay‑at‑door surcharges.
- Plan your exit by checking the last train from Old Street (usually around 12:30am on weekdays, later on weekends).
- Stay hydrated - the club’s free water station is tucked near the mezzanine bar.
- Bring a backup payment method - while contactless is accepted, some bars still prefer chip‑and‑pin.
Future Outlook - What’s Next for XOYO?
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, XOYO has announced plans to expand its audio-visual capabilities, incorporating immersive LED walls and a 3D sound system designed in partnership with L-Acoustics global sound engineering firm. The club also aims to host a quarterly “LondonMix‑Series” that will feature collaborations with local radio stations such as BBCRadio1 Britain’s flagship music channel, giving listeners a live‑streamed glimpse into the club’s vibe.
These upgrades promise to keep XOYO at the forefront of London’s music scene, ensuring it remains a go‑to destination for both seasoned clubbers and newcomers looking for that authentic London nightlife experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best night to hear house music at XOYO?
Mondays host “FutureFunk,” a house‑centric night that blends classic tracks with modern deep‑house vibes. It’s the most reliable slot for house lovers.
How do I get to XOYO from Central London?
Take the Northern Line to Old Street, then walk east on Old Street for about 300m. The club’s entrance is on Great Eastern Street, hidden behind a discreet sign.
Does XOYO have a dress code?
Smart‑casual is encouraged. Dark jeans, stylish sneakers, or a sleek jacket are safe choices. Avoid sportswear and baseball caps.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes, but prices are higher and lines can be long. Purchasing online via Resident Advisor or the club’s website guarantees entry and the best rate.
Are there any age restrictions?
You must be 18 or over to enter. ID checks are standard at the door.