About The Pickle Factory
The Pickle Factory is an intimate, 200-capacity nightclub tucked away in Bethnal Green, East London (www.picklefactory.co ) (ra.co ). Opened in 2015 by the team behind Oval Space, it occupies a converted warehouse – in fact, its name reflects the building’s history as a genuine pickle processing factory (ru.scribd.com ). The main hall is about 255 m² (roughly 7×17 m) with high steel-beam ceilings and frosted skylights, all painted white (www.canvas-events.co.uk ) (www.picklefactory.co ). Sound is king here: the venue is built around a six-point D&B Audiotechnik sound system in an “acoustically engineered” space (www.picklefactory.co ), so expect very high-quality audio. Other features include a built-in cocktail bar and an adjacent event space called Canvas (capacity ~340) for private hire (www.picklefactory.co ).
Since its opening, The Pickle Factory has been celebrated as a throwback to classic East London “microclubs.” The venue’s own site boasts it has stood as “the last in the tradition of grassroots small East London venues” (in the spirit of clubs like Plastic People) (www.picklefactory.co ). It’s known for a raw, authentic vibe – even the club’s final social media post called it a “dark, cosy, ever-so-slightly shabby” venue (ra.co ). This no-nonsense charm has won it fans and accolades; publications have dubbed it “one of London’s best nightclubs” and praised its rare, tight-knit atmosphere (www.timeout.com ) (www.timeout.com ). In practice, the crowd is usually friendly and music-focused. Over the years top underground artists have played here – for example, Resident Advisor notes the 200-capacity space “has played host to everyone from Dopplereffekt, Donato Dozzy and DJ Sottofett to Doc Scott, The Ghost and Josey Rebelle” (ra.co ). In short, The Pickle Factory matters for its high-end sound, lo-fi style and community spirit, making it a beloved local spot for electronic music lovers.
Events and Programming
The Pickle Factory’s calendar is almost entirely electronic music, with DJ-led parties on most weekends (and occasional weeknight events or day parties). The music spans a wide range of underground styles – deep house, techno, dub-techno, broken beat and experimental club sounds are common. Headliners and resident DJs tend to be well-known names in the scene. For example, recent line-ups have included veterans and up-and-comers alike – Todd Edwards (Detroit house), John Gómez (UK techno), Rhadoo (Romanian minimal) and Batu (Greek house) were all booked for a summer season (ra.co ). In earlier years the club hosted Hessle Audio boss Pearson Sound, London’s Jane Fitz, and even deep-Detroit legend Daniel Bell under his DBX alias, among many others. Many events run all night long. A sample July 2019 programme (reported by Crack Magazine) included a John Gómez & Nick The Record “Tangent” night running 12+ hours, followed by all-night sets by Pearson Sound and Jane Fitz (crackmagazine.net ). There are also themed or charity nights: for instance, in summer 2019 the venue hosted Cosmic Slop and Brudenell Groove fundraising parties, plus an “Under One Roof” inclusive rave for adults with learning disabilities (crackmagazine.net ). In general look for late-night DJ sets, label or crew takeovers, occasional live acts and dance parties that attract a dedicated crowd. Ticket prices vary by event (big names might be £15–20, smaller nights around £8–12); early-bird deals or reduced-price pre-midnight entry are common.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold through the club’s official outlets (e.g. event platforms and authorized partners). Popular shows often sell out in advance, so it’s wise to book early. The Pickle Factory states that “buying a ticket is the only way to guarantee entry,” and notes that afternoon or early-bird tickets (before a cutoff time) can be cheaper (www.picklefactory.co ). Door sales are possible if the event hasn’t sold out – as the venue puts it: “Depending on availability, tickets can also be purchased on the door” (www.picklefactory.co ) – but you should not rely on this for major events. Watch the club’s social pages and mailing list for on-sale dates. Some events may offer a presale for mailing-list subscribers. If you lose a ticket, the policy is to contact the seller for a replacement, as “once purchased, tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded” (www.picklefactory.co ). There is no traditional box office at the club aside from the door. In summary: buy tickets online well before the night, and only use door sales as a backup.
Seating and Layout
The club is essentially one big flat room with standing-room general admission. There is no permanent seating; any chairs or lounges are only present for special events. The open floorplan (about 255 m²) means everyone will be on the dancefloor. According to venue specs, the space can hold ~200 people standing (roughly 100 if set up theatre-style) (www.canvas-events.co.uk ). The ceiling is fairly low (around 2.2–3.3 m at different points) (ru.scribd.com ), so it feels intimate. The DJ booth is at one end of the hall on a slight platform, but from most of the room you have a line-of-sight to the DJ. Sound is evenly distributed by design, so you’ll get a powerful bass experience wherever you stand. Some clubbers prefer the front of the crowd for the full effect, while others hang back by the bar area to chat or rest. If you need space, the bar side does have some room to step out of the crush. Because the walls and ceiling are light-colored and acoustically treated, there are virtually no bad sound spots. (Pro visitors often recommend earplugs for extended dancing.) In practical terms, any point on the floor works – just pick near-speakers for maximum volume or back near the exits for a quieter corner. Restrooms are up a short flight (men’s, women’s) and a ground-floor accessible loo is available (ru.scribd.com ). Adjacent amenities like the courtyard or greenroom are not generally used by the public during club nights.
Getting There and Parking
The Pickle Factory is at 13–14 The Oval, London E2 9DT (just off Hackney Road). Public transport is highly recommended. The nearest London Overground stop is Cambridge Heath Station (350 m, about 5 minutes’ walk) (www.picklefactory.co ). The Bethnal Green Tube (Central Line) is roughly 900 m away (10–15 minute walk) (www.picklefactory.co ). Many buses run on Hackney Road right by the club – routes 26, 254, 388 and others stop nearby (www.picklefactory.co ) – and night buses (e.g. the N8) cover Hackney Road after midnight. There is no official car park for visitors. A small courtyard behind the venue is occasionally used for loading or very limited off-street parking (ru.scribd.com ), but street parking in this part of Tower Hamlets is mostly restricted. If driving, expect to find only metered bays well away from the venue. Rideshare drop-off is easy at the Oval roundabout or Hackney Road location. Cyclists will find bike racks outside the entrance (and more in The Oval courtyard) (www.picklefactory.co ).
Inside the Venue
On entry, expect airport-style security. The club enforces a strict search policy: bags and persons may be checked, and management can refuse entry at their discretion (www.picklefactory.co ). As a licensed 18+ venue, The Pickle Factory follows Challenge 25, so you must show a valid photo ID (passport, driving licence or PASS card) – **no ID means no entry** (www.picklefactory.co ). The dress code is casual clubwear (jeans, tees, club shoes are fine); avoid overly casual or sports team gear if possible. The venue has a zero-tolerance drugs policy: **all illegal substances** (and even legal high/psychoactive items) are forbidden and will result in ejection (www.picklefactory.co ) (www.picklefactory.co ). Likewise, nothing flammable or dangerous (like fireworks, pepper spray, etc.) is allowed inside (www.picklefactory.co ). Outside food or drink of any kind (including bottled water or perfume) is not permitted (www.picklefactory.co ) – all beverages must be bought at the bar. Smoking is only allowed in the small outdoor area by the back door (by law, not indoors).
Inside, the atmosphere is low-lit and energetic. The walls are bare except for the occasional graffiti or projector, emphasizing the sound over decor. The bar serves a full range of cocktails, beers and spirits (they even advertise a dedicated “Cocktail Bar” inside (www.picklefactory.co )). There’s no kitchen for a sit-down meal, only snacks or sandwiches on big event evenings. For convenience, the venue is wired for tech. A brochure notes 100 Mbps dedicated fibre internet on site (ru.scribd.com ) (for staff use), but guests should rely on mobile coverage. If you need to sit or use your phone, small benches or the bar counter provide room – otherwise, it’s a standing-room party. There is usually a small cloak/locker area by the entrance (though capacity is limited), so bring minimal outerwear if possible. Overall, expect a typical compact London club setup: one dancefloor, pounding sound, a packed bar in one corner, and bathrooms nearby for convenience.
Nearby Amenities
The Pickle Factory sits in a busy East London neighbourhood with plenty of nearby options. For pre-show food and drinks, you have several choices within walking distance. Hackney Road itself has pubs and street-food stalls. Just south on Bethnal Green Road (5–10 minute walk) are popular spots like The Slaughtered Lamb and Brick Lane’s famous curry houses and bagel shops. Alternatively, a short walk east reaches Broadway Market (trendy eateries) or north reaches Shoreditch High Street (with its many cafes, bars and restaurants such as Dishoom, Dishoom, Boxpark, etc.). If you want something quick, there are sandwich shops and kebab shops on Hackney Road and the Oval roundabout. Post-show or late-night bars include venues up Hackney Road or the famous bars of Shoreditch.
If you need to stay overnight, hotels are plentiful a short distance away. Nearby options include budget chains like Travelodge or Holiday Inn Express near Mile End, and more stylish choices in Shoreditch (Ace Hotel Shoreditch, Curtain Hotel, etc.) or the City (Novotel, Premier Inn around Aldgate). Walking to Shoreditch takes ~15 minutes, or it’s one tube stop on the Central Line. In general, arriving at least 30–45 minutes before the advertised start helps – lines can form for popular events. Finally, plan your trip home: Bethnal Green Tube services end around midnight, so night buses (e.g. N8, N253) or taxis are the fallback after club close.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Pickle Factory’s popularity comes from its unique blend of high-quality production and grassroots vibe. Unlike glitzy superclubs, it is purposefully “low-key” and focused, with media praise calling it an “ever-so-slightly shabby” space full of real character (ra.co ). The stripped-back white-brick interior and steely beams recall an authentic warehouse feel, making it feel more like an underground party than a commodified night out. Its sound setup is exceptional – artists often say the room sounds as good as a studio – which is rare at this size. In short, it’s known as a place where “music lovers” can really connect with the DJ and crowd.
Culturally, The Pickle Factory has earned a legendary status in London. It became the heir to legendary small East-end clubs, and even the press calls it “one of London’s best nightclubs” (www.timeout.com ). Famous performances – such as Todd Edwards dropping classic house tunes, or Jane Fitz showcasing UK bass – have helped build its mystique. It also nurtures the community: noted promoters behind it often explain that the club has “so much cultural equity” and a vibe “rare to find” (www.timeout.com ). In practical terms, it’s simply a club that feels personal: DJs mingle on the dancefloor, locals see each other every week, and there’s a genuine feeling of shared experience that draws people back. (Many visitors say the sound and crowd here “can’t be replicated” in larger venues.) All these factors – the perfect sound, the historic industrial setting, the supportive scene – combine to make The Pickle Factory a beloved spot by both Londoners and touring artists alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The club offers step-free access and an accessible toilet on the ground floor (ru.scribd.com ) (ru.scribd.com ). Staff are happy to assist guests with disabilities, but if in doubt you can contact the venue in advance. Inside, all walking areas are on one level except for the restrooms upstairs.
Bring/Not Bring: On arrival you’ll be searched. Don’t bring any outside food, drink, liquids, or large items – these are explicitly prohibited (even a bottle of water or cans of juice) (www.picklefactory.co ). Drugs of any kind are strictly banned. Carry a wallet, phone and keys; consider ear protection. Only original ID is allowed – photocopies won’t work (www.picklefactory.co ). There is no formal dress code, but typical club attire (jeans, t-shirt or shirt, comfortable shoes) is recommended. Very casual sportswear or gang-style clothing might not be welcome.
Age Restrictions: As above, it’s strictly 18+ (they even run Challenge 25 on door) (www.picklefactory.co ). Under-18s are not admitted, even to daytime events.
Arrival/Crowd: Expect a friendly but full gathering. Most people queue outside before doors, especially for big acts. To avoid long waits or a possible sell-out, aim to arrive early (doors typically open at 11pm). Late arrivals often face being turned away if the capacity is reached. Coat check is usually available for a small fee or donation, but space is limited – many regulars travel light for convenience. Lockers are not provided, so keep valuables on you.
Connectivity: There is no public Wi-Fi, so bring any tickets/schedules on your phone in advance. Mobile signal inside is generally OK but can be spotty in the basement sections.
Conduct: Pickle Factory crowds are known to be laid-back. Still, common-sense applies: watch your drinks, respect personal space in the mosh, and obey staff instructions. Photography with phones is generally tolerated (again, no flash wands). Professional camera use or video recording should be cleared with management.
Lines and Schedules: On weekends the club’s usual hours are ~11pm–5am (finishing times may vary). Last entry is typically around 1am (www.picklefactory.co ). After shows end, remember the Central Line closes ~midnight; plan to catch a night bus (or cab) home. If you need a quick meal, nearby 24-hour spots (like kebab shops or late fish & chips) exist just off Brick Lane.
Overall, the best tip is to immerse yourself in the moment: it’s a tight, sweaty dancefloor with a sense of community. Festival bracelets or spirit might help – many experience here are about music and atmosphere, not frills. Enjoy the powerful sound system and say hello to fellow Pickle fans – that’s part of what makes a night here memorable.
What is the exact address of The Pickle Factory?
The Pickle Factory is located at 13–14 The Oval, London E2 9DT, in a side street just off Hackney Road in Bethnal Green (www.picklefactory.co ). Look for a brick warehouse entrance with a mural; the nearest tube/overground stations are Cambridge Heath and Bethnal Green (see below).
How do I get to The Pickle Factory using public transport?
The closest station is Cambridge Heath (London Overground, ~5 min walk) (www.picklefactory.co ). The Bethnal Green Tube (Central Line) is about 900 m away (~10–15 min walk) (www.picklefactory.co ). Several buses stop on Hackney Road nearby (for example routes 26, 254, 388, 48, 106, etc (www.picklefactory.co )). After midnight, night buses like the N8 or N253 can be taken from Hackney Road back toward central London.
Are there parking facilities at The Pickle Factory?
There is no dedicated public car park. The courtyard behind the venue is mainly for loading, though it can accommodate very limited off-street parking (ru.scribd.com ). On-street parking is restricted in Bethnal Green (residents’ permits often required). It’s generally advisable to use public transport, taxi or rideshare instead of driving.
How do I buy tickets for events at The Pickle Factory?
Tickets are sold through The Pickle Factory’s official website or approved vendors like event apps (e.g. Dice or Resident Advisor). For popular events you should buy in advance, as the venue cautions that only pre-purchased tickets guarantee entry (www.picklefactory.co ). Some nights also offer a discounted rate if you arrive very early. If a show isn’t fully sold out, you may be able to buy tickets on the door (see below).
Can I buy tickets at the door on the night?
Possibly, but only if tickets remain. The Pickle Factory’s policy says “depending on availability, tickets can also be purchased on the door,” but numerous sold-out events suggest you should not count on door sales (www.picklefactory.co ). To be safe, purchase tickets ahead of time when you can.
How much do tickets typically cost?
There’s no fixed price – it depends on the event and line-up. In recent years, standard night events have often been in the £8–£15 range, while big-name DJs or longer all-night sessions may charge £20 or more. Early-bird and discounted tickets (before doors) are sometimes available. Always check the specific event listing for exact prices.
What age restrictions apply?
The club is strictly 18+ and enforces a Challenge 25 policy. You must carry original photo ID (e.g. passport, driver’s licence or PASS card); no ID means no entry (www.picklefactory.co ). Under-18s are not allowed even for matinee or daytime events.
What am I allowed to bring, and what is forbidden?
Personal belongings like keys, phone and money are fine. Prohibited items are very broad: no outside food or drink (even bottled water or gum), no weapons, no illegal substances or “legal highs” (www.picklefactory.co ). Anything staff judge dangerous will be confiscated (they explicitly ban items like glass bottles, knives, large flasks, etc (www.picklefactory.co )). Bring only essentials and leave bulky bags at home.
Is there a dress code?
There is no formal dress code. Club attire is typically casual (jeans, T-shirt, trainers or boots). Avoid overly revealing clothing or clothes with offensive slogans. The key is to dress comfortably for dancing; you will be searched but as long as your outfit isn’t provocative or gang-related, it should be fine.
Is The Pickle Factory wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue advertises disabled access into the main hall (ru.scribd.com ). There are no steps from street level into the club, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet is provided on the ground floor (ru.scribd.com ). Do note that bar counters and bathrooms upstairs may have some reach challenges, but in general it is considered accessible.
Are there seats, or is it all standing?
The Pickle Factory is primarily a standing-room club. Data from venue specs lists 200 standing capacity (about 100 if set up with chairs) (www.canvas-events.co.uk ). Some special events might arrange chairs or sofas, but normally you should expect to stand or dance. There are a few benches along the walls and a bar counter where you can sit (or rest) if needed.
Can I take photos or record videos?
Smartphone photography is generally tolerated (many guests record short videos), but large professional cameras or tripods are not allowed without permission. Flash photography is discouraged during concerts. The focus is on enjoying the moment, so minimal-fi mobile snaps or videos are fine as long as they don’t block aisles or annoy dancers.
What food and drink options are available at the venue?
There is a full bar inside – they’ve even branded it a “Cocktail Bar” (www.picklefactory.co ). Expect mixed drinks, spirits, beer, wine and non-alcoholic options. Alcohol is served until the legal bar cut-off (typically midnight). There is no kitchen for diners; if you’re hungry, eat beforehand or grab street food nearby.
Where are good places to eat or drink near The Pickle Factory?
The neighbourhood has many options. A short walk south is Brick Lane and Bethnal Green Road, known for curry houses (Aladin) and bagel/pastry shops. Hackney Road itself has pubs and street-food stands. Shoreditch (10–15 min walk) offers trendy restaurants and bars (note: venues like Dishoom, Pizza East or Shoreditch’s boxpark are about a 5–10 minute bike ride). For pre-show bites, popular choices include The Slaughtered Lamb or Hackney Road pizza joints. (Tip: arrive hungry or grab something early, as the club sells only limited snacks.)
Are there hotels near The Pickle Factory?
Yes. The surrounding areas of Shoreditch and Stepney Green have plenty of overnight options. Nearby choices include budget to midrange hotels like Travelodge (Bethnal Green/Mile End), Holiday Inn Express, and local guesthouses. Slightly further (a couple of tube stops) are bigger chains in Aldgate or City of London. Shoreditch has boutique options (Ace Hotel, Curtain, etc.) within a mile. South London convectors may also be viable via tube.
What time do The Pickle Factory events usually run?
Typical club nights at The Pickle Factory start around 11pm and run until 4–5am. The official hours are usually 11pm–5am on Fridays and Saturdays, with last entry around 1am (www.picklefactory.co ). Always double-check your ticket or announcement: daytime or special events (e.g. show cases) may occur in the afternoon or early evening, and their entry times will be noted.
What is “Pickle 2.0” and is the club currently closed?
In mid-2024 The Pickle Factory announced a major renovation called “Pickle 2.0.” This plan (in partnership with GALA festival) adds a second dance floor, new DJ booth, updated interior and sound enhancements (djmag.com ). The club closed its doors at the end of August 2024 for this refit. According to news reports, it will reopen fully in 2025 with the new layout (www.timeout.com ). Thus, any events beyond Aug 2024 have been postponed; check the venue’s channels for reopening announcements.
Why is the venue called The Pickle Factory?
The name is literal. The building was originally a pickle factory (and later a medical warehouse) before being converted into a club (ru.scribd.com ). The founders kept the name to highlight the venue’s industrial heritage.
