About The Bongo Club
The Bongo Club is an iconic underground nightclub and live-music venue in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Founded in 1996, it is regarded as the city’s longest-running independent club (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Run by the Out of the Blue arts charity (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ), Bongo has a reputation “putting the cult into culture” with a street-level attitude and international reach (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). The venue occupies a former basement space under the old Central Library on Cowgate. Its industrial-chic interior is adorned with rotating art exhibits and has two main levels (a large dancefloor and an upstairs bar room). Despite its club label, Bongo serves as an all-round hub for DJs, live bands, theatre and art, reflecting its Fringe Festival and community roots. The main performance floor holds about 300 people standing (120 seated) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ), making it a lively yet intimate setting. Signature features include a state-of-the-art surround-sound system and light rig, plus “killer residencies” by local club nights such as Overground, Pulse and Messenger Sound System (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Critics praise the club’s “affectionately known” status and accessibility, noting it encourages creativity over commercialism (www.theskinny.co.uk ). This mix of underground music, art and community values makes The Bongo Club a unique cornerstone of Scotland’s capital music scene.
Events and Programming
The Bongo Club’s calendar brims with eclectic events nearly every week. You can expect club-nights and live shows across virtually every genre of modern music. Regular resident nights include bass-heavy sets (dub, reggae and drum’n’bass at Electrikal and Messenger Sound System), hardcore techno and harder styles (Pulse, Epika, Alien Disko), 2-step and UK garage (Chromatic), hyperpop and indie dance (Overground), and house/disco parties (Club Nacht x Hobbes Music, Disco Makossa) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). On any given month, top acts from the scene have appeared – from House of All and DJ Stingray to local stars like Kirollus, Billie Marten or Barry Can’t Swim as live performers (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). The club also hosts spoken word, comedy and Fringe Festival shows in the summer. Late-night and weekend events are most common, with start times often ranging from 7pm for live gigs to around 11pm for club nights. Notable recurring fixtures include an annual Hogmanay drum’n’bass rave and special student Freshers’ Week parties. Because Bongo collaborates with dozens of local promoters, every night can have its own flavour. Typical cover charges are very affordable: many DJ nights run £5–£10 in advance, while major gigs or anniversary events may go up to £15–18 (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Early bird and student tickets are often available for a few pounds; for example, a recent techno event offered early-bird entry from £10 (up to about £18 full price) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). In short, visitors enjoy a rotating mix of “killer” underground club nights and intimate live concerts, all delivered with Bongo’s signature friendly vibe.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Bongo Club events are normally sold online. The club’s own website and social media direct you to ticketing partners (often Resident Advisor or TicketScotland). Each event listing should clearly state where to purchase. Advance booking is highly recommended for headliner shows and themed nights, since popular events can sell out early (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). When possible, the club may reserve some tickets for door sales, but this is not guaranteed on big nights. Subscribers to the club’s mailing list (and followers on Facebook or Instagram) get early access or discount codes; for example, the “Bongo Dollars” campaign has offered door vouchers on flyers distributed around town (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Prices typically vary by event: most dance nights are in the £4–£10 range (sometimes even £2–£5 on student nights), whereas larger concerts or closing parties range up to £15–18 (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Many nights also have £0.50–£3 “before 12am” deals or reduced student tickets. There is no on-site box office open during the day, so plan to buy tickets online in advance or (if offered) at the door just before kickoff. Latecomers should note that Bongo usually enforces a re-entry policy: once you leave the club, your ticket is not valid for return (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ), so cross the street only if certain you’re ready to head home.
Seating and Layout
The Bongo Club has two main performance spaces: a large downstairs room and a smaller upstairs lounge. The main floor is essentially a general-admission dancehall with a stage at one end and a bar along one wall. Most events are standing-room; the venue removed most fixed seating to maximise capacity (the 120 seats quoted are for special seated configurations). The upstairs room opens onto the same level and features its own bar, lounge seating and small stage for acoustic acts or DJs. It overlooks the dancefloor via an open gallery area above the back of the hall. As such, the upstairs offers a quieter perch if you want to chat or catch a breather from the crowd. For best views of live DJs or live bands on the main stage, the sweet spot is the center of the dancefloor – but space can get tight on busy nights. Some guests prefer the sides near the PA to feel the bass or the front for atmosphere. (Tip: Bongo’s new Danley Sound Lab PA has massive subwoofers right at front-center (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ), so those sensitive to heavy bass may find the middle or rear of the floor slightly more balanced.) There is no formal VIP area or seating, so viewers of all ticket types stand together. On seated-show nights, a section of folding chairs is set up in front of the stage; otherwise early birds in main room may hover near the front for the best view. The upstairs bar area can also function like a “balcony” – it’s a good choice if you prefer less crowd but still want to hear the music. Sight lines to the stage are fairly good from both levels. The club’s interior is decorated with neon lights and murals, but also natural stone walls (a reminder it is in an old vault). This raw aesthetic, combined with high-end club lighting and video projections, gives the venue an intimate, underground feel.
Getting There and Parking
The Bongo Club’s address is 66 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JX (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). It sits on the historically atmospheric Cowgate street, right beneath the George IV Bridge. The entrance is through a steel gate set back from the roadway – staff advise looking for the brightly painted gate and the club’s lit sign by the door (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). By public transport, it’s very accessible. Most Lothian buses that serve the Old Town will drop you within a couple of minutes’ walk. Buses 3, 30, 31, 41 and 42 run along South Bridge (stop at the top of Chambers Street), and buses 4, 8, 14, 29, 33, 37 (plus nights’ N bus routes) stop at George IV Bridge. From either stop, walk down into the Cowgate as described on the club’s site (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Waverley Train Station is about a 10-minute walk: exit onto Market Street and climb Fleshmarket Close straight onto the Cowgate, then turn right and pass under George IV Bridge (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). If driving, be aware this is a city-centre area with limited parking. There is no dedicated club parking, only short-term street bays (mostly pay & display with evening limits). It’s usually easier to use one of nearby public car parks (e.g. Castle Terrace or Waverley multi-storey) or a Park-&-Ride outside the city. Note also that Cowgate becomes pedestrianized late at night, so the easiest drop-off for taxis or rideshares is usually on South Bridge or Cockburn Street, then walk down a short hill to the club.
Inside the Venue
Walking into The Bongo Club, you’ll first encounter a small foyer or locked gate and stairs leading down into the main level. Expect a friendly door staff who may check IDs and tickets (19+ or 18+ IDs are standard for midweek/weekend late shows). Security staff typically do a quick pat-down for any prohibited items (no bottles outside, no drugs or weapons). Once inside, the atmosphere is artsy-industrial: concrete floors, exposed brick or stone walls, graffiti-style murals and often mounted video screens. Lemparticipants are casually dressed; there is no formal dress code beyond “be respectful of others.” The venue is dimly lit with nightclub lighting effects, plus occasional strobes or lasers on dance nights. There are two fully stocked bars. The main-floor bar (adjacent to the stage) serves a full range of pub-style drinks – beers (often local and international), spirits, mixers, and soft drinks. Prices are standard city prices (pints of beer roughly £4–£5, cocktails £5–£7, etc). Upstairs has its own separate bar, ideal for ordering away from the packed crowd downstairs, and often has a more lounge-like seating area around it. Both bars accept cards and cash for payment. There’s usually a cloakroom on the ground floor; at many nights you can check your coat or bag for a small fee (in some promotions this is waived, see Bongo Dollars promotions (www.thebongoclub.co.uk )). Restrooms (bathrooms) are located on each level: a bank of toilets is off to the rear on the main floor, and another set by the upstairs bar. One accessible toilet (for wheelchair users) is on the ground floor close to the bar (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Bongo values inclusivity: the entrance has a ramp, and staff are happy to assist anyone who needs special help. Noise levels will be loud on music nights – some guests carry earplugs just in case, although many rave that the sound clarity (via the Danley system) really enhances the music rather than just rattling bones (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). One nice feature is the outdoor smoking courtyard at the back, which has some café tables and a relaxed vibe (often decorated with lights); it’s a popular spot to regroup for a minute. If you need connectivity, note that phones can be spotty here – the thick walls and crowds sometimes make reception weak. There is no onsite Wi-Fi for patrons. And though the club is music-focused, you will find occasional promo stands with Bongo merchandise (t-shirts, hats) for sale at the bar or door. Overall, The Bongo Club’s interior is utilitarian but enhanced by art installations and a buzzing energy, making it more like an underground creative loft than a typical “glossy” nightclub.
Nearby Amenities
The Bongo Club sits at the tail end of the historic Royal Mile area, so there is no shortage of nearby pre- and post-show options. A few steps away on Cowgate and the adjoining streets are casual eateries and bars. For food, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (0.1 mi) offers hearty British comfort dishes, while Casserole Wang on Candlemaker Row (0.1 mi) serves fast, inexpensive Asian stir-fries. Fancy something Mediterranean or local? Try The Colonnades (signet library café) or Jaipur (Indian cuisine), both within a couple of blocks on the Royal Mile. If you want a quick snack or an early dinner, the riverside Mezze tables or Marks & Spencer Foodhall on George IV Bridge have grab-and-go. For drinks, there are iconic Edinburgh pubs in easy reach: The Tron (a long-running Wetherspoon pub) is at the top of Fleshmarket Close, and The Parliament House pub is on Cowgate near the venue. Grassmarket (0.2 mi) is a short walk with dozens of bars, including The Halfway House (hurrah-de-rah pub), Red Squirrel brewpub, etc., for a pint after your set. Late-night spots: apart from the club itself, most city bars close around 1am, but extended hours vary; check nearby clubs like Opal Lounge if still hungry for dancing. Hotels and hostels are plentiful a short walk away. Immediate neighbors include Travelodge Edinburgh Central and Grassmarket-themed hostels (stayCentral Grassmarket, Castle Rock Hostel). Upscale options just a few streets up include Radisson Collection (former Scotsman hotel) or Apex Grassmarket Hotel. Taxis and ride-hailing pick-ups are accessible right outside the nearby South Bridge stairs. In short: The Bongo’s Old Town location means you can dine and drink in charming historic pubs minutes before a show, or easily stagger to a hotel or bus stop (bus route 30 and 50 run night services) after. Many locals simply arrive an hour early to enjoy a meal on Edinburgh’s cobbled streets, then wander down to the entrance.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Bongo Club’s longevity and ethos set it apart. It’s not just a club, but a community institution. Owned by the Out-of-the-Blue charity, Bongo has always prioritized creativity and accessibility over profit (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). It became a vital part of Edinburgh’s cultural DNA by combining art space with nightlife. Locals praise its “inclusive, underground” vibe; one reviewer described a recent themed night (“psychedelic circus” party) as feeling like “an indoor festival” with stilt-walkers and UV performers, and noted it was “not super crowded…a really safe environment” (www.tripadvisor.com ). Major artists love it too. The club’s immaculate Danley PA and lighting systems attract international DJs, yet Bongo still feels like an intimate living-room rave. Legendary performers from Olivier Arson to local up-and-comers have graced its stage (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Significantly, the venue has weathered tougher times (including the 2012 “Save the Bongo” campaign) where losing it was seen not just as a lost party spot, but a blow to Edinburgh’s alternative culture (www.theskinny.co.uk ). In fact, comedian Mark Thomas hailed The Bongo as “part of the artistic DNA of Edinburgh” (www.theskinny.co.uk ). Architecturally, its basement setting under the historic library is unique – you enter through a hidden gate into what feels like a counter-culture cathedral of sound. The club’s policy of low ticket prices and community events makes it beloved among students and locals. Add to that vibrant street-arts decor, themed “silent discos,” pop-up dance workshops, and cult residencies championing female DJs or global rhythms, and you see why artists and audiences alike consider it special. It’s a place where bands like Kae Tempest or avant-garde DJs like Aphex Twin share the billing with reggae legends, and everyone dances side by side. That rare blend of top-notch production and grassroots soul is the Bongo Club’s hallmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The downstairs main room and bar are wheelchair-accessible via a ramp, and a disabled toilet is provided (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). The upstairs lounge is only reachable by stairs. Staff are generally happy to assist guests with mobility needs. Age limits: Almost all events are 18+ due to licensing. Some special concerts (rarely) may allow under 18, but these are clearly advertised if so. What to bring: ID (photo ID for entry) and a printed or digital ticket – you will be carded on arrival. Bring cash for bar tips or merch, though cards are accepted. Earplugs are wise for sensitive ears (sound can be very loud and bass-heavy). What not to bring: No outside food or drink, and large professional cameras are normally not permitted (phones are fine for casual photos). Coat check is available – it’s often worth using to free up your space on the dancefloor. Dress code: Casual clubwear is fine. There is no fancy dress rule; comfort and respectability (e.g. no bare feet or offensive slogans) are the norm. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to dance. Arrival time: For a sold-out headliner, arrive early or plan to queue (lines form on Cowgate stairs). On average, doors are given guests by 10–11pm on club nights (7–8pm for early gigs). Interior (and the smoking courtyard) get chilly at times, so a light jacket helps. Rules: Bag searches are routine at the door. The club enforces a “no re-entry” policy – once you leave, entry likely won’t be allowed again (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). (This is standard for busy nights.) Insider tip: Many Edinburgh youth attend, so student nights and Freshers events can be wild fun. Conversely, some newer locals prefer the upstairs bar or the rear of the dancefloor for a slightly calmer vibe. Follow The Bongo’s Instagram or mailing list for last-minute event news and guest-list promos. And most importantly – get ready to enjoy one of Edinburgh’s most creative and welcoming venues!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Bongo Club? The main downstairs dancehall of The Bongo Club can hold about 300 standing (or 120 seated) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). An upstairs lounge area adds roughly 60 more standing/ seated. This makes Bongo relatively intimate compared to larger arenas, so shows often sell out at a few hundred guests.
What types of events are held at The Bongo Club? The club hosts a wide variety of music and arts events. Regular club nights include dub/reggae, drum’n’bass, techno, house, disco, jungle, grime and more with local and international DJs (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). It also features live bands and solo acts across hip-hop, indie, folk and experimental genres. The Fringe Festival season brings theatre, comedy and art shows. Overall, expect cutting-edge, underground live music alongside themed dance parties.
How can I book tickets for Bongo Club events? Tickets are usually sold online via the club’s website or linked outlets (often Resident Advisor or local ticketing sites). Follow The Bongo Club’s calendar page for links to buy tickets. For popular shows, it’s best to book early. Some nights allow a limited number of tickets at the door if not sold out, but availability is not guaranteed. Joining the club’s newsletter can alert you to presales and special promo offers (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ).
How much do tickets typically cost? Ticket prices vary by event. Most club nights are very affordable (often £4–£10 in advance). Large concerts or special events may be £15–£18 (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Student and early-bird prices sometimes start as low as £2–£5 for certain nights. Always check the specific event’s poster or listing for the exact price range. Promotions like “Bongo Dollars” can also score you discounts or free entries (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ).
Can I buy tickets at the door? Often yes, but only if tickets remain. The Bongo Club will usually sell any unsold tickets at the door on event nights, but popular shows frequently sell out in advance (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). To avoid disappointment, it’s safer to purchase online ahead of the date. If you do arrive to buy at the door, try to get there early – lines can form for entry when a show is near capacity.
Where is The Bongo Club located? The address is 66 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JX (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). It sits under the George IV Bridge in the Old Town. The entrance is through a metal gate set back from the street. The club’s sign is lit above the doorway on event nights. The location is close to the Royal Mile and Candlemaker Row area (near Greyfriars Bobby statue).
What public transport stops near The Bongo Club? Many Lothian buses serve this area. Routes 4, 41, 42, 63, 67 stop on South Bridge (catch any bus heading to campus from Princes Street) and Routes 3, 8, 14, 29, 30, 31, 37 (among others) stop on George IV Bridge (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). From either stop, it’s a short walk onto Cowgate to reach the club. The nearest train station is Edinburgh Waverley (about a 10-minute walk via Fleshmarket Close) (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). Edinburgh’s tram runs along Princes Street (15-minute walk). Night buses (e.g. N30) also plough through the city centre until late.
Is parking available near The Bongo Club? Street parking is very limited. The Cowgate itself is mainly pay-and-display and often controlled after evening. It’s generally easier to use public car parks a short walk away. The NCP at Castle Terrace or Waverley Station are within 5–10 minutes’ walk. There are also Park-&-Ride sites (e.g. Ingliston or Riccarton) with buses into the city. Note that Cowgate is pedestrian-only late at night, so taxis or rideshares usually drop passengers on South Bridge or Cockburn Street nearby.
What restaurants or bars are nearby? The area is rich with dining and drinking options. Around the corner are pubs like The Tron (Wetherspoon) and The Parliament House. For food, try Makars Mash Bar (British comfort fare) or Casserole Wang (cheap Chinese) on Candlemaker Row. The grassmarket (0.2mi) has more pubs and eateries (Castle Arms, Kismot Kebabs). The Royal Mile above has various cafés and bars. Many people grab a meal in these nearby venues before a show or a pint after.
Are there hotels near The Bongo Club? Yes. Within a 5–10 minute walk are several accommodations. The Travelodge Edinburgh Central (Cockburn Street) and Apple a Day B&B (Cowgate) are budget-friendly options. Mid-range choices include Apex Grassmarket Hotel or Radisson Blu on Grade Wynd if you mind a short hill. Grassmarket and the Royal Mile have various hostels, B&Bs and boutique hotels too. Staying in Old Town or near Princes Street puts you very close to the club by walk.
Is The Bongo Club wheelchair accessible? Partially. The main downstairs area and bar have level or ramped access for wheelchair users (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ), as does the ground-floor restroom. However, the upstairs lounge is only accessible by stairs, so it is not wheelchair-friendly. If you require assistance, the club staff are usually very helpful – consider contacting them ahead of time for special arrangements. Service entrances or lifts are generally not needed for standard access on the main floor.
What is the dress code at The Bongo Club? The club has a very relaxed dress code. Visitors usually wear casual clubwear or everyday clothes. There is no formal requirement, but it’s best to wear something suitable for dancing (e.g. closed shoes on the dancefloor). Avoid outdoor boots or mud, as the venue wants to protect its floor. Overall just be comfortable and respectful – there are no suits or fancy dresses needed.
Can I bring my own food and drinks? No, outside food or drink is not permitted inside the venue. The Bongo Club has two bars (upstairs and downstairs) that serve a full range of beverages, and many guests stop at nearby eateries beforehand. You are welcome to bring water bottles to the table or bar to pour drinks, but purchasing from the club’s licensed bars is expected for alcohol and snacks.
Are cameras allowed inside the club? Casual phone photos are generally okay, but professional cameras and video recording are usually prohibited unless requested by the club or artist. Most dance nights discourage flash photography to respect performers and safety. If you want to take high-quality photos or videos, it’s best to check event-specific rules ahead of time. Otherwise, feel free to use your smartphone camera discreetly – but remember you may have a better view on the upstairs gallery!
Can I leave and re-enter on the same ticket? Generally no. The club policy is ‘no re-entry’ – once you leave, you will not be allowed back in on the same ticket (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). This is to keep track of capacity. For example, student nights specifically note that tickets expire at 1am with no re-entry if you exit. So plan your evening accordingly.
Is The Bongo Club loud? Should I bring ear protection? Yes, the sound system is very powerful. Bongo upgraded to a Danley Sound Lab PA in 2022, with top-of-the-line subs and full-range speakers (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). The club is known for deep bass and clear audio. It can be quite loud, especially near the front speakers. Hearing protection is recommended if you are sensitive. That said, many visitors love the quality of the sound (it’s designed for bass music) and only use earplugs to moderate volume.
Are there coat check or storage facilities? Yes, typically the club provides a staffed cloakroom. You can leave coats or large bags there for a small fee (often a pound or two), which is cheaper than buying a second beer! During some promotions (like the Bongo Dollars campaign) they even distribute free coat-check tickets (www.thebongoclub.co.uk ). If you want to keep your belongings safe in a busy crowd, it’s worth using this service rather than carrying them around.
What nights is the club usually open? The Bongo Club primarily operates on weekend nights (especially Fridays and Saturdays) when local promoters book the main parties. During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (late July–August), it often opens more nights to host fringe shows and extra parties. On other weekdays it may be open for special one-off events (comedy, live gigs, charity fundraisers). Always check the official event calendar, but plan on the club being active late on most weekends and festival periods.
Is Wi-Fi available at The Bongo Club? No, public Wi-Fi is generally not offered. The focus is on the music and crowd, so the club does not run an open network for patrons. Expect poor mobile reception underground due to thick walls. It’s best to arrange meeting points or check messages before entering. If you need connectivity, step outside the venue or near the doorway.
Are there any age restrictions? Yes. For most events The Bongo Club is strictly 18+ (photo ID will be checked). This is because it’s a licensed late-night venue serving alcohol. Occasionally the club will host a special event (like a school show or kid-friendly concert) with a lower age limit, but these are explicitly marked in advance. As a rule, assume a nightclub event requires you to be 18 or over.
