About Jungle Club
Jungle Club is a large Indian-themed special-event venue (restaurant and club) in the Belgrave area of Leicester, UK. Housed in the former Belgrave Working Men’s Club, the venue traces its roots back to 1897, with the current “Jungle Club” identity established around 2000 . Today it operates as a licensed social club and restaurant – part fine-dining curry house, part community club – known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The site at 21 Checketts Road (LE4 5ER) is described as “peaceful and easily accessible” , and remains a landmark West Leicester venue. Jungle Club can accommodate large groups: the total indoor space is about 4,751 square feet , with seating for up to roughly 550 guests . There is also a smaller lounge area for events of up to ~100 people . Signature features include a spacious dance floor, a full bar, and extensive catering facilities – it bills itself as fully equipped for parties. Customers often praise the generous portion sizes and value of the all-you-can-eat buffet, noting “very reasonable prices” . Local diners remember Jungle Club in its previous incarnations (as a working men’s club, Americano’s, etc.), and today it is notable for blending traditional Indian cuisine with live music and DJ nights, making it both a community hub and a nightlife spot. In short, Jungle Club is a dual-purpose venue – equal parts restaurant and dance club – beloved by Leicester’s South Asian community and beyond for its combination of dining and entertainment. It is part of the city’s vibrant Golden Mile district, contributing to the cultural fabric of Belgrave and Leicester as a whole.
Events and Programming
Jungle Club hosts a wide variety of events. By day and early evening the venue operates mainly as an Indian restaurant and party hall, accommodating family celebrations, birthday parties, business lunches, community gatherings and club meetings . Its marketing notes that the lounge “can be tailored to any need” and that they have “hosted birthday parties, business lunches, reunions etc.” . These private-booking events often feature buffet meals, set menus or a mix grill feast with starter and dessert included. Families bring children (a play area on-site keeps kids busy), and many tables fill for popular buffets featuring tandoori grills, curries, biryanis and vegetarian dishes. Later in the evening Jungle Club transforms into more of a party venue. On weekends or busy nights the main hall’s dance floor comes alive with music – often Bollywood beats, dhinchak DJs, or popular Hindi/Punjabi dance music. Some nights bring special performances or themed dance parties (for example Navratri garba nights, Diwali parties, or wedding receptions with live dhol players). The club has a sound system and lighting rig to support DJs and karaoke as needed; while specifics aren’t publicly listed, event planners note the staff are “highly trained” in handling the technical side of shows . In effect, Jungle Club blurs the line between restaurant and nightclub: prime-time hours feature loud music, dancers on the floor, and an open bar, whereas brunch/lunchtime hours are more family-friendly. Ticket prices (when charged) vary by event – casual club nights might have a small cover (often in the region of a few pounds), while special banquet dinners with entertainment could come in the £10–£20 range per person. Overall, programming is eclectic: expect anything from a quiet Sunday family buffet to a lively Friday night DJ set. Recurring events often include Bollywood dance nights and Indian DJ parties, and the venue can also be booked for live music, tribute shows, corporate seminars or wedding receptions. In short, Jungle Club’s calendar is driven by private bookings and community events, with occasional public club nights; visitors should check ahead or call to find out what’s on during their visit.
Tickets and Booking
Since Jungle Club primarily operates as a multi-purpose venue, ticketing varies by event. For private events (such as a wedding reception or corporate function) you typically book the space directly with the venue. Jungle Club staff can be contacted by phone to arrange private hires, where your group size and catering choices are agreed up front. For public events or themed club nights, tickets (if required) can usually be purchased at the venue’s entrance or from local box offices/club promoters. If Jungle Club hosts a DJ night or live performance, organizers often sell advance tickets, but it’s also common to pay on the door. Prices depend on the type of event – free entry or a small cover charge might apply for regular clubbing nights, whereas a special buffet dinner event might be sold as a package (£10–£20 per person, for example). There is no one-size-fits-all ticket platform; prospective guests should check the club’s social media or local event listings for “Jungle Club Leicester” to see if advance booking is offered. In general, popular nights can sell out, so it’s wise to reserve early for anything featuring a well-known performer or around a festival date. Jungle Club personnel emphasize that the venue itself offers full event planning support , so many customers simply call in advance to discuss their needs and pay by reservation – much like booking a restaurant table. For casual visits (e.g. dinner without an event), you can walk in during opening hours and pay per meal. In all cases, guests should be prepared to provide a name and contact info when booking group functions, and may need to leave a deposit for large private events.
Seating and Layout
Jungle Club’s interior is a large open-plan hall with a stage/dance area and a separate lounge section. The main hall features banquet-style seating (long tables or round tables) that can accommodate up to 550 people . At least one floor plan (from the venue’s event guide) shows a “Multifunctional Room” of about 4,750 sq.ft with capacity 550 . There is also a smaller “Jungle Club Lounge” area (roughly 100-person capacity ) which can be used for more intimate gatherings or VIP groups. In practice, events either fill both sections or just the lounge. The furniture is usually arranged in festive banquet style – round tables for dining at weddings, or clusters of tables around the dance floor for buffet nights. Sightlines are generally straightforward: if there is live music or a DJ, the sound booth or stage is at one end of the main hall, and any raised platform is visible from most tables. The best seats for seeing performers or dancing are at the front tables nearest the dance floor. There is no fixed numbering of seats; guests usually have open seating or reserve whole tables in advance. For general admission club nights, arriving early to claim a spot near the front (or a table close to the action) is advisable. Acoustically, the hall is designed for loud music and karaoke, so audio is clear throughout the space (though it will be loud at peak nights). In summary, seating is flexible: VIP or booked tables are placed as needed, but typically the floor is divided into a large area around the bar/dance floor and end-stage, with tables lining the sides of the room. All areas are at ground level (no mezzanines), so views are open and unobstructed. Because of this layout, there are few real “bad seats” – even the back tables have a good view of the dance floor and DJ booth.
Getting There and Parking
Jungle Club is located at 21 Checketts Road, Leicester, which lies just off Belgrave Road (the A6) in the Belgrave neighbourhood. By car it’s easily reached via the western Leicester ring road onto Belgrave Road (A6), then turn into Checketts Road. There is limited on-site parking for guests; parking can be tight on busy nights. Street parking is available along Checketts Road and nearby side streets, though spaces may fill up after dark. It’s wise to arrive early to secure parking. An alternative is to use one of the town centre car parks (Belgrave Road is a main road, so the nearest pay car parks are actually several minutes’ drive or walk away). For drop-off, taxis or ride-shares can let you out on Checketts Road in front of the club’s entrance. Public transportation options are plentiful: multiple bus routes run within a very short walk. According to local transit info, Stagecoach buses 24, 24A, 25, 4 and 5A all serve the area around Checketts Road , linking Belgrave with Leicester city centre and suburbs. The nearest train station is Leicester on the CrossCountry/East Midlands Railway lines (about 2 miles away); from there you can take a taxi or one of the above buses. Leicester’s main bus depot (St Margaret’s) is also only a mile or two from Jungle Club, so buses from all over the city make connecting trips easy. In summary, travel is straightforward: by car via the A6, or by bus (routes 24/24A/25/4/5A drop you near the club ). Check timings for late-night services, as the last buses depart the area around midnight. Many visitors opt to park a few streets away and walk in, or use a taxi for late-night departures.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, guests are greeted by a large open foyer leading into the main dining/club hall. On event nights the door staff may check IDs (especially for 18+ events) and may take names or tickets. Coats and bags can be stored behind reception if needed, though Jungle Club does not usually charge for coat check. The overall atmosphere is warm and lively: heavy Indian décor, vibrant lighting, and the smell of grilled spices in the air. Lighting inside is mood-setting: during dinner the hall is brightly lit or candle-lit, while for dance nights colored spotlights or mirror balls come on to create a party feel. The club’s sound system is robust (reviewers imply the mix is clear and loud), and there is often a stage area or DJ booth set up with microphones and DJ decks. Food-wise, Jungle Club offers a full bar (beer, spirits, wines, soft drinks, plus Indian lassis) and a kitchen serving Indian/Asian cuisine. Even during dance nights, there is always a bar serving drinks and snacks. For meals, the kitchen staff turns out a variety of dishes – curries, kebabs, biryanis, breads, rice dishes and salads – often family-style buffet. Reviewers note the portions are generous and flavors authentic . One special amenity is a children’s play section: Jungle Club features an indoor soft-play area and a pool table in one corner , which means families can relax with their meal while kids play. This is fairly unique among Leicester’s venues, and comes up in reviews as a big plus for family customers (families can dine without babysitting worries). The restrooms are located off the main hall; reviews don’t mention any issues, so they appear to be spacious and well-maintained (likely separate men’s/women’s and at least one accessible toilet). Free Wi-Fi isn’t advertised, but given the family-oriented crowd, there is probably at least limited internet access. Mobile signal is decent inside due to the internet-friendly crowd. Merchandise or souvenir sales are not offered – Jungle Club is focused on food and events. In summary, inside Jungle Club you should expect a bustling Indian restaurant/bar environment: friendly service, live Indian music or a DJ on weekends, good food on tap, and extra touches like kids’ play. Security is low-key – just normal checks on entry – so the vibe is more party-hall than strict nightclub.
Nearby Amenities
The Jungle Club sits near the junction of Checketts Road and Melton Road in Belgrave, which is a busy area with shops and eateries. If you arrive early for a show or want a nearby meal afterwards, there are several options within a short walk. Directly adjacent on Melton Road are a handful of restaurants and cafes. For Indian cuisine you’ll find Jai Somnath (Taste of India) and Mother India within a couple of minutes’ walk (around 120–180 yards) . For something different, a burger joint (BRRGRR Co) and a Portuguese cafe (J M Portugues) are very close by . Shopping-wise, the Belgrave Road “Golden Mile” is just a block to the north – here you’ll encounter dozens of shops selling Indian clothing, sweets, electronics and more (a treat if you want to browse before or after an event). In terms of nightlife, the immediate area is not a nightclub district, but Belgrave Road has late-night sweet shops and dessert cafes if you want sweets or fried snacks. Central Leicester (a 10–15 minute taxi ride) offers a wide range of bars, pubs and hotels as well. Speaking of hotels, visitor accommodations are not right next door, but city-center hotels are a short drive away. For example, Leicester’s St George’s Walk (Holiday Inn) and London Road (Premier Inn) hotels are about 2–3 miles south of Jungle Club. Even tourist homes or B&Bs in Clarendon Park or the city centre are reachable within 10–15 minutes by car or taxi. If you plan to stay nearby in Belgrave itself, options are more limited to guest houses or Airbnbs. In summary, Jungle Club is surrounded by everyday amenities: several ethnic restaurants and shops on Melton and Belgrave Roads, plus easy links (bus or taxi) to the broader city centre where more dining, bars and hotels await. Plan to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early to find parking or grab a pre-show bite at a local eatery.
What Makes This Venue Special
Jungle Club’s unique charm lies in its blending of cultural heritage with party vibes. Architecturally it’s a large hall rather than a architecturally landmark building, but its history as a working men’s club gives it a sense of legacy. Culturally, it sits at the heart of the Belgrave Indian community – where temples and Diwali celebrations abound – so it frequently hosts traditional celebrations (Navratri garba, Diwali dances, wedding functions) that not many other Leicester venues do. Music-wise, Jungle Club is beloved for genuine Bollywood and Bhangra nights, setting it apart from generic nightclubs. Dining-wise, the venue stands out for offering a restaurant-quality Indian feast alongside the entertainment – it’s not common to get a full curry buffet with a dance floor in the same place. Local patrons often describe it as a “home away from home” where families and friends can eat, dance and socialize in one evening. Famous moments here might include memorable wedding receptions or large community anniversary parties. The friendly service and family-friendly extras (the children’s play area and pool table) also give it a distinctive, welcoming atmosphere – you hear many customers say they keep coming back because “the staff treat us like family.” Artists seem to appreciate Jungle Club as well; bands or DJs who play here note the enthusiastic local crowd and the ease of transitioning from dinner to dance. Finally, Jungle Club has a legacy of survival – having re-opened and thrived after various downturns, it is considered a resilient part of Leicester’s nightlife tapestry. All these factors – cultural authenticity, versatility (restaurant or club), and community roots – combine to make Jungle Club more than just another bar. It’s both a landmark of Belgrave and a witness to Leicester’s diverse social scene, which is why both audiences and performers continue to love it.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Jungle Club is largely on one level with ground-floor entry, so wheelchair access is generally possible. The venue has accessible restrooms and wide corridors, though if booking please confirm specific needs. The All-On-Street parking is the main barrier for disabled drivers (ramps may be present at the entrance, as it was a licensed club). Arrival: For events, doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before start time. Punctuality is recommended (especially for sitting events), because seating is first-come unless you’ve pre-booked a table. What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) if you plan to drink alcohol – Jungle Club enforces UK ID laws. Do also bring cash or card (both are accepted for the bar and restaurants). Dress Code: Come dressed smartly. Most guests treat Jungle Club like a banquet – smart casual shirts or kurtas are common, and you’ll see some guests in traditional Indian attire for special nights. In short, no shorts or sportswear for evening events. Age Restrictions: Children are welcome at lunch or family events, but after about 8pm Jungle Club is effectively 18+ if alcohol is served. Nightclub events are strictly adult and require ID. Photography: There is no outright ban on photos, but be discreet about professional camera setups unless it is your own private event (commercial photography typically needs permission). Food and Drink: Outside food or drinks are not allowed. You can order from the full kitchen or bar at any time. Service can be busy on crowded nights, so be patient if it’s busy – it’s normal for wait staff to circulate plenty, even during dance sets. Avoid Mistakes: Don’t show up empty-handed at the door expecting entry if the event is ticketed. Also, avoid wearing anything that obscures your face (like bandanas) – staff may refuse entry for security. Insider Tips: Try to arrive by public transport on big event nights to avoid parking hassle. If coming by car, parking is free on Checketts Rd but fills up fast after 9pm. And for the best experience, sample the buffet – even if you’re only there to dance, grab a plate of biryani and kebabs when the dinner portion is served. Finally, locals often pick Sundays or early evenings for a quieter outing; if you want a low-key experience, ask when the “dinner service” is (usually around 12-4pm) and come then to beat the nightclub dinner rush. With its friendly staff and lively community feel, Jungle Club encourages guests to relax, enjoy the music, and join in the fun – it’s a night-out venue with a laid-back soul.
Where is Jungle Club located?
Jungle Club is at 21 Checketts Road, Leicester, LE4 5ER, in the Belgrave area. It’s just off Belgrave Road (the A6) and not far from the Melton Road junction.
What is the capacity of Jungle Club?
The venue is quite large. The main hall can seat up to about 550 people, with a smaller lounge area holding around 100. Totals of 500+ guests are possible when fully booked.
How do I buy tickets or book an event at Jungle Club?
For private events, you book directly by contacting Jungle Club (usually by phone). For public nights, tickets might be sold by event promoters or at the door. Check local event listings or call the club for details. Reservations for tables should be made in advance, especially for weekends.
Are children allowed at Jungle Club?
Yes, children are welcome during family or dining hours. Jungle Club even has a kids’ play area. However, once events turn into nightclub mode (typically evenings & weekends), the atmosphere is 18+ and minors are not accepted.
Is there a dress code at Jungle Club?
Generally smart casual is expected. Guests often wear shirts or traditional Indian attire. Avoid sportswear, trainers or hats during evening events. For special parties or weddings, dressing up is recommended.
Is Jungle Club wheelchair accessible?
Jungle Club is on one level with step-free entry, and it has accessible restrooms, so it should be reasonably accessible by wheelchair. It’s best to call ahead to confirm any special needs at the time of reservation.
Can I drive and park at Jungle Club?
Parking is limited. The club has a small on-site lot but it fills quickly. Most people park on nearby streets (free after a certain time) – be prepared to walk a block or two. Alternatively, consider taking a local taxi or bus if you’re attending a major event.
Which buses go near Jungle Club?
Several bus lines run close by. In particular, Stagecoach routes 24, 24A, 25, 4 and 5A all serve Belgrave Road and nearby stops . From the city centre you can take any of these and alight at the Checketts Road stop, a short walk from the club.
Does Jungle Club have a VIP area or reserved seating?
There are no fixed “VIP sections,” but groups can reserve tables in the quieter lounge area (capacity ~100) for a more exclusive space. Otherwise seating in the main hall is open, though you can book sizable tables or “zones” for your party.
Are there coat check or other guest services?
Coat check is generally available (often free) at the entrance, since it’s a busy venue. Restrooms (including accessible toilets) are available inside. There’s no merchandise sale or cloakroom beyond simple coat storage. Staff are friendly and will help with any special request.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to Jungle Club?
No. Jungle Club provides a full Indian menu and bar downstairs, so outside food or drinks are not permitted. Cameras (or phones for photos) are okay for personal use, but professional video/film should be pre-arranged with management.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes. Like most Indian restaurants, Jungle Club offers a variety of vegetarian and some vegan dishes. These include vegetable curries, paneer and bean dishes, and other meat-free plates. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to mention them when booking.
What are Jungle Club’s opening hours?
Opening hours vary by day and event. Generally the restaurant serves lunch-to-evening, and bar/nightclub events run later. For example, weekends can start around noon (buffet lunch) and on Saturday into late night. Always check ahead or call to confirm hours on the day you plan to visit.
Can Jungle Club be booked for weddings or corporate events?
Absolutely. Jungle Club specializes in large private hires. You can book the entire venue for weddings, parties or corporate events. They even mention “birthday parties, business lunches, reunions” as typical bookings . You would coordinate menu and setup with their events team in advance.
