About Basing House – Shoreditch
Basing House is a small, late-night dance club in East London’s Shoreditch (25 Kingsland Road, E2 8AA (basinghouse.co.uk )). It opened in 2010 and holds about 300 people. (basinghouse.co.uk ) This former pub has been converted into an intimate, clubby space with exposed brick walls and a “mottled stone ceiling,” giving it a raw, underground feel (moochlondon.wordpress.com ). A key feature is its top-tier Funktion-One sound system, set up in a four-point stereo array for superb audio (basinghouse.co.uk ) (www.skiddle.com ). The venue also offers a roof terrace (used as a smoking area) that adds a touch of outdoor charm (basinghouse.co.uk ) (moochlondon.wordpress.com ). Basing House is known around London for its underground music focus — hosting house, disco, UK garage and even drum-and-bass nights — and it has become a respected home for rising and established electronic artists. In fact, its dark, red-lit interior and music policy have even earned comparisons to Ibiza’s famed clubs (www.skiddle.com ). Reviewers praise Basing House for its “vibrant atmosphere,” friendly staff and a “great sound system,” noting its cosy, inclusive vibe (london.cylex-uk.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
Basing House operates primarily as a weekend club. It runs late on Friday and Saturday nights (typically 10pm–4am), with occasional Thursday events and even some special Sunday sessions (basinghouse.co.uk ) (basinghouse.co.uk ). The music is almost exclusively underground electronica: house music is its staple, but you’ll also find groove-inspired disco, UK garage R&B, classic acid or dubstep sets, and the occasional jungle/drum-n-bass party (basinghouse.co.uk ) (basinghouse.co.uk ). Most nights are arranged by independent promoters and labels, so the style and lineups change from week to week. For instance, Shoreditch-night stalwart “Needwant” holds regular parties here – once bringing legendary Chicago house singer Robert Owens for a live set that crowd members still rave about (www.skiddle.com ). Other well-known DJs on past flyers include Groove Armada, Jennifer Cardini, Hot Since 82, Huxley and many more (Basing House’s website boasts names like Maya Jane Coles, Seth Troxler, Blawan, Surgeon, and Idris Rahman over the years (basinghouse.co.uk ) (basinghouse.co.uk )). In 2025 the club’s calendar included themed nights, residencies and release parties: examples range from Latin-fusion DJ nights to multi-week residencies by local stars. Overall, you can expect top-quality sound and lighting, a lively dance floor, and a mixed crowd of longtime fans and curious newcomers at each show.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Basing House nights are usually available online well before events, often via the promoters or on electronic music event sites. For popular club nights, early-bird tickets or guestlist spots can save a few pounds – advance prices have been reported around £5, compared to up to £10–£15 on the door (www.skiddle.com ). Of course, door sales are also possible if the event isn’t sold out. Cover charges generally range from free (for small or early entry) up to around £15 at most (www.skiddle.com ). It’s wise to buy or reserve your ticket early, especially for headliner acts, because some nights do sell out. If you haven’t pre-booked, you can still pay at the door to get in – just remember it’s card-only in the bar, and cash is only taken for entry fees (basinghouse.co.uk ). Lost-and-found or ticket transfer services are not offered, so treat your ticket or email confirmation carefully. In short: plan your ticket purchase in advance (via official listings or the venue’s mailing list), and bring enough ID and funds for both the cover charge and drinks.
Seating and Layout
Basing House’s interior is essentially one large open room (formerly an old pub) with a raised DJ booth platform at one end and a bar against a side wall. There is no reserved seating – it’s standing-room general admission all the way. The club’s design is stripped-back and industrial: exposed brick walls, visible ductwork, and dim, coloured lighting (often red-tinted) create a moody vibe (moochlondon.wordpress.com ) (www.skiddle.com ). This “cavernous” space means everyone can choose their own spot on the dance floor. If you want the full Funktion-One sound experience, you can stand near the front or center of the room; if you prefer a bit more breathing room, the middle or back of the floor is still immersed in the club’s superb audio. Unique to Basing House is the roof terrace garden – a covered outdoor balcony one level up. During breaks or for a smoke, many guests head there for a breather. The terrace has some seating and offers a view down onto the street, adding an unusual multi-level perspective that few clubs this size have. (Do note that as a smoking area it can get chilly in winter, and it’s not heated or fully enclosed.)
Getting There and Parking
Location: Basing House is at 25 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch, London E2 8AA (basinghouse.co.uk ), in the heart of East London. The nearest Tube station is Old Street (Northern line), about a 10-12 minute walk via Old Street or City Road. Shoreditch High Street (London Overground) and Hoxton Overground are slightly farther (roughly 12-15 minutes on foot). Liverpool Street station (Central, Circle, Metropolitan and Overground lines) is about 1 mile south (15-20 minute walk) or a short bus ride away. Bus routes that pass near the club include the 149, 242, 243, 55 and 26 (basinghouse.co.uk ). For example, the 242 stops on Kingsland Road right in front of the venue, and buses 149 and 55 serve Old Street. By car: There is no on-site or private parking at Basing House (basinghouse.co.uk ). Street parking in Shoreditch is very limited (mostly residents’ permit bays), so driving is generally not recommended. Instead, consider drop-off via taxi or rideshare on Kingsland Road just outside the club. Accessibility: The venue occupies an old building; there is one main entrance at street level and then the floor is flat. However, there are no public elevators or ramps noted. Patrons should be aware that the roof terrace is only accessible by stairs. If you require step-free access or assistance, it’s best to contact the club in advance.
Inside the Venue
Entry & Security: Expect a brief ID check at the door – Basing House operates a strict “Challenge 25” policy (basinghouse.co.uk ). You must be 18 or older to enter, and you will need to show an original (photo) ID: a passport, driving licence or PASS card (basinghouse.co.uk ). No photocopies are accepted. The club scans IDs at entry, and there is a clear no re-entry rule, so plan for all-night attendance (basinghouse.co.uk ) (basinghouse.co.uk ). The doormen have discretion to refuse entry, especially for inappropriate attire. Inside, staff are generally friendly and helpful (reviews cite particularly “great service” from bar staff (london.cylex-uk.co.uk )), so don’t hesitate to ask if you need guidance. Note that there are no cloakrooms at the main entrance – instead, Basing House offers a paid coat check services inside after you enter (basinghouse.co.uk ). All excess coats and bags can be checked for a small fee by card payment only (basinghouse.co.uk ).
Facilities & Atmosphere: Once inside, you’ll find a long bar along one wall serving a standard club selection of beers, wines, spirits and cocktails. Basing House is cashless at the bar (basinghouse.co.uk ), so be prepared to pay by card (credit/debit only) for drinks. Typical London nightclub prices apply. The club does not serve food or expectations beyond drinks; plan to eat beforehand or bring a solid pre-show meal if needed. There are toilets on the premises (for each gender) near the bar area. The lights are generally kept low, with occasional strobes or colour washes to match the music style. Customers often describe the vibe as lively and communal – a mix of long-time regulars and music fans dropping in for the night (london.cylex-uk.co.uk ). Because it’s small and busy, phone signal can be patchy, and the music is very loud, so earplugs are often appreciated if you’re sensitive to bass-heavy sound.
Production: The star of the interior is the Funktion-One PA system – this high-end rig is responsible for the “excellent sound” noted in reviews (london.cylex-uk.co.uk ). Speakers are hung or mounted up front and along the sides, filling the room evenly. The lighting rig is modest compared to mega-clubs: expect basic spotlights and LED effects rather than theatrical lasers. In short, there are no dancefloors or balconies blocking your view. Most people simply dance or socialize right in front of the DJ booth. The roof terrace is sometimes used for more laid-back afternoon events, in which case the main room may open early. If the event extends past midnight, expect a full party atmosphere lighting-wise as well.
Nearby Amenities
Shoreditch is packed with bars, cafes and restaurants – you’ll have plenty of pre- or post-show dining options. Just down Kingsland Road (walking distance) are pubs and casual eateries. Within a 5-10 minute walk you can reach Old Street/Hoxton region: spots like Boxpark Shoreditch (a pop-up food mall), Berlin Bar, Pizza East, Shoreditch Grind and many others are popular. Brick Lane’s famous curry houses and street food markets are a 10-minute walk southeast (for those craving East End flavours). Late-night food options include fish & chips shops and kebab vans that stay open well past midnight. For hotels, Shoreditch offers everything from budget chains to boutique stays: the Ace Hotel and citizenM Shoreditch are nearby, as are the Z Hotels and Holiday Inn/Garden by the Bay at nearby City Road. The entire area is pedestrian-friendly and well-lit, but as always use the main roads (Kingsland Road, Old Street, Shoreditch High St.) if walking alone at very late hours. When leaving the club, remember to keep noise to a minimum around the neighbourhood (basinghouse.co.uk ) – many local residents appreciate that courtesy.
What Makes This Venue Special
Basing House stands out in the London nightlife scene for its intimate scale and underground pedigree. In a city full of big commercial clubs, this is a “locals’ gem” with a fiercely loyal following. Its combination of industrial-chic character (stone ceilings, brick walls) and top-class audio puts the focus squarely on music quality. It’s one of the few East London venues open until 4am, which has made it an oasis for night owls. Crowds praise the venue’s “diverse” and relaxed community vibe (london.cylex-uk.co.uk ) – you’ll find veteran ravers in their 40s and 50s enjoying the same room as young creatives, all united by dance music. The club earned early accolades (even a “Best London Club” award) for its consistency. Over the years it has hosted legendary performances: for example, the Needwant promoter series brought Chicago house icon Robert Owens here, giving locals a taste of true dance music history (www.skiddle.com ). Its no-frills aesthetic (often lit in deep reds) recalls famed Ibiza spots – as one insider quipped, the “red-lit dark room” makes Basing House feel like London’s own DC10 (www.skiddle.com ). In short, artists and audiences love it for being authentic, welcoming and focused on “the love of the music” rather than flashiness.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning your visit, keep these practical tips in mind. First, bring valid photo ID – it’s mandatory. Basing House runs a strict Challenge 25 policy, so anyone who looks under mid-twenties can be carded (basinghouse.co.uk ). No ID means no entry. Dress smart-casual: the club enforces a neat dress code (no sportswear, tracksuits or hats) (basinghouse.co.uk ), though trainers are fine. Try to arrive close to start time: doors open around 10pm, but the dance floor fills up later. Getting there *before* 11pm can save time at the door, and it’s easiest to get a drink or coat check in early. Once inside, note there is no re-entry allowed, so plan bathroom and smoking breaks carefully (basinghouse.co.uk ). Pockets and small bags are permitted, but large backpacks or suitcases are not (these may be searched or refused). A cloakroom is available if you are wearing heavy coats, and all items checked must be paid for by card (basinghouse.co.uk ). Bar prices are on the higher side, so some visitors choose to have a decent meal beforehand. Take advantage of the roof terrace for fresh air, water breaks or phone calls – it’s a nice escape from the packed dance floor.
For accessibility , note that the building is older and may have narrow passages. The main floor is on one level with step access at the entrance, and the only restroom and bar areas are on the ground floor. If you need special assistance, it’s best to contact Basing House ahead of time. For travel, public transit is easiest – see above. If you’re driving in, allow extra time to find paid parking garages in Hoxton or Shoreditch (street parking is extremely limited) or consider drop-off options. Finally, be mindful of neighbours when arriving and leaving: walk calmly on the pavement and keep conversations low in volume. Observing these common-sense rules will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience at Basing House.
What is the capacity of Basing House Shoreditch?
Basing House is a compact club with about a 300-person capacity (
basinghouse.co.uk ). It doesn’t have fixed seating – everyone stands on the dance floor. This intimate size is part of its appeal, giving every show a lively, full atmosphere.
What type of music and events does Basing House host?
Basing House specializes in dance music. You’ll mainly hear house and disco, along with UK garage, soulful electronic, and occasional drum ’n’ bass or jungle nights (
basinghouse.co.uk ). Its calendar is packed with DJ nights, often curated by independent DJs or labels. Past events have ranged from local garage collectives to international house legends, like Chicago’s Robert Owens who appeared there with promoter Needwant (
www.skiddle.com ).
When is the venue open and what days does Basing House operate?
Basing House is usually open late on weekends. The main club nights are Fridays and Saturdays from around 10pm until 4am (
basinghouse.co.uk ). Occasionally the venue hosts events on Thursday or Sunday evenings, but these are less common. Always check the event listing before you go to confirm the exact date and entry times, as special DJs or themed parties can vary the schedule.
How much are tickets and how can I buy them?
Ticket prices at Basing House vary by event. In general, cover charges range from free (for small or early-access events) up to around £15 for big nights (
www.skiddle.com ). Many promoters offer discounted early-bird tickets (as low as £5) or guestlist spots in advance (
www.skiddle.com ). You can usually buy tickets online through the event’s promoter or by checking the venue’s official announcements. If an event isn’t sold out, you can also buy entry at the door (cash or card). It’s best to purchase early for popular acts, as overnight ticket availability can sell out quickly.
What is the dress code at Basing House?
Basing House enforces a smart-casual dress code (
basinghouse.co.uk ). No sportswear, baseball caps or tracksuit bottoms are allowed – think neat and tidy. Trainers (sneakers) are fine. If you arrive in shorts and a t-shirt, for example, the door staff might still let you in, but it’s safest to come in club-appropriate attire. Anyone not meeting the dress code will be politely refused entrance (
basinghouse.co.uk ).
Is Basing House wheelchair accessible?
Basing House is housed in a converted, older building and does not advertise full wheelchair access. The main club area is at ground level, but there may be steps at the entrance or in parts of the venue. The roof terrace is only accessible by stairs. If you require step-free access, it’s recommended to contact the venue directly well before your visit to discuss your needs, as there is no published ADA compliance information.
Can I park at Basing House Shoreditch?
There is no guest parking at Basing House (
basinghouse.co.uk ). Street parking on Kingsland Road is very limited (mostly permit-only bays). If you drive, you may need to park a few blocks away in nearby paid bays or a public garage. However, the best options are usually public transport or a taxi/ride-share drop-off on Kingsland Road right outside the venue. Remember the club closes around 4am, so make sure you have a safe ride home booked in advance.
What are the nearest tube or train stations?
The closest stations are Shoreditch High Street Overground and Hoxton Overground (each about a 10-12 minute walk down Kingsland Road). For the Tube, Old Street (Northern line) is around a 10-minute walk west on Old Street, and Liverpool Street station (Central/Overground) is about 15-20 minutes to the south. Multiple buses also stop nearby (e.g. routes 149, 242, 243, 55, 26) (
basinghouse.co.uk ). Late-night travel is easy too: Old Street and Liverpool Street are served by Night Tube on weekends, and there are 24-hour night buses (N242 runs along Kingsland Road) after the trains stop.
Can I leave and re-enter the club?
No. Basing House has a strict no re-entry policy (
basinghouse.co.uk ). Once you enter with your ticket or wristband, you cannot step outside and come back in later that night. This rule is common in London clubs at late hours. Make sure you have everything you need (ID, cash/card, coat space) before entry, since re-admission will not be allowed.
Is there a cloakroom at the venue?
Yes, Basing House provides a cloakroom for coats and small bags (
basinghouse.co.uk ). You’ll pay a small fee (card only) to check your items there. Because the club is dark and crowded, using the coat check is recommended if you have a bulky jacket, especially in winter. Items left at the cloakroom are usually held for about four weeks in case anything is forgotten.
Is photography allowed inside the club?
Casual photography (e.g., phone snapshots) is generally tolerated in most London clubs unless otherwise stated. Basing House doesn’t have an official media policy posted, but use common sense: flash photography and professional camera setups might be discouraged. The club’s focus is on the music – if in doubt, ask a staff member. Always be respectful of dancers’ privacy, especially on the dance floor.
What forms of payment are accepted at Basing House?
The bar and cloakroom are card-payment only (
basinghouse.co.uk ) (
basinghouse.co.uk ). That means you’ll need a debit or credit card to purchase any drinks or use the coat check. However, you can pay your entry at the door with cash if necessary (the door still accepts cash if you haven’t bought a ticket in advance) (
basinghouse.co.uk ). In summary: bring a payment card to get drinks, but cash can be used to cover your cover charge at entry if needed.
Are there age restrictions at Basing House?
Yes. Nights at Basing House are 18+ only. This is enforced by door staff who will check ID (
basinghouse.co.uk ). There is no admittance for anyone under 18, even with supervision. Always bring a valid ID if you are 18 or older – passports, driving licences or official proof-of-age cards (hologram PASS cards) are the only accepted IDs (
basinghouse.co.uk ).
What should I bring and what should I avoid bringing?
You should bring a government-issued photo ID and either a card or some cash for entry. (
basinghouse.co.uk ) (
basinghouse.co.uk ) Comfortable shoes are a good idea (you’ll be dancing on a concrete floor), but leave valuables at home or check them in the cloakroom. Large bags, luggage or sports bags are not recommended; small bags or purses are fine. Umbrellas may not fit easily once inside, so plan accordingly. Don’t expect any formal seating, so if standing all night is an issue, be prepared to use the roof terrace to rest occasionally.
Is Basing House air-conditioned or heated?
As a converted historic building, Basing House likely has limited climate control. It can get quite warm on the dance floor once crowds have gathered. The roof terrace provides fresh air but is not heated. Dress in layers if you plan to stay late – you will want to shed a jacket once inside, but it might be cool outside when you step out for a break.
Why is it called Basing House?
The name “Basing House” may reference local history, but for the club’s purposes it’s just the venue’s name. It was originally a pub, and like many London clubs that rebrand old names. There is a historic Tudor site called Basing House in Hampshire, but the Shoreditch club’s name is just its branding. What really matters is the club’s reputation: music lovers call it Basing House and know it as an East End institution.
Can I buy tickets or get on the guest list at the door?
Generally, the guest list and early tickets are managed by each party’s promoter (not by Basing House directly). You usually need to sign up for guest lists or buy presale tickets through the event announcement or email. At the door, you can purchase regular tickets (cash accepted for entry) as long as the event isn’t sold out. Walk-ups are often welcome, but arrive early to avoid disappointment if it’s a headline event.
