About Mick’s Garage by Crate Brewery

Mick’s Garage is a multi-purpose live-music venue and event space in Hackney Wick, East London. Opened in November 2015 by the founders of Crate Brewery (in collaboration with the Berber & Q BBQ team) (crummbs.co.uk) (londontheinside.com), it transformed a former mechanics workshop into an industrial-chic warehouse club. The décor is distinctly Hackney: a giant roller-shutter door opens onto a cavernous room lined with Crate beer kegs and reclaimed trestle tables (crummbs.co.uk). The upstairs mezzanine overlooking the dancefloor is fitted with comfy sofas, potted plants and festoon lighting (even a hanging “garden” of vines), giving Mick’s Garage an intimate yet raw East London vibe. Unique features include two fully-stocked bars (one serves Crate’s own craft beers and the other house-brewed kombucha), an on-site coffee roastery, and a Funktion-One sound system for top-quality audio (www.canvas-events.co.uk) (crummbs.co.uk). This blend of craft drinks, street-food BBQ and warehouse party atmosphere makes Mick’s Garage a standout in the local music scene.

Events and Programming

Mick’s Garage hosts a wide range of events, mainly focused on music and nightlife. You’ll find club nights and DJ parties (techno, house, disco, UK garage, Afrobeats and more), as well as occasional live band sets, all-night dance marathons and eclectic themed parties. Canvas Events notes that the “industrial backdrop is the perfect setting for both electronic and live music artists” (www.canvas-events.co.uk), and indeed many local promoters run weekly or monthly club nights here. Some organisers also stage daytime or weekend events – for example a daytime market-style BBQ or afternoon session when the weather is warm. Notable past performances (for example work by renowned DJs and rising bands) have cemented its reputation as an underground hotspot. Ticket prices vary by event: smaller pop-up nights may even be free, while headline DJs or specialty evenings often cost roughly £10–£20 in advance. Most events run late into the night (Canvas Events notes a license until 3am on weekends (www.canvas-events.co.uk), which is common for East London venues).

Tickets and Booking

Tickets to Mick’s Garage events are normally purchased online in advance. The venue itself doesn’t have a traditional box office, so head to the event’s listing page (often on social media or a ticket site) to book. Popular shows can sell out, so it’s wise to grab early-bird or presale tickets as soon as they release. Prices depend on the event: local DJ nights and club parties often range in the low teens, while bigger names or special events may be more. Keep an eye on the official announcements (via Crate Brewery or Mick’s Garage social channels) for on-sale dates and promo codes. For some smaller or impromptu events, walk-up tickets or door sales might be available if the event isn’t sold out, but for peace of mind it’s best to buy ahead.

Seating and Layout

The layout at Mick’s Garage is mostly open-plan standing room. The main dancefloor is on the ground level, while a large mezzanine level (reached by industrial-style stairs) overlooks the action. This mezzanine holds the DJ booth/stage and a lounge area with Chesterfield sofas and bench seating, giving a “fantastic viewpoint” over the crowd and dance floor (www.canvas-events.co.uk). In practice, most patrons stand on the ground floor, which can hold about 580 people at full capacity (www.canvas-events.co.uk). There is no fixed theatre-style seating – instead, long trestle tables and communal benches are arranged for pre-show dining or drinks. Two bars (and the Shukshuk BBQ kiosk) sit at ground level. For the best view of the DJs and lightshow, many fans lean on the mezzanine railing; others stay on the dancefloor for the full club experience. There are no separate VIP boxes, though promoters sometimes sell “fast-track” entry or VIP tickets for front-row access on busy nights. Acoustically the high-ceiling warehouse sounds powerful and bass-heavy thanks to the Funktion-One system, though it can echo slightly – the floor area is generally best for immersive sound, while the mezzanine offers a slightly clearer mix and a chance to rest between dances.

Getting There and Parking

Mick’s Garage is located at 8 Queen’s Yard, Hackney Wick, London E9 5EN (www.shazam.com). It sits just off the waterways of Fish Island, on the Queen’s Yard complex that also houses the Crate Brewery pub. Public transport is strongly recommended. The nearest station is Hackney Wick Overground (zone 2), about a 10–15 minute walk via Warton Road. From Hackney Wick station, head south on Warton Road then turn left into Queen’s Yard – look for the big roller-door. Stratford station (Central & Jubilee lines, DLR and National Rail) is another 15–20 minutes away by bus or taxi, and buses like the 276 and 488 connect Stratford to Hackney Wick. Several daytime bus routes serve Queen’s Yard directly (for example the 241 and 30 from Shoreditch). If you come by tube, take the Central line to Stratford and then a quick Overground or bus to Hackney Wick. Cycling is also common here – bike racks are available nearby.

Driving to Hackney Wick is not for the faint of heart: there is no official Mick’s Garage car park. Street parking is severely restricted (mostly residential permits) and the area is part of Hackney’s controlled parking zone. Paid private parking at Queens Yard is limited and usually full on event nights. Nearby city parking (for example at Olympic Park or Bow, dissipating a long walk) is an option but inconvenient late at night. Instead, park-and-ride at Stratford or use an Overground/Tube. If you’re planning to taxi or rideshare, drop-offs on Queen’s Yard itself (off West Street) are usually allowed – taxi drivers know to enter from Fish Island Road. Note: Hackney Wick is outside London’s Congestion Zone, but inside the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), so check your vehicle’s ULEZ compliance if driving.

Inside the Venue

On arrival you’ll queue outside for the industrial roller door to open. Security staff will check tickets and ID (you must be 18+ for most club nights). No large bags are permitted (all bags are checked on entry). Inside, the space is atmospheric: bare-brick walls, exposed pipes, vintage brewery décor and strings of festoon lights overhead. Coat-check cloakrooms are typically available near the entrance (a small fee) so you can stow jackets and bags. There are two fully-stocked bars serving Crate’s own craft beers on tap plus a limited selection of spirits, kombucha, soft drinks and cocktails. The Shukshuk BBQ stall at the rear operates during peak hours, serving dishes like smoked chicken shawarma and lamb merguez if you get peckish (crummbs.co.uk). The cozy mezzanine houses the DJ’s decks and also a coffee bar (run by Crate’s roastery during daytime or earlier events).

Restrooms (male and female) are located on the left side of the ground floor. They are basic warehouse toilets – don’t expect luxuries, and ladies should allow extra time on busy nights. Note that cell phone signal is generally good but there is no public Wi-Fi inside, so mobile data is the only way to stay connected or check e-tickets. The sound system and lighting gear are professional club standard – lasers, strobes and a giant disco mirrorball (a signature permanent fixture) fill the space during gigs (djmag.com). All lighting and effects are on a timer with the music, enhancing the party ambiance. Photography is allowed only for personal use (no professional cameras unless media-authorised), and any aggressive behavior or damage is strictly prohibited.

Nearby Amenities

Hackney Wick has a growing array of bars and eateries. Queen’s Yard itself has a couple of cafés (for example Two Tribes Coffee) and designer street-food pop-ups on weekends. A block away is Crate Brewery’s main pub on Waterden Road, where you can grab a wood-fired pizza or an extra beer before or after the show. Just south of the canals you’ll find the Towpath pub and the White Post Lane café. A 5–10 minute walk north brings you to several local restaurants (such as Patsy’s Barbershop with live music, Aria Fish Shack for seafood, or Seoul Chick for Korean fried chicken). Bethnal Green Road (one stop down at London Fields) offers even more food options. For hotels: Stratford (two Tube stops away) has several good ones (Travelodge, Premier Inn, Novotel). When attending an evening show, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time to meet up, queue for entry and order drinks. After the event, late-night buses run regularly (for example the N26 and N488 towards central London), but booking a night taxi from outside the venue is often the fastest way home after midnight.

What Makes This Venue Special

Mick’s Garage’s unique charm comes from its blend of community spirit and gritty character. It’s not just a generic club; it embodies East London DIY culture. The space keeps the memory of its former life – named after the old mechanics shop (‘Mick’s Mechanics’) (crummbs.co.uk) – and even features reclaimed industrial elements (like an actual corrugated-metal shack for the BBQ). For Hackney locals, it serves as a homegrown hub, giving exposure to local musicians and DJs that might not fit more commercial venues. Many artists and fans praise the venue’s sound system and the “no-frills” warehouse vibe, which feels more authentic than a sterile nightclub. Over the years Mick’s Garage has hosted memorable performances and underground club nights that are talked about regionally. Add to that the ethnic street-food (Berber & Q’s Shukshuk BBQ) and craft beers on tap, and you get a one-of-a-kind East End party spot. The venue also has some lore – a famous giant mirrorball hangs from the ceiling, and as one DJ put it, “the only ball you’ll see around here” (djmag.com). Despite looming redevelopment plans for the area, Mick’s Garage has maintained its scruffy, eclectic atmosphere. It remains beloved by both DJs and audiences for offering a warm, communal vibe rather than just a place to dance.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The ground floor is accessible for wheelchair users, but the mezzanine and stage are up stairs only. If you need level access, mention it on booking or at the door – staff can usually keep part of the front area clear. The venue isn’t specifically designed for full ADA compliance, so there is no lift to the upper level.

What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID (18+ years old for most events). A charging bank for your phone can help if you’ll be using mobile tickets and messaging. Wear comfortable, casual shoes – the floor can get crowded and sometimes sticky. Coat-check is provided, but a small daypack or pouch is handy for carrying essentials (and will be searched on entry).

What Not to Bring: Large backpacks or professional camera/video setups are prohibited. Outside food or drinks are not allowed beyond babies’ necessities. Smoking (including vaping) is only permitted in designated outdoor areas or the terrace – do not smoke inside. Any illegal substances are obviously banned. Check the social media post for specific event rules (some DJs have headphones-only policies or other quirks).

Doors and Dress Code: Dress is casual; you won’t need anything fancy. Mosh- or clubwear is fine. Nice sneakers or boots are common. The venue and staff do not enforce strict dress codes, but remember that outside venues like pubs may have policies, so if you plan to pre-drink somewhere don’t block them by wearing damp clubwear. Doors typically open one to two hours before the advertised start time, but double-check on the event page.

Age Restrictions: Most nights are 18+ only. Any all-ages events (if ever held) will be clearly marked in advance. Under-18s cannot attend late-night club nights, even with parents. No official family or kids’ programs are offered – this venue is for adults and students.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume you can drive and park next door. Don’t arrive at the last minute and miss the one-way queue out. Don’t expect to pay in cash only – bars accept cards and contactless. If the event is highly popular, doors may stay locked when capacity is reached, so plan to arrive early.

Insider Tip: Try the in-house kombucha at the Jarr Bar – it’s a tonic with ginger and fruit that regulars love between beers. And if you have time, check out Crate Brewery’s beer and pizza next door either before or after the gig for a complete evening out. When leaving at 2–3am, walk in pairs or groups through Hackney Wick, and consider grabbing the N26 night bus from Fish Island Road (near West Street) if it’s still running.

What types of events does Mick’s Garage host?

Mick’s Garage hosts a variety of music events, most commonly club nights and dance parties. You can expect DJs playing styles like house, techno, disco, UK garage and reggae, as well as the occasional live band or themed event. It’s a flexible warehouse space, so promoters often fill it with night-long raves, all-ages indie dances or even daytime music fairs. Check their online listings for the latest scheduled gigs.

What is the capacity of Mick’s Garage and how is the venue laid out?

Mick’s Garage can hold up to about 580 people in a general admission (standing) layout (www.canvas-events.co.uk). The main floor is a large open space with the dancefloor and two bars. A raised mezzanine level surrounds one side of the floor; this mezzanine includes the DJ booth, some lounge seating and overlooks the crowd. There are no fixed seats – it’s mostly standing room with a few sofas and benches upstairs. For bigger events promoters can also arrange theatre-style or cabaret seating for up to a few hundred people (Canvas Events notes 350 in theatre / dining layout (www.canvas-events.co.uk)), but by default it’s a warehouse-style club space.

How do I buy tickets for events at Mick’s Garage, and what do they cost?

Tickets are normally sold online through the event promoter or official outlets (such as Ticketfairy, Resident Advisor or the venue’s social pages). Mick’s Garage itself does not have a staffed box office, so you’ll usually purchase tickets in advance via a website link or the venue’s contact. Pricing varies by event: minor club nights can be free or around £5-£10, while larger shows or headliners might charge £15-£20 or more. It’s a good idea to buy early where possible, as popular nights can sell out, but some day-of tickets may be available at the door if not sold out.

What is the dress code and age policy at Mick’s Garage?

The dress code is casual – most people wear everyday club or streetwear. You don’t need anything fancy or formal. Comfortable shoes are wise since it’s standing room. As for age, almost all events are 18+ (usually strictly). You’ll need a valid ID (passport or driver’s license) to enter after around 6pm. Some early-evening events (if any) might allow younger attendees, but this will be clearly stated. In general, expect most nights to be for adults and students only.

Where is Mick’s Garage and what is the best way to get there?

Mick’s Garage is at 8 Queen’s Yard in Hackney Wick, East London (postcode E9 5EN) (www.shazam.com). The easiest way is by train or tube. The Hackney Wick Overground station (on the line through Stratford) is about a 10-minute walk; just head down Warton Road into Queen’s Yard. From Stratford station (Central/Jubilee/DLR), take a short Overground ride or bus. Several buses stop close by (for example the 241 goes right past Queen’s Yard). There is no underground station directly in Hackney Wick; Liverpool Street/Kings Cross rail is further north. Driving is not recommended, as street parking is very limited (resident permit zone) and getting dropped off on Queen’s Yard or Fish Island Road is usually better.

Is there parking available near Mick’s Garage?

There is no dedicated Mick’s Garage car park. Public parking in Hackney Wick is scarce. The streets around Queen’s Yard are mainly permit-holder zones, so finding free parking is very difficult except on Sundays. A small commercial lot for Queen’s Yard (nearby businesses) exists but often fills up early. It’s usually best to avoid driving. If you must drive, look for paid parking near the Olympic Park or Stratford and take public transit the last mile. Otherwise, drop off by taxi directly at Queen’s Yard or use the Overground/buses instead.

What public transport serves Mick’s Garage?

The most convenient public transport is the London Overground. Take the Overground to Hackney Wick station (zone 2) and then walk 10–15 minutes to Queen’s Yard. Buses such as the 241 and 276 stop at or near Queen’s Yard from various parts of London (241 runs from Shoreditch Station to Walthamstow, and 276 from Clapton to Aldgate). The nearest Tube is Stratford (Central/Jubilee lines), followed by a short train or bus ride. Night buses (e.g. N26, N488) service Hackney Wick late at night. In short: Overground is your best day option; buses (day or night) connect the venue when trains stop.

Are food and drinks available inside Mick’s Garage?

Yes – there are two bars and a kitchen stall. The bars serve Crate Brewery’s own craft beers (on tap) plus a variety of cider, wine and spirits. The adjacent “Jarr” bar pours Crate’s house-brewed kombucha (a fruity fermented tea). For food, the Shukshuk BBQ stall (at the rear) sells Middle Eastern-style barbecue (pitas, kebabs, spiced chicken/lamb), generally open until early-evening. Crate Brewery pizzas and coffee are also available if you arrive earlier when their pub-side kitchen is open. Outside food and drink are not allowed inside.

Does Mick’s Garage have a cloakroom or storage for coats?

Yes, a coat check is usually available for gig and club nights. It’s typically located near the entrance. There is a small fee (often £1-£2 per item) and jackets or bags are tagged and held for you. This frees you up to dance without carrying your bulky coat. However, if you’re only there for a short time, you might prefer to wear a light jacket – cloakroom lines can get long on busy nights.

Are bags and cameras allowed inside Mick’s Garage?

Small bags are allowed, but all bags are subject to security check at the door. Security may refuse entry to large backpacks or suitcases. Do bring a small handbag or rucksack if needed, but nothing too bulky. Cameras (smartphone or point-and-shoot) are generally permitted for personal photos. Professional cameras, video cameras, or recording equipment are not allowed without the promoter’s explicit permission. Flash photography is discouraged as it can bother performers.

Is Mick’s Garage wheelchair accessible?

Partially. The main ground-floor area of Mick’s Garage is flat and accessible, so wheelchair users can experience the music and use the bar and toilets on that level. However, the mezzanine level (where the DJ booth and some seating are) is only reachable by stairs, as there is no lift. If you have mobility needs, you may want to let the staff know upon arriving; they can usually reserve a spot up front on the ground floor allowed for those needing step-free access.

What time do doors open and how late does Mick’s Garage stay open?

Doors usually open in the early evening (often around 7–9pm for concerts, or about 10pm for late-night club nights; check your specific event’s info). On weekends Mick’s Garage has a late licence, typically staying open until at least 2am or 3am (www.canvas-events.co.uk). When main acts finish, many people linger at the bar or dance to encore beats. Public transport back into central London may still be running at that hour (Overground and Last Tube services) or you may catch a night bus or taxi. Always plan your last train/bus ahead of time if you rely on public transit.

What is the dress code and are there any age restrictions at Mick’s Garage?

There is no formal dress code – patrons dress casually (think clubwear: T-shirts, jeans, sneakers or boots). Just avoid excessively sportswear or anything that might violate the dress policy of nearby pubs. As for age, most events at Mick’s Garage are strictly 18+ (especially after 8pm) and you will be asked for ID at the door. Under-18s are generally not allowed on weekend club nights; any family-friendly or all-ages events would have to be specifically advertised.

Where are the restrooms and other facilities inside Mick’s Garage?

The toilets are on the ground floor (usually along one wall). There are separate male and female restrooms, but no special VIP restroom. If you ride motorcycles, note there is a shoe cubby. (Please note: flush toilets can sometimes get backed up on the busiest nights.) A small cloakroom/coat check counter is near the entrance. The venue’s lighting and sound equipment is professionally mounted on trusses and the famous disco ball hangs between the high rafters, but these are not touchable – just part of the show atmosphere.

What dining and drinking options are nearby if I arrive early?

Just steps from Mick’s Garage are several options. The Crate Brewery pub (on Waterden Road) offers wood-fired pizza, craft beers and a sunny canal-side terrace. Within a short walk in Queens Yard you’ll find street-food vendors (sometimes a BBQ or tacos depending on the day) and coffee stands. A couple of local pubs (like the nearby Bar Kick or the Close Bar) and cafés are open during the day. If you want a sit-down meal, Bethnal Green Road is 10 minutes away and has a host of restaurants (Thai, pizza, pub meals). Pro tip: Arrive about an hour early so you can eat or grab a drink before doors open.

Why is it called Mick’s Garage and what’s the venue’s history?

The name “Mick’s Garage” comes from the building’s past life. It was originally an auto repair workshop (“Mick’s Mechanics”) on Queen’s Yard (crummbs.co.uk). When the Crate Brewery team and Berber&Q took it over in 2015, they kept the “garage” theme as a nod to its history. Rather than fully repaint or renovate, they embraced the rough garage aesthetic – you’ll still see the old office area turned into a coffee roastery and the oversized roller door entrance as architectural features. This historic character adds to the venue’s charm and sets it apart from brand-new clubs.

What should I do to stay safe when leaving Mick’s Garage late at night?

Hackney Wick is generally safe, but as with any late-night outing, stay aware. Leave with friends rather than alone, and stick to well-lit streets (Fish Island Road back to the Overground station is busy and well-traveled). There are late-night buses (like the N26 or N488) from near Queen’s Yard that go toward central London; check the Transport for London (TfL) Time Out service or use Citymapper for the last departures. Taxis and rideshare apps can queue outside the venue; ensure you use licensed minicabs or official apps. Always confirm your ride or bus number before getting on, and keep small belongings secure. The venue staff and Hackney Police are usually around on busy nights if you need assistance.

Can I hire Mick’s Garage for a private event?

Yes. Mick’s Garage is available for private hire on selected days (typically Fridays through Sundays and some bank holidays) (www.canvas-events.co.uk). The venue can accommodate parties, corporate events, weddings, and film shoots. It comes fully licensed till 3am on weekends, and the operators can often organize in-house catering by the Shukshuk team or other partners. To inquire about availability and pricing, you would contact the venue hire team (details usually found on the Canvas Events or Crate Brewery website). Note: during private events the space is closed to the public and you arrange all details in advance.

How can I stay updated on upcoming events at Mick’s Garage?

Follow the venue’s announcements to never miss a show. Mick’s Garage himself doesn’t have a standalone website, so the best sources are Crate Brewery’s social media accounts (they promote Mick’s events), and local music/club listings (Resident Advisor, Ticketweb, Songkick, etc.). Also, posters in Hackney Wick and word-of-mouth from local promoters are common. Signing up for newsletters from Crate Brewery or local club promoters can also get you on mailing lists for early tickets. Finally, keep an eye on the CrateBrewery.com “What’s On” page, as it sometimes links to special events at Mick’s Garage.

Events at Mick's Garage by Crate Brewery, London

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