About Miranda
Miranda was an intimate live music venue and bar tucked below the Ace Hotel London Shoreditch, at 100 Shoreditch High Street (cityking.com ) (essentiallypop.com ). Opened with the hotel in 2013 as Ace’s first UK location, Miranda quickly became a creative hotspot. The room drew inspiration from Shoreditch’s edgy art scene – its interior mixes Bauhaus modernism with punk and graphic design influences for a distinctive, “celestial” underground vibe (www.venuereport.com ) (www.venuereport.com ). Mirrors, low lighting and a light-up art wall gave the space an “empyreal glow” in club nights (www.venuereport.com ). A full bar offered craft beers and cocktails, and a modest snack menu (often supplemented by pop-up pizza or food vendors), though no full kitchen was housed downstairs.
Miranda was beloved as a local cultural hub, hosting up-and-coming bands alongside DJs and niche performers. It served as a counterpoint to Shoreditch’s more commercial venues, appealing to both hotel guests and East London locals. The venue’s home beneath the Ace (Shoreditch’s “swanky hotel”) lent it a hidden-speakeasy feel – one reviewer noted a sign reading “Quiet please, they are performing” in the crowd (essentiallypop.com ). Behind the scenes, promoters curated varied events rather than a single music genre, making Miranda a living showcase of the neighborhood’s creative energy.
After seven vibrant years, Miranda closed permanently in 2020. In September 2020 Ace Hotel Shoreditch announced that it would “no longer continue as Ace Hotel London Shoreditch – and with it goes Miranda’s home beneath 100 High Street” (www.nme.com ). As of now the venue is not open under any name (though the hotel brand hinted at a possible new London location in future). In its lifetime Miranda was hailed by the Ace team as “our celestial basement bar” for London’s creative nightlife (www.venuereport.com ), a description that endures as a tribute to its unique place in Shoreditch history.
Events and Programming
Miranda was best known for its eclectic, near-nightly lineup of events. There was no fixed style – one local write-up even called it a “near-nightly array of live music, club nights, film screenings, underplays, magazine launches, drag shows, bingo games and private parties” (cityking.com ). Recurring themed nights included Soul in Motion (an acclaimed drum-–bass night held roughly twice a month) and Hard Cock Life (a queer-friendly hip-hop party) (onin.london ) (onin.london ). Miranda also hosted experimental club sets and indie showcases. For example, its annual “Lowlines” series turned Boxing Week into a week-long party featuring guest promoters and DJs (onin.london ). Sunday afternoon reggae sets and occasional comedy nights helped ensure nearly every day had something different on the calendar.
Miranda’s stages drew both breakout talent and established names. Many NTS Radio DJs spun records downstairs, and film nights or art launches were often listed. The Who’s Who of venue performers ranged from local bass DJs to indie bands. Legendary rock band Suede even played live at Miranda during their London tour (www.nme.com ). In Soul in Motion sessions, drum-–bass greats like Goldie, Grooverider, London Elektricity and Jumping Jack Frost took the booth (onin.london ). The diversity of programming meant ticket prices varied: intimate gigs or comedy were often free or cheap, while DJs shows might be £6–£10 per ticket (ra.co ). (Historically, Miranda had no fixed box office – tickets were sold online or at the door until sell-out.)
Because of the wide range of events, Miranda never got “stale.” Film festivals, magazine launches or local art showcases might fill a week in summer, while holiday parties and New Year’s series proved popular. The Ace London calendar frequently listed Miranda events, reflecting the hotel’s role as a Shoreditch cultural outpost (www.venuereport.com ). Despite its small size, the venue’s reputation grew year by year – one profile noted that by late 2016 Miranda had “become an entity in its own right, boasting a constantly growing list of outstanding acts and events” (onin.london ). In short, Miranda’s programming was notable for its variety and its tight connection to the local creative community.
Tickets and Booking
When Miranda was active, tickets were typically sold through the Ace Hotel London website or authorised ticketing agencies. There was no traditional walk-up box office; guests usually booked ahead online or joined a guest-list for events. Popular nights often sold out quickly, so savvy visitors watched Ace Hotel Shoreditch’s event calendar and social media for early announcements. Advance tickets could be as low as £6–£10 for a club night (ra.co ), while free RSVP-list entry was sometimes offered for select gigs. (It was generally advisable to grab tickets as soon as they went on sale, since Miranda’s intimate capacity meant shows filled up fast.)
Because Miranda closed in 2020, there is currently no active booking or ticket outlet for it. For historical context: if Miranda were running today, tickets would likely drop several weeks ahead via the hotel or promoter presales, with multiple pricing tiers (e.g. general admission vs VIP areas) depending on the event. In the past, Miranada’s policy notes emphasised buying from official sources only — no third-party resale sites — to avoid scams. Door sales (if available) could be risky for sold-out shows. The bottom line: if Miranda reopens (as rumored), the best strategy will be to watch official channels for announcements and book early, as was the case previously.
Seating and Layout
Miranda’s layout was straightforward and casual. The small rectangular room had a low stage at one end, a wood-panelled bar along the side wall, and a sound booth or DJ booth built into one corner. Guests usually stood on the main floor (generally packed close to the stage) or used folding chairs arranged at the rear or sides. There were no balconies or VIP booths – every spot in the room had a clear view of the stage and dancefloor. Acoustic guide rails and a potent sound system helped deliver balanced sound throughout, making it equally good for live vocals and thumping dance music (www.venuereport.com ).
The vibe was intentionally rough-hewn: unfinished brick walls, Edison bulbs and mirrored art panels gave an atmospheric, dimly-lit feel. One event recap described it as akin to "mom's unfinished basement," complete with plastic cups and portable chairs (part of the DIY charm) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). However, management maintained basic comfort: the floor was flat (no steps), and sightlines were pretty open, so even late arrivals could usually see the performers. A small raised area by the booth allowed the engineer a good view, but offered no separate seating. The only aspects to be aware of were late-night sound levels (Miranda’s stage could get very loud) and the fact that clean-up crews would clear away the setup swiftly at closing time, so the party had a hard cut-off (some performers played until the lights came on).
Getting There and Parking
Location: Miranda’s address was 100 Shoreditch High Street, London, E1 6JQ (cityking.com ). It sat at the corner of Shoreditch High Street and Bethnal Green Road, in the heart of East London.Tube & Rail: The closest Underground is Aldgate East station (Hammersmith & City and Circle lines), about a 10-minute walk west. Liverpool Street station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Elizabeth lines, plus national rail) is roughly a 15–20 minute walk—or one quick tube stop from Aldgate East. For Overground, Shoreditch High Street station is about a 6-minute walk south along the High Street.Bus: Shoreditch High Street is well-served by buses (routes 8, 38, 55, 242, 242, 149, etc.), many of which stop on Shoreditch High Street or around nearby Old Street and Brick Lane. Check Transport for London (TfL) for exact stop info. Night buses (N8, N551) also run nearby.Parking: Miranda had no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Shoreditch High Street is very limited and timed. The nearest public car parks are several blocks away: for example, an NCP on Whitechapel Road (near Whitechapel Gallery) or near Old Street. Rideshare or taxis are generally easier late at night; drop-offs can be made on Shoreditch High Street outside the hotel (which has a short loading zone) or on nearby side streets. (Remember London congestion and ULEZ charges if driving.)
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Miranda, guests encountered a single door leading into the bar area. A coat-check counter might have been available for large coats during winter shows, but most crowd members simply kept belongings close. Expect a friendly but orderly door policy: security at the entrance checked IDs for age-restricted events (Miranda was 18+ unless otherwise noted) and scanned small bags. The room itself was decorated with eclectic art (mirrors, wall installations) and a polished concrete floor. The bar served a selection of local craft beers, ciders and a list of cocktails; prices tended to match typical London bar rates.
Miranda’s atmosphere was lively and inclusive. People fluidly mingled by the bar or danced near the stage. Staff walked the room serving drinks on long trays and restocking glasses. The crowd was usually a mix of creative types, hotel guests in streetwear, and serious music fans. Because of the club vibe, lighting was low except for stage lights and a glowing wall panel with names (it read “Felicity, Miranda, 1992” in one photo (mirandalikes.tumblr.com ), an art piece reference). Many attendees filmed performances on their phones, as noted by observers (essentiallypop.com ), so a moderate level of smartphone photography was tolerated. Just keep in mind that Miranda’s tight space and final-call times meant the venue could feel crowded, and the party often ended sharply on time. Restrooms were at the back; there were no VIP areas, and little shelter from the music (earplugs can be a good idea if you’re sensitive). All in all, inside Miranda felt like an energetic basement bar with a top-notch sound system and a crowd focused entirely on the night’s entertainment (www.venuereport.com ).
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and Cafés: Miranda is surrounded by Shoreditch’s famed food scene. Brick Lane (just south) has legendary curry houses like Aladin and the Brick Lane Beigel Bake, as well as trendy cafés. A few doors down on Shoreditch High Street sits Rudy’s Pizza , a popular Neapolitan-style spot (as one review noted, its twinkly lights drew people from afar (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )). For something heartier, the Ace’s upstairs brasserie Hoi Polloi serves modern British fare (though not in the basement). East London gastropubs like The Book Club or Hoxton Stations offer pre-show drinks and nibbles.Bars and Nightlife: Beyond Miranda itself, Shoreditch hosts many bars. The Owl & Pussycat and The Night of Joy (a locals’ cocktail bar) are a few blocks away. Nearby Hoxton has spots like Night Tales or Copenhagen Street Bar 25. For late-night munchies, Shoreditch is packed with pizza and kebab shops that stay open after club hours.Shops and Markets: If you have daytime before/after the show, you’re near Spitalfields Market and Boxpark (for fashion and street food) or Brick Lane’s vintage markets. This can be handy for souvenirs, records, or just a stroll through East London style.Hotels: The Ace Hotel is of course on-site (though now closed), but other nearby lodging includes The Curtain (James Bond-style hotel/club), The Hoxton Shoreditch, The Montcalm East, and budget options like Ibis Styles. On a show night it’s wise to book hotels early if you plan to stay late, as accommodations here tend to fill up.Timing and Transport: Plan to arrive early: many restaurants fill up, and cab queues can form after 2am. The 24-hour Liverpool Street station (for late Night Tube/Overground) is a 15-minute walk away via Bethnal Green Road, or you can grab a taxi. Uber and Addison Lee operate broadly here. (If you leave after midnight, the N8/N551 night buses will get you downtown or back east.)
What Makes This Venue Special
Miranda stood out for its unique blend of underground club energy and boutique-hotel polish. Unlike huge nightclubs, it felt personal and adventurous. The creative design was a highlight: architects combined London’s gritty industrial past with a dash of futurism, citing Bauhaus modernism and British punk art as inspirations (www.venuereport.com ). This meant every event had an avant-garde backdrop, from a glowing neon sign to walls plastered with art posters. In fact, Ace’s promotion boasted Miranda had an “empyreal glow” – a celestial feel quite unlike typical basement pubs (www.venuereport.com ). Critics and clubbers noted that this otherworldly vibe gave parties a special atmosphere.
A key advantage was the sound system and intimacy. Reviews praised Miranda’s "great sound system" (www.venuereport.com ), which delivered clear audio even when the room was packed. Because it only held around 150 people (www.venuereport.com ), artists could hear cheers and talk directly to the audience, creating a real connection. Performers and fans often commented that Miranda felt like “heaven” despite its rough edges – one Ace statement (quoting David Bowie) even said closing Ace Shoreditch was “heartbreaking” and described the place as “rugged, naive, and heaven” (www.nme.com ). That poetic tribute captures Miranda’s legacy: a bit raw, deeply authentic, and beloved by those in the know.
In Shoreditch’s local lore, Miranda was celebrated for melding hotel luxury with street culture. It helped legitimize Ace Hotel’s focus on arts, giving designers and DJs access to a funky London stage. Local tradition welcomed Ace’s monthly music takeovers (from NTS to Boiler Room tape-plays) as part of the scene. Even now, ex-patrons reminisce about “the Ace basement” with a mixture of pride and nostalgia. All these factors – intimate capacity, stellar sound, eclectic programming and creative design – combined to make Miranda much more than just a bar. It was a village green for East London’s nightlife creatives, and that spirit is what made Miranda truly special (even if that era is now history).
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and Entry: Most Miranda events were strictly 18+ (some 18+ with valid ID) and a few required 21+ after midnight. The door policy was firm. If an event is advertised as 16+ (rare, e.g. for early comedy shows), expect extra verification. Always bring government ID (passport or driver’s license) to get in. Security did bag checks for prohibited items (inside food/drink, weapons, large glass bottles). Sing along or film on your phone — filmmaking on stage was common (essentiallypop.com ) — but professional cameras were usually not allowed without permission.Dress Code: There was no formal dress code at Miranda; casual or trendy club attire was fine. Come in comfortable shoes (the basement floor is concrete). That said, very casual shorts or sportswear were uncommon—many clubgoers wore jeans or streetwear. Because the crowd and staff values were hip and creative, expect to fit in with graphic shirts or a nice jacket. Remember though, it’s London nightlife, so even if you’re overdressed a bit it’s okay; the venue vibe was multi-style.Accessibility: Important: Miranda was located downstairs with no elevator access, so it was not wheelchair-accessible. There were stairs leading to the venue – if you have mobility needs, ask ahead about alternatives. The seating was limited anyway, so if standing is hard, consider nearby streetlevel bars or restaurants. Inside Miranda itself, aisles were narrow, so large wheelchairs would not fit comfortably.Timing and Curfew: Doors typically opened in the early evening (often around 7–9pm depending on the show). Live music or DJs would start by 8–9pm and go until 2–3am. Note there was a strict curfew: Ace’s agreement didn’t allow playing past about 2:30–3:00am. Punctuality helps – if the headline act is at 10:30pm, arriving by 10pm is wise. Leaving by last call (often midnight or 1am for alcohol) avoids last-minute crowds. Also, plan your exit: the venue cleared out quickly to allow clean-up, so order any late-night ride or note the last Underground times (Aldgate East closes just after midnight on most nights).Crowd Tips: The audience at Miranda tended to be in the 20s-40s age range, friendly and into the arts scene. Good crowd etiquette helps the vibe: queue politely at the bar, give ground to dancing spot nearest the stage, and avoid linger on the dancefloor if you’re not moving (many said staff would point gently to clear the floor). Bringing water or a small snack helps, since drink lines could be long during peak times. Also, a mistake to avoid is holding spots: Miranda’s space was precious, so try not to block others’ sightlines. Altogether, attendees often call it a communal experience – sharing cans or making way on the floor made events enjoyable for everyone.Check for Updates: As with any underground venue, Miranda’s schedule used to change frequently. Before heading over, the best tip was to confirm the night’s event or changes. While blog/event sites listed past shows, the Ace Hotel’s official site and social media had the freshest info (and would announce if the venue was unexpectedly closed). Now that Miranda is closed, any revival or pop-up would also be promoted on those channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Miranda?
Miranda was a relatively small venue. The basement space held roughly 150 people at most (www.venuereport.com ). In practise, room capacity was set by local fire code, so once the bandstand and floor area filled up, the door would close. This low maximum (around 100–150) is why most shows sold out quickly. The intimate scale also gave audiences a very up-close experience.
How do I buy tickets for shows at Miranda?
When Miranda was active, tickets were usually sold online via the Ace Hotel London website or authorized ticket sellers. There was no street-level box office, so advance purchase was the norm. Some events (like weekly club nights) might admit on a first-come basis or free with RSVP, but popular gigs required pre-booking. Note: since Miranda closed in 2020, its shows are no longer running, but historically tickets went on sale several weeks ahead of each date.
Where is Miranda located?
Miranda was located inside the Ace Hotel London Shoreditch. The full address was 100 Shoreditch High Street, London, E1 6JQ (cityking.com ). You’ll find it in a basement beneath the hotel lobby. If you plug that address into a map app or GPS, it will take you directly to the corner of Shoreditch High St and Bethnal Green Road. It’s in East London’s Shoreditch neighborhood, near Spitalfields and Brick Lane.
What are the nearest Tube or rail stations to Miranda?
The closest station is Shoreditch High Street Overground (London Overground), about a 5–6 minute walk down the High Street. For the Tube, Aldgate East (Circle and Hammersmith & City lines) is roughly a 10–12 minute walk. Liverpool Street station (Central, Circle, Elizabeth, Hammersmith & City lines and national rail) is about 15–20 minutes on foot or just one stop east of Aldgate East. Buses also stop on Shoreditch High Street if you prefer ground transport.
Is there parking available at Miranda?
There was no dedicated parking for Miranda. Street parking on Shoreditch High Street is very limited and mostly metered, so that’s not reliable. The nearest paid car parks are a few blocks away – for example, an NCP on Whitechapel Road or near Liverpool Street. Many visitors found it easier to use a taxi or rideshare (drop-off on the High Street) or public transport. If you must drive, allow extra time to find a legal spot.
Is Miranda wheelchair accessible?
No – unfortunately Miranda was down a flight of stairs and did not have elevator access. The basement location means there is no wheelchair access to the concert area. Street-level facilities were available (in the Ace Hotel lobby) but the performance area itself was not accessible. Visitors requiring step-free access would not have been able to reach Miranda’s stage area.
What is the drink and food situation inside Miranda?
Miranda had a full bar serving beer, wine, spirits and cocktails, but it did not have a full kitchen. For food, the options were minimal – sometimes a limited snack or food truck pop-up service was arranged. (The upstairs restaurant Hoi Polloi was the main food outlet for hotel guests.) Most patrons ate beforehand – nearby eateries on Brick Lane and Shoreditch High Street offer plenty of meals and late-night pizza. The Venue recommended grabbing a bite outside early, as few substantial food options were on-site.
What are the age restrictions for Miranda?
Most nights at Miranda were restricted to 18 and over – ID was checked at the door. Some special events (like an afternoon comedy show) might allow 16+ with an adult, but that was the exception. One reviewer noted underage guests being turned away when parents tried to sneak in 16-year-olds (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In general, expect that Miranda’s events will be for adults only unless explicitly advertised otherwise.
Is there a coat check at Miranda?
Miranda’s personal storage was very limited. There was no official valet or large coatroom. A small coat rack or counter might be used to hold jackets for a fee (or sometimes free), but most visitors kept their coats on their chairs or carried them. If you have a thick coat or big bag, plan to keep it with you – space is tight, so bringing only essentials is wise.
Can I take photos or record video in Miranda?
Casual smartphone photography was generally allowed and common – many patrons filmed performances for social media (essentiallypop.com ). However, professional cameras or tripods were usually not permitted without prior clearance. In practice, MP3 recorders or flip cameras would have been noticeable by staff. If in doubt, assume that recording is for personal use only and avoid obstructing the stage or others’ view.
Are there toilets and other facilities inside Miranda?
Yes. Despite the modest size, Miranda had restroom facilities (men’s and women’s rooms) at the back of the venue. These were small but functional, with sinks and toilets. Note that lines could form at peak times due to the crowd size. Other facilities like drinking water fountains or Wi-Fi were minimal – essentially none. If you need free water or charging, the Ace Hotel lobby upstairs could be used before or after the show.
What is the door policy on smoking?
Smoking indoors is illegal in the UK, so Miranda was strictly non-smoking. Nicotine breaks required stepping outside. The venue’s entrance area had a small sidewalk spot for smokers – you could vape or smoke one cigarette between songs outside. Just remember to re-enter promptly; leaving the queue might mean losing your spot. The club provided ashtrays by the door for cigarette stubs.
What should I avoid bringing to Miranda?
Keep baggage minimal. Large backpacks, open alcohol or outside food are not allowed. Mirrors, tripods or large cameras would be checked or refused. Most nights, anything illegal (drugs, weapons) is banned as everywhere. Also avoid wearing hats or anything that blocks others’ view on the dancefloor. Finally, since space is tight, avoid any unnecessary items – people are often repelled if backpacks block space. Generally, just bring ID, your phone, and essentials like some cash or cards.
Are Miranda events happening now?
No. Miranda closed permanently in September 2020 along with the Ace Hotel Shoreditch (www.nme.com ). There are no current events at 100 Shoreditch High Street under the Miranda name. The Ace brand did hint at possibly opening a new London location in the future, but as of now no date or replacement has appeared. If and when Miranda-style events return, it will likely be under a new name or venue.
Why was it called “Miranda”?
“Miranda” was the name given by Ace’s design team, fitting the venue’s cosmic theme. Miranda is actually one of the moons of Uranus, tying in with Ace’s other creative names (like Café Frankenstein). The name, along with tags like “celestial” and “subterranean venue,” reinforced the venue’s theme of an out-of-this-world basement bar. It wasn’t named after a person, but rather the idea of space, mystique and an alter-ego for the hotel’s underground nightlife.
What kind of music or events does Miranda focus on?
Miranda didn’t restrict itself to a single genre. It hosted everything from rock and folk concerts to electronic club nights and comedy. You might hear house or drum & bass during a club night (as with Soul in Motion), indie rock during a live band evening, or see poets and performance artists on other nights. Essentially, the programming was very diverse. If it opened again, expect to find an alternative lineup – everything from DJs and bass-heavy sets, to singer-songwriter gigs or themed events like quiz nights.
Who owned or ran Miranda?
Miranda was part of the Ace Hotel London Shoreditch, so it was owned by Ace (a Seattle-based hotel company). Programming and day-to-day operations were handled by Ace’s in-house team, often collaborating with local promoters. For example, Soul in Motion was run by an independent team that partnered with the venue. But ultimately, Miranda was managed by the Ace Hotel staff as one of its branded spaces.
