About Printworks London
Printworks London is a monumental industrial events complex in Rotherhithe, Southeast London, housed in the repurposed Harmsworth Quays printing plant. From 1989 to 2012 this site was Western Europe’s largest newspaper printing factory (rolling off papers like the Evening Standard and Metro) (www.nissenrichardsstudio.com ) (weraveyou.com ). When it opened as an events venue in January 2017, Printworks instantly became an iconic music and arts destination. The designers retained the building’s raw, “cathedral-like” feel – 16 metre-high ceilings, exposed beams and the original giant printing press machines are still in view (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (www.lightsoundjournal.com ). Spread over six interlinked halls totaling around 119,200 sq ft, it can accommodate about 6,000 people in total (www.nissenrichardsstudio.com ). The main ‘Press Halls’ space alone covers 3,328 sq m and can hold roughly 3,000 standing or about 1,500 in a seated theatre layout (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). This vast, industrial interior – often compared to Berlin’s Berghain – gives Printworks a unique character. It quickly drew rave reviews (Time Out crowned it London’s Best Club in 2018) and helped fill a void in the city’s nightlife (www.lightsoundjournal.com ) (www.standard.co.uk ). For Londoners, it became a locally cherished venue – even producing petitions to save it when redevelopment plans emerged (weraveyou.com ) – and globally it was hailed as one of the world’s top clubs (www.theguardian.com ) (www.lightsoundjournal.com ).
Events and Programming
Printworks was best known for large-scale electronic music events and immersive cultural shows. Its programming blended club nights, live concerts, and creative exhibitions. In practice that meant weeknight and weekend parties featuring leading DJs and imprints across techno, house, drum ’n’ bass, disco and more. For example, a Spring 2022 season announcement shows Printworks hosted a heady mix of genres – “Foreverland” (a surreal rave series) with Paul Woolford and others, Charlie de Witte’s techno nights, neurofunk drum’n’bass (Nastia, GBP), and even the club’s own “Sink The Pink” drag-queen extravaganza for its farewell ball (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Guest lineups have included international stars like The Chemical Brothers, DJ Koze and Deadmau5; in late 2022 Printworks even staged a 3-hour Chemical Brothers DJ set (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The space also welcomed special live events – for instance SonarLab festival nights in Barcelona, drum’n’bass showcases (Hospitality, Viper), and hybrid art/music events. In its early phase it hosted Secret Cinema movie experiences (Star Wars, 28 Days Later in 2016) (ra.co ) and even fashion shows or brand pop-ups. Recurring series like Glitterbox (disco/house parties), Terminal V-Ink (psychedelic techno), and Anjunabeats (trance) made regular appearances alongside one-off concerts (bossanova, classical crossover) and late-night club residencies. When active, events went on several nights each week, especially a big Autumn/Winter season culminating in New Year’s Eve. Popular nights often had advance ticket releases weeks before and sold out quickly; for example a major ‘Bugged Out’ event with The Chemical Brothers saw tickets from just £27.50 and sold out (printworkslondon.co.uk ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Printworks events were sold through official channels – typically via the venue’s own site or partner promoters – and rarely through walk-up box-office sales. Popular nights announced dates well in advance, often with pre-sales for mailing-list subscribers. Fans were advised to “subscribe for show announcements” and watch social media for presale codes. Prices varied by event: standard club gigs generally started in the mid-£20s to £30s, while big-name headliner shows or festivals could be £40–60 or more. For example, the Chemical Brothers event had advance tickets at £27.50 (with peak pricing higher) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). VIP packages or balcony access (if available) could cost significantly more, as premium experience extras. On the night, tickets had to be presented (printed or on smartphone) and scanned for entry. Printworks did not have a regular box office or door ticket line – last-minute entry was not guaranteed unless the show was undersold. Attendees were typically 18+ for club nights; some events explicitly stated “Age Range 18+” on their listing (printworkslondon.co.uk ). For sold-out nights, ticket resale (via approved platforms) was occasionally offered to avoid touts. In short, the best strategy was to buy early rather than risk missing the event.
Seating and Layout
Printworks is essentially an open-floor venue with no general seating for most shows. The core Pitt halls spaces are broad, flat and converted from factory floors, so “best seats” usually meant the standing areas closest to the stage or DJ booth. For more casual viewing, a series of balconies runs along the sides of the Press Halls (printworkslondon.co.uk ). These upper levels overlook the main floor and have railings for a raised viewpoint – they were often used for VIP tables or just as spectator galleries. Technically, the Press Halls were split into two halves (“Electronic” and “Live” sides, measuring roughly 128×13m and 82×13m each) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). On big nights these combined into one 3,328 sq m floor, but they could also host separate simultaneous events. Acoustically, the venue was designed for loud sound: a custom d&b audiotechnik system covers the hall (24 full-range J-Series tops and J-SUB basses per main hang (www.dbaudio.com )), so anywhere on the floor yields club-quality audio. If you prefer less bass, the balconies slightly away from the speakers offer a more balanced sound. In practice, front-of-crowd was where the energy is – dancers often packed the centre. Others liked hanging near the balconies or flanking pillars for an overview. Note that the space was huge and mirrored, so sightlines vary: toward the stage end you see the DJ up close; at the far end you see sweeping lights and fog moves. Overall there’s no “bad” area acoustically, but front-middle positions get the full force of sound and lights. Some events offered limited seating or chill areas at the back or on balconies, but these were optional. The venue also included two large goods lifts (each about 2×2×3.6m, 6,000kg capacity) (printworkslondon.co.uk ), ensuring production gear (and wheelchairs) could reach upper levels. Dressing and green-room areas were tucked offstage for artists, while front-of-house had bars, merch stands and restrooms around the margins of the Press Halls.
Getting There and Parking
Printworks is at Surrey Quays Road, Rotherhithe, London SE16 7PJ (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The best way to reach it is public transport. Canada Water Station (Zone 2) is only about a 5-minute walk away (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Canada Water is served by the Jubilee Line and London Overground, making it easy from Central or West London; also the night tube runs on weekends, helping late-night eventgoers. Surrey Quays Station (Overground) and Rotherhithe Station (Overground) are each roughly 10 minutes on foot (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Several buses stop very close to the venue (routes 381, P12, 47, 188, C10 (printworkslondon.co.uk )), and the No.188 night bus runs regularly. From Central London or any tube station, it’s one quick change (often at Canada Water or Canary Wharf) to get there. If driving, expect limited options: there is officially no parking at the venue (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Some nearby side streets in Surrey Quays or the Canada Water retail park have pay-lots or limited spaces, but these fill up quickly on weekends. The local council may issue fines for illegal parking, so it’s generally easier to use a taxi or rideshare. Printworks provided a designated drop-off and pick-up point on its site for taxis and private hires (printworkslondon.co.uk ). After a show, exits are managed quietly to respect neighbours (printworkslondon.co.uk ) – note the Jubilee line (Canada Water) and Overground (Rotherhithe/Surrey Quays) run until the last train times. Visitors often delay departing until the DJ ends (around 3-4AM on big nights), so plan for post-midnight travel (taxis are plentiful at the dedicated rank, and London taxis or Ubers pick up easily from the front entrance (printworkslondon.co.uk )).
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, expect a stark industrial atmosphere. Entry involves scanning your ticket and a full security search (bag and person check) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Show staff strictly enforce the rules: shoes and clothes are checked, and any non-compliance can mean denied entry. The venue has a “Challenge 25” ID policy (printworkslondon.co.uk ): carnets must present valid photo ID if asked (passport, driving licence or PASS-accredited ID only (printworkslondon.co.uk )). Once inside, you’ll find a cavernous space decorated with newspaper press relics, polished concrete floors and inventively lit steel structures (including the signature Kinesys moving rigs for lights and screens (www.lightsoundjournal.com )). The lighting and video system is top-tier: on each side are dozens of LED strips and moving pods driven by Hippotizer media servers, making each party feel like an immersive spectacle (www.lightsoundjournal.com ). The sound system is tailored to the hall, with hidden sub arrays, so bass thumps through your chest at peak volume (www.dbaudio.com ). Dress for high energy: “there’s no set dress code… just dress to dance” (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The environment will be hot and crowded – bring a light jacket only (coats can be stored in paid lockers). Printworks provides free water stations near every bar (printworkslondon.co.uk ), which is handy in the heat. Speaking of bars, note that Printworks is entirely cashless: bars and food stalls only take cards or contactless (printworkslondon.co.uk ), so carry no cash. You’ll find several bars spaced around the floor, along with themed food vendors. Typical traders include Greek gyros, Korean bao-buns, NY-style pizza and even a weekend taco stand – all with vegetarian/vegan options (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The venue is well-run: there’s often a merchandise booth for club-night T-shirts by the lockers (printworkslondon.co.uk ), plus clearly signposted toilets (including accessible cubicles). Importantly, Printworks enforces strict rules to keep things safe: no large bags over A4 size (21×30cm) (printworkslondon.co.uk ), and no outside food or drinks (printworkslondon.co.uk ). They also forbid any glass bottles, mics, shooting flares, etc (printworkslondon.co.uk ). This means you should only bring essentials – phone, wallet, keys – in a small bag or pockets. Electronic cigarettes/vapes are typically allowed (but don’t quote specifics, it’s best to ask staff). Anyone feeling ill can visit the on-site welfare/medical room staffed by trained first-aiders (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Overall, the atmosphere is raw, busy and electrifying. Lines for bars and loos can be long, so use them early. Viewing screens broadcast the DJ’s visuals. If you need to stash a jacket or bag over 30×30cm, there are lockers for £7/£10 (with a £10 deposit) (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The staff are usually helpful. Internet/Wi-Fi may be spotty (guests should not assume free wifi), so plan meet-ups or rides home in advance. Finally, note that Printworks operates a firm no-reentry policy (printworkslondon.co.uk ): once you leave, you cannot come back in, even if you have a wristband. Make sure you’re ready before you exit late at night.
Nearby Amenities
Printworks sits in a semi-industrial part of London, so amenities are a bit spread out. Canada Water—a major interchange 5 minutes’ walk away (printworkslondon.co.uk )—has the most choices. There you’ll find a shopping centre with cafes and chain eateries, plus several pubs and restaurants along Lower Road (e.g. near the Sainsbury’s). A bit further (10-15 minutes’ walk) are the old Rotherhithe village pubs on the Thames – the Mayflower and Ship of Fools – popular for pre- or post-club drinks. Surrey Quays itself has a few gastropubs (like The King and Queen) and a Wetherspoon, all roughly 10 minutes away. Many visitors plan to eat near Canada Water before a show when space permits; on busy nights, takeaway pizza or Asian food is popular. For bars and nightlife, many travellers head to Canary Wharf (just one tube stop north) for trendy cocktail bars or rooftop lounges, although that’s a 15-min Jubilee ride away. If arriving early, some prefer to have dinner in nearby Southwark or Bermondsey. In terms of hotels, there aren’t multi-star lodgings immediately next door; budget hotels (such as a Premier Inn or Travelodge near Canada Water/Deptford Bridge) are about a mile away, and Canary Wharf hotels are another tube stop (Jubilee line). Late at night, thanks to Printworks’ taxi rank and the Tube running on Fri/Sat, most visitors don’t stay in Rotherhithe. Typical advice: put your coat or takeaway in a locker and be polite at pubs. Plan on arriving 30–60 minutes before doors to beat queues. If you need to pick up friends, the venue’s ride-share point is by the main entrance (with a small rank for Ubers and black cabs) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). After the show, Tube stations reopen by 6 AM, so early Birds often grab a final Jubilee train from Canada Water; otherwise taxis queue on Surrey Quays Road.
What Makes This Venue Special
Printworks stood out for blending gritty history with contemporary culture. Unlike a purpose-built club, its character comes from those original presses, hoppers and iron gantries left untouched. Walking in feels like stepping onto a dystopian warehouse rave – a vibe fans describe as almost “religious” in its intensity (www.lightsoundjournal.com ). High ceilings give spectacular visuals room to breathe: the venue even erected a massive “kinesys” ceiling rig with LED pods that DJ Mag said “come to define the venue” (www.lightsoundjournal.com ). The result was a setting unlike any other London club. Legendary performances and one-off events added to the lore: for example, Marathon sets by Aphex Twin, full albums by The Chemical Brothers, and massive closing-weekend festivals (one final series featured artists from Bonobo to Gilles Peterson). Printworks also earned its place in history for revitalising London club culture – the Evening Standard noted it drew 2.5 million visitors and became “the saviour London clubbing desperately needed” over 6 years (www.standard.co.uk ). It held the accolade of a DJ Mag Top 20 world club and Time Out’s “Best Club” trophy early on (www.lightsoundjournal.com ). This was not just any warehouse party space: it was the skeleton of an enormous factory reborn for next-generation music. Artists loved its raw sound engineering and huge dancefloor (Deadmau5 and Chase & Status regularly headlined on its system (www.dbaudio.com )), and local fans cherished it as a community hub for underground culture. Finally, the planned 2026 reopening – with half the site returning as a permanent venue – underlines its unique legacy. None of this will be duplicated in a new condo or mall that eventually replaces the neighboring office half. In short, Printworks mattered because it proved that an abandoned industrial relic could inspire new stories – literally “old space, new stories” – as its motto goes. Its massive Press Hall remains an enduring London landmark for street art pieces and club nights alike, remembered for giving Londoners (and visiting DJs) a one-of-a-kind playground of sound and light.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Printworks provides for guests with special needs. There are large freight lifts (2×2 m) giving step-free access to the main levels (printworkslondon.co.uk ), and an official accessibility FAQ/doc (contact via their website) for detailed queries. On-site there is a dedicated Welfare/Medic area if you feel unwell (staff are trained and non-judgemental) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). If you require any medical devices or special arrangements, contact the venue in advance so staff can assist (printworkslondon.co.uk ).
What to bring (and not): Bring your ticket (printed or mobile) and valid ID if you look under 25 (photo ID required if asked) (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Only small personal items in a bag no larger than A4 (21×30 cm) are allowed (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Any larger jacket or bag must go in a paid locker. Leave valuables and outside food/drink at home – all liquids, snacks, point-and-shoot cameras, lighters/noise makers, etc. are prohibited (printworkslondon.co.uk ) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). You can bring your smartphone and contactless payment cards freely (the venue is cashless) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Earplugs are wise for dancers. Dress casually “to dance” (no heels/materials that overheat, per the advice) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Printworks is an indoor venue with warming body heat and fog machines, so light layers and dancing shoes are best.
Age limits and entry: Most club nights are 18+ only (as noted on event listings (printworkslondon.co.uk )). Bouncers will check tickets/IDs diligently – if there’s a name on your ticket it must match your ID (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Doors generally open around 8–9 PM; after that there is often a strict last-entry cutoff (usually around 10:30–11:00 PM). If you arrive after the last entry time, you will not be admitted (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Entry lines can form early for big events, so plan to arrive in time. Remember there is a strict no re-entry policy (printworkslondon.co.uk ): once you leave, you can’t come back in without a new ticket.
Food and drink: You cannot bring any outside food or drink inside (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Instead, take advantage of Printworks’ vendors. There are several grab-and-go stalls: offerings have included gyros (with vegan halloumi options) (printworkslondon.co.uk ), Korean bao buns, big NYC-style pizza slices (printworkslondon.co.uk ), and even tacos on weekends (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Gluten-free and vegan options are usually on each menu. Bars line the halls serving beer, cocktails and soft drinks – but note they only accept card/contactless payments (no cash) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Free filtered water stations are installed by every bar (printworkslondon.co.uk ), so bring a reusable bottle for refill. As a tip, grabbing a bite early (before the club prime hours) can save time, as food queues get long once the music starts.
Common mistakes to avoid: Unaware visitors often err by bringing large bags or expecting ATMs (there are none, so use contactless payment). Stock up on Metro/sandwiches beforehand if you think you’ll get hungry; outside snacks are not allowed. Some guests leave jackets on chairs in corners – don’t! Use the provided lockers (small £7/large £10 with deposit) (printworkslondon.co.uk ); any unclaimed items get taken to lost-property. Also, be mindful of the strict search policy (printworkslondon.co.uk ): grin at the metal detectors, show tickets, and know that refusal of search equals refusal of entry. Finally, respect the local area: London makes a “quiet exit” request (printworkslondon.co.uk ), so once the music stops, drifters pack out quietly onto Canada Water station rather than screaming on the street.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy tickets for Printworks events and how much do they cost?
Tickets are sold through the official Printworks website or partner promoters, not at an on-site box office. High-demand events often sell out fast, so it’s best to buy early when tickets go on public sale. Prices vary by event – club nights often start around £20–£30, rising for headliners. (For example, a 2022 Printworks event priced standard tickets from about £27.50 (printworkslondon.co.uk ).) VIP or deluxe packages cost more.
How do I get to Printworks, and is there parking nearby?
Printworks is at Surrey Quays Rd, Rotherhithe (SE16 7PJ). The closest tube is Canada Water (Jubilee Line and Overground), about a 5-minute walk (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Rotherhithe and Surrey Quays Overground stations are ~10 minutes on foot (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Several buses (381, P12, 47, 188, C10) stop nearby (printworkslondon.co.uk ). There is no onsite parking (printworkslondon.co.uk ); street parking is very limited. Most visitors use public transport or taxi. The venue has a drop-off/pick-up point and a taxi rank for cabs or rideshares (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Exiting late at night, the Jubilee Line (from Canada Water) and London buses are your main options (the night tube operates on weekends).
What should I bring with me, and what is not allowed inside?
Bring only essentials: your ticket, photo ID (if required by age/name), cards (no cash needed) and a small bag (no larger than A4, 21×30 cm) (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Dress comfortably (Printworks advises "dress to dance" (printworkslondon.co.uk )), and wear flat, easy-to-clean shoes. Prohibited items include any food or drink from outside (printworkslondon.co.uk ), large bags, bottles, professional cameras, laser pointers, fireworks, etc. Banned items will be confiscated (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Lockers are available on-site (small £7, large £10) for coats or bags (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Printworks is cashless – bars and vendors only take cards/contactless (printworkslondon.co.uk ) – but free water taps are available at every bar (printworkslondon.co.uk ).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Printworks provides accessibility features. Its main floors are reachable via large goods lifts (the Press Hall has freight lifts ~2×2m on each level (printworkslondon.co.uk )). There are accessible toilets and a dedicated Welfare/Medic area for anyone who feels unwell (printworkslondon.co.uk ). If you have specific needs (e.g. medical equipment), contact the venue in advance for assistance (printworkslondon.co.uk ). They also publish a guests-access document with details.
Are there food and drink options inside, and can I bring my own?
What’s the capacity of Printworks’ main hall?
The Press Halls – Printworks’ flagship space – can hold about 3,000 people standing (printworkslondon.co.uk ). In fact, it’s designed for up to 3,000 in general admission mode or about 1,500 seated theatre-style (printworkslondon.co.uk ). The entire Printworks complex (all spaces combined) is around 6,000-capacity (www.nissenrichardsstudio.com ), making it one of London’s largest indoor venues.
Didn’t Printworks close? Will it reopen?
It’s true Printworks indoor events are currently paused. The club closed its doors in 2022 (run under a temporary licence) due to redevelopment plans in the Canada Water area (mixmag.net ). However, the building isn’t discarded – developers have submitted plans to turn one half into a permanent cultural venue (keeping the Press Halls space) with reopening expected around 2026 (www.theguardian.com ) (mixmag.net ). So fans remain hopeful the iconic Printworks parties will return in a new form, even as the neighboring part becomes offices and shops.
What are the age requirements and proof needed for entry?
Most Printworks nights are for adults only (commonly age 18+). Even if there’s no child age minimum stated, staff follow a Challenge 25 policy: if you look under 25, you may be asked for ID (printworkslondon.co.uk ). Acceptable photo IDs are passport, driver’s licence or a PASS-hologram card (printworkslondon.co.uk ). If your ticket has a printed name, the ID you present must match that name (printworkslondon.co.uk ). No expired IDs are allowed. Keep your ID in a secure place (it’s needed whenever you buy age-restricted drinks or if asked at the door).
Is Printworks an indoor or outdoor venue?
Printworks is primarily an indoor venue built inside the old printing halls. Nearly all performances and club nights occur in its covered Press Halls complex. There is also a rooftop terrace (with great city views) which is mainly used for filming or special hires (printworkslondon.co.uk ), but regular concerts and raves happen inside. Since the indoor space is huge, weather is not an issue for events – even rain won’t disrupt a night’s show.
Are there any coat check or locker facilities?
Yes. Printworks provides a paid locker service near the entrance. Small lockers (30×30×30 cm) cost about £7 and large ones £10, plus a £10 refundable key deposit (printworkslondon.co.uk ). These are handy for jackets, unused bags or purchases. (Note the venue’s coat policy: don’t leave coats unattended around the venue.) If you bring a big bag over A4 size, you’ll be asked to use a locker or return it home (printworkslondon.co.uk ).
Can I use cell phones or photography inside Printworks?
Yes, you can use your smartphone inside (many people film short clips). However, the venue forbids professional cameras – even small point-and-shoots are not allowed (printworkslondon.co.uk ). So you won’t be able to bring a DSLR or any bulky camera gear. Audio or video recording (beyond personal phone clips) is also typically against policy. Brief phone use is fine, but keep calls out of the way of dancing crowds.
