About Ronnie Scott’s
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is a legendary live music venue in London’s Soho, established in 1959 by British jazz saxophonist Ronnie Scott and drummer Pete King. It originally opened in a basement on Gerrard Street and moved to a larger space at 47 Frith Street in 1965 (en.wikipedia.org ), where it remains today. The club seats roughly 220 people (www.live-production.tv ) and is renowned for its intimate, old-school atmosphere – visitors often note the dark wood paneling, low ceilings and red velvet booths that give it a classic jazz-club feel (www.archerhumphryes.com ) (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). Over the decades Ronnie’s has hosted virtually every major jazz legend (early guests included Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis) and more recent soul, blues and big-band acts. In fact, one industry source describes Ronnie’s as “one of the oldest and most famous jazz clubs in the world” (www.live-production.tv ). In 1978 the club even launched its own “Ronnie Scott’s Jazz House” record label to release live and studio albums of its featured performers (en.wikipedia.org ). In short, Ronnie’s is a Soho institution whose history and ongoing ticket demand have cemented it as a cornerstone of London’s jazz scene (en.wikipedia.org ) (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ).
Events and Programming
Ronnie Scott’s presents live music almost every night of the year, with a lineup spanning jazz and related genres. The programming typically includes two headline sets per evening – often one around 8pm and another around 10pm (exact times vary by show). You’ll find a mix of established jazz greats, exciting up-and-coming performers, and international stars. Recent lineups have featured artists like pianist Kenny Barron , vocalist Carmen Lundy , saxophonist James Carter and even performances by ensembles such as the Count Basie Orchestra (www.archerhumphryes.com ). The club also hosts soul, blues and R&B nights (for example, British soul singer Imaani has played the club) as well as occasional genre-crossing concerts. Around the holidays there’s a long-running Christmas tradition: for about 30 years Ronnie’s would feature singer George Melly with John Chilton’s Feetwarmers jazz band in annual yuletide residencies (fr.wikipedia.org ). On top of scheduled concerts, Ronnie’s maintains some fun community events – for instance, every fourth Sunday the upstairs bar is transformed for the “London Tap Jam,” where professional tap dancers perform to a live jazz trio (fr.wikipedia.org ). In short, the club’s calendar is packed with jazz from bebop and swing to Latin, soul and contemporary fusion, usually selling shows nightly (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ).
Throughout its history Ronnie’s has drawn a star-studded roster: British and American jazz legends from Shelly Manne to Sonny Rollins have appeared here, and even non-jazz greats have popped in (for example, rock icon Jimi Hendrix’s last public concert was at Ronnie’s in 1970 (en.wikipedia.org )). In recent years the club continues this tradition. After a 2024 refurbishment it welcomed performers such as the James Carter Quintet, the David Murray Quartet and legacy jazz acts (www.archerhumphryes.com ). Local UK jazz stars (e.g. Courtney Pine and many others) also headline and often drop in for impromptu jam sessions. The club even fosters emerging talent by hosting late-night “Late Late Show” sessions featuring grassroots performers and affordable tickets (www.timeout.com ). In short, Ronnie Scott’s remains a go-to venue for fans wanting live jazz, soul and blues almost any night, with a mix of headline acts and special events that reflect its storied legacy.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Ronnie Scott’s shows are usually sold online through the club’s official box office. Because Ronnie’s is extremely popular, it’s strongly recommended to book well in advance – sales open as soon as acts are announced, and most nights sell out (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Ticket prices vary by performance and seating tier, but as a guideline most main shows range from moderate to premium levels. (Outlets note a 2-show-per-night schedule, and two shows a night is the norm (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ).) For major artists, expect higher prices – perhaps £40–£50 or more for prime seats – while lesser-known acts or the late-night “Late Late Show” can be cheaper. The club does not have a general door sale for headline concerts once advance tickets are gone. The official site does note that if advance tickets for a Late Late Show are sold out, a few may be sold at the door on the night (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ), but do not count on latecomer tickets for main sets. There is no third-party resale platform endorsed (resellers aren’t referenced by the venue). Large parties should note that the box office limits sizes (10 people max for the first show, 6 for the second) and seating is allocated on arrival within each ticket category (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). For the best chance at getting seats together, order tickets for the same color-coded section and arrive early on the night (you may also call in advance to request seating arrangements). Some shows and seasons are announced far ahead, and signing up for Ronnie’s newsletter or following their social media is a good way to hear about presales and new bookings immediately.
Seating and Layout
Ronnie Scott’s has one main performance room with floor-level tables. There are no assigned seats; instead, tickets come in tiered sections (color-coded on the seating plan) and you are seated on arrival within your ticket category. The luxury Gold tickets give priority seating at tables on the floor right in front of the stage (or those adjacent to it) (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Orange tickets cover regular tables set along the sides of the room; these usually have a clear view of the stage and good acoustics. A third tier (Pale Green on the plan) represents restricted-view tables – often near pillars or off to the sides where the view is partially blocked (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). The venue’s host will seat parties on a first-come basis in each section, so arriving early for headliners is wise to choose the best available table. (For large parties over a few people, it’s best to call the box office after booking so they can try to seat you together (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ).)
In terms of sightlines, the center tables in Gold section are generally best. Avoid the pale-green benches if possible – they’re noticeably angled and sometimes partially hidden. The floor is gently sloped, so even the rear-most seats have a decent view, but only a few are far from the stage. There is no formal standing-room area in the club room – all guests must be seated at a table. However, the club has an upstairs bar area where fights and casual watchers can perch if the club is full. Acoustically, the room is engineered for jazz: the sound is warm and a bit dry to favour instruments and vocals. Overall, the intimate table layout means everyone is quite close to performers (Ronnie’s has always been praised for its “warmth and care” in staff attentiveness (en.tripadvisor.com.hk )). Even from the back benches you’ll feel near enough to enjoy most performances.
Getting There and Parking
Ronnie Scott’s is at 47 Frith Street (W1D 4HT) in Soho, near Shaftesbury Avenue. The easiest way to get there is by public transport. The nearest London Underground stations are Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern Lines), Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), and Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo Lines), all of which are about a 5–10 minute walk away (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Bus riders can take routes along Oxford Street or Charing Cross Road: for example, buses 14 and 19 run east–west on Oxford Street, and 176 and 188 run north–south on Charing Cross Road (moovitapp.com ) – each has stops near Frith Street. (A number of other day and night buses also stop nearby in central Soho.) If coming by rail, the new Elizabeth Line now stops at Tottenham Court Road, providing quick access from across London.
Driving into Soho is generally discouraged. On-street parking is very limited and costly in central London. If you must drive, pay parking garages nearest Frith Street include Q-Park Brewer or Wardour (several minutes’ walk) and the NCP on Great Marlborough Street. Note that central London has congestion charges on weekdays and minimal parking, so taking a taxi or rideshare is often easier. Many drivers will drop passengers directly at Frith Street (outside the club entrance). Alternatively, ask the driver to pull up on ^Dean Street or on Old Compton Lane just north of Frith to avoid traffic. After late shows, night buses (such as the 14, 19 or dedicated N15/N19 routes) and taxis are available. The London Underground’s Night Tube (on Friday/Saturday on Northern and Central lines) can also get you home if you stay after midnight. In summary, position yourself within a 5–10 minute walk of any of the above Tube stations, and plan to arrive with ample time to find your way to 47 Frith Street on foot from the nearest underground exit (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ).
Inside the Venue
Entering Ronnie Scott’s, expect a friendly but professional jazz-club vibe. Doors usually open around 6–7pm (on Sundays the club opens earlier for afternoon jazz) (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). At the front door there will be ticket/ID checks (have your booking confirmation ready) and light security. The interior is cosy and dimly lit: exposed dark wood walls, red lighting and velvet chairs create the classic jazz atmosphere (www.archerhumphryes.com ) (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). The small bar along the back offers a full range of drinks, including specialty cocktails and spirits (ask the bartender for house specialties – they take pride in a creative menu). Soft drinks and bar snacks are also available, though Ronnie’s is not a full-service restaurant for meals. (In fact, the upstairs expansion due in 2026 will add a new kitchen and dining menu (www.timeout.com ).)
Please note the venue has a policy of no photography or recording in the performance room. All mobile phones must be switched off or silenced and stowed during the show (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). This helps keep the focus on the music. There’s no formal coat check, but handy cloakroom hooks near the entrance are provided for umbrellas and coats. The restroom facilities are located on the ground floor – one of them is fully wheelchair-accessible (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Staff are normally very helpful (TripAdvisor reviews often praise their courtesy and eagerness to assist even when shows are sold out (en.tripadvisor.com.hk )). If you’re eating or drinking, settle in early enough before the music starts so you have time to order at the bar – once the performance begins, finishing service can be tricky. Merch (such as hats or CDs) may occasionally be sold on-site at special events, but there is no permanent shop; however, official Ronnie’s merchandise can often be found on the club’s website.
Nearby Amenities
Soho is packed with dining and entertainment options. For a pre-show meal, you have countless choices in the surrounding streets. Italian fare (e.g. Bocca di Lupo, Polpo) and French bistros (like Café Boheme ) are within a couple of minutes’ walk. If you want something quick and casual, there are excellent pizza spots and sushi bars nearby. Hawksmoor or Flat Iron serve hearty steaks close by, while trendy Asian and fusion eateries (e.g. Bone Daddies ramen, Hoppers Sri Lankan) are a short stroll away. For lighter fare or dessert, try the local cafes (Onslow, Le Pain Quotidien) and bars. In addition, the club’s own Upstairs Bar — on the first floor above the club — operates as a fancy cocktail lounge every night. It often features its own low-key music (jazz, folk or Latin) and has a bar snack menu (fr.wikipedia.org ).
Drink-wise, Ronnie’s is known for its bar and cocktails. They serve quality wines, draft/premium beers and imaginative signature cocktails in addition to classic drinks. If you arrive early, the upstairs bar is a great spot to have a drink and wait for your table in a plush setting. After the show, Soho’s nightlife continues late – nearby pubs (like The Birdcage or Bar Soho) and cocktail bars (The Blind Pig, Bar Termini) stay open to welcome late visitors. In terms of accommodation, central London hotels abound. Walking-distance options include specialty boutiques like The SoHo Hotel or Ham Yard, airport-friendly chains around Oxford Street, or the more affordable Zedwell on Gerrard Street. Covent Garden and Leicester Square hotels are also only a 10–15 minute walk away. As a tip, many recent visitors advise planning to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your ticket time. This gives you enough leeway to check coats and find your table without rushing, since Ronnie’s is small and fills up quickly in the evenings. Also keep in mind Tube schedules: on weekdays the last trains on Central and Northern lines are around midnight, so if your show goes very late, bus or taxi may be needed afterwards (Night Tube runs Fri/Sat night on those lines).
What Makes This Venue Special
Ronnie Scott’s stands apart because of its unique blend of history, ambience and musical pedigree. The club still occupies a classic Soho townhouse, and every corner is steeped in 60+ years of jazz lore. Architecturally, the club’s ambience — dark woods, vintage decor and velvet seating — has been carefully preserved even through modern refurbishments (www.archerhumphryes.com ). For example, a 2024 redesign updated the sound system and refreshed the bar but retained the “distinctive and intimate design” of the original space (www.archerhumphryes.com ). Its atmosphere is so authentic that Time Out praises its “dim lighting and velvet booth-style seats” for giving “the proper old school jazz club feel” (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ).
But Ronnie’s isn’t just old; it has consistently been at the cutting edge of jazz culture. Legends like Stan Tracey , Tubby Hayes and Stan Getz were regulars here, and it famously witnessed Jimi Hendrix’s final performance (en.wikipedia.org ). The club has also influenced London’s broader culture—for instance it published a popular jazz magazine (“Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s” ran for 27 years) and even held tap-dance gatherings in its bar (fr.wikipedia.org ). In 2009 a UK jazz festival group ranked Ronnie’s among the dozen most important venues contributing to British jazz (en.wikipedia.org ). Because of this legacy, many musicians dream of playing there as a rite of passage, and audiences cherish its warm, communal vibe. Artists love it too: the proximity of the audience creates a special energy on stage, and owners Sally Greene and Michael Watt (who took over in 2005) have invested in the club’s quality, culminating in the upcoming “Upstairs at Ronnie’s” space with a high-end concert foyer and piano (www.timeout.com ). In summary, Ronnie Scott’s matters because it lives and breathes jazz: it has the cachet of decades-old history while still delivering top contemporary music, making it beloved by fans from London and abroad.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The club provides a wheelchair ramp at the main entrance and step-free access to the ground-floor seating area (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). An accessible restroom is on-site. Guide dogs are welcome and hearing assistance can be arranged.Dress Code: Dress is generally smart-casual. The venue explicitly requests no flip-flops (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Many guests wear dresses or collared shirts with slacks, especially for prime shows, but suits or formal wear are not required. The idea is “sharp but comfortable.”Photography & Phones: Strictly no photography, video or audio recording is allowed inside the performance space. Mobile phones must be turned off or on silent before entering (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). This ensures an undisturbed listening experience.Age Restrictions: Ronnie’s is primarily an adult venue. Guests under 18 may need to be accompanied by an adult, and the late-night slots (after 11pm) are usually 18+ only. Always check the specific event details – some afternoon or Sunday shows may allow younger jazz fans with a grown-up.Late Shows: The “Late Late Show” (after-hours session) is usually held on selected weeknights, featuring emerging artists and jam bands at a lower ticket price. Times are typically around 11–11:30pm. If your schedule is flexible, these can be a fun way to experience Ronnie’s without the premium prices of headline nights.Coats and Belongings: A coat rack is available by the door for jackets and umbrellas. (While there is no formal coat-check fee, space is limited in very busy nights.) Keep small valuables on you, and large bags are discouraged due to limited space.Food and Drink: Expect the bar to be well-stocked with cocktails, wines, beers and soft drinks. As Ronnie’s is not a full-service restaurant downstairs, many visitors eat dinner in a nearby Soho eatery before the show. (The planned “Upstairs” space will have a dining kitchen (www.timeout.com ).) Do allow extra time if you plan to dine out first.Arrival Time: Try to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the advertised start time. This guarantees you’ll be seated and able to order drinks before the music begins. The box office and doors open from about 17:30–18:30 (5:30–6:30pm) on most nights (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ), so arriving early is perfectly fine.Seating Together: If you booked multiple tickets, you will usually be seated together automatically. If you have concerns (or a large group), call the box office ahead to remind them. On arrival, let the hostess know if you have any seating preference or special need.House Traditions: When the music is playing, culture here is courteous listening – applause between tunes is standard, but try not to interrupt performances. It’s also common to “tip” jazz bands by tossing bills on stage during a lively number if you enjoy the set (this is optional of course).Payment: Cards (credit/debit) are accepted at the box office and bar; there is no ATM inside the club, so be sure to have a card or cash on hand for drinks (London credit cards typically do not require an extra charge for small purchases).Security: Bags are lightly checked at the entrance. Do bring ID if you plan to drink. And note that re-entry after shows is generally not allowed – once you exit into Soho, you typically can’t come back in on the same ticket.Nearby Transport: If you stay late (the club often closes around 2–3am on weekends (www.ronniescotts.co.uk )), remember the night bus and taxi options. Buses like the N15 and N19 run through Soho after midnight. If in doubt, taxis on Frith Street or Old Compton Street (or hail a black cab) are easy to find.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club?
Tickets are sold through Ronnie Scott’s official box office (online or by phone). It’s wise to book well in advance online, since most shows sell out quickly (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). You can also purchase any remaining tickets at the venue’s door for the Late Late Show if a show is sold out (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). There is no third-party authorized seller; do not wait for walk-ups on headline nights.
What are the ticket price ranges and seating sections?
Prices vary by artist and table category. Ronnie’s tickets are tiered: Gold tables (front row) cost the most, Orange side tables are standard, and Green benches have restricted views (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). For a typical evening show, gold tables might be £40–£60+, while an orange table might be £30–£50 (guest artists and weekends can be higher). Budget seats are the limited “restricted view” tables, often slightly cheaper. Note: at busy times even the restricted seats sell out fast.
Does Ronnie Scott’s have a box office or door sales?
Ronnie’s has a box office at the club (open on performance nights) but most sales are via the website and phone. For major shows, door tickets are rarely available once advance sales end. The only door sale usually is for the late (after-show) sessions, where a small number of tickets may be sold if a show is sold out (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Always try to book ahead to guarantee entry.
What is the “Late Late Show” at Ronnie’s?
The Late Late Show is Ronnie’s after-hours performance slot (usually around 11–11:30pm) featuring up-and-coming jazz and funk acts. It is sold separately and often has more affordable tickets. These sessions are more informal and encourage jam-band vibes. If you miss the main shows, you might get door tickets for a Late Late Show, but check the schedule in advance as they can also sell out.
How many performances per night? What times do shows start?
On most evenings Ronnie Scott’s runs two shows, typically one in the early evening and one later at night. Commonly, the first set begins around 7:30–8:00pm and the second set often around 10:00pm (check your ticket or the club’s schedule for exact times). The venue’s website shows typical hours (it normally opens around 5:30–6:30pm) (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Plan to arrive early enough to be seated by showtime.
What is the capacity of Ronnie Scott’s?
The main clubroom at Ronnie Scott’s holds about 220 guests (www.live-production.tv ). This includes all seating tables and benches – there are no standing-room areas in the performance space. The small capacity is part of what creates its intimate jazz-club atmosphere.
Which Tube or bus brings me closest to Ronnie’s?
Closest stations: Tottenham Court Road (Central/Northern) and Leicester Square (Northern/Piccadilly) are a 5–10 minute walk (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Piccadilly Circus is similarly close on the other side. Bus routes 14 and 19 (which run along Oxford Street) stop a short walk north of Ronnie’s, and 176/188 on Charing Cross Road stop a block east (moovitapp.com ). The club’s address is 47 Frith Street, Soho W1D. Having a map app or walking directions ready is helpful once you leave the subway.
Is there parking available near Ronnie Scott’s?
There is no dedicated parking at the club itself. Nearby public car parks (such as Q-Park Brewer Street or an NCP on Great Marlborough St.) are several minutes’ walk and can be expensive. Street parking in Soho is very restricted. Drivers should also remember the London Congestion Charge and limited night parking. For these reasons, public transport or taxis/rideshares are usually the easiest way to arrive. If you must drive, allow plenty of time to find a spot and be prepared for high parking fees.
Is Ronnie Scott’s wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Ronnie Scott’s provides a wheelchair ramp at the 3-step Frith Street entrance and has ramped access from the front door into the ground-floor club area (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Once inside, you can get seating on the flat ground floor near the stage. There is an accessible (wheelchair-friendly) toilet on the ground floor. The staff are accustomed to assisting disabled guests and guide dogs are welcome (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ).
What is the dress code at Ronnie’s?
The dress code is relaxed but smart. Most patrons wear smart-casual attire (e.g. nice jeans or slacks and shirts; dresses for women), and it helps to dress a bit up for a night out in Soho. Importantly, no flip-flops or beachwear are allowed (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). In short, avoid sportswear or beachwear – think neat evening wear instead. Feel free to add a bit of personal style (jackets, scarves, etc.) since the lighting is dim and the mood is festive.
Can I bring a camera or use my phone inside?
No. The club’s policy forbids all photography, filming or audio recording during performances (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Mobile phones should be switched off or silenced once you enter the club. This rule helps keep the focus on the music; violators may be asked to leave. Small personal cameras are therefore not allowed; leave them at home or safely stowed to comply with the rules.
Are children allowed at Ronnie’s Jazz Club?
Ronnie’s is primarily an adult venue. Children under 14 are usually not admitted, and youngsters over that age should be accompanied by an adult. Very young children and prams are not recommended in the late-night club setting. That said, some early evening or Sunday shows may allow teens with a parent. Always check the specific show guidelines, as some performances have an age restriction (especially the late shows, which are 18+).
Is there food available at Ronnie Scott’s?
Ronnie’s itself is not a full-service restaurant. There are bar snacks (nuts, olives, etc.) and a drink menu, but the emphasis is on music. Most guests choose to dine in one of the many Soho restaurants before coming. (Beginning in 2026, the new “Upstairs at Ronnie’s” is adding a proper dinner menu and kitchen (www.timeout.com ).) In short: eat beforehand if you want a sit-down meal, and enjoy drinks at Ronnie’s.
Does Ronnie’s have coat check or lockers?
There isn’t a formal staffed cloakroom. Instead, the host will usually hang coats on a rack near the entrance or hide wet umbrellas. It’s free and simple. Large backpacks are discouraged due to limited space; keep personal items at your table or on your lap. If you arrive with bulky luggage or instruments, it’s best to leave them at your hotel or on-site car.
Are guide dogs or companions accommodated?
Yes. Guide or assistance dogs are allowed inside the club. The box office can provide a free companion ticket for anyone who requires a carer or access assistance (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). If you need any special seating arrangements (for a wheelchair or companion), the staff are trained to help – just let them know in advance when booking or upon arrival.
How much time should I arrive before the show?
Arrive 20–30 minutes before the scheduled start to ensure you are seated and can order drinks. The club gates often open an hour or more before showtime (www.ronniescotts.co.uk ). Early arrival lets you find your table and settle in without rushing. It’s especially important on busy nights to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Does Ronnie Scott’s have an upstairs venue or bar?
Yes – above the main club is “Ronnie Scott’s Bar Upstairs,” a cocktail lounge open nightly. This upstairs bar hosts additional live music (jazz sessions, Latin nights, DJ sets and more) كل night (fr.wikipedia.org ). It’s a more casual space for drinks, with its own bar menu. In 2026 the upstairs space will expand into a new 140-seat concert venue (“Upstairs at Ronnie’s”) with enhanced acoustics and a kitchen (www.timeout.com ) (www.timeout.com ).
Why is Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club so famous?
Ronnie’s fame comes from its rich history and consistent quality. It has been London’s premier jazz venue for over six decades, hosting a “who’s who” of jazz, soul and blues legends on an intimate stage (en.wikipedia.org ) (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). The club’s unique atmosphere and heritage (including historic events, annual residencies, and even its own jazz record label) make it a cultural landmark. In short, it remains beloved because it delivers world-class music in a classic setting, something reviewers and fans have praised time and again (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ) (en.wikipedia.org ).
