Events at The Curtain, London

About The Curtain

The Curtain in Shoreditch is a luxury lifestyle hotel, members’ club and live-entertainment venue located at 45 Curtain Road in East London. Opened in May 2017 by New York hotelier Michael Achenbaum (Gansevoort Hotel Group), it was designed to bring a “Manhattan cool” vibe to Shoreditch (19events.co.uk) (www.crafthouseconsulting.com). The nine-storey building (by Dexter Moren Associates) uses red-brick and large Crittall windows to echo Shoreditch’s 19th-century warehouse heritage (www.architectsjournal.co.uk). Inside, guests find 120 guest rooms (including several suites) along with rock’n’roll–inspired décor (much of the art was supplied by photographer Mick Rock) (www.e-architect.com). Signature amenities at The Curtain include a Moroccan-style heated rooftop pool and lounge, a rooftop restaurant (the Lido), a basement live-music club (the LP nightclub), a hotel screening room, a state-of-the-art fitness and spa area, and multiple bars and restaurants – most famously Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster Harlem restaurant and the members-only Green Room cocktail lounge (www.boutiquehotelier.com) (www.e-architect.com). Named after its street, The Curtain evokes the area’s theatrical legacy (the original Elizabethan “Curtain Theatre” stood nearby). The venue quickly became a creative hub in Shoreditch, blending luxury hospitality with cutting-edge music and design. With its rooftop pool, screening room, and event ballroom, The Curtain wasn’t just a hotel – it was a new landmark in an East End district “bursting with personality” (eventspiration.com) (www.e-architect.com).

Much of the hotel’s appeal came from its unique mix of upscale amenities and underground club culture. The Curtain was one of the first five-star hotels in Shoreditch, offering a boutique, art-filled setting that contrasted with traditional London luxury. It even earned accolades such as a creative Spark Award in 2017 for its design (www.e-architect.com). The ground floor features a lively lobby bar and co-working cafe (initially operated by Michelin-star chef Christina Tosi’s brand, now rebranded under Virgin Hotels), while the Venetian-style Lido and Red Rooster restaurants anchor the rooftop and street fronts. Below ground, a fully soundproofed basement club (LP) hosts live gigs and DJ nights, and there’s a members-only wellness suite and screening room. In short, The Curtain made Shoreditch feel like a slice of New York in London, reviving the idea of a members club in an East London setting (19events.co.uk) (squaremile.com).

Events and Programming

The Curtain’s calendar has ranged from intimate live concerts and movie screenings to exclusive DJ nights and cultural events. In its original incarnation as a members’ club, the venue programmed music led by genre-defying DJs and surprise headline acts, often booked through savvy promoters. The subterranean LP nightclub was renowned for hosting major artists in an up-close setting – past performances have included stars like Chance the Rapper, Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Mark Ronson, Travis Scott, Emeli Sandé, Skepta and more (squaremile.com). These events were often billed as listening parties or private club shows, giving members a chance to see big names in a “boutique” club atmosphere. Alongside high-profile gigs, the cinema-like screening room on the lower levels hosted film previews, panel talks (tech meetups, literary events, etc.), and gaming or music-release parties. Even programming such as Sunday gospel brunches at Red Rooster (complete with live choir) and rooftop cocktail parties helped cement The Curtain’s eclectic lineup.

Today, under its new management, The Curtain continues to host a variety of events. For example, the venue frequently holds DJ nights and dance parties open to the public. In summer 2025 “Strictly Vinyl” sessions are on every Thursday and Friday evening, featuring resident DJs spinning vinyl-only soul, funk, jazz and disco tracks (list.co.uk) (list.co.uk). These mid-week parties even advertise 2-for-1 cocktails with free advance tickets (sold via promotion sites) (list.co.uk). Other ongoing events might include rooftop pool parties, cocktail receptions by the pool (weather permitting), seasonal festivals, and creative workshops in the loft areas. Notably, The Curtain’s ballroom and screening spaces can be adapted for weddings, fashion shows, product launches, conferences or trade events (the ballroom alone accommodates up to about 350 guests) (www.eventproductions.london). While high-glamour concerts are less frequent now, the programming remains varied: expect a mix of live music, dance nights, film screenings, comedy or spoken-word shows, and themed social gatherings. Ticket prices depend on the event – casual DJ nights may be free with drink minimums, whereas special appearances or private concerts typically have advance ticket sales or member invites. Guests often secure tickets through official announcements on The Curtain’s site or affiliated event platforms, and VIP or package deals (which can include drinks or table service) are sometimes available for larger shows.

Tickets and Booking

Most events at The Curtain are ticketed, with options to book online or through the venue. For public parties and concerts, tickets are usually released a few weeks beforehand. It’s wise to follow The Curtain’s official channels (website or social media) and newsletter for announcements, since popular shows can sell out quickly. Advance tickets for certain nights may be offered exclusively to members or newsletter subscribers during presale periods. In many cases, general tickets can be purchased through the venue’s own portal or well-known ticketing platforms (watch for events listed on promotional partners like ticketing apps or local event listings). Door sales may be very limited or unavailable once capacity is reached, so the best strategy is to buy ahead or register for guest lists if applicable.

Pricing varies by event: casual DJ evenings and themed parties are often free entry or low cost (sometimes requiring a minimum spend on drinks) (list.co.uk). When there is a cover charge for entry, it might be in the £5-20 range for standard admission. VIP packages (for table service, champagne, etc.) and member-only tickets are higher priced. Concerts and marquee performances typically carry higher ticket fees. Keep an eye on early bird deals or promotion codes from event partners, which can save money on tickets. If you want to attend a private members-only event, remember that membership is usually by application (the Curtain’s membership fee was around £1,000/year plus joining fee (squaremile.com)), but members often may invite guests or purchase extra tickets at member rates. In summary, book early, check multiple official sources, and compare general-admission versus VIP/tiered ticket options when available.

Seating and Layout

The Curtain’s layout spans multiple floors, blending hotel spaces with entertainment rooms. The rooftop serves as a partial open-air terrace and pool deck (with views across London), featuring the Lido bar/restaurant area and sun-loungers. The ground floor includes the hotel reception, a lobby bar/café, and the street-level Red Rooster or new restaurant space. Below ground are the main entertainment zones: the LP club lounge on the lowest level (Minus 3), the Imperial members’ restaurant and Billy’s Bar on the two sub-basements (Minus 2 and Minus 3), and meeting/event rooms up to the first basement (including the screening room and possibly the “ballroom,” which can be configured with seating or standing). The screening room has tiered, theatre-style seating. The club (LP) is mostly an open dancefloor with surrounding lounge seating and elevated DJ booth/stage; it’s designed for standing-room events, though velvet sofas and booths line the sides. A formal ballroom/event hall (used for conferences or banquets) is flexible – it can be set up cabaret-style (tables and chairs for dining) or theatre-style (rows of seats) (eventspiration.com) (www.eventproductions.london). Seating here can be arranged to suit small groups or larger parties.

Good views depend on the type of event. At a live music or DJ set, the best spots are usually near the front of the stage or DJ booth in the LP nightclub; the sound system is calibrated for that area. There is also bar seating at the rear for a more relaxed vantage. In the screening room, middle rows give a clear view of the screen. For rooftop events, any deck chair or edge seating offers panoramic scenery. For banquets or seated shows, the ballrooms’ centre seats or tables (away from pillars) are generally preferable. VIP tables are sometimes placed closer to the stage or DJ area in both club and ballroom setups. On the other hand, lower floors and corners in the club may have blocky views, and the rooftop edges get very hot/sunny on warm days. As a rule, sound and lighting are high quality throughout the venue. The club space is fully soundproofed, so you don’t hear neighbours outside – the acoustics are tailored for dance music. For events, organizers can add more seating or audio systems as needed; the venue typically provides in-house sound/PA and staging equipamento for concerts or conferences (www.eventproductions.london).

Getting There and Parking

• Address: 45 Curtain Road, Hackney (Shoreditch) EC2A 3PT. The venue is at the corner of Curtain Road and Scrutton Street in east London.
• Underground: The nearest Tube is Old Street (Northern line) about a 5-minute walk southwest.  Old Street Station’s exits onto Old Street / Great Eastern Street are closest. Shoreditch High Street Overground and Liverpool Street (Elizabeth Line/Overground/Central/Met) are also within 10–15 minutes on foot (stories.hilton.com).
• Buses: Several London buses stop nearby on Great Eastern Street and Curtain Road. Useful routes include the 242, 243, 26, 35 and 47, among others. (For example, the 242/243 stop at Shoreditch Fire Station or Curtain Road (moovitapp.com).)
• Train: The Curtain itself is just a short walk from Shoreditch High Street Overground and Liverpool Street station, making it easy to reach from across London on rail/underground lines.
• Car and Drop-off: The hotel has no guest car park (the building’s underground parking is for staff only). Visitors usually use central London parking or car parks. The closest multi-storey parking is at Broadgate Circle (about 10 minutes’ walk west). Street parking in Shoreditch is very limited; if driving, allow extra time. Ride-share or taxi drop-off is best done on Great Eastern Street (westbound side) or Old Street, where cars can pull up to the kerb.
• Bike: There are Santander (borough bike-share) stations nearby (for example, at Old Street Roundabout and Great Eastern Street).

Note that The Curtain is within London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Congestion Charge zone. If coming by car, you’ll need to pay those fees if applicable. Also be aware that if arriving at night, Curtain Road can be one-way and busy, so plan your route accordingly. In short, public transport is easiest: it’s well connected by Tube/Overground (Old Street station is practically on the doorstep) and by bus, so most visitors get there by Tube and walk the last few minutes through the creative streets of Shoreditch.

Inside the Venue

Inside The Curtain, expect a blend of slick luxury and industrial-chic design. The lobby and bar areas are modern and airy, but the club and lower levels feel like a stylish speakeasy: think exposed brick walls, vintage leather sofas, neon signage and rock-and-roll art. For entry, most ticketed events and club nights have a small reception with a host or bouncer: they will check your ticket or membership card and ID. Age 18+ usually applies for evening club events (remember to bring ID). Guest-list or ticket holders should arrive when doors open – often 1–2 hours before showtime – to get through the entry queue and secure a good spot.

The venue is divided by floors with multiple bars and dining options. On the ground floor, you’ll find the lobby bar and Christina’s café; up the side street or on the rooftop there are restaurants with full dining. The basement club levels each have small bars – for example, Billy’s Bar (opulent ground-floor style) in the private section, and a service bar in the public club area. During events, bartenders serve a range of cocktails, wines and beers; there’s usually a focus on craft and premium drinks. Food is limited during late-night events (the main restaurants close in evening), though some venues may offer bar snacks or a late-night menu.

Restrooms (toilets) are available on each public level – expect them near the main event rooms and club floors. The meeting spaces and screening room have their own facilities. There is typically a managed cloakroom or coat-check where you can leave jackets and small bags for a nominal fee or free. The club is not overly strict on cameras for personal use, but professional photography or videography is usually restricted unless you have prior permission. In general, phone photography and social media posts are common at shows, but be mindful if performers request no flash or filming.

The Curtain is technologically well-equipped. The sound system in the club is powerful and high-fidelity, suitable for both live bands and DJs. Lighting racks, projection screens and versatile A/V gear are in place (especially in the ballroom and screening room) so the venue can handle presentations or shows. For example, The Curtain partners with event production teams to provide pro audio, lighting and even video operators when needed (www.eventproductions.london). Wi-Fi is available in public areas (for hotel guests and restaurant patrons), though basement events may not allow testing or it may be used for show support. As for networking, you’ll have mobile data coverage, and usually the electronic entry gates take card payments for any extras (bars and coat check are often cashless). In brief, once inside, the atmosphere is upscale and secure but still approachable – the staff are professional, and many Lux hotels detail orientation for guests (everyone from bartenders to hosts are typically in uniform or sleek attire). They also welcome well-behaved dogs in some areas (the owner’s dog famously “worked” at Billy’s Bar) – indeed the on-site FAQ mentions “all well-behaved creatures” are welcome (hartshoreditch.com). Special accessibility features (like ramps, lifts, and wider corridors) ensure that wheelchair users can reach the main event spaces – the hotel has dedicated accessible rooms with roll-in showers for example (hartshoreditch.com).

Nearby Amenities

• Pre-show Dining: Shoreditch is packed with restaurants. Within a short walk you’ll find everything from casual cafes to upscale eateries. Notable spots include Dishoom Shoreditch (Indian cuisine on Boundary Street), Gloria (a lively Italian on Great Eastern Street), Lantana Cafe (Australian brunch spot on Rivington Street), and the sleek Japanese-Inspired kitchen Manteca (right opposite The Curtain). For quick bites, Boxpark Shoreditch (a shipping-container food hall) or street vendors on Commercial Street offer variety. The Red Rooster at The Curtain itself is a destination; during the Virgin rebrand it was replaced by BiBo London (Spanish tapas) which remains open on-site (hospitality-on.com).
• Bars and Nightlife: The surrounding square mile has many trendy bars and pubs. The Bird’s Yard, Cargo, and Backyard Bars are nearby for drinks and dancing. Craft cocktail lovers might check out Redchurch Brewery’s taproom or the secretive Attendant Shoreditch. Shoreditch’s famous nightlife – Bar Soho, The Book Club (10 minutes away), and various late-night clubs – ensures there’s something after hours.
• Hotels: If you need to stay overnight nearby (other than The Curtain itself), Shoreditch has options. Not far away are The Hoxton Shoreditch (stylish) and Novotel Shoreditch (business-friendly). The Ace Hotel is a short walk north on Shoreditch High Street. There are also modern chains like YOTEL and citizenM within the same neighborhood. Many visitors come from hotels in the City (e.g. Lloyd’s Banking district) or on the edges of Shoreditch since it’s centrally located.
• Transit and Nearby Landmarks: Plan extra time for connections. Old Street station (Northern line) is just across Old Street - foot traffic can be heavy on event nights so allow 5–10 minutes to navigate to The Curtain from the platforms. Shoreditch High Street Overground and the bars of Commercial Street are a few minutes east on foot. Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market (for late-night food or shopping) are just a 10-minute walk southeast. Taxis and ride-shares are abundant around Old Street and Shoreditch High Street late at night.
• When to Arrive: For concerts or club nights, it’s wise to get there 30–60 minutes before start time. Doors often open early evening (6–8pm depending on the event). This ensures you beat the busiest part of the queue (if any), find parking or drop-off, and secure a prime spot. For afterparty or rooftop events, arriving between 8–9pm is common. Public transport runs late (Night Tube is not on the Northern line after midnight, though Shoreditch High Street Overground runs until 2am on weekends), so plan your journey home in advance – night buses 242 and 26 still run overnight on Old Street, for example.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Curtain stands out in London for its bold mix of glamour and grit. Architecturally, it brought a large new-build (9 stories, 120 rooms) that still feels rooted in Shoreditch’s past – the brick-and-steel façade and window patterns deliberately mirror the old furniture warehouses and cabinet factories that used to line Curtain Road (www.architectsjournal.co.uk). The interior takes design cues from rock’n’roll and film. For instance, famed rock photographer Mick Rock contributed art (images of Bowie, Hendrix, etc.) decorating the walls (www.e-architect.com). The space is designed to host creative events – one critic even said the hotel “had to repair the streetscape” in a way that’s respectful of local heritage (www.e-architect.com).

Culturally, The Curtain was London’s first big experiment in an East End members’ club/hotel hybrid – essentially bringing the Soho House/model to Shoreditch but with a New York twist (squaremile.com). Its opening was celebrated in journalism and travel circles (Forbes listed it among London’s hottest new hotels (www.crafthouseconsulting.com)). The venue’s social vibe is quirky and eclectic: they even accept up to three well-dressed guests per member, “if they’re cool” (squaremile.com). The Curtain also revived the long-lost concept of a grand ballroom in Shoreditch (www.eventproductions.london), outfitted with state-of-the-art tech for modern events. The ballroom’s design and capacity (350–400 people) gave the area a versatile space for dinners and conferences that was previously unavailable. (www.eventproductions.london)

Another unique appeal is the famous rooftop. Unlike most Shoreditch rooftops (which are often seasonal pop-ups), The Curtain’s heated Moroccan-style pool and all-weather Lido bar are open year-round (www.e-architect.com). Guests and members often rave that it feels like an “enchanted garden” lounge in winter and a chic pool club in summer (complete with boho fabrics and coverings). Several sources applaud the pool and rooftop as special features (indeed, the rooftop was often pictured in articles about the hotel’s debut). The pool and Lido bar offer unobstructed sunset views toward Central London and the City – a rare vantage point in East London.

Finally, many famous moments took place here. The Curtain hosted celebrity chefs (Marcus Samuelsson’s first UK branch in Red Rooster, and Dani García’s BiBo during later years), which was unusual for Shoreditch. The Green Room bar was quickly praised as one of London’s “best bars” shortly after opening (www.boutiquehotelier.com). In the music scene, it was far more than just another club – the intimate LP lounge became a launchpad for superstar acts. For example, guest lists to see clubs like Chance the Rapper or Erykah Badu at The Curtain were highly sought after; as one reviewer put it, seeing Miguel “less than a metre away” there was unforgettable (squaremile.com). These kinds of exclusive gigs helped cement The Curtain’s rep in music circles. In sum, The Curtain’s blend of historic nods, luxury design, celebrity dining, and cutting-edge music made it a one-of-a-kind destination – beloved by local tastemakers and international visitors alike (www.boutiquehotelier.com) (squaremile.com).

Visitor Tips and Information

Access and Tickets: If you’re coming to an event, bring ID even if you have a ticket (they do check). Most nights are 18+ unless otherwise stated. There is no general box office inside; buy your tickets in advance online. For door sales on the night, ask security when you arrive – some events waive the ticket for members or guests.

Dress Code: The Curtain is stylish but not excessively formal. Smart-casual is best – think collared shirts, nice trousers or smart jeans, dresses or upscale casual wear. Avoid sportswear, trainers or overly casual gym clothes on nights out. The environment is trendy, so people often dress up (many reviewers noted the fashionable crowd). If in doubt, look at recent event photos and you’ll see mostly clubwear or cocktail attire.

Bag and Security Policies: Large bags or backpacks may be discouraged or subject to search, especially on busy nights. Small clutches or shoulder-bags are fine. Photography (non-flash) is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography could be limited by request, and any professional cameras should be cleared with staff. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas (the rooftop terrace or external spaces); it is not allowed inside the building.

Food and Drink: Outside food or drink is prohibited. During late-night events, food options are limited: you’ll mainly have bar snacks or items from the lobby café (for example, Christina’s café has a small menu for co-working/early-evening). The main restaurants (Red Rooster/BiBo, Lido, the Pan-Asian restaurant, etc.) require advance booking and close by early evening. Plan meals around your visit – for a post-event bite, Brick Lane’s famous curries and bagels are just a few minutes’ walk away.

Timing: Plan to arrive early, especially if you want a drink at the rooftop or first access to the dancefloor. You may be asked to wait until the start time before entering certain areas; staff will typically clear spaces a bit before showtime. Similarly, the rooftop pool and lounge (Lido) is usually reserved for hotel guests and members in late night — so if you’re only an event attendee, enjoy the sunset views but don’t assume you can swim at night.

Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible throughout (ramps, lifts to each floor, accessible loos). Accessible rooms are available (with roll-in showers) for hotel guests (hartshoreditch.com). Guests with hearing or other needs should notify the venue in advance so staff can assist – the hotel prides itself on being fully accessible (hartshoreditch.com). Note that there is no dedicated parking, so disabled drop-off can be arranged by speaking to the front desk ahead of time. Nearby street parking is limited, but there are disabled bays on Surveyors Lane (close to Curtain Road) and on Old Street if needed (you can find Hackney Council’s blue-badge map online). Overall, expect staff to be helpful and the building to be accommodating.

Common Mistakes: The Curtain is in a one-way street area – if driving yourself, don’t plan to circle for parking. On busy event nights, traffic can become gridlocked on Great Eastern Street, so leave in plenty of time. Also, double-check your booking type. Some events have multiple venues or sections (for example, Strictly Vinyl nights may use 26 Curtain Rd for summer series (list.co.uk)), so be sure you arrive at the right entrance. Lastly, phone signal can occasionally drop in the deep basement, so if meeting friends, use messaging apps with read-receipts or agree on a physical landmark inside (like “we’ll meet near the bar by the mirrored wall”).

Frequently Asked Questions