About 22 Bayswater Rd
22 Bayswater Road in Sydney’s Potts Point (Kings Cross) is an underground-style nightclub and event space known today as Room 22 . This Victorian-era terrace building – part of the 1890s “Mansions Terrace” on Queens Lane – has long been at the heart of Sydney nightlife. For decades it was home to the legendary Candy’s Apartment, often called “Sydney’s longest-standing club” and a premier dance-music venue . That historic legacy lives on: Room 22 continues Kings Cross’s electronic-music tradition with a modern underground vibe. The venue is remarkably intimate – with low ceilings and a bunker-like, brick-lined interior – yet packed with high-end club systems. It’s notable for its cozy dance floor, VIP booth areas, and an intense party atmosphere that melds vintage character with cutting-edge sound and lighting . Industry listings describe Room 22 as “a dynamic venue” that “brings the vibrant underground music scene back to the heart of Kings Cross” . In short, 22 Bayswater Road matters as a local icon: a heritage space revitalised into one of Sydney’s most exciting nightspots, preserving the spirit of Kings Cross while injecting fresh life into the community’s nightlife.
Events and Programming
Room 22 hosts a packed schedule of club nights, DJ sets and themed parties. You’ll find multi-genre line-ups – from R&B and hip-hop to house, techno and drum & bass – almost every week. Local and international DJs regularly play here. For example, recurring events like LUV Beats Sundays (a late-night hip-hop/R&B dance party) are held on Sunday nights , and various electronic dance music nights are promoted under brands like “do4luv” (see 2025 listings showing ticket prices of A$17–38 ). Party organizers often fill the venue with light shows and special visuals. Though capacities are modest, the crowd is lively: on many Saturday nights the club is theme-dressed (fluoro, underground etc.) and draws college-age and clubgoers. Ticket prices vary by event, but typical full-venue club nights run in the A$15–A$30 range . In its history as Candy’s Apartment, the venue hosted some of Australia’s biggest acts early in their careers (artists like Hayden James, Alison Wonderland, What So Not and even touring international DJs ). While Room 22’s current bookings focus mostly on DJs and underground party nights, the strong lineup building here continues that tradition, making it a hub for cutting-edge dance events in the local scene.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at 22 Bayswater Road are usually sold in advance via the event promoter’s website or partner platforms (without naming specific sites). Popular nights often sell out, so it’s wise to book early online. Many events have tiered pricing or early-bird discounts. A recent example: an electronic-night event listed tickets from about A$17 to A$38 . In person, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door before the show starts – but arrive early to avoid disappointment. There is no traditional “box office” at 22 Bayswater; even for private hires the venue is fully staffed, so any door sales are handled at the entry. VIP or bottle-service packages (with reserved tables) are also available on a per-event basis and can be arranged through the venue’s hosting promotions. When booking, note the event’s age limit (typically 18+) and cover charge. If a show has multiple tiers (like GA versus VIP lounge), these will be described on the promoter’s page. In general, the club offers a very competitive entry fee relative to bigger city venues – for example, it was noted in Candy’s days that drink prices here were cheaper than at neighboring clubs – so most nights remain affordable.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Room 22 is optimised for dancing. The main club area is essentially one large open dance floor surrounded by bars and pockets of seating. According to club-hire descriptions, there is “1 x Main club area with large dance floor” plus a raised mezzanine “VIP room” section . The main floor (capacity roughly 300 guests) is flooded with club lights and big speakers, while the elevated mezzanine (capacity ~60) offers leather booths and lounge seating for a birds-eye view. On the mezzanine (sometimes called the “VIP Club Room”), there’s often its own DJ booth and a private bar, with bottle service available . In practice, most guests stand on the dance floor or mingle by the bars; there aren’t formal rows of fixed seats. Some customers prefer to camp out near one of the wraparound lounge booths on the side or in front of the DJ booth for a more relaxed vantage. For the best immersive experience, however, being on the dance floor amid the crowd is ideal, as the sound is loud and the bass thumps through the whole room. (Those sensitive to noise may want earplugs or to limit time near the subwoofers.) The only real “sitting” areas are along the walls on padded couches. Sightlines are good from most spots – the ceiling is relatively low, so even back corner servery areas can catch the DJ’s performance and visuals. The space is intimate, so avoid standing in the very back if you expect to see all the action clearly.
Getting There and Parking
22 Bayswater Road is right in the heart of Potts Point/Kings Cross at the corner of Bayswater Road and Kellett Street. Public transit is the easiest way to get there. Kings Cross train station (Eastern Suburbs/Illawarra Line) is only a ~2-minute walk away – literally about 150 metres. Exit Kings Cross station at the gateway side (Bayswater Road exit) and the venue is across Bayswater Road on your left. Several bus routes also serve the area. The major routes are the 311 (Bondi Junction ↔ Circular Quay) and 324/325 (Bondi Beach ↔ City), which run along Bayswater Road right outside. For fares, use a Sydney Opal card on buses or trains. Taxi and rideshare services are easy too: a taxi rank is outside Kings Cross station, or one can get dropped off on Bayswater Road. If you’re driving, be aware that parking is limited. Street parking is metered (usually 1–2 hour limits) on surrounding streets. The closest multi-storey car parks are the Holiday Inn Potts Point car park (around 115 William Street) or the Kings Cross Car Park on William/Scotland, both about a 5–8 minute walk. Rates at those can be around A$15–$30 for a few hours. It’s usually easier to use public transit or a taxi/ride-hail, especially on busy weekend nights.
Inside the Venue
When you walk in, expect a nightclub atmosphere: dark, loud and buzzing. Doors usually open around 10pm for big events (check each night’s schedule). At the entrance there’s typically an ID check (18+ rule) and ticket scan on the queue line. Bouncers will be present (promoters advertise “security scaled to expected pax” ), so have valid photo ID ready. Bags may be lightly searched for prohibited items (no outside alcohol, weapons, etc.). Inside, the décor is raw and urban – exposed brick walls, some wall art or graffiti-style posters, mirror balls and strobes, with a big pony-hoof shaped bar near the front. Expect multiple small bars: a main bar on your right as you enter and often another bar toward the back of the floor. Drink menus cover everything from beer to cocktails; anything popular (vodka Red Bull, local beers) will be on tap. There’s usually no kitchen, but you can grab snacks like chips or nuts at the bar. In terms of comfort, the floors are concrete and the crowd often dances the night away, so wear comfortable shoes. The vibe is friendly and inclusive – people dance together to shared playlists of hip-hop and EDM across age groups. A coat check may not be available, so keep any bags or jackets minimal. Restrooms (toilet cubicles) are usually on a balcony or back wall; listen for other patrons asking, or follow signage – they’re somewhat tucked out of the main sightlines. If you want to sit or chill, head to the mezzanine booths or near the walls. WiFi is typically not provided, and phone reception can be patchy, so plan accordingly. Overall, inside Room 22 you’ll find a continuous party cell rather than a restaurant setting – expect people to dance on tables past midnight and DJs to drop new tracks every hour.
Nearby Amenities
Potts Point and Kings Cross are full of places to eat and drink before or after events. For pre-show dining, there are casual local restaurants a short stroll away: try Lamanna’s (Italian deli/café), Shady Pines Saloon (American BBQ on Macleay St), or Billy’s Beach House (seafood and live music on Macleay). On Bayswater Road itself you’ll find cafés and takeaways – grab a coffee or pizza earlier in the evening. For a quick pre-party shop, there’s a small grocery/liquor “bottle shop” nearby where you can buy drinks to take home or to a friend’s first (though no outside booze can be brought inside Room 22). After-hours munchies are easy: one legend in the area is the late-night kebab shop on Bayswater/Edwards St just by the station – one blog once noted Room 22 is “literally 30 seconds from that amazing kebab shop” . If a sit-down meal is needed, note that many fine dining spots and casual eateries line Macleay and Darlinghurst roads (e.g. upscale Greek, sushi bars, pizza places, etc.), all within 5–10 minutes on foot. For quiet drinks, the Kings Cross Hotel at 29 Bayswater Road has a rooftop bar with city views, and Union Hotel (18 Orchard St) is a popular corner pub. Hotels in Potts Point include The Bayswater Sydney (17 Bayswater Rd) which “offers convenient and timeless accommodation in the heart of Kings Cross” , as well as boutique lodges like the Bayswater Boutique Lodge on Macleay St. When planning, remember there’s an OpalRank taxi stand at the station blow, and Ubers can pull up on Kellett or Bayswater Rd, making it easy to head home late-night.
What Makes This Venue Special
22 Bayswater Road straddles history and hardcore club culture. Architecturally it’s a classic Potts Point terrace (Victorian Italianate, c.1890 ), now preserved inside with artful lighting and sound. Culturally, the address is storied: as Corky’s Candy’s Apartment, it was central to Sydney’s dance-music golden era . EDM historians note that Candy’s “became the birthplace of some of our biggest exports” in electronic music and even Yahoo News observed it “fostered some well-known musical talent” . That spirit endures. What makes Room 22 stand out today is its authentic underground focus – it’s not flashing or corporate, it’s a bare-bones bunker designed for music lovers. The contrast of low-key, graffiti-adorned walls with world-class DJ decks and a pumping Funktion-One/Pioneer sound (as advertised “2x CDJ’s & mixer, pre-existing sound & lighting” ) gives it real character. Few venues in Sydney can claim a 24-hour license or a lineup mixing cutting-edge techno DJs alongside R&B nights. Its high-energy events and neon-soaked atmosphere capture the old Cross vibe while avoiding the old clichés of tourist kitsch. Artists love playing here for the raw intimacy – and fans love it for a gritty, no-frills dance floor. In the context of Kings Cross’s ups and downs, 22 Bayswater Rd is part of the new cultural revival. Both locally and among visiting clubbers, it’s renowned for staying true to the city’s social roots as “a bohemian hub where counter-culture thrived” , which is why it remains special to Sydneysiders and international partygoers alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
The most important tip is to bring photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence or passport) for age verification. Like any Sydney nightclub, ID checks are strict – no ID means no entry. Dress code is generally casual but tidy: you don’t have to overdress, but avoid sportswear, thongs (flip-flops) or excessively beachweary attire. The venue is mostly standing room, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to dance for hours. Phones and small cameras are usually fine (selfies on the dancefloor are common), but professional camera gear is not allowed unless approved by management. There’s no coat-check, so avoid bringing large bags – many people dance with only keys and wallet. The club runs a 24-hour liquor license , so parties can go until dawn on weekends; plan your transport accordingly. Normally, trains (Kings Cross station) will run through the night on weekends, and NightRide buses operate after midnight if needed. If you have mobility issues, note that the building’s front entry is street-level but the main dance floor is partially lowered – there’s at least one step down. The mezzanine has stairs and no lift, so wheelchair access is limited; you may want to call ahead about special access requirements. For health, the music is very loud (often over 90dB), so earplugs can help if you’re sensitive. Unlike licensed bars, Room 22 often has a friendly non-stop vibe – it’s polite to pace your drinking and stay hydrated with water (ask at the bar for a free water cup). The crowd is usually 18–30s: mostly locals, students and tourists. Remember that while this is a “party club,” courtesy is key – don’t push or fight on the dance floor, and keep valuables secure. Finally, lines can form on weekends or big nights, so arriving early (before 10pm) or coordinating with friends is wise. Once inside, embrace the energy: join the crowd on the dancefloor, network in the bar areas, or grab a seat up top to rest and soak in the show. Watch the venue’s socials or local event pages for any last-minute changes to door times or policies (e.g. strict guestlists or dress codes for special events).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the venue?
Room 22 is a relatively small club. The full venue capacity is around 360 people , which includes roughly 300 on the main dance floor and about 60 in the separate VIP mezzanine section. In practice, events typically reach a few hundred patrons at most.
How do I get tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets are usually sold online by the event promoter. Watch the venue’s official event page or the promoter’s social channels for presale links. Typical ticket prices range from about $15 to $35 depending on the night; for example, one club event in 2025 showed tickets from A$17 to A$38 . You can sometimes buy remaining tickets at the door if the event isn’t sold out, but early booking is advised for popular nights.
Is there a box office or can I buy tickets at the door?
There is no dedicated box office window. Tickets are typically scanned at the door from the promoter’s list or purchased at the door if still available. If an event is sold out online, door tickets are usually gone too. It’s safest to buy online in advance to guarantee entry.
What is the dress code for events at 22 Bayswater Road?
Dress code is generally relaxed but club-appropriate. Casual attire like jeans, dresses or smart shirts is fine. However, avoid beachwear, sports shorts or cheap thongs (flip-flops). The doors staff may turn away overly casual or dirty shoes in rare cases. (If in doubt, “smart casual” is a safe choice.)
What are the age restrictions at 22 Bayswater Road?
The club is strictly 18+ on entry. You must show valid photo ID at the door (driver’s licence, passport, or proof of age card). Anyone under 18 is not permitted. Most events are strictly for adults due to liquor licensing rules.
What is the seating or dancefloor layout?
The venue is mostly standing room. There’s no assigned seating. The main area is a large open dance floor, and there are cushioned booth sections on the side and an overhead mezzanine (hosting up to ~60 VIP guests ). The best spots are either on the floor in front of the DJ or holed up in one of the booth lounges if you need a break. Just note that the booth areas have limited views when everyone’s dancing below.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Due to the heritage nature of the building, accessibility is limited. The front entrance is ground-level, but the dance floor is slightly lower and the mezzanine is only accessible by stairs. There is no elevator. The bathrooms may not have a full wheelchair stall. If you require accessibility accommodations, it’s best to contact the venue directly to discuss needs before attending.
Can I bring my camera or phone to the event?
Smartphones and small point-and-shoot cameras are generally allowed (guests often take selfies). However, professional camera equipment or large recording devices usually require manager approval, since this is a nightclub setting. Flash photography isn’t needed for dancing crowds. If in doubt, ask a staff member on arrival. (Selfie-sticks and GoPros on poles may be frowned upon for safety reasons.)
Where can I park, and how much does it cost?
Street parking in Kings Cross is very limited on busy nights. There are some metered spaces on Bayswater Road and adjacent streets with 1–2 hour limits (coins/card, around $3–6 per hour). The nearest secure parking lots are at the Holiday Inn Potts Point or Kings Cross multi-storey garage (both a 5–8 minute walk away). Rates there might be A$15–30 for a few hours. Most locals and tourists prefer public transit (train or bus) or ride-share.
Where is the nearest train station and which line is it on?
Kings Cross Station is the closest stop, just a 2-minute walk south of 22 Bayswater Rd . It’s on the Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra line (also Airport line trains stop here). From there you can travel directly to Wynard/Central in one direction or Bondi Junction in the other. Just follow the exit signs to Bayswater Road, and you’ll see the club right out front.
Are there food or drink options inside the venue?
Inside, you’ll find a full bar carrying beer, wine, spirits and mixers. No outside food or drinks are allowed, so eat beforehand if you expect to need a meal. The bathroom often has a small fridge for free water if you ask. After entry, the DJs keep the music going – this is not a place with a kitchen or cafe, just the bar and some snack items. Drinks are fairly priced for a nightclub, and servers/cocktail shakers work behind the bars to keep playlists in sync with refills.
Can I reserve a VIP table or bottle service?
Yes – Room 22 offers VIP packages. The mezzanine area can be booked (up to ~60 people) with its own DJ setup and private bar . Typical VIP packages include entry for guests plus bottles of liquor and mixers. Contact the venue or promoter for rates and requirements. Keep in mind that these are private hires and often involve a decent minimum spend.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No – Sydney law bans indoor smoking in nightclubs. You may step outside to smoke (there may be a small courtyard area or street corner outside the entrance). After smoking, you must go through security and re-enter. Designated smoking breaks are typically accommodated by staff during sets.
When do doors open for shows?
Most scheduled events begin around 10:00–10:30pm, with doors opening at that time. On busy weekends you’ll often find a queue from 10pm onwards. If an event has multiple support acts or a dj lineup, the first DJ may start around 10:15–10:30pm. Check your ticket or event listing – times may shift (sometimes 9pm on weekdays or up to midnight for late-night sessions).
What public transit is available late at night?
On weekends, Sydney now runs late-night trains and buses. The Kings Cross station often has trains through the night on Friday/Saturday; even if the station is closed, there are NightRide buses on major corridors (ask a station staffer or use the transport app for the latest route). Taxis and rideshares operate 24/7 in Sydney – a ride back to the city center after midnight is quick (around 10–15 minutes in normal traffic, taxis take standard metered fares). Uber/Lyft pick up right at Bayswater/Kellett or at the taxi rank by the station.
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