XOYO Nightclub London: The Place to Be for Night Owls

Trying to find the best place for a night out in London can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack, but XOYO in Shoreditch is the one that keeps popping up for a reason. This spot isn’t just another club; it’s the heart of East London’s nightlife. Locals, students from nearby universities, and a steady stream of expats meet here every weekend, all on the hunt for decent music and a proper vibe.

XOYO's location is spot on—just a few minutes' walk from Old Street tube. That means you’re close to pretty much everything: late-night kebab shops, legendary bagel stops, and a pile of lively bars. You don’t have to stress about missing the last train or feeling stranded, especially since Shoreditch runs busier than Oxford Circus on a Saturday night.

Wondering what actually goes on inside? We’re talking bass that rattles your bones, crowds that don’t judge, and lineups pulling in both homegrown and international DJs. XOYO mixes old-school warehouse energy with up-to-date sound systems—not a bad combo if you’re serious about your tunes but still want somewhere easy to just hang out.

• XOYO’s Roots in Shoreditch
• What Makes XOYO Different
• Getting In: How to Plan Your Visit
• Inside Scoop: XOYO’s Resident DJs and Events
• Local Tips: Eating and Drinking Nearby
• Late-Night London: Getting Home Safe

XOYO’s Roots in Shoreditch

When people talk about clubs in East London, XOYO always comes up. This place opened its doors back in 2010, right in the middle of Shoreditch, and quickly became a go-to spot for night owls across the city. The whole area has changed a lot since then—what used to be old warehouses and forgotten railway arches is now full of creative agencies, street markets, and pop-up shops. But even as new spots open up, XOYO keeps its spot as a staple of the scene.

It’s not just the crowds that make it special. XOYO is set in a former print works, and you can still feel a bit of that industrial vibe. High ceilings, exposed brick, and a no-fuss entrance on Cowper Street give you the sense you’re somewhere authentic, not a cookie-cutter club. The venue can handle about 800 people, so it’s big, but not so massive you get lost in a sea of strangers.

"XOYO has always had this rare ability to evolve musically, staying ahead of the curve while keeping its London roots intact," said Mixmag in their in-depth feature on the club scene.

XOYO is right up there with Fabric and Printworks on the ‘must-do’ London nightlife list, but with a reputation for being a bit more relaxed and less touristy. The vibe usually attracts people who actually care about the music—that’s probably why so many well-known DJs choose this club as a launchpad for their London gigs.

If you’re after XOYO history, here’s a quick hit: since opening, the venue has hosted special resident DJ runs by the likes of Andy C, Skream, and The Blessed Madonna. That mix of artists—drum & bass, house, techno—keeps the place fresh and everyone guessing. It’s also been home to secret gigs, afterparties, and one-off nights for London’s music festivals.

Shoreditch isn’t just about clubs, either. You can show up early, grab some food on Curtain Road (think cheap ramen or vegan mezze), and wander around the graffiti-covered backstreets. But as soon as the sun goes down, it’s hard not to notice the lines building outside XOYO. That’s just how it goes. People know what’s waiting inside.

What Makes XOYO Different

Ask anyone in London what makes XOYO stand out, and you’ll get some solid answers. First up, the club’s reputation is built on booking big names—think The Blessed Madonna, Honey Dijon, and Ben UFO—while still supporting local talent. That blend means you never quite know who you’ll bump into, music-wise, but you can bet it’ll be quality. Unlike other Shoreditch spots that shuffle through new owners every year, XOYO’s been going strong since 2010. That kind of staying power is rare in London nightclub culture.

The weekly ‘residency’ format is a game changer. Instead of random playlists, XOYO gives one DJ a 12-week run to shape the club’s soundtrack. Recent residents like Flava D and Goldie have packed out Friday nights—massive for anyone who actually cares about music, not just queues and overpriced drinks.

Here’s something practical: the sound system. XOYO invested in Funktion-One speakers, which is like going from a tinny Bluetooth speaker to a proper gig set-up. When bass drops, you’ll seriously feel it in your bones. Despite being underground (literally and vibe-wise), XOYO keeps things safe—there’s a solid, low-key security presence, strictly-enforced ID checks, and cloakroom staff that actually pay attention to your stuff.

If you’re picky about drinks and not keen on getting fleeced, you’ll appreciate that XOYO’s bar prices are actually reasonable for the area. Pints start below £6, vodka-mixers go for under a tenner, and you can still get water for free (tap or still, just ask the bar). Line-up information is transparent—you can check the club’s website or their Instagram for exactly who’s playing, with ticket prices and set times clearly listed, no faff.

Check this out for a snapshot comparison against other local clubs:

You can spot XOYO regulars by their trainers and relaxed outfits—no dress code stress, just don’t turn up in your gym kit. Big groups, solo clubbers, and afterparty crews from local offices all blend in. There aren’t many places in the capital where that actually happens. If you like dancing up front, there’s space directly in front of the booth; if you want to chill, there are side booths and quieter corners to catch your breath. That’s rare around Shoreditch, where most clubs cram you in like sardines.

Getting In: How to Plan Your Visit

If you’re eyeing up a night out at XOYO, don’t just wander up and hope for the best—this club is too popular for that. First off, get your tickets ahead of time. XOYO usually sells out for big DJ nights, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Hit up their official website or reliable UK platforms like Resident Advisor. You scan your ticket straight from your phone at the door, so no messing around with printouts.

The dress code isn’t too strict, but forget scruffy tracksuits or football shirts. Smart casual always works. Trainers, jeans, and a decent t-shirt or casual shirt will get you through the doors just fine. Leave the large bags at home—security is tight, and everyone gets a quick but thorough bag search. Bags over A4 size generally aren’t allowed anyway and there’s paid cloakroom for your coat or small backpack.

Queueing is inevitable at peak times, often stretching round the block by 11 pm, so arrive before 10:30 pm if you want to swerve the worst of it. XOYO’s age policy is 18+ and they will check your ID, so bring your passport or a valid UK driving license. Forget your ID and you’re not getting in, simple as.

• Buy tickets in advance from official sources
• Check your ID (passport or UK driving license only)
• Smart casual dress code—no football shirts or tracksuits
• Leave big bags at home; use the cloakroom for coats and small items
• Aim to arrive before 10:30 pm for shorter queues

The XOYO team sums it up best:

"To guarantee entry and a smooth experience, advanced tickets and valid photo ID are essential. We recommend arriving early to make the most of your night." – XOYO London

Planning ahead means you’re inside while others are still in line—worth those extra few minutes of prep.

Inside Scoop: XOYO’s Resident DJs and Events

If you want non-stop action, XOYO’s got you covered with its resident DJ roster and a packed schedule of live events that make it one of the most talked about places for London nightclub fans. They don’t just book anyone—XOYO brings in local legends and major headliners who know how to fill a dancefloor without missing a beat.

XOYO made headlines by running continuous weekend residencies—a first for London clubs. Past residents include Ben UFO, Andy C, and Smokin Jo, each famous for their diverse sets and making Friday nights in Shoreditch electric. Right now, 2025’s resident DJ series has seen the likes of Eliza Rose drawing massive crowds, while House Gospel Choir hosted a handful of sold-out nights earlier this spring.

What’s cool is XOYO’s approach: they hand the decks to one artist for an entire season, which keeps things fresh and committed every Friday. Saturdays lean more toward guest DJs—think Jayda G, The Blessed Madonna, or Horse Meat Disco—and the genres shift from deep house and UKG to disco and techno, so there’s always something for every taste.

If you’re all about planning, check XOYO’s events calendar online. You’ll see everything laid out, with early bird tickets usually £5-10 cheaper than at the door. It’s not just about headline acts, though. Local collectives like Percolate and Sink The Pink have hosted some wild theme nights—Pride Month parties here are legendary and the Halloween rave sells out weeks in advance.

Doors usually open at 9pm, and queues start building before 10:30pm—especially on big DJ nights. If you want a spot on the dancefloor, grab tickets early and set out early. XOYO does a good job with sound and lights, so you get the full experience wherever you stand, but regulars swear by the left-hand side of the main room for the best bass drop moments. Keep an eye on their Instagram for last-minute lineup changes and secret set announcements—those pop-ups never disappoint.

Local Tips: Eating and Drinking Nearby

If you're heading to XOYO, Shoreditch won't leave you hungry or thirsty. This area is packed with food and drink options that keep the crowds fuelled before and after a night out. Forget about wandering around Google Maps in the cold; here’s what you actually need to know.

• Brick Lane Beigel Bake: This one’s a classic. Open 24/7, it dishes out salt beef bagels that can save you at 3am. It’s less than 15 minutes on foot from XOYO. Expect a queue, especially late, but service moves fast.
• Dinerama: Got a crew with different tastes? Dinerama is a big street food market with stalls selling everything from juicy burgers to Thai fried chicken and vegan tacos. It opens till late and is an easy ten-minute walk.
• Dishoom Shoreditch: For a pre-club curry or sharing plates that’re actually worth the money, Dishoom is a local legend. The house black daal and the bacon naan roll are favourites here. Get there early—queues are the norm after 7pm.
• Old Street Records: If you want a laid-back drink or even live music before the club, this bar is just around the corner. Cocktails, craft beers, and pizzas are the menu staples.
• The Blues Kitchen: Want a Southern US vibe before XOYO? The Blues Kitchen is next door, serving bourbon, beers, wings, and pulled pork—all with live blues and soul in the background some nights.

Some handy rules of thumb for eating and drinking in Shoreditch:

1. Weekends are crowded—book tables if you can, especially for groups.
2. Most late-night spots accept cards, but it's good to carry a tenner; bagel shops and some food stalls can be cash-only.
3. Street food markets close earlier on Sundays—plan for a backup.

Shoreditch is safe to walk, but always keep an eye on your stuff—pickpocketing doesn’t take a night off. If you want a nightcap close to XOYO, stick to well-lit streets and always check last entry times for bars and clubs. There’s no shortage of options—just don’t leave it to the last minute to decide or you’ll end up with cold chips and a can from the offie. Nobody wants that as their London memory.

Late-Night London: Getting Home Safe

If you’re heading to XOYO, sorting your ride home is probably the last thing you want to think about at midnight, but it’s vital. London packs plenty of transport options once the party ends—just know your choices, don’t wing it, and you’ll dodge those wild late-night mishaps.

First up, the Night Tube has made things easier. On Fridays and Saturdays, the Northern Line (which runs through Old Street) stays open all night. That’s a game-changer if you live anywhere near key stops like Camden, King’s Cross, or Waterloo. Check out the quick reference table below for major routes connecting Shoreditch with the rest of London after midnight.

Uber, Bolt, and Free Now all cover Shoreditch. Ordering ahead can save you some post-club hassle, but be ready for those “surge” fares around 3am when everyone decides to leave at the same time. If you’re splitting a black cab, look for one at the main road near Old Street station, not straight outside the club—that queue moves faster.

Keep your phone charged, especially if you’re using maps or booking an Uber. Grab a portable charger; you won’t be the only one out of battery by 4am. And use well-lit streets if you’re walking to your stop—Shoreditch is usually buzzing, but some back roads feel empty late at night.

If you’re on your own or new in town, share your journey with a mate or let them track you using Find My or WhatsApp live location. The police and TfL always say: never accept random ride offers outside clubs, even if they seem legit. Stick with official cab ranks or booked rides.

Last tip: grab some food before heading off, especially if you’re catching a long bus home. The Beigel Shop on Brick Lane or the fried chicken joint at the corner of Old Street are open into the early hours—they’re lifesavers after a night at XOYO.