O2 Forum Kentish Town
Cocktail Bar | London | England | United Kingdom
The "O2 Forum Kentish Town" in London is not a classical cocktail bar in the traditional sense, but rather a renowned venue for live music and events, which occasionally also serves as a meeting point for drinks and socializing. The building, originally built in 1934 as an Art Deco cinema, has a rich history: After the cinema closed, it was first used as an Irish dance hall, later as a bingo hall, and finally in the 1980s it was transformed into a well-known music club under the name "Town & Country Club". Since 2015, it has been part of the O2 Academy Group under the management of Live Nation, and is now known as "O2 Forum Kentish Town". With a capacity of approximately 2,350 people, it is one of London's significant medium-sized venues.
The interior of the O2 Forum is characterized by its historical charm, combined with modern functionality. The Art Deco design is still visible in elements such as the architecture and high ceilings, while the stage and audience area have been optimized for concerts. There is a large standing area on the ground floor as well as a balcony level with seating, providing a good view of the stage. The atmosphere varies greatly depending on the event: During concerts, there is an energetic, often loud atmosphere, while outside of such events it can be quieter and more relaxed. The bar itself is functionally integrated into the event operation and primarily serves to cater to guests during the shows.
The drink offering at O2 Forum Kentish Town is tailored to the needs of a concert audience. There are several bars in the building offering a selection of drinks, including draft beers, wines, spirits, and simple cocktails. Prices are often described as typical for London venues – on the higher side compared to regular pubs, but acceptable in the context of a concert visit. Beers are particularly popular, being served quickly to avoid long waiting times during breaks. Cocktails do not play a major role here as in specialized bars, but complement the offering for guests looking for some variety. There is no indication of an extensive or creative cocktail menu, indicating that the focus is clearly on the music and event experience.
Food is not offered at O2 Forum, as it is not a restaurant or a traditional pub. Guests looking to eat before or after an event must rely on nearby options. The focus is on the live program, which covers a wide range of genres – from rock and indie to pop, hip-hop, and metal. Artists like Van Morrison, the Pixies, or Highly Suspect have performed here, and the venue is known for its excellent acoustics and the proximity between the audience and the stage, making it popular among music fans. The size of the venue allows for an intimate atmosphere that larger halls often cannot provide.
The target audience of O2 Forum is diverse: concert-goers of all ages, from teenagers to older music lovers, visit the venue depending on the booked band or show. It is also a popular meeting spot for fans who linger at the bars before or after performances. The staff is often praised for their friendliness and efficiency, especially in assisting guests with mobility issues. There are accessible entrances, such as platforms for wheelchair users, and the team is trained to accommodate such needs. However, there is occasional criticism of long waiting times at the bars or the organization of entrance queues, especially at sold-out shows.
The venue's history contributes to its reputation. After being acquired by Mean Fiddler Music Group in 1993 and renamed "London Forum", it underwent several changes in ownership and renovations, including a comprehensive modernization in 2007 by MAMA & Company, which increased capacity. Today, it is a staple of the London music scene and is appreciated for its versatility – from concerts to comedy nights to club nights. O2 customers benefit from priority access, making it easier to enter during busy events.
In summary, O2 Forum Kentish Town is a venue with historical flair and modern amenities, whose bar offers cocktails but primarily serves as a complement to the main experience – live music. It is not a place for a quiet cocktail date, but a lively spot for music lovers who want to enjoy drinks and shows in an authentic setting. Its success lies in the combination of a good location, strong programming, and an atmosphere that blends tradition and modernity.
