KOKO: Everything You Need To Know Before Your Gig

Standing proud on Camden High Street, KOKO is a mid-size, 1500-capacity music venue famed for its plush red decor and glitzy disco ball, and, of course, for playing host to major music acts and electronic/DJ club nights. Originally called the Camden Theatre when it opened in 1900, it was later the Music Machine (1977-1982) and then the Camden Palace from 1982-2004 where it was known for its New Romantic acts as well as its 1990s rave scene. A great place to catch acts on the up, as well as more established bands wanting to get up close with their fans. Just around the back is Cafe KOKO, an intimate little spin-off venue hosting 300 and serving delicious pizzas and other Italian fare.

Getting To KOKO By Public Transport

Mornington Crescent on the Northern Line is a 2-minute walk away – exit the station, turn right and the venue is right in front of you. Camden Town Station is a 10-minute walk down Camden High Street, while Euston Station (National Rail, Northern & Victoria Lines) is only a 10-minute walk down Eversholt Street. St Pancras International & King’s Cross are also a 15-20 minute walk away.

The 214, 134, 24, 27, and 1 bus routes all stop close by.

Getting To The Venue By Car

The Lomax Car Park, a 10-minute walk away on Pratt Street, offers nearby paid parking. Single yellow line areas can be found on Crowndale Road and Bayham Street, which can offer free parking after 18.30

What Time Do Events Start and Finish at KOKO
Event times vary according to the act and event, but for music gigs the main act is on around 20.45-21.30, with supports on around 20.00 and doors at 19.00. Gigs tend to finish at 23.00. For club nights on Fridays and Saturdays, doors are usually around 22.00 with last entry at 03.00. To get the exact times, keep an eye on the venue and band socials on the day.

Queueing & Security at KOKO
The main entrance to KOKO is on Camden High Street, just off the junction with Eversholt Street and Crowndale Road. Queues start at the entrance on Camden High Street, going around the side of the venue on Crowndale Road.

When you reach the entrance your ticket will be checked and security will search you, and check your bag size – large bags and suitcases are not permitted for entry into the theatre or for depositing at the cloakroom. No food or drink is allowed in either – there are several bars across the venue (but note, KOKO is a cashless venue).

Finding Your Seats or Standing Spot At KOKO
As you enter, you can go through to the main theatre area and you’ll arrive at the Ground Floor Balcony Level (‘The Lip’), just behind the sound desk. From here you can take stairs to the lower stalls area in front of the stage, or up to the two upper circle areas. Most of KOKO is standing only, though there are a few benches situated around the venue.

Security & Cloakrooms at KOKO
KOKO has 2 cloakrooms, both in the foyer, with a small charge (£3-4) per item. Only small bags and backpacks, coats and laptop cases are accepted. The cloakrooms will not take large bags or suitcases. A recent tip I discovered, take a photo on your phone of your cloakroom ticket to avoid disappointment.

Merchandise
The merch stand in KOKO is situated in the main foyer area, for all your tote, t-shirt and poster needs.

Guest Lists & Backstage Access
If you’re lucky enough to get on the guest list, pick up your pass from the box office in the main foyer as you enter. Backstage access is usually via the inside of the venue itself.

Accessibility
There is step-free ramped access to a viewing area on the Ground Floor Balcony Level (‘The Lip’) level with 4 wheelchair spots and 6 other spaces. Accessible toilets are adjacent to this. Assistance dogs are permitted.