One of the most common questions we hear from people planning a night out in London is: how much does it actually cost to get into a nightclub? The answer depends on where you want to go, which night of the week it is, whether you are on the guestlist, and what kind of experience you are looking for. This guide breaks down entry prices across London's top clubs so you can plan your evening with confidence and avoid any surprises at the door.
How London Club Entry Prices Work
Entry pricing at London nightclubs is not as straightforward as a single number on a website. Most clubs use a flexible pricing model that depends on several factors:
- Guestlist vs. walk-in - Getting on the guestlist is almost always free and can save you anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds on the door. Most London clubs offer free guestlist sign-up through promoters or booking services like London Night Guide.
- Day of the week - Weeknight entry (Monday to Thursday) is typically cheaper or even free. Friday and Saturday nights command the highest prices.
- Time of arrival - Arriving early, usually before 11pm, often means reduced or waived entry fees, even on weekends.
- Guest ratio - Some clubs apply different pricing depending on group composition. Mixed groups and groups of women often get better rates at the door.
- Special events - Bank holidays, New Year's Eve, and themed event nights carry premium pricing, sometimes double the regular rate.
As a general rule, the best way to keep costs down is to sign up for a guestlist in advance. It is free, quick, and available for almost every club in London.
Mayfair Club Entry Prices
Mayfair is home to London's most prestigious nightclubs. Entry prices here are generally higher than other parts of the city, but the experience matches. Here is what you can expect to pay at the most popular venues.
Tape London
Tape London is one of Mayfair's most sought-after clubs, known for its Grammy-winning creative direction and intimate atmosphere. Entry on the guestlist is free on most midweek nights. On Fridays and Saturdays, expect to pay around 20 pounds on the guestlist or 30 pounds or more at the door without one. The production quality and exclusive crowd make it a standout choice for anyone who wants a premium night.
Maddox Club
Maddox Club operates a generous guestlist policy, making it one of the more accessible Mayfair venues. Entry is free with guestlist on most nights, including weekends if you arrive before midnight. Walk-in prices range from 15 to 25 pounds depending on the night. The club runs events seven nights a week, with Mondays and Tuesdays being the most budget-friendly option for a quality Mayfair experience.
Cuckoo Club
The Cuckoo Club keeps entry affordable for a Mayfair venue. Guestlist entry is free on weeknights and typically 10 to 15 pounds on weekends. Walk-in prices can reach 20 pounds on busy Saturday nights. The quirky interior and cocktail-bar-meets-nightclub vibe draw a fashionable crowd who appreciate something a little different from the standard Mayfair offering.
Funky Buddha
Funky Buddha has been a Mayfair fixture for years and remains popular with regulars and tourists alike. Guestlist entry is free most nights, though Friday and Saturday may carry a 10 to 20 pound charge depending on the event. Without a guestlist, expect to pay 20 to 30 pounds on peak nights. The intimate dance floor and reliable DJ sets keep this club busy throughout the week.
Dear Darling
One of Mayfair's newer additions, Dear Darling combines a restaurant and bar with a late-night club space. Guestlist entry is free on most nights, with weekend walk-in prices around 15 to 20 pounds. It is a strong option for a full evening out, since you can start with dinner downstairs and transition to the club without stepping outside.
Selene
Selene is another newer Mayfair venue with a lavish interior and strong DJ lineups. Guestlist entry is free on weeknights. On Fridays and Saturdays, guestlist entry ranges from 10 to 20 pounds, while walk-in prices can hit 25 to 30 pounds. The venue has quickly earned a loyal following thanks to its atmosphere and music programming.
Reign
Reign offers a large, multi-level venue in the heart of Mayfair with frequent celebrity appearances and themed nights. Guestlist entry is typically free midweek and around 15 to 20 pounds on weekends. Walk-in prices can be 20 to 30 pounds on Fridays and Saturdays. If you want a high-energy night with a big-venue feel, Reign delivers.
Maison Close
Maison Close brings a theatrical, cabaret-inspired experience that sets it apart from every other club in London. Entry pricing reflects the production value, with guestlist prices around 15 to 20 pounds on weekends and walk-in prices reaching 25 to 35 pounds. Midweek entry is cheaper, often free on the guestlist. The live performances and immersive decor make the higher price point feel justified.
Scotch of St James
Scotch of St James is an intimate, members-style club with a rock-and-roll heritage. Entry on the guestlist is typically free most nights, and walk-in prices range from 15 to 25 pounds. The small capacity means the club can be selective at the door, so guestlist sign-up is strongly recommended to guarantee entry.
Tabu
Tabu is one of Mayfair's newest late-night destinations, quickly building a reputation for strong DJ sets and a high-energy atmosphere. Guestlist entry is free on most nights, with walk-in prices around 15 to 20 pounds on weekends. Its fresh interior and buzzing crowd make it a solid addition to the Mayfair circuit.
Soho Club Entry Prices
Soho offers a different energy to Mayfair. The clubs here lean more towards performance, spectacle, and underground vibes, and entry policies tend to be more about exclusivity than price.
Cirque le Soir
Cirque le Soir is London's most famous circus-themed club and one of the hardest venues to get into. Guestlist entry is free on most nights, but availability is extremely limited and the door policy is strict. Walk-in prices range from 20 to 30 pounds, though the real barrier is getting past the door team. The fire-breathers, acrobats, and immersive entertainment make this a bucket-list night out that is worth the effort.
The Box
The Box is known for its provocative live shows and London's most exclusive atmosphere. Entry is generally by guestlist or membership only, and even with a guestlist, entry is never guaranteed. When available, guestlist entry is free, but walk-in is rarely an option. Expect to arrive early, dress sharply, and be prepared for a truly one-of-a-kind nightlife experience.
Beyond the West End
Not all of London's best clubs are clustered in Mayfair and Soho. These venues offer great nightlife at different price points across the city.
Rex Rooms, Chelsea
Rex Rooms in Chelsea offers a more relaxed entry policy compared to Mayfair. Guestlist entry is free most nights, and even walk-in prices stay reasonable at around 10 to 15 pounds on weekends. The multi-room layout and cocktail focus make it a strong pick for groups who want variety without the Mayfair price tag.
Ministry of Sound, Elephant and Castle
Ministry of Sound is one of London's most iconic dance music venues. Entry prices vary widely depending on the event, ranging from 10 pounds for smaller weeknight bookings to 25 pounds or more for headline DJ nights. Advance tickets purchased online are almost always cheaper than paying at the door, so plan ahead if Ministry is on your radar.
Kensington Roof Gardens
Kensington Roof Gardens offers a unique rooftop nightlife experience with real gardens and open-air terraces. Entry on the guestlist is typically free, while walk-in prices sit around 15 to 20 pounds on weekends. The setting makes this a standout choice for summer nights and something completely different from the usual basement club.
How to Save on Entry
The simplest way to cut your entry costs is to get on the guestlist before you go. Here are a few more ways to keep your night affordable:
- Use a free concierge service - London Night Guide offers free guestlist bookings at all the clubs listed above. We handle the reservation so you just show up.
- Go midweek - Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights are significantly cheaper, or free, at almost every London club. Check out our daily parties guide to see what is happening tonight.
- Arrive before 11pm - Many clubs offer reduced or waived entry for early arrivals, even on weekends.
- Book a table - If you are in a group, a VIP table booking can work out cheaper per person than individual entry plus drinks at the bar, and it guarantees your entry.
- Check for birthday deals - If someone in your group has a birthday coming up, many clubs offer free entry, drinks packages, or table upgrades. Browse our birthday packages for the full list.
What About VIP Tables and Minimum Spends?
If you are considering a VIP table instead of general admission, be aware that minimum spends vary significantly by venue. In Mayfair, expect minimum spends starting from around 500 pounds on quieter nights to 1,000 pounds or more on Fridays and Saturdays. The minimum spend usually covers your choice of bottles (vodka, champagne, or similar) plus mixers, and includes entry for your group. For a detailed breakdown of what is included, browse our VIP services page or check individual venue entry prices across the site.
Plan Your Night with London Night Guide
London's nightlife is easier to navigate when you know what to expect at the door. Whether you are planning a birthday celebration, a casual midweek night, or a big Saturday in Mayfair, knowing entry prices in advance helps you budget your evening properly. Our concierge service is completely free, and we can help you with guestlist bookings, table reservations, and personalised recommendations tailored to your group. Just get in touch and we will take care of the rest.