Tape London - The Complete Guide

Tape London is one of the most exclusive nightclubs in London, located at 17 Hanover Square in the heart of Mayfair. Originally built as a recording studio with Grammy award-winning creative direction, Tape has evolved into the capital's leading destination for Hip Hop, RnB, and Afrobeats. The venue's unique heritage, celebrity clientele, and 5:45am closing time make it a standout in a city full of nightclubs.

This guide covers everything you need to plan your night at Tape London, from dress code and entry prices to bottle service, the best nights to visit, and how to get on the free guestlist.

Last updated: April 2026

What is Tape London?

Tape London opened on Hanover Square in Mayfair as a hybrid recording studio and nightclub. The founders describe it as a "central hub of creativity and celebration," and that creative DNA runs through every part of the venue. As part of the decor, you will find Kurt Cobain's jacket, a hand-written poem from Elvis Presley, and one of Chuck Berry's guitars. These are not replicas. The recording studio heritage is real, and it shapes the atmosphere in a way that no other London nightclub can replicate.

The venue is split into two distinct spaces. The main club holds around 250 people and includes a stage for live performances, a central dancefloor, and several booth areas for VIP table bookings. Connected to the main space is Little Tape, an intimate 150-person members' area that operates as London's most exclusive after-party venue from 3am on weekends. Together, the two spaces have a total capacity of around 400.

Tape's position in London nightlife is unique. It sits comfortably alongside venues like Maddox, Cirque Le Soir, and Cuckoo Club in the Mayfair nightlife scene, but its recording studio roots and live music programme set it apart. If you are choosing between Mayfair clubs, Tape is the one for people who love urban music and a late, late finish.

Tape London Dress Code

The dress code at Tape London is Smart/Elegant, and the door team enforces it consistently. Getting this right is non-negotiable. You can be on the guestlist with a table booked and still be refused at the door if your outfit does not meet the standard.

What to Wear: Women

Women at Tape London tend to dress up. Cocktail dresses, bodycon dresses, and tailored jumpsuits are all common choices. Heels are the norm, though heeled boots work well in cooler months. Statement accessories (clutch bags, bold jewellery) complete the look. You do not need to go full evening gown, but you should look like you have made an effort.

What to Wear: Men

For men, the standard is a well-fitted shirt (tucked in or untucked depending on the cut) with smart trousers and leather shoes. Blazers are welcome but not required. Dark, slim-fit jeans can work if paired with a proper shirt and dress shoes, but chinos or tailored trousers are the safer choice. Loafers, Chelsea boots, and Oxford shoes all work well.

What NOT to Wear

• Trainers or sneakers (including designer pairs like Yeezys or Air Jordans)
• Sportswear of any kind, including joggers, tracksuits, and athletic shorts
• Baseball caps, beanies, or headwear
• Shorts regardless of style
• Flip-flops or sandals for men
• Ripped, faded, or baggy jeans

The door team has final say. If in doubt, dress on the smarter side. Read our full Tape London dress code guide for detailed outfit ideas.

Tape London Entry Price

Entry pricing at Tape London varies depending on the night, the time you arrive, and whether you are on the guestlist. Here is the breakdown:

Guestlist Entry (Free)

The best way to get into Tape London is through the free guestlist. Guestlist entry is typically free for women and free or reduced for men when arriving before midnight. You also get a faster queue at the door and a confirmed spot on the list. There is zero cost to join the guestlist through London Night Guide.

Walk-In Entry

Without a guestlist spot, walk-in entry typically costs around 20 pounds. This can vary by night, and the door team has discretion over who gets in. Walk-in entry is not guaranteed, especially on Friday and Saturday after midnight. For the most reliable entry, always use the guestlist.

VIP Table Entry

If you book a VIP table, entry is included for your entire group at no extra charge. You skip the queue entirely and are escorted directly to your table by a host. This is the most premium entry option.

Bottle Service and VIP Table Prices

Tape London is a table-service-driven venue, meaning a significant portion of the crowd books tables with bottle service. The VIP experience at Tape is one of the best in London, with dedicated hosts, premium champagne, and excellent table locations.

Minimum Spend

Table minimum spend varies by night and table location:

• Midweek (Tuesday): From 1,000 pounds
• Friday and Saturday (standard booth): From 1,500 to 2,000 pounds
• Friday and Saturday (premium/dancefloor table): From 2,500 to 5,000 pounds
• Special events and holidays: Higher minimums apply

The minimum spend covers bottles and mixers. You choose your bottles from the drinks menu, and your table host handles the rest.

Bottle Prices

A selection from the Tape London drinks menu:

• Champagne: Moet from 350 pounds, Dom Perignon from 600 pounds, Cristal from 900 pounds, Ace of Spades from 800 pounds
• Vodka: Belvedere from 300 pounds, Grey Goose from 300 pounds
• Whisky: Hennessy VS from 300 pounds, Don Julio 1942 from 500 pounds
• Gin: Tanqueray from 280 pounds, Hendrick's from 280 pounds

Prices are approximate and subject to change. For the complete menu, see our Tape London bottle prices guide.

To book a VIP table, use our free table booking service. London Night Guide has a direct relationship with the Tape London team and can secure the best available tables for your group.

Music at Tape London

Tape London's music policy centres on Hip Hop, RnB, and Afrobeats. The resident DJs play a carefully curated mix of current chart hits, classic hip hop anthems, and Afrobeats tracks that keep the dancefloor moving. The programming is consistent across all nights, though the energy and track selection shift depending on the crowd.

What makes Tape different from most London clubs is the live music component. The built-in stage hosts live performances, surprise celebrity DJ sets, and acoustic sessions. Artists who have performed at Tape include both international headliners and rising UK talent. The recording studio heritage means the sound system and acoustics are genuinely excellent, not an afterthought.

If you prefer electronic or house music, Tape is probably not the right fit. For that, look at Maison Close or Selene. But if Hip Hop, RnB, and Afrobeats are your thing, Tape London is the best venue in the city.

What to Expect Each Night

Tape London is open on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each night has a different character:

Tuesday

The midweek session at Tape draws a loyal crowd of industry insiders, media professionals, and Mayfair regulars. The atmosphere is more intimate than the weekend, with a slightly younger, more experimental energy. Table minimum spends are lower, making it a good introduction to the Tape experience. The music leans harder into new RnB and Afrobeats releases.

Friday

Friday is the start of the weekend proper. The after-work crowd transitions into a full night out, and the venue fills up faster than midweek. The DJs bring big, crowd-pleasing hip hop and RnB. Guestlist spots fill up earlier in the week, so book by Wednesday if you can. Expect the dancefloor to peak around 1-2am.

Saturday

Saturday is the flagship night at Tape London. This is when you get the biggest crowd, the most energy, and the strongest door policy. Celebrity sightings are most common on Saturdays. Tables sell out in advance for popular dates. The dancefloor is packed from midnight to closing, and the transition into Little Tape after 3am keeps the party going until 5:30am. Book the guestlist early and arrive before midnight.

Sunday

Sunday at Tape has a dedicated following of people who like to extend the weekend. The vibe is slightly more relaxed than Saturday but still energetic. It attracts a crowd that knows what they like and is not ready for the weekend to end. If you have been to Tape on a Saturday and want a repeat without the peak-night intensity, Sunday is the move.

How to Get on the Tape London Guestlist

Getting on the guestlist is straightforward and free. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Visit the Tape London guestlist page on London Night Guide
2. Enter your full name, date you want to visit, mobile number, and group size
3. Submit the form. You will receive confirmation within a few hours (usually faster)
4. On the night, arrive at Tape London between 11pm and midnight
5. Give your name at the door. The door team will have your details on the guestlist

There is no fee for the guestlist. London Night Guide operates a free concierge service. Guestlist benefits include free or reduced entry, a faster queue, and a confirmed spot at the door.

Tip: Book the guestlist at least a day in advance. For Friday and Saturday, booking by Wednesday gives you the best chance of securing a spot. Last-minute requests are sometimes possible but not guaranteed.

Celebrity Sightings and the VIP Area

Tape London is one of the top celebrity nightlife destinations in the capital. The venue's exclusive atmosphere and recording studio credentials attract A-list names from music, sport, and entertainment. Artists who have been spotted at Tape include Drake, Rihanna, The Weeknd, Stormzy, Chris Brown, Tinie Tempah, and Rita Ora. Premier League footballers are regular visitors, particularly on Saturday nights.

The VIP section at Tape offers privacy without completely separating you from the main club energy. Booths are positioned around the dancefloor, giving you a base to enjoy bottle service while still being part of the action. For the highest level of exclusivity, Little Tape (the connected after-party space) operates as a members-style area where the most high-profile guests tend to gravitate.

Age Policy and ID Requirements

The minimum age for entry to Tape London is 18. You must bring valid photo ID. Accepted forms of identification include:

• Passport
• UK driving licence (full or provisional)
• PASS card (official UK proof-of-age card)

The door team checks ID for everyone who looks under 25. Do not leave your ID at home, even if you are clearly over 18. Expired ID will be refused. Foreign national ID cards may be accepted at the door team's discretion, but a passport is the safest option for international visitors. Read our full Tape London age requirements guide for more details.

Opening Hours and Best Time to Arrive

Tape London opens at 11pm (23:00) and closes at 5:45am, making it one of the latest-closing clubs in London. Most Mayfair clubs shut at 3am or 4am, so Tape's extended hours are a genuine advantage if you want a full night out.

Here is a rough timeline of a typical night at Tape:

• 11pm - midnight: Doors open, early arrivals. If you are on the guestlist, this is the best time to arrive. The venue is relaxed and the door is at its most welcoming.
• Midnight - 1am: The main crowd arrives. The dancefloor starts filling. Atmosphere builds.
• 1am - 3am: Peak time. The dancefloor is full, the energy is high, and this is when Tape is at its best. Most walk-in entry stops here.
• 3am - 5:45am: The main club remains open while Little Tape (the after-party) opens on weekends. The late crowd filters between both spaces.

Location and How to Get There

Tape London is located at 17 Hanover Square, Mayfair, London W1S 1BN. The venue sits on one of Mayfair's most recognisable squares, a short walk from Oxford Street and Bond Street.

By Tube

• Oxford Circus (Central, Victoria, Bakerloo lines) - 5-minute walk south down Regent Street, then left on Hanover Street
• Bond Street (Central, Jubilee, Elizabeth lines) - 7-minute walk east along Brook Street

By Taxi or Rideshare

Tell your driver "Hanover Square, Mayfair." There is a drop-off point directly outside the venue. Uber and Bolt both work well in the area. After closing, the Oxford Circus night bus routes (N7, N8, N25, N55, N73, N98, N137, N207) are a short walk away.

Nearby for Dinner

Mayfair is packed with excellent restaurants for a pre-club dinner. Some popular choices within walking distance include Japanese at Nobu, steak at Hawksmoor, or Italian at Cecconi's. Planning dinner before Tape is a great way to start the evening, especially for birthdays and celebrations.

Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment

Pros

• Late closing: 5:45am is significantly later than almost any other Mayfair club
• Music quality: If you love Hip Hop, RnB, and Afrobeats, the programming is consistently excellent
• Live performances: The built-in stage and recording studio heritage make for genuinely unique nights
• Celebrity atmosphere: The crowd includes recognisable faces without the venue feeling pretentious
• Sound system: Built by recording studio engineers, not retrofitted. You can hear the difference
• After-party option: Little Tape gives you a second venue without leaving the building
• Free guestlist: Complimentary entry when you book through London Night Guide

Cons

• Strict dress code: You will be turned away if you are not dressed properly, even with a booking
• Table prices: VIP minimum spend is high, even by Mayfair standards
• Saturday demand: The most popular night fills up fast. Book early or risk missing out
• Not for everyone: If you prefer house, techno, or electronic music, this is not the right venue

Tips for First-Timers

1. Book the guestlist. It is free and gives you the smoothest possible entry. Sign up here.
2. Arrive between 11pm and midnight. The door is most relaxed early. After midnight, entry gets competitive.
3. Dress smart. Read the dress code section above. When in doubt, overdress rather than underdress.
4. Bring ID. Even if you are clearly over 18. No ID, no entry.
5. Go in a mixed group. Groups with both men and women tend to have an easier time at the door.
6. Do not pre-drink too hard. The door team will refuse entry to anyone who appears excessively intoxicated.
7. Budget for drinks. Drinks at the bar are Mayfair prices. A cocktail is typically 15-20 pounds.
8. Consider a table if you are in a group. Splitting a 1,500 pound minimum between 8 people works out to under 200 pounds each for an all-night VIP experience with bottles.
9. Stay for Little Tape. If you are still going at 3am, the after-party in Little Tape is worth experiencing.
10. Use our WhatsApp concierge. If you have questions or need help planning, message us directly for instant advice.

Tape London vs Other Mayfair Clubs

Choosing between Mayfair clubs depends on what you want from your night. Here is how Tape compares to the top alternatives:

Tape stands out for its recording studio heritage, live music programming, and 5:45am closing time. Cirque Le Soir is the one if you want a visual spectacle with circus performers. Cuckoo Club has a more relaxed door policy. Dear Darling offers a cosier atmosphere.

Birthday Parties and Group Bookings

Tape London is one of the top birthday party venues in London, particularly for groups who love Hip Hop and RnB. The venue offers dedicated birthday packages that include VIP table reservations, personalised bottle presentations, and priority guestlist for your entire group.

For a birthday at Tape, we recommend booking a VIP table so your group has a guaranteed base for the night. A table for 8-10 people with a 1,500 pound minimum spend works out to under 200 pounds per person for an all-night bottle service experience in Mayfair, which is genuinely good value compared to buying individual drinks at the bar.

London Night Guide can arrange your entire birthday package, including guestlist for guests who are not sitting at the table, personalised welcome messages, and coordination with the Tape team for any special touches. Contact us through the table booking page or message us directly on WhatsApp to start planning.

For larger groups (20+), Tape can accommodate multiple tables with coordinated service. Stag and hen parties work well on midweek nights when the venue is slightly more relaxed and table minimums are lower.

Photo Gallery

Here is what a night at Tape London looks like:

External Resources

• Tape London on Instagram - Official venue photos and event announcements
• TimeOut London Nightlife Guide - Independent London nightlife reviews

Useful Links

• Tape London Guestlist - Free entry and priority access
• Tape London Table Booking - VIP tables with bottle service
• Tape London Bottle Prices - Full drinks menu and pricing
• Tape London Dress Code Guide
• Tape London Age Requirements
• Tape London Review
• Little Tape (After-Party)
• Celebrities at Tape London
• Browse All London Clubs