Romford attracts locals and those party people fed up with the pretension of central London’s tackier clubs. Buddha Lounge is a great example of why Essex is so 'en vogue’ at the moment. Well jel?

The Venue
Buddha Lounge has a bit of a schizo design as it has nods to Moroccan-style decor as well as the more appropriate Thai influences. Seating is offered in the form of giant squishy leather sofas covered in pretty silk cushions – more beds than settees. The low tables wouldn’t look out of place in your living room and are covered in ornate lamps. Of course, Buddha memorabilia can be found all over the venue, from statuettes to wall coverings, and the huge vases act as intriguing centrepieces. There’s also a suitably large dancefloor for all of those dancing round the handbag moments.

The Atmosphere
Buddha Lounge has the kind of laid back atmosphere that central London venues struggle to replicate. The Essex massive turn out in their droves, looking suitably orange with hair extensions and shiny shirts on fine display – everyone certainly makes a big effort to look their best. Although there is a chance you'll find people out on the pull, it’s not as antagonising as at many other similar clubs and you could have a girls/boys night out without spending half of it fending off unwanted attention.

The Music
Buddha Lounge hosts regular club nights with I’m a Celebrity and Celebrity Love Island star Fran Cosgrove regularly taking to the decks. The music tends to centre around dance, house and funky house with a few club classics to get everyone throwing shapes on the dancefloor.

The Drink
Although not cheap by Romford standards, the cost of a bottle of beer or the ubiquitous toxically blue WKD is much cheaper than at many central London clubs. You’re looking at a small round coming in at the £10 mark, which is great value for money.

The Last Word
Buddha Lounge is a good example of the kind of cheap, fun night out you can get outside of Zones 1-4. It almost makes the trek worth it. Almost.

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