Essence offers a high-end clubbing experience in Kingston and its a stylish jewel in the crown of this king’s town.

The Venue
The club is located along the popular and scenic riverside strip, but it’s set under the bridge which shields it somewhat from the gaggle of bar-goers who spill out along the promenade. Once you pass through the thorough security you enter the central club space, with the main bar on your left and VIP booths on the right. If you haven’t booked a booth it is likely you will look on in envy at those sat comfortably on sumptuous white leather sofas drinking champagne out of their built-into-the-table ice buckets. The rest of this recently renovated club is relatively open-plan, with a second bar at the rear and an opulent theme running throughout.

The Atmosphere
Everyone is ready for a party when they come here; women are dressed to the nines and there’s more than enough hair gel on the men to constitute a fire hazard. Door and bar staff are very professional and you feel very well looked after here; you don’t get that standoffish approach prevalent in many upmarket central London venues. The general vibe is very upbeat and the crowd are well up for a dance. This club provides the perfect combination of stylish surroundings and an unpretentious ambience. Here, it’s smiles all round.

The Music
The general musical genre is upfront house, which is a suitable soundtrack for the audience. Thursdays through to Sundays are the nights to head down to Essence and Saturday in particular is famed for its Forbidden Parties, a night that plays classic anthems and upfront tracks.

The Drink
The drinks menu reads by the bottle and includes a wide range of premium spirits and champagne. It also keeps things nice and simple and it speeds up the ordering process so you get served quickly (there’s nothing worse than wasting half your night waiting to order your drinks). Expect to pay from around £120-£140 for the cheaper bottles of vodka or whisky. If you’re splashing out on some champagne, then the bottles of Ace of Spades, Cristal, Dom Perignon, Perrier Jouet and Laurent Perrier range from £180-£500. Bottles of beer are, of course, available if you're on a budget.

The Last Word
A fabulous venue for the moneyed Kingston crowd, Essence offers sumptuous surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, all within a pretty riverside setting.

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