21-25 St Johns Hill,
Clapham Junction,
London,
SW11 1TT
(020) 7223 6523
The ViewLondon Review
The iconic Clapham Grand is as big in stature as it is in substance, offering cheesy but fun clubbing in an attractive Victorian theatre conversion.
The Venue
Housed in a 100-year-old listed Victorian theatre, the unique Clapham Grand can be found opposite Clapham Junction station on St Johns Hill. Spread across three floors, the huge, seductive Clapham Grand has to be seen to be believed. As you enter through a large foyer into the main room, a glamorous, long bar stretches out in front of you with a small seating area to the right. There’s a huge stage behind the main bar where the DJ resides with his dancers, and in front of the stage is one of the largest luminated dancefloors in Europe. There really isn’t anything quite like it for disco fever in London.
Upstairs on the balcony is another bar and rows of theatre style seating, perfect for that much needed rest, and up another level is the VIP bar and boxes. However, the whole club has a VIP feel to it with opulent red velvet, ornate ceilings and covings, and a sparkling bar.
The Atmosphere
If it’s a party you’re after then you’re in the right place: fun and frolics are on the menu to entertain you, and there’s always a hen party or a stag do to show you how to really let loose. The staff are bubbly and DJ completely OTT, not to mention the easy on the eye dancers and tequila girls!
However, Clapham Grand is more than just a club, offering dance classes, major sports games on the 40m screen, film and TV screenings, and corporate parties, fully utilising all of its assets.
The Music
Cheese with a capital C, visit the Clapham Grand expecting classics from every era – ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s with a large helping of disco and funk to get you moving. The resident DJ is joined by some big names throughout the year such as Norman Jay’s NYE appearance.
Budding musicians can have their chance on a Wednesday when the Grand hosts a Feedme music night, giving signed and unsigned artists the opportunity to perform in a quality live music venue.
The Drink
Expect cocktails, shots and tequila girls alongside the obligatory beer, wine, and spirits. The house white is a little ropey but the Cosmopolitan certainly makes up for it. The drinks are served with a smile and if you’ve paid for a VIP box you even get table service.
The Last Word
Everybody should try the Clapham Grand at least once – most people love it, as long as you don’t go expecting the latest house music. It’s worth it just to see the dancefloor, even if you daren’t decorate it!
Clapham Grand has been reviewed by 34 users