Strip pub by day, rockabilly hipster spot by night. It’s not for everyone, but when you’re stuck for somewhere to go in Shoreditch at 3am, you’re more than likely to visit the Axe.

The Venue
Positioned on Hackney Road, and a couple of doors down from the popular and arguably more upmarket Browns strip joint, this club has a great location and, seeing as it’s one of the only places that’s open until 6am in Shoreditch, it’s a perfect spot for those who are still going strong at 3am and aren’t ready to go home. With a grand looking exterior from the front, the venue’s decor hints it might have been something special back in the day. Today, it’s a very shabby run-down boozer with poles hanging from the ceilings on a stage area, a long bar area running down one side of the building and neglected toilets. It smells a bit musty, too.

The Atmosphere
By day, it’s pretty seedy. Old men prop up the bar with pints while strippers walk around with glasses asking for pound coins. When the pot’s full, they’ll perform on the small stage area. It’s never particularly busy and there’s usually minimal chatting. At night, the place completely changes. Oh-so-trendy vintage-clad twentysomethings fill the space and it can get rammed. Staff aren’t the friendliest, but they don’t really affect the overall atmosphere of the place.

The Music
While during the day, the soundtrack is pretty ad hoc, come 11pm, DJs often spin rockabilly, which goes down a treat in an area that’s committed to everything vintage. Occasionally, there’s a live band playing around the poles, too.

The Drink
Pints are served in plastic cups and prices can rise from day to night. You’ll spend around £4 for a pint, which is pretty steep, but generally a price people are used to paying in the area. The beer selection is pretty standard, but it does include Guinness. A spirit and mixer costs around £3-£4 and the bar stocks most spirits. This place is definitely more about the dancing and less about the drinks.

The Last Word
Yes, it’s seedy and sleazy during the day, but come 11pm this place is one of the hippest places to be. It really has to be seen to be believed.

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