180-182 Hungerford Lane,
Strand,
London,
WC2N 5NG
0871 971 5861
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Billed as the first late-night style members club in Westminster, The Island is a sanctuary of beats and quality booze in the heart of the West End.
The Venue
Adjacent to the legendary Heaven club, The Island is a gay-friendly bar and club, tucked away in an alleyway just off The Strand. Designed by Barcelona's Francisco Aniorte it's pretty intimate (with a capacity of just 300) and holds a main bar and dancefloor area, a back room and small upstairs balcony, which includes a private members area.
The Atmosphere
The Island has yet to forge its identity but the influence of Heaven (both are owned by The Pure Group) is obvious. The lack of a real dancefloor makes it more of a bar than a club, but the membership policy does give it a dash of exclusivity. With a colour palette of dark greens, turquoise and yellow, the ambience is enhanced by light boxes and projectors.
The Music
The Island DJs play hot tunes, mixing up chillout with electro and house, disco and soul, depending on the night. Launched in conjunction with its 2000-capacity big sister venue, The Island in Ibiza, there's a definite Balearic twist. They hold regular themed nights, including performance art, live music and members parties.
The Drink
There is table service and cocktails flow through the night with an emphasis on Red Bull concoctions.
The Last Word
With its underground vibe, the club is not a cavernous warehouse venue, but a more intimate spot ideal for exclusive functions, private parties and cocktail-fuelled hedonistic nights out. Membership also covers the sister Manchester and Ibiza venues.