Union Chapel in Islington

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by Trev M (subscribe)

Published November 14th 2012

There's a ton of stuff going on at this award-winning venue

While most Londoners know they're pretty spoilt when it comes to the incredible number of excellent venues packed into the capital, some of these places fail to get the publicity they deserve. The Union Chapel in Islington is one of them.

Located on Upper Street, a short walk from Highbury & Islington tube and train stations, this striking Grade I listed building has been a venue for events and gatherings since the early 1990s.

Run by the Union Chapel Project, its aim is to focus on the arts and creativity and, in its own words, to "offer an independent, nonprofit making, naturally chilled-out environment in which to experience the ultimate fusion of atmospheric high gothic surroundings while enjoying your favourite artists." What more could you ask for?

According to the Union Chapel's website, readers of Time Out recently voted the location London's best live music venue.

But take note – the Chapel hosts a lot more than just music-based shows. Check out its events page to see exactly what we're talking about.

When you go along to see a show, be sure to pop in to the Chapel's fully licensed bar for a drink (open before and after a show), or enjoy some home-cooked food at the Margins Union Cafe. The cafe (closed Sundays) is run by volunteers, with all proceeds going to The Margins Project, the Chapel's centre for the homeless and those in crisis.

A regular event you might be interested in is Live At The Chapel, a comedy club that's been going since 2007. Shows take place on the first Saturday of every month and with past performers including the likes of Ed Byrne, Frankie Boyle, Stephen Merchant, Josie Long, Russell Howard, and Stewart Lee, you should be in for a memorable night out.

So there you are, that's the Union Chapel. One of Islington's finest venues and one of London's best.