How to Find the Hottest Free Clubs in London

London has some of the best nightclubs in the world, but a top night of clubbing can often prove to be expensive. A bit of forethought can help you find the hottest clubs and get free entry to boot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Do your research. Many venues regularly hold free club nights. Have a look in "Time Out" to find the hottest clubs with free entry. Read daily papers like "The Evening Standard," "The Metro" and "The London Paper" for up-to-date club listings and special promotions. Or check the clubbing section on the London Freelist website, which lists both ongoing and one-off events.

2. Get your name on the guest list. Many clubs looking to fill their nights now offer guest list places on their websites for reduced rate or free entry. So keep an eye on the website of your favourite club, or visit one of the increasing number of websites offering guest lists for a choice of venues. Getting in free may be as easy as sending an email or making a phone call.

3. Look out for leaflets. Clubs looking to recruit punters often give out flyers offering free entry. So head for nightlife hotspots like Leicester Square and Soho, and look out for the poor souls on leafleting duty. That bit of paper may well get you into the club of your choice free.

4. Get there early. Many clubs have free entry before 10 or 11 p.m., and they will allow you to stay on along with the paying punters.

5. Dress to kill. Cutting-edge clubs look for attractive and interesting clientele to boost their image. So dress up to the nines, and you may be approached with guest passes or whisked away to a VIP area. You may even be granted free entry just for looking top notch at the velvet rope.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're a student, you can get free entry to many clubs with a valid NUS card. College notice boards also are a good place to find flyers and club information.
• "Guest list" doesn't always mean free. Know what you're getting when you sign up.
• Always read the small print on flyers and websites, as there can sometimes be a drink minimum that outweighs the benefit of free entry.

Resources

• For all the latest listings, check Time Out.
• The London Freelist offers a complete calendar of all free events in London.
• The London Paper has club reviews and special promotions.
• Find club reviews on The Evening Standard's website.
• Join Guestlist Me for guest list opportunities.
• Check out the guest list section on Exclusive London.
• The View London site offers guest list places at London clubs.
• London Parties offers a guest list service.

[cdguy]

on 8/11/2009 I have also used http://www.viplounge.co.uk on a few occasions as they seem to have access to the more exclusive nightclubs.