One of London's principal claims to its high position on the world's clubbing scene is the dance club Ministry of Sound (103 Gaunt Street), an object of cult following among clubbers all around the planet. This and many other popular establishments of its kind have made the British capital a trendsetter on the global nightlife scene. After your first walk down the city streets, you’ll quickly find that you’ll need at least several nights to explore just a small part of the staggering variety of entertainment options available here.

Most of the city's trendiest nightclubs are situated in the West End. Many of them are long-established venues, but there's also a multitude of hip, trendy clubs that seem to just shut down after one or several seasons, and reappear under a different name in another part of London. The glittery West End establishments require visitors to stick to a dress code and pass door selection. Be warned: compared to other western European capitals, drinks in London are very expensive.

The most recommendable venues for an all-night party include the monumental, multi-level Fabric (77a Charterhouse Street), the funky 93 Feet East (150 Brick Lane), the disco vintage-themed Hippodrome (Hippodrome Corner) and the capital's premiere gay venue, Heaven (The Arches at Craven Street). At the Aquarium (256-260 Old Street), revellers can enjoy theme nights organised beside a large Jacuzzi and a swimming pool. A more laid-back atmosphere can be found at the friendly, unpretentious Cherry Jam (58 Porchester Road), known for its delicious cocktails, and at the Neighbourhood (12 Acklam Road).

London is also a great place to catch a jazz concert or see a performance by an indie band. The city offers a unique chance to listen to jazz in the crypt of the over 300-year-old St. Giles Church (81 Camberwell Church Street). For a more conventional jazz experience, head for Ronnie Scott's (47 Frith Street), London's division of New York's Blue Note (1 Hoxton Square) and the 606 Club (90 Lotts Road). The indie and alternative rock performances at the Borderline (Orange Yard at Manette Street) and the Electric Ballroom (184 Camden High Road) simply can't be missed.