Local Nightlife: London, England

Public Life

This miniscule dance space gives a whole new meaning to 'underground.' The entire space is a former public toilet, steps away from Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market. Unlike most clubs, however, Public Life is only open during the day. Saturday is home to Lost Souls (10.30am to 5.00 pm), arguably one of London's finest techno parties. Expect Berlin-influenced DJ's spinning minimal techno to an upbeat polysexual crowd. Who needs to stay out all night when you can dance all day and still be home for dinner?

82a Commercial Street, London, E1 6LY

Shunt

Never again will there be a dilemma between a gallery opening and the club. Tucked beneath London Bridge station, Shunt manages to combine both in a one-of-a-kind environment. Each week the venue has a particular theme, which you will promptly be made aware of after paying your £10. Delving deeper into the sprawling, cavernous space, you will discover a well-curated gallery, live music, a bar, dance space, and theatre. Being somewhat the bastard child of Andy Warhol and Steve Rubell, audience participation is more than encouraged so leave the hang-ups at home!

www.shunt.co.uk

Bistrotheque

A festive night out requires a recharge in the morning. For one of the best brunches in London, you can't beat Bistrotheque. A wonderful melange of British/French cuisine, it always cures those hunger pains. Best of all, brunch features hits of the 80s from a lovely grand piano in the main dining room. After brunch, head around the corner to Vyner Street, featuring London's leading contemporary art galleries. If the cute waiters and good food won't get you out to Bistrotheque (it can be a bit of a trek), then the evening cabaret downstairs should, featuring a wide variety of gender bending entertainment.

23-27 Wadeson Street, London, E2 9DR
www.bistrotheque.com

Central Station

Those with a fetish should feel right at home at Central Station. The ground and upper floors feature a friendly neighborhood bar, while below lies The Underground Bar. Catering to a wide variety of fetishes, The Underground is sure to offer something for those who feel uncomfortable freely expressing themselves in more mainstream venues. Particularly popular - and particularly British - is Cityboys, a monthly party for the sartorial minded into suited and booted men. No credit crunch here!

37 Wharfdale Road, N1 9SD
www.centralstation.co.uk/club_bars.html

The George and Dragon

Gay bar of infamy rarely imitated and rarely equaled. The George and Dragon manages to be everything and anything - fashionable, casual, edgy, unpretentious, lurid, eclectic, and post-sexual. The George is where labels come to die. Featuring London's most varied music selection - Liza Minelli to Miss Kittin. The décor looks as it may have come from your grandmother's garage, but where else can you shake it with a stuffed ferret next to a cardboard cut-out of Kim Wilde luring above you? Great prices for a pint and a collection of London's adorable fashion lads to lure indie lovers everywhere. Skinny jeans rule the crowd, but a demurely dressed gentleman is always treated with respect. To the George!

2 Hackney Road, London, E2 7NS