In the heart of Lincoln, there is a vibrant music scene filled with energy and creativity. From indie to jazz, electronic to rock, the city’s local music venues offer a wide range of sounds, experiences and venues for music lovers of all types.
Whether you’re a spectator or looking to perform, Lincoln has much to offer. As we dive further into 2024, let’s take a tour of some of the best music venues in the city.
The Best Music Venues in Lincoln
The Engine Shed
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Located at the University of Lincoln campus, The Engine Shed is one of the city’s premier live music venues and event spaces.
With a capacity of over 1,500, the former engine shed turned concert hall, has hosted and will host a large variety of artists, from Enter Shikari to Scouting for Girls and more. Its state-of-the-art sound system provides an incredible sound experience.
Whether you’re catching a gig by a local favourite or a chart-topping artist, The Engine Shed is the place to go. Since its creation in 2006 when it was transformed from a disused railway storage centre, they have had some amazing artists perform from Kings of Leon to electronic music duo Chase and Status. It serves as a hub for entertainment and memorable experiences for music and beyond.
The Jolly Brewer
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Located on Broadgate, just a short walk from the city centre, is the local favourite, The Jolly Brewer, which has recently experienced a makeover but has not lost any of the charm that people have experienced through the ages.
The venue exudes a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that makes it an easy-to-reach spot for music lovers seeking an authentic pub experience with great live music.
Past performers have ranged from new local bands and up-and-coming singer-songwriters to established artists. Whether enjoying the stripped-back acoustic sounds of a solo artist or the infectious energy of a full band, guests at The Jolly Brewer are treated to an intimate musical experience like no other. Even more so during the summer months when the outside stage is utilised.
This venue is worth visiting if you want to perform or simply want to enjoy a show.
The Drill
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Another trendy hotspot and venue, The Drill, is a short walk from the bustling city centre.
From past performances from big bands such as the Buzzcocks to upcoming Emofest tribute nights for early 2000s pop-rock lovers, this place knows how to keep the party going. And with Newton Faulkner headlining in April and a run of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” in June, there’s no shortage of entertainment.
It has hosted so many fantastic acts through the years. From pantomimes to tribute acts; this place is yet another great venue to check out for both performers and music lovers.
Lincoln Castle
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Known for its rich history, Lincoln Castle also doubles as a concert venue, hosting some of the biggest names in music such as Crowded House, McFly, Paloma Faith, Kaiser Chiefs, and even cult favourites like Madness. It’s a testament to Lincoln’s music scene that even a historic landmark like the castle gets in on the action, too.
Akedo
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What if you’re looking for a different vibe? Well, that’s where Akedo steps in. Not only is it an amazing gaming bar where you can play and enjoy both retro and up-to-date games (they will literally stock new games the day they are released), but it’s also a fantastic music venue.
Whether you’re an inspiring singer-songwriter, a band or just want to enjoy some raw talent, that’s where Akedo has you covered. It’s a great place to listen to and discover the local talent Lincoln has to offer. Where else can you see great live acts while simultaneously wiping the floor with your friends on Mario Kart?
Jazz Cafe
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If a bit of smooth jazz is your thing or something you are looking to explore further, The Lincoln Jazz Cafe is a great place to visit. With live music and performances every Sunday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, it offers something that will cater for everyone. With everyone from solo jazz acts to full bands and more, there is so much to experience.
Opened in 2017, The Lincoln Jazz Cafe has well and truly established a place in the local music scene. With its central Lincoln location, it’s great to pop in and explore, even if you’re looking to experience Jazz for the first time.
The Blue Room
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The Blue Room Lincoln is a well-known venue that has played a huge role in the city’s nightlife and music scene for years.
Situated near Lincoln’s cathedral, and with its vibrant atmosphere, welcoming staff and diverse lineup of events, The Blue Room offers something for everyone. From live music performances to DJ sets, themed parties, and special events, there’s always something exciting happening at this venue.
The Komodo
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Last but certainly not least, we have The Komodo, the new venue on the block when it comes to live music bars.
From its popular open mic nights to uniquely themed parties and events, this place has it all. And with their weekly open mic night on Tuesdays, there’s always an opportunity to showcase your talent or simply enjoy the performances of others.
With its great prices and great performances, it is fast becoming the place to go to in Lincoln for bands and consumers of music.
Lincoln’s music scene is thriving and dynamic, full of diverse sounds, unique and vibrant venues and performers. From our famous Engine Shed, brimming with up-and-coming talent and celebrities to the charming Jolly Brewer, each venue offers its own unique experience and flavour which contributes to Lincoln’s amazing music scene.
Whether you’re rocking out to live bands, dancing along to indie, acoustic or DJ sets or even belting your heart out at an open mic, Lincoln provides a stage for that. It brings us together as a community and our lively music scene is constantly evolving and growing.
Learn music in Lincoln
If you are based in Lincoln and are an aspiring musician, or simply want to get into the music industry, Access Creative College can help.
We offer a wide range of courses covering Music Production and Music Performance. We also offer Level 2 Music Courses for those that require it. Apply online today to study music in Lincoln in September!