Review: Wilton's Music Hall

So, what’s this place about?
Wilton’s Music Hall, hidden down a tiny back alley in Whitechapel, East London, is the last intact survivor of Britain’s grand music hall era. And it's beautiful. Originally built in 1859 by John Wilton and fully refurbished in 2015 to fit modern-day requirements, the venue still retains its crumbling, faded façade and peeling plaster. Any visit here—whether for a show or just for a drink at the bar—is to travel back in time to an era when entertainment was bawdy, and when dancing was an entry requirement.

How’s the space?
The hall itself has been used in countless movies and TV dramas, from Sherlock Holmes to the Muppets. Even though it's been restored, its ornate details, peeling paint, and flaking mouldings seem as if they've been untouched since the 19th century.

Anything in particular that makes this place special?
You can hang out at the two bars, the Mahogany and Cocktail bars, whether you’re seeing a performance or not. Both serve pretty decent food, including pizzas and salads, all made with local ingredients. It's not uncommon to see someone tinkling away at the upright piano. There are also poetry evenings, singalongs, dances, and storytelling nights.

Did you meet anyone on staff? Did they make an impression?
Staffer are helpful, buzzing with energy, and always happy to chat.

I’m interested. At the end of the day, what—or who—is this place best for?
Fans of period movies and dramas will have a blast on the film tour. But any event at Wilton's Music Hall is great; the plays are often period dramas, too, which fit the venue remarkably well. Even if you're in London for just a few days, the venue is worth a visit—you'll feel you've done something different. Shows are inexpensive, tours are short, and the beauty is unforgettable.