Top 5: Pubs with a Jukebox in London

London Calling's guide to public houses where you select the soundtrack.

By Will Rathbone | Updated May 28 2024

An illuminated vintage jukebox with the label Super-Stars is displayed. The interior is visible, showing a selection of music CDs organized in rows. The jukebox has a retro design, featuring a small digital screen and various buttons for selection. — The Prince George Pub

In an age of Spotify, Youtube and limitless choice, the jukebox is a refuge of restriction. A coin in the slot and 10 minutes spent flicking through vinyl or CDs with a friend, comparing the merits of 'Ever Fallen in Love' by Buzzcocks and 'Tubthumping' by Chumbawumba, is a fine way to while away pub-time. It's a rare find these days, but we've scoured the city for you, and here are our Top 5 Jukebox-owning pubs, in no particular order...

The Shakespeare

A bar with wooden decor is adorned with English flags. A chalkboard advertises a quiz night. Stools surround the bar, which is stocked with bottles and glassware. In the background, there's a large statue of a figure with a flag and a painting on the wall. — The Shakespeare via Facebook

The Shakespeare, 57 Allen Road, N16 8RY

For a jukebox jaunt in London, head to The Shakespeare in Stoke Newington, where the skankin' beats of ska and reggae reign supreme. This spot boasts a jukebox that’s a veritable treasure trove, spinning everything from Prince Buster to King Tubby, guaranteed to get heads nodding and feet tapping. Tucked off the main drag, The Shakespeare charms with its glamorous tiling, vintage wooden bar, and a mosaic floor that whispers tales of old. Though it’s a drinks-only affair—bar the classic pickled eggs—the pub's allure is undeniable. With free access to the jukebox, you'll be dancing to the soulful strains of Toots and the Maytals or swaying to the smooth grooves of Gil Scott-Heron.

Bradley's Spanish Bar

A vintage jukebox with colorful song selection panels is positioned near a doorway. Next to it is a beige umbrella stand holding several umbrellas. A person carrying a shopping bag walks past the open door on the sidewalk outside. — Bradley's Spanish bar

42-44 Hanway St, London W1T 1UT

Bradley's Spanish Bar, tucked away on Hanway Street and just a stone's throw from the hustle of Oxford Circus, is the perfect retreat with a twist of musical nostalgia. This cozy haven features an iconic NSM Prestige II jukebox as its centerpiece, boasting a rotating collection of seven-inch singles from a staggering 20,000-disc archive. The jukebox isn’t just a sideshow—it’s the star attraction, ensuring every visit brings a fresh soundtrack spanning nearly 70 years of music. Whether you’re dodging the shopping crowds or seeking post-work sanctuary, three songs for a quid will have you boogieing to classics in no time. More old-school British boozer than Spanish hideaway, Bradley's charms with its Iberian lagers and wines, ensuring you’ll sip, sing, and make friends long before you say adios.

The Prince George

A cozy pub named Prince George is illuminated with string lights in the evening. Bicycles are parked outside the entrance. The pub has large windows on the first floor, and a sign at the entrance advertises Cellar Cooled and Real Ale. — theprincegeorgepub.co.uk

40 Parkholme Rd, London E8 3AG

The Prince George is a Victorian treasure cherished by locals new and old. Step inside, and you'll find an inviting mix of tradition and trend, with a free jukebox that's a hipster's dream. This box-on-the-wall isn't just for show; it's a deep dive into musical obscurities, featuring tracks from Parliament, Jorge Ben, Yusef Lateef, and Etta James. Don't worry, classic rock fans—there's some Stones in the mix, too. With a working fire in winter and a street-facing beer garden in summer, The Prince George offers year-round comfort. Pair your jukebox picks with a pint or one of their crafty beers, and if you're feeling peckish, Harry Webb-Jeffries' kitchen serves up a menu that's as delightful as the tunes.

Marquis of Granby, New Cross

A corner pub named Marquis of Granby with a bright green lower facade and mural depicting a mountainous landscape on the upper portion of the building. The pub has multiple chimneys and windows, with surrounding urban buildings visible in the background. — whatpub.com

Marquis of Granby, 322 New Cross Rd, London SE14 6AT

Inside, The Marquis of Granby is a classic no-nonsense boozer with a jukebox that caters to its eclectic mix of regulars: Irish locals, Goldsmiths art students, and Millwall football fans. The selection? A delightful hodgepodge featuring ska versions of football anthems, arty new wave bangers, and rousing Irish folk tunes. This mucky Victorian pub is the perfect place to soak up some culture and history while enjoying a pint. Pop in a quid and cue up Roy Green’s Millwall supporter anthem ‘Let ’Em Come’ or Goldsmiths alumni Blur’s indie classic ‘Beetlebum,’ and you'll quickly see why this pub is a local legend.

The Boogaloo

A cozy pub with wooden floors and furniture, featuring a bar with a Guinness tap in the foreground. Several patrons are sitting and chatting around tables near large windows, and natural light illuminates the space. The walls are adorned with pictures and decor. — hirespace

The Boogaloo, 312 Archway Rd, London N6 5AT

The Boogaloo is a North London institution known for its rock 'n' roll pedigree and celebrity clientele. This legendary haunt features a jukebox with playlists curated by some of its most famous regulars, including Kate Moss, Sinead O'Connor, and Iggy Pop. Ever wondered what made it into Ronnie Wood's Top 10? You'll find out here. The Boogaloo's intimate main room is perfect for acoustic gigs and transforms into a dance floor after dark, making it the ideal spot for a night of stomping and swinging. With three lounges available for private hire, a tempting food menu, and a calendar packed with events like vintage markets and quiz nights, The Boogaloo is more than just a pub—it's a cultural hub.