Bongo Club
Some events here are sold only by the venue or the club. Bongo Club official site
Upcoming shows and schedule
There are currently no confirmed tour dates on the immediate calendar for Bongo Club. Check back regularly as newly announced tour legs and ticket allocations are added following promoter releases.
Area and accommodation
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Upcoming events at Bongo Club
No upcoming events listed
There are currently no tickets listed for this venue. Check back soon for newly announced tour dates.
What time do doors open at Bongo Club?
Door times vary significantly depending on the event. For club nights, doors typically open around 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM. For live gigs, doors usually open between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, with the first act starting shortly after.
Door times vary by event — check your ticket or the venue's own website on the day.
About Bongo Club: Layout, History & Architecture
The Bongo Club, currently situated in a converted basement space on New Street, occupies a portion of an older, industrial-era building in Edinburgh's Old Town, just south of Waverley Station. Established in 1996 and part of the Out of the Blue Arts & Education Trust, the venue moved to its current location in 2011, having previously operated at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall. The interior is characterised by its subterranean setting, featuring exposed structural elements and a predominantly concrete and brick finish, indicative of its functional conversion. The layout consists of a single, expansive flat standing floor, which serves as both dancefloor and performance area, allowing for direct, unhindered proximity to the stage.
With a capacity of approximately 500, the space is designed for intimate, high-energy events. Sightlines are generally good from any point on the main floor due to the lack of tiered seating or balconies, though dense crowds near the stage can naturally obscure views. Acoustically, the low ceiling and enclosed nature of the basement contribute to a very direct and impactful sound profile. The hard surfaces ensure frequencies resonate immediately, providing a vibrant, intense sonic experience particularly suited to amplified music, electronic beats, and live bands. The venue relies heavily on a robust PA system to articulate the audio clearly within its naturally reflective confines, creating a visceral, rather than 'pristine', sound.
The Live Experience & Current Schedule
Entry to the Bongo Club typically involves descending into the basement from New Street, leading directly into the main performance area or a compact foyer with bar access. The experience is defined by its intimacy; the single-level standing pit ensures a close connection between performers and audience, fostering an energetic and often intense atmosphere. Crowd density can vary significantly depending on the event, from lively club nights to packed live performances. The lack of a seated balcony means the focus remains entirely on the shared, collective experience within the main space. With 0 live performances scheduled, upcoming entry prices start from standard pricing. The next confirmed event on the calendar is upcoming live performances on soon.
How do I get to Bongo Club, Edinburgh?
Bongo Club is at 66 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JX, UK. Open in Google Maps
By train and tube
The nearest train station is Edinburgh Waverley, located approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the Bongo Club. From Waverley, exit the station and head towards Princes Street, then make your way down the Mound or across George IV Bridge into the Cowgate.
By bus
Numerous bus routes serve the city centre and Cowgate area. Frequent services run along Cowgate and nearby streets, making public transport a very convenient option. Key routes often stopping nearby include those operated by Lothian Buses. It's advisable to check the Lothian Buses website or app for specific routes and timetables relevant to your starting point.
By car and parking
Driving into the city centre can be challenging due to traffic and restricted zones. Parking is available in several NCP car parks within a short walk:
- NCP Edinburgh Lochside: EH1 1NA (Approx. 5-minute walk)
- NCP Edinburgh St James: EH1 3SS (Approx. 10-15 minute walk)
- Q-Park Edinburgh Quartermile: EH3 9GY (Approx. 10-minute walk) Street parking in the immediate vicinity of the Cowgate is often limited and subject to restrictions.
Accessibility
The Bongo Club is located in a historic building with a basement venue, which presents inherent accessibility challenges.
- Entrance: The main entrance is at street level on the Cowgate. Access to the main club space involves descending a flight of stairs.
- Main Venue: The main bar and dance floor area are located in the basement and are not wheelchair accessible due to the stairs.
- Toilets: Accessible toilet facilities may be limited or not available in the basement.
- Assistance: For patrons with specific accessibility needs, it is strongly recommended to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss potential arrangements and to check which specific events might have alternative access or seating options. The venue staff are generally helpful in providing assistance where possible within the constraints of the building.
Entry and security
The entrance is clearly marked on New Street. Queue arrangements typically form outside along New Street. Standard security protocols, including bag searches and pat-downs, are in effect. For popular events, arriving shortly after doors open is recommended to secure preferred viewing positions within the standing-only venue.