Cabaret Ticket Price Bands in London: What Girls Should Budget

Walking into a London cabaret show feels like stepping into a different world-glitter, jazz, laughter, and maybe a little mischief. But if you’re planning to go, the first question isn’t which show to pick-it’s how much you’ll actually need to spend. Because cabaret tickets in London aren’t one price. They’re bands. And if you’re a girl going out with friends, knowing those bands can mean the difference between a magical night and a budget shock.

What You’re Really Paying For

Cabaret isn’t just a show. It’s an experience. You’re not just buying a seat-you’re buying access to a world where performers sing, dance, and flirt with the audience. Some shows include drinks. Others charge extra for champagne. Some have velvet booths. Others have standing room with a view of the stage. The price you pay tells you exactly what kind of night you’re getting.

There are three clear price bands in London’s cabaret scene right now: budget, mid-range, and premium. Each one targets a different kind of night out. And if you’re going with friends, matching your budget to the right band makes all the difference.

Budget Band: £30-£50

This is the entry point. You’ll find these tickets at smaller venues like The Pheasantry in Chelsea, The Bull & Gate in Kentish Town, or The Vortex Jazz Club in Dalston. Shows here are intimate-maybe 50 people in the room. The performers are talented, often up-and-coming, and the vibe is more ‘secret speakeasy’ than ‘West End spectacle’.

At this level, you’re not getting a three-course meal. You might get a drink included, or you might have to buy one separately. Some places offer a £10 cocktail package on top of the ticket. The seating? Usually bench-style or small tables. No reserved spots. You get in, you find a place, and you hope you’re not stuck behind someone tall.

But here’s the real value: the energy. These shows feel personal. The performers might come down from the stage to chat after the set. You might end up dancing with the singer. It’s raw. It’s real. And for £40, it’s one of the best deals in London nightlife.

Mid-Range Band: £60-£90

This is where most girls go. This band covers the big hitters: The Crazy Coqs at Brasserie Zedel, The Box Soho, and The London Cabaret Club. You’re not just watching a show-you’re part of the atmosphere. Think dim lighting, velvet chairs, and waiters bringing gin cocktails right to your table.

At this price, you’re usually getting one drink included. Some venues offer a two-drink package for an extra £15. The seating is reserved. You know exactly where you’ll sit. The shows are polished-professional performers, choreographed routines, and costumes that shimmer under the lights. The music? Think jazz standards mixed with modern pop covers, all delivered with sass and skill.

These shows last about 90 minutes. No intermission. But you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a night out worth remembering. And yes, the photos you take? They’ll get more likes than your last dinner date.

Premium Band: £100-£180

This is the full experience. Think The Windmill in Brixton’s Christmas cabaret, The Savoy’s intimate cabaret nights, or the exclusive shows at The Hippodrome Casino. You’re not just buying a ticket-you’re buying VIP treatment. Reserved front-row seats. Champagne on ice. Sometimes even a pre-show canapé platter.

At this level, the performers are stars. You might see someone who’s been on TV, or a former West End lead. The sets are elaborate. The costumes? Couture. The lighting? Designed by professionals who’ve worked with major artists. These shows often run longer-two hours or more-with a short break for drinks.

And here’s the catch: you’re paying for the exclusivity. These shows sell out fast. You need to book weeks ahead. And if you’re going with a group of four, you’re looking at £400-£700 just for tickets and drinks. But if it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a night you want to remember forever? This is the one.

What’s Not Included (And Why It Matters)

Most tickets don’t include food. Even at premium venues, you’re expected to order separately. A burger at The Crazy Coqs? £18. A glass of prosecco? £14. A dessert? £12. That £70 ticket can easily turn into £110 once you factor in drinks and snacks.

Some venues charge for coat check. Others have a minimum spend-£25 per person just to sit down. Always check the fine print. Don’t assume ‘ticket price’ means ‘total cost’.

And here’s a pro tip: if you’re going with friends, book a table. Group bookings often get better rates. Some places offer a £10 discount per person for groups of four or more. And if you’re going on a weekday? You can save up to 30%. Tuesday and Wednesday nights are quiet. The vibe is still electric, but the prices drop.

Where to Find the Best Deals

Don’t book through Ticketmaster unless you have to. Most cabaret venues sell tickets directly. Go to their website. Sign up for their newsletter. You’ll get early access to sales and secret discount codes.

Look for ‘Pay What You Can’ nights. Some venues, like The Pheasantry, offer these on slow weeks. You pay what you can afford-minimum £20. It’s not guaranteed, but if you’re flexible, you might get a £90 show for £30.

Student discounts? Rare. But if you’re under 25, ask. Some places give 10-15% off if you show your ID. And if you’re going on a Friday night? Avoid it. Prices spike. Lines form. You’ll pay more and wait longer.

What to Wear

You don’t need a ball gown. But you do need to look like you belong. Most venues have a smart-casual dress code. No flip-flops. No baseball caps. No sportswear.

Think: dark jeans and a silk top. A little black dress. A blazer over a tee. The goal isn’t to outshine the performers-it’s to match their energy. If you look like you’re ready to dance, you’ll feel like you’re part of the show.

Who’s It For

Not every girl wants the same night. If you’re celebrating a birthday? Go premium. If you’re on a student budget? Budget band is perfect. If you want a night that feels fancy but doesn’t break the bank? Mid-range is your sweet spot.

And if you’re going with a group? Match your band to your group’s vibe. Don’t be the one person paying £150 while everyone else is on £50 tickets. That’s awkward. Pick a band that works for everyone.

Final Budget Breakdown

Here’s what a night out looks like, depending on your band:

• Budget Band (£30-£50): Ticket (£40) + 1 drink (£12) = £52 total
• Mid-Range Band (£60-£90): Ticket (£75) + 2 drinks (£28) + snack (£10) = £113 total
• Premium Band (£100-£180): Ticket (£140) + 3 drinks (£42) + dessert (£15) = £197 total

That’s it. No hidden fees. No surprises. Just clear numbers so you can plan without stress.

Top 3 Shows to Consider Right Now

• The Crazy Coqs - Best for classic jazz with modern twists. Great for first-timers.
• The Box Soho - Best for bold, theatrical, slightly risqué shows. Perfect for a girls’ night out.
• The Pheasantry - Best for intimate, quirky, and affordable. If you want to feel like you found a secret.

Book early. Pick your band. Dress like you mean it. And when the lights dim and the music starts? Let go. That’s the magic of London cabaret.