XOYO Pre-Game: Best Spots and Tips for London Nightlife Starts

When you’re heading to XOYO, a legendary East London club known for its raw energy, underground music, and no-nonsense vibe. Also known as the birthplace of London’s rave revival, it’s not just a club—it’s a ritual. And like any good ritual, it starts before you walk through the door. The real magic of an XOYO night isn’t just what happens inside—it’s the build-up, the crew, the drinks, the energy you gather on the way.

Pre-gaming isn’t just about saving cash—it’s about setting the tone. If you show up to XOYO already buzzed from a bottle in the park, you’ll get turned away. Clubs like XOYO have zero tolerance for arriving drunk. Instead, smart pre-gamers hit spots within walking distance that let you sip, chat, and vibe without tipping over. Places like The Broadway Market, a lively street with indie bars and cheap cocktails perfect for groups or The Blackhorse Pub, a no-frills local with strong pours and zero pretension are your allies. These aren’t tourist traps. They’re where the regulars go—people who know XOYO’s rhythm and how to match it.

What makes a good XOYO pre-game? It’s not about how much you drink—it’s about how you move. You want to arrive buzzing but clear-headed, loud but not sloppy, ready to dance but not stumbling. That means pacing yourself. Two drinks at the pub, one at the corner shop, and you’re golden. Bring snacks. Share them. Keep your group close. And don’t forget your ID—XOYO checks hard, and no one wants to be the one left outside because they forgot their passport.

There’s a reason people talk about XOYO like it’s a secret. It’s not just the music—it’s the people. The crowd is a mix of queer kids, techno heads, art students, and late-night wanderers who don’t care about labels. Your pre-game should reflect that. Skip the glitter and the designer labels. Bring your real self. Bring your friends. Bring your favorite playlist to hum along to on the walk. That’s the real pre-game ritual.

And if you’re wondering where to go after? XOYO doesn’t close until dawn. But if you need a breather, there are late-night eats just around the corner—greasy spoons that know your name by 3 a.m. You’ll find them. You’ll remember them. And next time, you’ll bring someone new.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve been there—how to plan a queer bar crawl that ends at XOYO, what to wear when you’re not trying too hard, how to find the best drink deals before the club, and why some nights feel like magic while others just feel loud. This isn’t a list of rules. It’s a collection of truths from the people who show up, night after night, because they know: the best part of XOYO isn’t the music. It’s the build-up.