About Troxy
Troxy is a Grade II-listed Art Deco venue and performance space in East London, located on Commercial Road in Stepney (E1 0HX) (everything.explained.today ). Opened in 1933 as a lavish cinema and theatre (designed by George Coles) it originally seated about 3,500 people – briefly the largest cinema in England (troxy.co.uk ). Early adverts promised “Hollywood” glamour on the East End: sweeping staircases, mirrored walls and chandeliers filled the foyer, giving guests “West End luxury” on Commercial Road (troxy.co.uk ). After closing in 1960 (as local cinemas declined) the building later served as an opera training school and a bingo hall, before a full restoration and re-opening in 2006 as a live events venue (everything.explained.today ) (troxy.co.uk ). Today Troxy blends vintage character with modern production; its vast hall and original Art Deco details make it a notable landmark in the local scene. (everything.explained.today ) (troxy.co.uk )
Events and Programming
Troxy hosts a wide mix of events year-round. Concerts are a key focus, ranging from rock and indie to pop, electronic and world music. Big-name acts have filled the hall – for example Patti Smith, The Cure, City and Colour and Jarvis Cocker have all played here (everything.explained.today ). The venue even set a Guinness-style record crowd: in 2015 a Red Bull-sponsored album launch drew all 3,100 fans to hear Disclosure perform live (troxy.co.uk ). Awards shows and corporate events are also common – Troxy has hosted the annual Kerrang! Rock Awards, the NME Awards, Brit Icon tribute concerts and even Google’s Christmas party for 1,500 guests (troxy.co.uk ) (everything.explained.today ). It’s also a regular stop for immersive and niche events: Secret Cinema has done film screenings here (including a 2013 Bugsy Malone show with custard pies (troxy.co.uk )), and the venue frequently stages sports nights (boxing and MMA bouts) and drag/club parties like Sink the Pink. Troxy has become known as a safe, inclusive space – staff are trained in disability and LGBT awareness, and since 2019 the venue has been praised for creating a welcoming environment at Pride and queer events (troxy.co.uk ). In short, you can find everything from indie gigs and K-pop concerts to awards ceremonies, film nights, cabaret shows and charity galas on Troxy’s calendar (everything.explained.today ) (troxy.co.uk ). Ticket prices vary with the act (small gigs may be £15–20, big names £40+), so checking the event listing early is wise.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at Troxy are typically sold through official channels (the venue’s website and reputable sellers). New event dates usually go on sale months in advance, and popular concerts can sell out quickly. To avoid missing out, many fans sign up for Troxy’s mailing list or follow their social media to get pre-sale info. In 2018 Troxy switched to a mobile-only ticketing system to curb touts, meaning most tickets are redeemed on smartphones nowadays . There is generally no large walk-up box office selling day-of-event tickets, so we recommend buying online ahead of time. When comparing options, note that Troxy often has different price tiers (e.g. front-of-floor vs. upper circle seating). European concerts might range from low-cost standing areas to pricier balcony seats; for example, K-pop and international acts have at times commanded £50–60 or more on resale (though official tickets might start lower). In short, buy early, expect digital-only tickets (often via email or app), and be wary of any unofficial sellers.
Seating and Layout
The Troxy auditorium is shaped like a classic theatre with a flat stalls (floor) area in front of the stage and a balcony “Circle” seating above. Most concerts sell standing “Stalls” tickets on the ground floor – a large open space in front of the stage. The elevated Circle level has fixed tiered seating and a few private booths along the sides (everything.explained.today ). Circles are accessed by two broad staircases (about 40 steps to the upper level) so be prepared if you buy those tickets. Sightlines are generally good throughout: one reviewer specifically noted “no blind spots” in the venue (www.tripadvisor.com.my ). In practice, fans often crowd the centre of the floor near the stage for the best view and sound. However, it’s a flat floor, so if you’re short, standing too far back can make it hard to see over heads. For a clear long-shot view, the balcony’s centre rows are excellent (you see the whole stage and crowd, and sound is well-balanced). Booths along the upper sides offer table space and a break from the throng. Acoustically, Troxy is now top-tier: it installed a state-of-the-art JBL VTX A12 sound system early on (everything.explained.today ), so music fills the hall with clarity. For best experience, avoid extreme side-corners and very back-of-floor if you want to see performers clearly. (All seats and standing areas have a view of the wide proscenium stage, though – as fans note, even in the rear you can still make out every band member (www.tripadvisor.com.my ).)
Getting There and Parking
Troxy’s address is 490 Commercial Road, London, E1 0HX . It’s in Tower Hamlets, just east of Tower Bridge and south of Shoreditch. The venue is very easy to reach by public transport: the DLR/Overground stop at Limehouse is only about 400 metres (a 5-minute walk) away (troxy.co.uk ). Limehouse (Zone 2) connects from Bank on the DLR or from Fenchurch Street and Stratford on the C2C line. Several bus routes also serve the area – for example, the 15 (towards / from Trafalgar Square), 115 and 135 all run along Commercial Road close to Troxy (troxy.co.uk ). (Night buses N15, N550 and N551 stop nearby too.) The venue’s own website even suggests a convenient route from Waterloo: take the Waterloo & City tube to Bank, then hop on the DLR to Limehouse, which will bring you right next door (troxy.co.uk ).
If you need to drive, be warned that Commercial Road is largely red-route (no stopping) with permit parking only. There is no dedicated Troxy car park. The official advice is not to drive – instead use drop-off or pick-up on nearby Caroline Street (a short one-way street beside the venue) (troxy.co.uk ). If you do drive, your best bet is to look for paid public car parks a short distance away (for example around nearby Wapping, Shadwell or Canary Wharf) or use booking apps. Wheelchair-accessible drop-off is allowed at Caroline Street as well. In general though, London transport is easier: many fans simply take the tube/DLR or a taxi to Shadwell/Limehouse and walk. The Troxy team also reminds guests to arrive and leave quietly out of consideration for neighbours (troxy.co.uk ).
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at Troxy, expect a thorough but efficient security check. Tickets are scanned electronically (most events use digital tickets on your phone) and bags are checked for prohibited items. Troxy strictly limits what you can bring in – large bags, outside food or drink, spray cans, glass bottles, etc., will be refused. (One review noted even small perfume bottles were not allowed) (www.tripadvisor.com.my ). In practice, carry just essentials: mobile phone, keys, wallet and maybe a small bag or purse. Photography with a phone is fine for personal memories, but professional cameras or video recording usually aren’t permitted (events can enforce stricter rules, especially TV tapings or awards nights).
Inside the foyer you’ll find the box office desk (if pre-arranged anything) and green rooms. Troxy has a cloakroom service that was added as part of renovations (opened by 2025) (troxy.co.uk ), but if events overlap it may get busy. Restrooms are onsite – there is a large men’s and women’s bathroom upstairs and another set downstairs. Importantly, an accessible (wheelchair) toilet with RADAR-key entry is located just inside the main foyer (troxy.co.uk ). If you or your party need it, ask the staff – Troxy even provides a spare key at the desk.
The main ground floor bar and concession area is near the rear of the stalls, and another bar lounge is upstairs by the Circle seating. Drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks) are available; a bar snack (crisps, nuts) might be for sale but there is no full kitchen or restaurant inside. Wi-Fi is usually free – Troxy invested heavily in its network (a £30k upgrade in 2016) so Wi-Fi coverage and speed are among the best in any venue (troxy.co.uk ). You’ll also find merchandise tables near the stage during concerts, and coat hooks or hangers at the bar area. The atmosphere is generally lively and colourful – Troxy shows often feature special lighting rigs (a cutting-edge Martin LED rig is installed as of 2024 (troxy.co.uk )) and professional staging. All in all, Troxy feels like an art-deco theatre up-to-date with modern sound and lighting, blending authenticity with a club-like vibe.
Nearby Amenities
Since Troxy is in an East London neighbourhood, nearby dining and lodging options are a bit limited but improving. There are some pubs and cafes within walking distance – for example the historic White Horse pub on Commercial Road is not far and serves good pub food. A few casual eateries (pizza, kebabs, curry) line the nearby streets, and Shadwell/Limehouse has some cafes and fish-and-chip shops for a quick bite. For a wider choice, many visitors head west to Shoreditch or Brick Lane before the show, where trendy restaurants, street food markets and bars abound. Drinkers might enjoy checking out the artsy cocktail bars and breweries near Shoreditch or Canary Wharf, a short bus or tube ride away.
If you plan to stay overnight, there are convenient hotels in the general area. Tower Bridge hotels (like the Ibis or Hilton Garden Inn near Tower Hill) or Canary Wharf hotels (DoubleTree, etc.) are easily reachable by a short DLR ride. Since Troxy is about 1.5 miles east of Shoreditch, some guests choose budget hotels around Whitechapel or Aldgate. Even further out, Travelodge and Premier Inn branches along Commercial/Tower Road offer cost-effective options. In short, you won’t find a hotel right next door, but excellent lodging is within easy public-transport distance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Troxy’s charm lies in its blend of historic grandeur and eclectic programming. Architecturally, the building is a rare surviving example of 1930s Art Deco cinema on London’s East End. Its original frontage was restored to match the 1932 design, complete with vintage-style sign and stone-effect paint (troxy.co.uk ). Inside, the grand foyer has a newly-revealed travertine floor and even in dim concert light you can sense the old-world details (balconies, lamps, carpeted walls) that set it apart from a modern warehouse. A true one-off feature is the Wurlitzer organ – Troxy houses the largest theatre organ in Europe, fully restored in 2015 after a six-year project (everything.explained.today ). You may spot the organ console stored backstage or hear it used for special shows (it used to rise from the pit during classic film intermissions). The proscenium stage itself is unusually deep for a club venue – during recent refurbishments a hidden fly-tower was re-opened (troxy.co.uk ), giving artists a huge backstage area and rapid changeover capability.
The venue also has its own quirky history. For example, just like King Kong made Troxy famous in 1933, in 2013 the 80th anniversary was celebrated by screening King Kong again (with giant gorilla footprints painted on the sidewalk) (troxy.co.uk ). Big personalities have trod its boards – rock stars like Morrissey and Marino, business legends like Sir Richard Branson (who even arrived on a scooter in 2017 to launch his memoir here) (troxy.co.uk ), and cultural icons like Sir David Attenborough (who received a standing ovation at Troxy in 2019 (troxy.co.uk )). Locals still smile about Troxy’s early days: one 1933 newspaper recalled how the film premiere felt “like Hollywood” had landed on Commercial Road (troxy.co.uk ). Today, artists and audiences often praise Troxy’s atmosphere: it’s spacious like a theatre but raucous like a club, with excellent sound and sightlines. In 2024 the venue even boasted hosting world-first events (such as a surprise Skrillex/Fred Again.. show) (troxy.co.uk ), underlining its status as one of London’s coolest industrial-chic venues. Above all, Troxy is special because it celebrates East London’s culture – after all, its old tagline was “Where East is Best,” a motto it still embodies with every neon-lit gig or disco night it hosts.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Troxy aims to be welcoming for all. The main entrance and an area of step-free seating are on the ground floor, with an accessible toilet in the foyer (troxy.co.uk ). Wheelchair spots and free companion tickets can be booked in advance via the venue (as noted on their accessibility page). Do note that the upper Circle is only reachable by stairs, and isn’t step-free. If you have additional needs, Troxy offers a discreet “Hot Pink” assistance scheme for non-visible disabilities (troxy.co.uk ) to ensure staff know to help.
What to Bring: Pack light. Small backpacks or purses are ok, but large bags will likely be refused. You can usually carry a soft-sided camera bag or drawstring. Leave umbrellas outside or at the door (they often have to be stacked for space). Identifications: Bring an ID (passport or driving licence) if you’re planning to drink alcohol. Electronic tickets on your smartphone are normally accepted – it’s wise to screenshot or screenshot in case data is spotty. Performance extras: Earplugs can be useful for very loud concerts (you can often buy a cheap pair at the bar or box office if needed). You may also want cash, though the bars take cards; there is no ATM inside.
Arrival and Queuing: Doors typically open 30–60 minutes before showtime (check your ticket). If it’s a big event, expect a queue forming on the street. Troxy staff organise lines into a holding queue on Commercial Road or Caroline Street, so follow their instructions carefully. One recent review cautioned that popular K-pop events had *very* long, staggered entry, so arriving early is smart. Note that during entry you’ll often get a wristband or stamp to prove you’ve been searched. Re-entry is generally not allowed: once you leave the building during the show, you might not be readmitted unless it’s an emergency.
Age and Dress: There is no formal dress code – most people dress casually (jeans, tee or smart-casual clubwear). For shows the vibe is usually informal or trendy, so wear comfortable shoes (especially if standing on a crowd-packed floor). Many concerts are 14+ or 16+ (if mid-length event). Some late-night club nights or drag events may be 18+ only. Check your ticket: the age limit (and any ID needed) will be clearly printed if relevant. Keep in mind that venues often forbid large costumes/accessories for safety – for themed parties, simple dress-up is fine but nothing that could block others’ views.
Arrival Time: Aim to arrive with plenty of time. Even if your ticket says “doors at 8pm,” fans often queue earlier. Getting through security can take 10–20 minutes. If you arrive too late, you might miss the opening act or risk long waits. On the other hand, don’t arrive hours early unless you really want to queue – space is limited. Generally, 30 minutes early is plenty for a normal show; for sold-out or high-profile events, an hour won’t hurt.
Miscellaneous: Troxy can get warm on a crowded night, so consider wearing a light top or bringing a bandana. Coat check is limited or done on a first-come basis, so if it’s cold outside you may end up carrying a jacket or draping it over a chair. Mobile coverage inside is good (3G/4G works well, and Wi-Fi supplementation helps), so you can coordinate rides home or order an Uber easily. Finally, be respectful of other attendees and of the heritage building – inhibit your enthusiasm gently (especially when outside after a late show) so as not to disturb local residents or risk noise complaints. Follow any staff instructions (they’re there to keep everyone safe) and enjoy the unique atmosphere that makes Troxy both a historic treasure and a hot live-music spot.
How do I book tickets for events at Troxy?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official channels and licensed ticket platforms. Check the Troxy website or follow their announcements for on-sale dates. Major shows sell out fast, so sign up for the mailing list or fan presales if available. Most tickets are digital (email or app), and there is usually no large physical box office for last-minute purchases. In short, plan ahead and buy online as soon as tickets go on sale to avoid disappointment.
What is the typical ticket price range at Troxy?
Prices vary by event. Smaller local or up-and-coming acts might have tickets around £20–25, whereas big-name concerts or special events can range from £40 up to £60 or £70 for premium areas. Some club nights or electronic events might be cheaper (£15–£30). VIP or seated circle tickets can cost more than standing floor tickets. Always check the event listing – Troxy will usually publish a range (e.g. £25–£55) when tickets go on sale.
Are tickets available from the box office on the day?
Troxy generally operates as a cashless ticket-less venue, so there isn’t a regular walk-up sales window for last-minute tickets. Some events may release a limited number of “venue door” tickets if they haven’t sold out online, but this is not guaranteed. For popular shows it’s safest to assume you need to buy in advance. Always check if the event notes any door-sales or “on request” availability in case there are any door tickets before you go.
Does Troxy have reserved seats or general admission?
It depends on the event. Many concerts and club events are general admission on the flat floor (standing room only) with no assigned seats. The balcony (Circle) above has fixed seating and is sold as ticketed seats. Some fully seated events (talks, podcasts, comedy) will sell unreserved seats on the floor as well. Check your ticket type: if it says “Stalls GA” or similar, it’s floor standing; if it lists a row/seat in the circle, those are fixed seats. In general, Troxy’s capacity of ~3,100 divides roughly into ~2,000 on the floor plus ~1,100 in the circle (tiered seating) (everything.explained.today ).
Where is Troxy located and how can I get there?
Troxy is at 490 Commercial Road, London E1 0HX (in the Stepney/Shadwell area). The easiest way to reach it is by public transport. The closest station is Limehouse (DLR and C2C trains), about a 5-minute walk away (troxy.co.uk ). From Bank tube you can take the DLR east one stop; from DLR at Canary Wharf a few stops west; and from Fenchurch Street overground a couple of stops east. Several buses run along Commercial Road to outside Troxy (for example, routes 15, 115 and 135) (troxy.co.uk ).
Is there parking near Troxy?
There is no dedicated Troxy car park and Commercial Road has red-route restrictions. Street parking is very limited (mostly resident-only). The venue advises against driving; if you must come by car, drop-off/pick-up can be done on nearby Caroline Street (troxy.co.uk ). Otherwise, you may need to use a paid parking garage a short distance away (for example near Wapping or Canary Wharf) or a parking app to reserve a space. Disabled drivers can use a local on-street Blue Badge bay near the venue as needed.
Which tube or train station is closest to Troxy?
Limehouse station is the nearest, about a 5-minute walk north of Troxy (troxy.co.uk ). Limehouse is served by the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) and C2C trains. You can reach Limehouse by DLR directly from Bank (City of London), or via tower gateway/stratford. Other nearby stations include Shadwell (Overground/DLR, ~10 min walk) and Whitechapel (Hammersmith & City/Circle line, ~15 min walk).
Are there bus routes near Troxy?
Yes. Bus routes 15 (Trafalgar Square to Blackwall), 115 (Aldgate to East Ham), 135 (Old Street to Crossharbour) all run along Commercial Road by Troxy (troxy.co.uk ). Night buses N15, N550 and N551 also serve the area. The D3 route (Bethnal Green to Crossharbour) stops a short walk away too. Check Transport for London for the best bus option from your location.
What are the best seats/viewing spots at Troxy?
Best spots depend on your preference. If you like energetic crowds, front-of-floor standing is fun but will be packed. Position yourself near the center of the stalls (floor) and you’ll get direct line of sight, though you may be in a jostling crowd. For sightlines and comfort, the middle rows of the balcony (circle) are excellent – you can see everything clearly from above. Side-seat booths also have a good view, especially on Circles Row A where it’s not too steep. In practice, Troxy’s seating was designed for clear sightlines everywhere – one attendee noted “no blind spots” in the house (www.tripadvisor.com.my ). Avoid the extreme far back of the floor if you want a view (you might not see over heads); and the very edges of the balcony if height bothers you. Overall, center floor or center circle give the most balanced audio and visual experience.
Is Troxy accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, with some limitations. Troxy has a step-free viewing area on the ground level (referred to as the Accessible Area) which can be booked for seated or wheelchair spaces (troxy.co.uk ). This area comes with one free companion ticket per disabled attendee. The foyer, entrances and at least one toilet are accessible (the venue provides a RADAR key-accessible bathroom in the foyer (troxy.co.uk )). However, the upper Circle is only reachable by about 43 steps, so wheelchair users must stay on the ground floor. The venue provides assistance if you request it in advance, and can issue a priority entry wristband if needed. Always contact the box office before the event to arrange wheelchair seating or companion tickets.
What items am I allowed to bring into Troxy?
Security is strict. You can bring personal items like a phone, wallet and a small bag. Large backpacks are not allowed (bag checks are done, and oversized bags must be left at coat check or refused). Avoid bringing alcohol, glass bottles, outside food, large liquids, aerosol cans or weapons (even simple costume accessories often get pulled aside). Small containers of medicine (or a small water bottle) may be allowed after inspection. Cameras are limited – phone cameras are usually fine for snaps, but professional DSLRs or video recording equipment require special permission. In short, pack light: a small purse or compact backpack with only essentials. The Troxy staff may confiscate any disallowed items on entry.
When do doors open and am I allowed re-entry?
Each event has its own schedule, but typically doors open 30–60 minutes before showtime. The exact time should be printed on your ticket (for example, “doors 7:00pm, show 8:00pm”). For popular shows, fans often queue outside earlier. Re-entry is usually NOT permitted at Troxy. Once you enter and have your hand stamped or wristband, you generally should not leave and come back in (unless it’s an emergency). Always check the event terms, but plan to stay once you’re inside. Leaving to grab something from the car or wander off might mean you can’t get back in.
Are there age limits at Troxy?
Troxy itself doesn’t have a universal age restriction – each event sets its own policy. Many concerts will be advertised as “All Ages” or “14+” or “18+.” If a show includes alcohol or mature content, it may require ID or be 18+ (no minors). For example, late-night dance parties might be strictly 18+. Always check your ticket or the event listing: it will clearly state any age requirement or whether a guardian must accompany minors. If under 18, you may be asked to show an ID or birth certificate, so bring one just in case (Passport or Student ID are common proofs).
Is there a dress code at Troxy?
No formal dress code. Troxy is a casual, creative venue, so attendees typically wear smart-casual or clubwear. Comfortable shoes are a must if you’ll be standing. Layers are wise (it can be chilly outside and warm inside). For themed nights (like Pride or drag shows) people often dress colorfully, but otherwise you’ll fit in just fine in jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. Avoid bulky costumes or items that could block views (e.g. giant hats), as staff may ask you to remove them.
What food and drink options are inside Troxy?
Inside Troxy you’ll find one or two bar concessions selling alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, spirits) and soft drinks. A few simple snacks (crisps, chocolate) may also be available, but there is no full food menu or restaurant kitchen on site. Bars are cashless (credit/debit cards accepted), so have your card ready. Since selection is limited, many visitors eat beforehand in a nearby restaurant or grab a bite outside. Drinks in the bar can be pricey; for example a soft drink might be £2–3.
Where are the restrooms located?
There are toilets on each level. When you enter Troxy, you’ll find an accessible (RADAR-key) toilet in the foyer (troxy.co.uk ). Additional men’s and women’s restrooms are located upstairs near the Circle and downstairs near the stalls. If the audience is large, lines can form (especially for women’s). Tip: use the restroom early – there’s also a lobby area outside the hall where people often change clothes and freshen up.
What is Troxy’s capacity?
The total capacity of Troxy is roughly 3,100 people. This includes about 2,000 standing on the ground floor (“Stalls”) and around 1,100 in the seated balcony (Circle) (everything.explained.today ). This makes it one of the larger mid-sized venues in London (much bigger than most theatres but smaller than big arenas). For sold-out concerts you can expect the house lights off with a full crowd at that number.
What types of events does Troxy host?
Very broad range! Troxy is frequently used for live music concerts (rock, pop, electronic, indie, world, etc.), DJ and club nights (including drag, queer and themed parties), comedy and spoken word, award ceremonies, film screenings and even sports events (like boxing/MMA fights). Notable recurring events include music award shows (NME, Kerrang! Awards), Pride and LGBTQ festivals, and corporate evenings. Basically, if it’s a major show that needs a unique big space, Troxy could host it (everything.explained.today ) (troxy.co.uk ). The venue’s flexible staging means it can adapt to virtually any format.
What makes Troxy special or unique?
Troxy’s charm is its rich history and striking Art Deco design. As a restored 1930s cinema, it has original features like a giant proscenium and luxurious foyer details that you won’t see in modern clubs. Its giant stage and world-class sound system (JBL VTX A12) mean bands love playing here. One one-of-a-kind feature is its Wurlitzer theatre organ – the largest in Europe – which has been fully rebuilt and is a nod to the venue’s golden age (everything.explained.today ). Troxy also stands out for its East London character and community vibe: it was the site where East Enders saw King Kong in 1933, and today it hosts major community events (like charity fundraisers and cultural festivals). Artists and audiences often describe Troxy as an iconic, “vintage” venue with a modern twist, and the fact that it survived decades of change to reopen as a top live venue just adds to its legend. (troxy.co.uk ) (everything.explained.today )
