Union Chapel

Knowing Union Chapel’s venue policies before your visit can help make entry and event attendance smoother and more enjoyable. Reviewing guidelines in advance helps ensure you arrive prepared and reduces delays at security or guest services.

• Re-Entry & Smoking: Re-entry policies vary by event, so check the official page for your specific event details. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, is not permitted inside Union Chapel.
• Payment Options: Ticketing and concessions are available only with approved payment methods; refer to the event or venue for current options.
• Prohibited Items: Large bags, professional-style cameras, and recording equipment may be restricted, so refer to the official policy page for the most current guidance.
• Age Restrictions: Most events are suitable for all ages, but any age-specific guidelines will be noted on the event listing.

For the most up-to-date guidance and information on regulations, including bag policies, check the official Union Chapel policy page.

Union Chapel sits in Highbury & Islington, a vibrant North London neighborhood known for its independent shops, historic architecture, and thriving arts scene. With nearby theatres, music venues, and lively dining spots, the area offers a rich cultural experience before and after any show.

• Copper Box Arena: Located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, this modern, multi-purpose arena seats up to 7,500 guests and hosts concerts, sporting events, and large-scale entertainment productions.^5,6
• Hyde Park: One of London’s most iconic outdoor event spaces, Hyde Park accommodates tens of thousands of fans for major open-air concerts and seasonal festivals, attracting global headliners each year.⁷
• The O2: Situated on the Greenwich Peninsula, The O2 is a world-class entertainment complex featuring a 20,000-capacity arena that hosts international music superstars, comedy tours, and major sporting events.⁸

Union Chapel is located in Islington, a walkable part of London with limited dedicated on-site parking.³

Public Transportation: Union Chapel is well served by London’s transit network, including nearby Highbury & Islington station on the London Overground and Victoria Line, as well as local bus routes that connect to King’s Cross, Angel, and other key areas.³ Walking from local transit stops is straightforward and often faster than navigating city parking.

Driving & Parking: Union Chapel is located at 19B Compton Terrace, Upper Street. Nearby parking options include:

• Upper Street Car Park: 52 Upper St.

Union Chapel offers a carefully curated selection of food and beverages designed to complement its live music and cultural programming.⁴ Guests can enjoy light bites and refreshments during events, creating a relaxed atmosphere before performances and during intervals.⁴ Alcohol is available at the venue’s bars, including wine and beer, alongside a range of soft drinks and non-alcoholic options.⁴

The offerings are intended to enhance the experience without distracting from the performance itself, maintaining the intimate and respectful setting the venue is known for.⁴ Food and drink availability may vary depending on the event.

Union Chapel opened in 1877 in Islington, London, as a working church designed in the Gothic Revival style by architects Arthur Blomfield and Son, combining religious purpose with striking architectural detail.^1,2 The Union Chapel clock tower has stood as a defining landmark in Highbury and Islington since 1889.²

Over time, the building has been sensitively restored and maintained to preserve its historic character while accommodating modern performance needs.^1,2 Union Chapel has hosted concerts and live events for artists like Elton John, Björk, Ed Sheeran, and more since 1992.¹

Union Chapel’s role as both a place of worship and a cultural destination has made it a unique fixture in London’s arts landscape, hosting music, comedy, and spoken word performances as well as film screenings.^1,2