Ronnie Scott’s is a true legendary London landmark. Located in the heart of Soho, Scott’s has been hosting ground-breaking concerts since it’s creation in 1959 and has helped launched the careers of dozens of world-famous musical acts. Read through the following to learn more about its history, where it was located, and how to join us for a visit on our Rock N’ Roll Tour of London!
Also, be sure to check out our Free Tours by Foot London page for a full list of all of the pay-what-you-like tours that we offer!
Famous Artists Who Played Here
History of Ronnie Scott's
Opened and operated by musicians Pete King and Ronnie Scott, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club was opened on the 30th of October in 1959. Originally located on Gerrard Street, in 1965 the Club moved to it’s current location on Frith Street. King and Scott were Jazz musicians themselves and were looking to open a venue where many of their favourite jazz artists could perform. Although the Club is a smaller and more relaxed venue, many famous faces deliberately wished to play at Scott’s for the more intimate surroundings and close-ness to the crowd it provided.
Soon the club became notable for hosting some of the biggest names in music - even going beyond the Jazz genre - and Ronnie Scott himself became famous for his comedy, quips and one-liners as the Club’s ‘master of ceremonies.’ After Scott’s death in 1996, King continued to run the Club until selling it in 2005.
However, the Club still operates today and is a hot spot for Jazz lovers from all across the globe to play, perform or attend a show. Ronnie Scott’s remains a must-visit for those who are visiting Soho hoping to see some of London’s true musical past.
Getting There
Ronnie Scott's is conveniently located in central Soho at 47 Frith Street, Soho, London W1D 4HT and included on our Rock N’ Roll Tour of London!
Artists That Have Played At Ronnie Scott’s
- Ella Fitzgerald
- Chet Baker
- Nina Simone
- Prince
- Dianne Reeves
- Pat Metheny
- George Benson
- Cassandra Wilson
- Chick Corea
- Katie Melua
- Jamie Callum
- Anita O’Day
- Earl “Fatha” Hines
- Blossom Dearie
It’s also worth noting that, in 1970, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club was the location of Jimi Hendrix’s final public performance.
Nightly Events
There’s something happening EVERY evening at Ronnie Scott’s so check their website for the full schedule.
Tours of Soho
Soho, Piccadilly, and Chinatown Tour - This tour takes you through the ages as we discuss the history of the neighorhood, how it has evolved over the years, and what it's best known for today!
Rock N' Roll Tour of London - Learn about the music movement that took over Soho in the 60s and 70s, as well as all the entertainment superstars who got their start here!
Soho and Chinatown Food Tour - Soho and Chinatown boast some of the best restaurants in the city! Come sample some of our favorite cuisines from these eclectic neighborhoods.
Self-Guided Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Food Tour - Unable to join us on our food tour? No problem! Use this self-guided tour to explore Soho's foodie history on your own.
Other significant music sites in Soho:
- Jimi Hendrix's London
- Trident Studios
- The Bag O' Nails
- The Marquee Club
- David Bowie's London
- The Beatles' London
