The Waiting Room is a well-known nightclub and live music venue situated in Stoke Newington, North London, in the United Kingdom. Occupying a subterranean space beneath The Three Crowns pub, it has become a vital part of the London music scene since its inception in 2012. Initially established as a rebranding of the smaller N16 venue and sometimes confused with other UK venues of the same name, The Waiting Room quickly forged its own identity.

The venue is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, underground aesthetic, and commitment to championing both emerging talent and experimental music genres. This strong programming ethos has earned The Waiting Room a reputation as a discovery spot for bands on the cusp of wider recognition, as well as a beloved haunt for fans and local creatives. Throughout its existence, the venue has remained at its original basement location, making only minor structural tweaks to enhance the sound system and ambiance, but never losing the raw, close-quarters energy that defines its character.

The Waiting Room is notable for nurturing the early careers of several artists who broke through to larger audiences, and for attracting international acts keen to play secret shows or road-test new material in front of plugged-in London crowds. Its bookings frequently span the spectrum from punk, indie, and electronic to hip hop and experimental pop, contributing to its status as a cultural incubator in the city. Notable artists who have performed at The Waiting Room include Arlo Parks, Shame, Black Midi, Girl Band (now Gilla Band), Moses Boyd, Sam Fender, Julia Jacklin, The Murder Capital, Black Country, New Road, Puma Blue, Nilüfer Yanya, Squid, and Sinead O’Brien, as well as international acts like Hatchie, Soccer Mommy, and Snail Mail.

The venue continues to draw a mix of local and global talent, underscoring its importance within the UK and London’s vibrant nightlife and live music ecosystem.