EFG London Jazz Festival 2026: Ten Days of World-Class Jazz in London
London is turning up the volume this November as the EFG London Jazz Festival returns from 13 to 22 November 2026. Celebrating its 34th edition, this internationally recognised music festival brings together some of the biggest names in jazz, soul, electronic music and contemporary sounds for ten days of performances across the British capital.
From Grammy-winning jazz vocalists and legendary musicians to experimental collaborations and emerging artists, the festival offers something for almost every musical taste.
The 2026 programme is particularly exciting, with highlights including drum and bass pioneer Goldie performing with a live orchestra, acclaimed American singer Melody Gardot, Grammy-winning vocalist Samara Joy and Malian singer-songwriter Fatoumata Diawara.
With performances taking place at iconic concert halls, historic churches, intimate jazz clubs and contemporary arts venues, the festival also provides an excellent opportunity to discover London through its music scene.
Whether you are planning a dedicated jazz holiday or simply looking for an exciting reason to visit London this November, here is your guide to the performers, concert locations and best hotels to stay during the EFG London Jazz Festival 2026.
View this post on Instagram
EFG London Jazz Festival 2026: Dates and Locations
Dates: 13–22 November 2026
Location: Various venues across London, United Kingdom
Festival website: https://efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk/
Unlike festivals held at a single concert ground, the EFG London Jazz Festival takes place throughout London. More than 60 venues participate, allowing visitors to combine live music with sightseeing, dining and exploring different neighbourhoods.
Some of the principal venues include:
- Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall at Southbank Centre
- Barbican Centre
- Royal Albert Hall
- Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
- Roundhouse
- Cadogan Hall
- Union Chapel
- Jazz Cafe
- Kings Place
- Milton Court
The festival also features the Jazz Social, a central gathering point at City Point, close to the Barbican. Visitors can expect intimate performances, live broadcasts, special activities and opportunities to meet fellow jazz enthusiasts.
The Performers: Artists to Look Out For in 2026
The 2026 programme brings together international stars and innovative musicians, with performances covering traditional jazz, soul, electronic music, world music and experimental collaborations.
Here are some of the highlights.
1. Goldie – Dare to Dream
14 November 2026 | Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre
One of the most intriguing performances of this year’s festival is Goldie’s Dare to Dream.
Best known as one of the pioneers of British drum and bass and jungle music, Goldie takes his distinctive electronic sound into an orchestral setting for this special production.
Joined by his live band, the Elysian Collective orchestra, a choir and special guests including Yussef Dayes and Anaiis, the performance promises an ambitious musical experience that crosses the boundaries between electronic music, jazz and orchestral composition.
This is an especially interesting choice for visitors who enjoy contemporary music beyond conventional jazz.
2. Melody Gardot
16 November 2026 | Royal Albert Hall
American jazz singer and songwriter Melody Gardot is among the festival’s major attractions.
Known for her distinctive voice and sophisticated blend of jazz, blues, bossa nova and pop, Gardot has built an international following with songs that combine elegant arrangements with intimate storytelling.
Her appearance at the magnificent Royal Albert Hall should be one of the highlights of the festival.
The historic concert hall, with its impressive architecture and celebrated acoustics, provides an atmospheric setting for an evening of live jazz.
3. Samara Joy
22 November 2026 | Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre
Grammy-winning American jazz vocalist Samara Joy brings her remarkable voice to the festival’s closing day.
Recognised for her interpretations of jazz standards and her elegant vocal style, Joy has become one of the most exciting young performers in contemporary jazz.
Her performance at Royal Festival Hall is an excellent choice for visitors who appreciate classic jazz singing and the traditions of the Great American Songbook.
4. Fatoumata Diawara
18 November 2026 | Roundhouse, Camden
Malian singer, songwriter and guitarist Fatoumata Diawara brings African musical traditions together with contemporary influences.
Her music draws on West African rhythms, blues, rock and modern pop, creating an energetic and distinctive sound.
The performance at the Roundhouse in Camden offers a particularly interesting opportunity to experience the international diversity of the festival.
5. Mariza
15 November 2026 | Royal Festival Hall
Portuguese fado star Mariza brings the emotional intensity of traditional Portuguese music to London.
Although fado is distinct from jazz, its expressive vocals, improvisational qualities and intricate musical arrangements make it a fascinating addition to the festival.
Her performance is particularly appealing to visitors interested in world music and the musical traditions of different cultures.
6. Coltrane 100: A Tribute to John Coltrane
13 November 2026 | Barbican Centre
The year 2026 marks the centenary of the birth of legendary American saxophonist John Coltrane.
The festival celebrates his extraordinary influence on jazz with Coltrane 100, featuring Joe Lovano, Melissa Aldana, Nduduzo Makhathini, Linda May Han Oh and Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts.
Coltrane remains one of the most influential figures in jazz history, celebrated for his innovative approach to improvisation, harmony and musical expression.
This performance is an essential choice for serious jazz enthusiasts.
Other Performances Worth Discovering
The festival programme includes plenty of other interesting artists and collaborations:
- Asha Puthli: The Cosmic Voyager – an exploration of the Indian-born singer’s distinctive musical legacy.
- Caravan Palace: A lively combination of electronic music and electro-swing.
- GoGo Penguin: British contemporary jazz with electronic and minimalist influences.
- Roberto Fonseca & Vincent Segal: A collaboration bringing together Cuban jazz and classical influences.
- Cécile McLorin Salvant: Performing with the BBC Concert Orchestra.
- Kyoto Jazz Massive: Featuring the Echoes of a New Dawn Orchestra.
- Branford Marsalis & Dianne Reeves: Celebrating John Coltrane.
The full programme and ticket information are available on the official EFG London Jazz Festival website.
Where to Experience the Festival: London’s Best Jazz Venues
One of the pleasures of attending the EFG London Jazz Festival is discovering the different locations hosting performances.
Here are some of the most interesting venues to include in your London itinerary.
Southbank Centre – Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall
Situated beside the River Thames, the Southbank Centre is one of London’s most important cultural destinations.
Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall host some of the festival’s major performances, including Goldie, Mariza and Samara Joy.
The surrounding South Bank is also one of London’s most attractive areas for visitors. The London Eye, National Theatre, Tate Modern and riverside restaurants are all within easy reach.
It is an excellent area to stay if you intend to attend several concerts at Southbank Centre.
Barbican Centre
Located in the City of London, the Barbican is a major arts and cultural complex known for its distinctive Brutalist architecture.
Its concert halls, theatres, cinemas and exhibition spaces make it an important part of the festival.
Performances such as Coltrane 100 and Asha Puthli: The Cosmic Voyager make the Barbican particularly attractive to jazz enthusiasts.
The nearby City Point Jazz Social also gives visitors another reason to explore this part of London.
Royal Albert Hall
Few concert venues are as recognisable as the Royal Albert Hall.
Located in South Kensington, this magnificent circular concert hall opened in 1871 and has hosted some of the world’s most celebrated musicians and performers.
Melody Gardot’s appearance on 16 November provides a wonderful opportunity to experience live jazz in one of Britain’s most historic music venues.
The surrounding Kensington neighbourhood is also home to several excellent hotels, museums and restaurants.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
No jazz visit to London would be complete without experiencing Ronnie Scott’s.
Established in 1959, this legendary Soho club has hosted generations of internationally acclaimed jazz musicians.
Unlike the larger concert halls, Ronnie Scott’s offers a more intimate atmosphere, allowing audiences to experience live jazz at close quarters.
The club is also participating in the festival’s Celebrating the Jazz Clubs programme, making it an excellent choice for visitors interested in London’s traditional jazz scene.
Roundhouse, Camden
The Roundhouse is a historic performance venue in North London, originally built as a railway engine shed in the 19th century.
Today, it is one of London’s best-known cultural spaces, hosting concerts, theatre productions and other live performances.
Its industrial architecture and distinctive circular interior provide a memorable setting for Fatoumata Diawara’s performance on 18 November.
Best Hotels to Stay During the EFG London Jazz Festival 2026
Choosing the right hotel can make a considerable difference to your festival experience.
Because performances are spread across London, it is worth choosing accommodation close to the venues you intend to visit rather than trying to stay near every concert location.
The South Bank, Soho, Barbican and South Kensington are particularly useful neighbourhoods for festival visitors.
Here are some recommended hotels to consider.
1. London Marriott Hotel County Hall – Best for Southbank Centre
Located inside the historic former headquarters of London County Council, the London Marriott Hotel County Hall is one of the most distinctive hotels on the South Bank.
The property overlooks the River Thames, with spectacular views of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye.
Its location is particularly convenient for visitors attending performances at Southbank Centre and Royal Festival Hall.
The hotel also provides an excellent base for exploring Westminster, the London Eye and the riverside attractions.
Best for: Luxury travellers, couples and visitors attending several Southbank Centre performances.
2. Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection – Best for Design and Culture
For a more contemporary and design-focused stay, consider Bankside Hotel.
Part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, this independent-style hotel combines modern architecture, art and carefully designed interiors.
Located near Tate Modern and the River Thames, it is well placed for exploring the South Bank and its cultural attractions.
Visitors can enjoy riverside walks, galleries and restaurants before heading to an evening performance.
Best for: Design-conscious travellers and couples looking for a stylish London city break.
3. Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge – Best for Sightseeing
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge is an excellent choice for visitors who want to combine the jazz festival with London’s famous attractions.
The hotel is located close to the London Eye and Westminster Bridge, with easy access to Waterloo Underground and railway stations.
Southbank Centre is also within walking distance, making this a convenient base for festival performances.
Its extensive facilities, restaurants and leisure amenities make it particularly suitable for longer stays.
Best for: First-time visitors to London, families and sightseeing enthusiasts.
4. The Resident Soho – Best for Jazz Clubs and Nightlife
If your festival plans include late-night jazz sessions, restaurants and London’s famous entertainment scene, Soho is an excellent neighbourhood to stay in.
The Resident Soho is a boutique-style hotel located in the heart of this lively district.
It offers a quieter retreat from the surrounding nightlife while keeping guests close to theatres, restaurants, bars and music venues.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and many of the festival’s Soho performances are within easy reach.
Best for: Jazz enthusiasts, couples and visitors who enjoy nightlife.
5. Malmaison London – Best for Barbican Performances
Situated near Charterhouse Square, Malmaison London offers a stylish boutique-style stay close to the Barbican Centre.
The hotel features contemporary interiors, a restaurant and a bar, providing a comfortable base for exploring the City of London.
Its location is particularly useful for visitors attending Barbican performances and activities at the nearby Jazz Social.
Best for: Visitors attending Barbican concerts and travellers interested in London’s historic City district.
6. Citadines Barbican London – Best for Longer Stays
For visitors planning a longer London stay, Citadines Barbican London offers serviced-apartment accommodation.
The property combines hotel-style services with apartment conveniences, including kitchen facilities.
It is located within walking distance of the Barbican Centre and provides convenient access to London’s public transport network.
The apartment-style setup is especially useful for travellers who prefer more independence during their stay.
Best for: Extended stays, independent travellers and visitors seeking apartment-style accommodation.
7. Premier Inn London County Hall – Best for Value and Location
For visitors who prefer to spend more of their budget on concerts and sightseeing, Premier Inn London County Hall is worth considering.
Housed within the historic County Hall building, the hotel enjoys a prime location beside the London Eye and close to Waterloo Station.
It provides a practical base for exploring the South Bank and attending performances at Royal Festival Hall.
Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, families and sightseeing visitors.
Exploring London Between Jazz Performances
The festival is also a wonderful excuse to explore some of London’s most famous attractions.
Depending on your concert schedule, consider adding these experiences to your itinerary:
Walk along the South Bank: Enjoy views of the Thames, street performers, restaurants and some of London’s most recognisable landmarks.
Visit Tate Modern: Explore one of the world’s leading modern and contemporary art museums, housed in a former power station.
Discover Soho: Wander through one of London’s most entertaining neighbourhoods, filled with restaurants, historic pubs, theatres and music venues.
Explore Camden Market: Browse independent shops, street food stalls and alternative fashion outlets before heading to a concert at the Roundhouse.
Visit the Royal Albert Hall: Even if you are not attending a performance, the building itself is worth discovering through its guided tours.
Make London Your Jazz Destination This November
The EFG London Jazz Festival 2026 offers much more than a series of concerts. It is a celebration of musical creativity, international culture and London’s extraordinary live-music scene.
From Goldie’s orchestral experiment and Melody Gardot’s sophisticated jazz vocals to Samara Joy’s remarkable singing and Fatoumata Diawara’s contemporary African sounds, this year’s programme offers an exciting variety of musical experiences.
With performances taking place in some of London’s most celebrated cultural venues, visitors can easily turn a concert trip into a memorable city break.
Choose a hotel close to your favourite performances, explore London’s historic neighbourhoods and discover why the British capital remains one of the world’s great destinations for live music.
For programme details, remaining tickets and the latest festival announcements, visit the official EFG London Jazz Festival website.
