Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is the Ceilidh Club?

It's a place where you can get a wee bit of Scotland in London. Established in 1998 it has grown from a handful of friends and family into something bigger with ceilidhs every couple of weeks.

2) What's a ceilidh and how do you pronounce it?

A ceilidh ('kay-lee') is the Gaelic word for gathering. If anyone can remember the days before the internet, multichannel TV, mobis, DVDs, laptops, bluetooth, wireless and the rest, the main form of interaction between people was dancing, singing, music, poems and storytelling. The Ceilidh Club tries to recreate this.

3) Don't you just do dancing?

Mostly we do, but through publishing ventures and online presence we try to span the other aspects as well. We are always looking for new acts, either to play at the Ceilidh Club or to be included on our performers and contacts page. If you want more info please contact Ed@ceilidhclub.com.

4) Do I need to know the steps?

No. There is a caller who will take you through the moves. It's fun, hot and exhilarating. It's great for the absolute beginner to the expert.

5) What sort of people go?

All sorts: Scottish and all the nationalities under the sun. We are delighted so many people from so many different countries want to come along. Although most people are 22-45 the Ceilidh attracts people from all age groups, from babes in prams to great grandmothers. It's about attitude not age.

6) How much are tickets?

Prices vary. For most ceilidhs they are £13.50 and £7 concession. Singles' ceilidhs and other special nights may have different prices. Tickets are sold on a non-refundable, non-exchangeable basis.

7) Do you have concession tickets?

Yes. Concession tickets are available on the door. They are £7 each for regular nights Concessions are students, unemployed and retired persons. You need to produce proof of status.

8) Should I book in advance?

Yes. The ceilidhs are now very popular and some sell out. If you are coming in a group or are arriving late or just want peace of mind then we advise booking in advance. You can find more info on booking here. There's a 10% booking fee when you buy online which goes to our booking agency Ticketweb. Your name and ticket allocation will be on the door. You can then turn up anytime and be assured of getting in. Other than for Burns nights concession tickets are only for sale on the door.

9) Where is it held?

Mostly at Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regents Park Road, London NW1 7AY. Additionally we hold them at the Camden Centre and at Hammersmith Town Hall, Kings St. W6 9JU. One off nights are held at alternative venues.

10) Do you have tickets on the door?

Yes, there are always some tickets for sale on the door (except for Singles' ceilidhs). They go on sale at 7:15 on a first come first served basis. Concession tickets are only available on the door. You also get £1 off the full door price if you wear a significant amount of tartan.

11) What is the schedule for the night?

Doors open at 7:15. Dancing starts at 8 and finishes at 11. There's a cloakroom, well priced bar and often a raffle.

12) I hear you support art and publish books as well.

Yes we try to cover other media, you can find out more by checking out the rest of the web site. If you have any further questions please contact Ed@ceilidhclub.com.