Looking for a live music pub in South East London? Skehan’s in Nunhead has been bringing people together through music for decades. With live performances six days a week, an award-winning pint of Guinness, authentic Thai food and a warm community atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where every visit feels unique.
If you’re exploring pubs in South East London, you’ll find plenty that host the occasional band. What makes Skehan’s different is that live music isn’t an event here—it’s part of the pub’s identity.
More Than Just a Live Music Pub
Music has always been woven into everyday life at Skehan’s.
Whether it’s a quiet Sunday folk session, an energetic Wednesday jam, or a packed Saturday night gig, every performance feels authentic rather than staged.
The musicians aren’t separated from the audience. They’re surrounded by people enjoying a pint, chatting with friends and becoming part of the evening together.
That’s what gives Skehan’s its unmistakable character.
Live Music Almost Every Night of the Week
Few pubs in South East London can match the variety of Skehan’s weekly programme.
Throughout the week you’ll find:
- Monday Jam Sessions
- Tuesday Irish and English Trad Sessions
- Wednesday Writers Circle
- Wednesday South London Jam
- Friday Live Rock’n’Roll
- Monthly Friday Karaoke
- The Big Saturday Night Gig
- Sunday Folk Sessions
Every night has its own personality, meaning there’s always a reason to come back.
Looking for Irish Pubs Near You?
If you’re looking for authentic Irish pubs near you, Skehan’s is well worth discovering.
Have you been searching “Irish pubs near me”?
Located in Nunhead, just a mile from Peckham, Skehan’s combines everything people love about a traditional Irish pub with an outstanding live music programme.
It’s independent, family-run and proudly community-focused.
You’ll find regulars chatting at the bar, musicians arriving with instruments in hand, and newcomers quickly made to feel welcome.
A Proper Community Atmosphere
One of the reasons musicians enjoy performing at Skehan’s is the audience.
People come to listen.
They applaud.
They sing along.
Conversations between songs are as important as the music itself, creating the friendly atmosphere that has made Skehan’s a favourite for generations.
It’s the kind of pub where people know each other by name, conversations flow easily and first-time visitors often leave feeling like regulars.
Make an Evening of It
Live music is only part of the experience.
Before the performance starts, enjoy authentic Thai food from Chai’s Garden, served fresh every evening.
If the weather is kind, grab a table in the hidden beer garden with a drink before heading inside for the music.
Fancy a game beforehand? Challenge your friends to pool or darts before settling in for the evening.
At Skehan’s, a gig isn’t something you simply attend—it’s part of a complete night out.
Why Skehan’s Stands Out Among Pubs in South East London
There are plenty of places to hear live music.
There are far fewer where the music feels like a natural part of the pub.
As one of the few remaining independent, family-run pubs in the area, Skehan’s has created something increasingly rare.
Great music.
Great people.
Great Guinness.
And an atmosphere that’s impossible to manufacture.
Whether you’re discovering a new band, joining a trad session or simply looking for a memorable evening with friends, Skehan’s continues to prove why it’s one of the best live music pub destinations in South East London.
FAQs
How often does Skehan’s have live music?
Skehan’s hosts live music six days a week, including folk sessions, trad nights, jam sessions, rock gigs and karaoke.
What type of music can I hear at Skehan’s?
Everything from Irish trad and English folk to rock’n’roll, open jam sessions and singer-songwriter performances.
Is Skehan’s suitable if I’ve never visited before?
Absolutely. New visitors are always welcome, and the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to feel at home.
Can I eat before the music starts?
Yes. Chai’s Garden serves authentic Thai food daily, making it easy to enjoy dinner before the evening’s entertainment.
Is Skehan’s close to Peckham?
Yes. Skehan’s is located in nearby Nunhead, around one mile from Peckham.