Ministry of Sound

Opening on 21st September 1991 and inspired by New York’s Paradise Garage, Ministry of Sound was the UK’s first nightclub dedicated to house music. The site was a derelict bus garage in a part of South London considered more infamous than famous.

On the opening night there was no alcohol, three flashing lights, moody security and unless you knew the names of at least a half-dozen Chicago DJs, you were unlikely to get past the legendary ‘pickers’. These strict club custodians were responsible for ensuring only the best mix of party people would pass the prison-like gates.

Despite the lack of booze and the fearsome location, people arrived in droves. Within a matter of weeks, word had spread that something special had landed smack in the middle of SE1 and London’s nightlife would never be the same again….