Roller Discos You Can Find in London

London's roller disco scene keeps the 70s and 80s vibes alive with colourful lights, funky music, and energetic crowds. The standout permanent venue is Roller Nation in Tottenham, widely regarded as the home of roller disco in the city. This purpose-built rink hosts a variety of sessions. From family skates and soul nights to full-on club-style roller discos on weekends. Check their events page for themed nights like Valentine's Skate Dates, 90s editions, or late-night parties running into the early hours.

Other popular options include pop-up and family-focused events:

• Mobile or event-based discos from providers like Roller Kings bring the party to various locations for birthdays, corporate events, or special sessions. 
• Skating Haven at Newham Leisure Centre is great for family roller discos, often on Sundays, welcoming skaters from age 5+ with a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
• Occasional spots like Sk8citylondon in North West London for community vibes.

These venues often provide skate hire, so you can try before investing in your own pair. Book ahead, especially for popular weekend slots, and arrive ready to groove!

If you were looking for Flippers London in White City: This venue has sadly closed down.

For indoor rinks and discos, quad skates are usually the top choice. Quads excel at turns, spins, and dance-style moves common in roller discos. Think retro jamming and side-to-side grooves. Many rinks and events favour or even require quads for that authentic feel.

Inline skates are more geared toward speed, outdoor use, or tricks, as they roll faster and handle rougher surfaces better. When using them indoors, they can feel less stable for casual or dance-focused skating.

Key tips for choosing indoor skates:

• Go for quad skates with harder wheels (around 85A-103A durometer) for better speed and less resistance on rink floors.
• Look for good ankle support, comfortable boots, and adjustable sizing if sharing.
• Beginners: Opt for entry-level quads with toe stops for easier stopping.

Always check venue rules, as some roller discos specify quad skates and black toe stops so you don't mark their floor.

Indoor rinks are smooth and predictable, but a few etiquette and safety tips go a long way:

1. Flow with traffic
   Most rinks have a counterclockwise flow; stick to the outer lanes if you're slower, and use inner lanes for faster skating or tricks. Look out for marshals or staff who might announce that the skating direction has now changed so you will skate clockwise from then on.
2. Be aware of others
   Give space, especially to beginners or families. Signal when passing or stopping.
3. Use the walls wisely
   Hold onto the barrier if needed for balance, but don't block it for others.
4. Skate at your level
   Start slow in quieter sessions (like family times) before hitting busier disco nights.
5. Gear up
   Wrist guards, knee/elbow pads, and a helmet are essential, even if you're experienced. Falls happen!

Rinks like Roller Nation have a mix of open floor and seating areas, so take breaks to hydrate and enjoy the vibe.

To level up your session and keep the good times rolling:

1. Warm up first
   Stretch your legs, ankles, and core to avoid strains.
2. Master the basics
   Practice the "T-stop" or plow stop for safe stopping methods.
3. Dress the part
   Wear comfortable, breathable clothes and retro outfits for disco nights. Neon, leg warmers, and fun socks add to the joy!
4. Bring friends
   Skating is more fun in a group; take turns helping beginners.
5. Stay hydrated and snack smart
   Rinks can get warm with all that movement. Opt for water over fizzy drinks.
6. Capture the moment
   Many venues allow photos/videos; tag your memories and share the fun.
7. Try themed sessions
   From soul to 90s nights, they keep things fresh and exciting.

Indoor roller skating is all about enjoyment, confidence-building, and a bit of nostalgia. Grab your skates (or rent some), hit a London rink, and let the good times roll! Check out slickwillies.co.uk for everything you need to get started or upgrade your setup. See you on the floor!