I've never heard of some of the places Mike Milton lists but I suspect they are open mics. He omitted some London venues that do describe themselves as "clubs" (a hangover from the previous PEL rules which forced them to be "private members clubs"). These include the unique Musical Traditions at the King & Queen, the Cellar Upstairs now at the Exmouth Arms which has an apparent aim of a residency at every pub in the borough of Camden, and Walthamstow at the Plough.

The first and last are close to the ideal trad music venue. MT speaks for itself with its now close on 20-year record of promoting source singers, an annual weekend festival and amazing resident bands. Walthamstow also has a resident band, a burgeoning monthly session and occasional Standing Room Only on a different night showcasing high-profile bands such as the Demon Barbers.

The key seems to be participation and multi-genre presentation. As a counter to the inevitable "London-centric" whinges, here's a mention for what is possibly the best venue in the land. The Ryburn Three Step. If only more were like that.