Well I don't live in the 'big city' anymore but I'm sure someone will be able to help you. You could always try going to some the nearer folk festivals, where there will usually be a session or two going on. Time Out used to have lists of London sessions. There is also a London Folk Club Guide, that has sessions listed as well. I will see if I can find the URL, for you.

I did spend one night in the Swan, a year or so back, it was an interesting night. It was billed as a session with Gino Lupari (he of Four Men And A Dog) and friends, but is wasn't a session, it was a gig (You have to watch out for that one, it's always a good idea to check).

They played very well. Despite the fact that Gino had one eye on the TV, where Manchester Utd were playing Juventus in the European Champions Cup. There were, in the pub a party of Italians, supporting their team and I suspect there were attracted in, expecting to hear some of their own music from someone with such an Italian sounding name.

I think they were surprised on two counts as they could have reasonably expect him to be rooting for Juventus, when in fact he is as Irish as 'The Black Stuff' and a Manchester Utd supporter and cheered very loudly when they scored, which they did, three times. .....It was an odd night.

Can you tell us more about the Grove?