Before the Bar: How Lil’ Nashville Was Born at The Dingwalls, Camden

Now that the dust has just about settled after the launch of our permanent bar and kitchen in Chiswick, we thought it was the perfect time to look back at where it all began, when Lil’ Nashville was still a pop-up series of events at The Dingwalls in Camden.

Before we had a bar to call our own, we had a big idea: to create a place in London where country music lovers could come together, feel at home, and enjoy the music and culture they love, just like our experiences of Nashville. But we knew we had to start somewhere. So we packed up our boots, found a stage, and brought Lil’ Nashville to life at one of Camden’s most iconic music venues.

Those early events at The Dingwalls were very special to us. They were full-on, high-energy nights filled with back-to-back live country music performances, amazing crowds, and a wonderful atmosphere. We brought in talented country artists from across the UK, many of whom we still work with today; each adding their own sound and spirit to the stage. Every night felt like a celebration of the scene we love.

It was not just about the music though. We wanted people to feel fully immersed in the experience. That meant Southern American BBQ served fresh and smoky, with all the classics from pulled pork and brisket to pit beans and potato salad. Nothing goes better with live country than great food, and we made sure no one left hungry.

We also made sure the dancefloor stayed busy with fun and easy-to-follow line dancing tutorials that brought people together. Whether you were a seasoned dancer or giving it a go for the first time, the energy in the room was always buzzing, full of laughter, cheers, and a real sense of community.

When the live music wrapped up, the night kept going with our DJ sets focused on modern country hits but going as far back as the 90's, that had people singing along and dancing right through to the end. We kept the tempo up and the vibes high, playing the songs that make you feel like you are in the middle of Broadway, Nashville.

More than anything, those nights gave us a chance to connect. We spoke to so many people, fans, family, friends and newcomers, and those conversations helped shape what Lil’ Nashville (the permanent venue) would become. Again and again, we heard the same message. People wanted a place like this all the time. That was the spark.

The Dingwalls gave us more than a venue. Those nights helped us learn, refine our ideas and build something bigger. They reminded us why we started this in the first place: to bring people together through the power of country music and there was no better place than The Dingwalls (an iconic music venue in itself) to start this journey in.

If you were part of those pop-ups, thank you for being there at the start with us! You helped shape Lil’ Nashville into what it is today. And if you are new to our story, we hope you will feel that same spirit and energy with the music, the food, the dancing and the people; each and every time you step inside our country bar in Chiswick.

See you soon,

Helen & Rob