Anabelles Returns for One Night Only in Peterborough

Peterborough’s nightlife history came alive last night, Friday 5 December 2025, as The Met Lounge transformed back into its original identity, Anabelles, for a sold-out 50th anniversary celebration.

The nightclub first opened its doors on Bridge Street on 14 November 1975, ushering in a new era of entertainment for the city. Over the decades, the venue changed names from Anabelles to Canters, then Winners, before settling as The Met Lounge for the past 26 years. While many other clubs have disappeared, the building’s design and spirit have helped it endure for half a century.

For one night only, a specially made replica of the original Anabelles sign was raised above the entrance, welcoming guests back to the era of 1975 to 1983. Inside, the atmosphere was pure nostalgia as original Friday night DJ Tom Bryan returned from retirement to spin the records that defined the club’s early years.

Bryan, who joined Anabelles in 1976 and held the Friday night residency for two decades, promised to play everything from Tamla Motown and Philadelphia soul to disco classics like Barry White, Candi Staton, The Real Thing and Hot Chocolate. He also revisited the early 80s New Romantic wave, when tracks by The Human League, Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran and Depeche Mode filled the dancefloor.

“I’m bringing every record I’ve still got,” Bryan said before the event. “From funk and soul to disco and New Romantic, everything I played between 1976 and 1983 will be there.”

The night was not only about reliving memories. At Bryan’s request, half of all advance ticket sales were donated to Prostate Cancer Research, a cause close to his heart. Guests were also treated to a revival of one of Anabelles’ original traditions, with ladies arriving before 10pm receiving a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

The night’s energy was kept at full throttle not only by Tom Bryan but also by resident DJ and local radio host Dave King. Together they worked seamlessly through the evening, trading tracks and keeping the dancefloor alive. Their partnership ensured the music never dipped and the atmosphere never faltered. It is safe to say the crowd was more than entertained, with smiles, dancing and singalongs carrying the celebration right through to the early hours.

In keeping with the spirit of the 1975 press release, a dress code was in place, encouraging smart attire and discouraging jeans. The nod to the past added to the authenticity of the evening, which blended nostalgia with celebration.

Tickets sold out well in advance, with early bird prices set at £6. In 1975, entry was just £1, equivalent to £7.97 today. The anniversary event proved that Anabelles still has the power to draw a crowd, even 50 years on.

With Christmas just weeks away, Bryan, now 77, slipped in a few festive classics alongside the disco and New Romantic anthems. The dancefloor was packed, the atmosphere electric, and for five hours Peterborough was once again home to its original nightclub.

A gallery of images from the night is available here. The pictures are free for personal use.

A gallery of images from the night is available here. The pictures are free for personal use.