Aimee Dexter
BBC News, Norfolk
Robby West/BBC
Club owner Mike Baxter said he wanted to give a “big thanks” to the Norwich community for its support
The owner of an “underdog” nightclub said he was “lost for words” after it scooped an international award.
Gonzo’s Two Room, a small club in Norwich city centre, won the Best Venue (UK and Europe) category at the BBC Radio 1 Dance Awards.
Rivals for the coveted title, chosen by a public vote, included “mega clubs” in Ibiza, London and Manchester.
“To win it is weird, surreal, humbling, and amazing. I am a little bit lost for words,” said owner Mike Baxter.
“I think what is different about us is we have artists come and we treat them like regular people and bring them into our home.
“I think we show the world, and all of these mega clubs with huge numbers, that the Norwich community can do a lot when they come together on it, and that is amazing,” he added.
MIKE BAXTER
The small Norwich club was up against much bigger venues
The winners of the 2025 awards – broadcast live – were revealed by Radio 1’s Danny Howard, Sarah Story and Pete Tong.
Stars who picked up accolades included Charli XCX, The Blessed Madonna and Confidence Man.
Presenting the best venue award to the Gonzo’s Two Room team, Story said she had played at the venue twice and had been telling everybody about it.
“I’m like ‘it’s in Norwich’, and they were like ‘what’s happening in Norwich?’
“I was like ‘the best club in the country’.”
Maddy McNiven/BBC
Gonzo’s Two Room opened in 2021
Baxter said he had wanted to create somewhere dance music lovers could go for a night out that was not too commercial.
“We want to thank Norwich itself. Thank you for voting,” he added.
