Klute (Nightclub)

Klute is a nightclub in Durham, UK, a favourite of students at the University of Durham due to the frequent Sexy Club 7 live performances, dark corners for 'meeting special friends', sticky walls/floors and cheesy music (especially Chesney Hawkes, Tiffany, Sexy Club 7, ' New York, New York' by Frank Sinatra and 'That's Amore' by Dean Martin, which are played every night). Klute's popularity amongst the student population means that a one in-one out policy operates on many nights. Since 2002, Klute has been a student only venue.

The former boathouse by Elvet bridge has three floors. Entry is to the middle bar, 'manned' by Susan, Durham's most notorious barmaid. The dancefloor can be found on the top floor and downstairs is the VIP 'Chillout Lounge'. Membership of the highly-exclusive VIP can only be gained by extensive patronage of the club and then only to 'suitable' people. It is rarely granted to Freshers. Over Christmas 2005 Klute installed a new sound system, reproducing its selection of classic tunes with greater fidelity than ever.

Klute is owned by Ultimate Leisure Group plc, who have developed a powerful grip on Durham nightlife by adding DH1 and Studio to their portfolio of night entertainment options. They now own all the nightclubs in Durham. Klute's manager, former Royal Navy; Stoker Andy Readman, is well known for his pleasant doormanship and stern attitude on the very rare occasion that trouble ensues. Barstaff wear highly sought-after purple rugby shirts and are reknowned for their good looks and fantastic banter.

Over the years, Klute has been known to attract celebrity faces such as English Cricket Team internationals Kevin Pietersen and Darren Gough. Charlie Simpson of Busted and Fightstar fame has also been seen "cutting some shapes" on the hallowed dancefloor. Ewan Blair, son of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom visited in 2003 and enjoyed a 'Sex on the Beach' fishbowl in the VIP.

In 1996, Klute was voted Europe's 2nd Worst Nightclub by FHM. The worst, located in Belgrade, was unfortunately destroyed in a fire shortly after - Klute has now assumed the title.