The Ultimate Guide to LGBT London
Read on to discover the best of LGBT London
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Soho has long been the UK capital's centre of gay culture and is likely the area that comes to mind when thinking of LGBT London. But the West End is far from the only place to go to enjoy London's LGBTQ+ culture. Take a look at Plum Guide's top tips on the best nights out, art exhibitions, live music and more.
The best of East London
Dalston Superstore
During the nighttime hours, the Superstore's floors are packed. During the day, it turns surprisingly easily into a relaxed daytime spot where you can get comfort food and coffee. Apart from at the weekends that is... Drag Brunch takes place here every Saturday and Sunday from 12-5pm – where the 'maddest and messiest alt-cabaret stars' gather for quizzes, games and more. When it comes to enjoying the best of LGBT London, this is certainly not one to be missed.
The Glory
Defined as 'London's leading queer venue', this East End party pub boasts a cabaret lounge, downstairs nightclub and plenty of fun. The Glory reinvigorated London's gay scene and remains one of the biggest names in LGBT London.
Queen of Hoxton
Rooftop films, Drag & Waffle bottomless brunch and plenty of fabulous entertainment is what the Queen of Hoxton is known for. Situated in the heart of Shoreditch, this is a popular destination for London's party-goers. Think bold neon signs, experimental cocktails and some of the city's best DJs. Stay nearby in one of our standout homes in East London like this RIBA-shortlisted space.
The Debut, Plum Guide home in London
Looking for the lowdown on East London in the daytime? Check out our guide to things to do in Hackney. Or perhaps our list of the best things to do in Camden instead.
Soho & The West End
SHE Soho
SHE is now London's only exclusively female hangout. After recent refurbishments, this small basement bar looks like a lavish cocktail bar and attract women of all ages.
Village
With three separate-themed floors (boudoir, café-bar, and disco), Village has been a firm fixture in LGBT London for 30 years.
Gay's The Word
The only exclusively LGBT bookshop in the entirety of England, a visit to this store is a must. It stands as the UK'S oldest LGBT bookshop, founded by a group of gay socialists back in 1979 as community centre. The bookshop runs events such as 'Lesbian Discussion Group' and 'Trans London'.
Heaven
Last but certainly not least is Heaven. When this renowned nightclub opened its doors back in 1979, it quickly became the centrepoint for London's gay scene and, since then, its remained somewhat of an LGBT London institution. Stay nearby in one of Plum's Covent Garden homes like New Row Studio II.
New Row Studio II, Plum Guide home in London
Vauxhall
The Royal Vauxhall Tavern
LGBTQ stalwart Vauxhall is the queen of Voho. Providing a welcoming and unique atmosphere to all who enter through its doors, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern provides reasonably priced drinks and diverse entertainment. Everyone in the LGBT community has heard of The Royal Vauxhall Tavern: one of London's oldest, still-running cabaret venues, it has been a staple for drag queens and entertainment for generations.
Eagle
Vincent, Plum Guide home in London
A fully refurbished bar in the heart of Vauxhall, the Eagle is an iconic LGBT London venue known for its vinyl discos, beer garden, and live music. Stay nearby in one of our stylish homes like Vincent in Vauxhall, or perhaps this stylish and spacious Clapham home not too far away.
Fitzclapham, Plum Guide home in London
And if you want to stay in easy reach of Vauxhall but would rather be north of the river? Consider staying around Stamford Bridge instead.
