LGBTQIA+ Bars And Clubs In London

Under the arches of Charring Cross station, Heaven was once the UK's equivalent to New York's famous Studio 54. While Studio 54 didn't last, Heaven is still going strong as one of London's biggest and best gay clubs. 

Every Monday, there's even more reason to stop by. The National Student Pride's POPCORN serves up live hoopers, gogo dancers, aerialists and drag hosts, plus three for £10 on all bottles.

Looking for a queer event that lasts until 4am? Then check out Handsome House Party, taking place at Eagle London in Vauxhall on every second Saturday of the month. This inclusive party is all about house music, with a focus on American 90s hits from DJs Martyn Fitzgerald and CJ Cooper. You can nab tickets for just £8 per person, including a free shot and happy hour drinks prices if you arrive before 10pm.

Duke of Wellington is hands down one of the best gay pubs in London, thanks to its buzzing atmosphere and fun events - think drag bingo and quiz nights. Head here for a few pints of beer, or stay late and dance to live DJs until the early hours.

One for the real party animals, Metropolis is one of East London's biggest and best LGBTQ+ clubs. A short stumble from Bethnal Green's bars and pubs, you're in for a treat at this fun palace as they lay on excellent DJs, cabaret nights, hot tubs, beach rooms and a basement bar complete with stripper poles.

For nostalgic vibes and an inclusive atmosphere, head to Retro Bra in the West End. The welcoming gay bar host a live music and DJs throughout the week, throwing it back with 70s and 80s tunes among more modern hits.

Expect quirky, mismatching decorations and lots of fairy lights, with plenty of seating space if you fancy a more relaxed drink. Plus, there's even an antique jukebox to take advantage of.

Dubbed East London's mothership of drag, Dalston Superstore opens on Saturdays and Sundays on Kingsland High Street - perfect for your drag brunch needs. Between 12 and 5pm, there are plenty of pop-up performances in store to provide the entertainment alongside your American diner-style meal and cocktails galore. 

On the roster? The filthiest, funniest drag queens and kings, with the likes of Sharon Le Grand, Yshee Black, A Man to Pet and more having taken to the stage here before.

The Kings Arms on Oxford Street prides itself on its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making it well known as a LGBT-friendly pub. This establishment hosts DJs from 8.30pm every night, alongside karaoke Saturdays, so you know that you can rely on the tunes here.

Dating back to 1986, Compton's is a vibrant gay bar that's been a huge part of London's LGBTQ+ community over the years. From their Thursday pub quizzes to lively nights out on the weekend, you can always expect a buzzing atmosphere here.

The Soho destination has a great drinks menu to choose from, as well as a range of tasty British dishes like fish and chips or bangers and mash.

Dalston Superstore's weird and wonderful little sister, The Karaoke Hole is your go-to if you're looking for a night out that doesn't take itself too seriously. With some of the city's most outrageous drag stars on hand to keep that energy high, it's the ultimate place to neck some cocktails and sing your heart out.

A gay bar in Soho that should need no introduction, Village has been part of the area's queer heart since the early 90s. A cocktail bar and club complete with go-go dancers and the cheesiest tunes in town, Village also know how to take it easy with a relaxed outdoor area perfect for a few cocktails in the sun.

One of the best lesbian bars in London, this Old Compton Street bar and club is the ultimate night out for queer girls. Sleek and chic in design, She plays host to some of the best selectors on the scene, alongside regular karaoke sessions and jukebox nights for when you just need the DJ to play your tune.

A sparkling nightlife spot right by the river, Embankment's Circa is quickly becoming one of London's best gay clubs. Open until 4am every Friday and Saturday nights, it's got the kind of sleek style perfect for a celebratory night out, and some of the best DJs in town.

Arguably the most famous gay club in London, Heaven has got something for everyone. Its stage has played host to some real big hitters, from Kylie Minogue to the great and good of Ru Paul's Drag Race, and even the odd spot from Gemma Collins herself, but make sure you get down in good time because its queue is a fearful thing.