You can download the Gay London guide for free. Just provide your email address and we’ll email you a PDF.

Download the Guide

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in London
4. Sightseeing & Activities in London
5. Gay Tours in London
6. Restaurants and Cafes in London
7. London Gay Bars and Clubs
9. London Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
10. London Gay Events
11. Day Trips from London

General Tips

London is huge and very spread out, meaning that although it is possible to get around on foot, some of the main attractions and cool neighborhoods are miles apart from each other. Therefore, some planning before heading out is always a great idea, as even in the center it's quite easy to get lost. Most residents use the underground—better known as “the tube”—or buses everywhere, and there's no reason you shouldn't too. Get yourself a travel card for the duration of your stay and enjoy hopping around on the city's transport. The underground can be a little confusing, so be sure to pick up a map of the underground to help navigate it.

Despite its size, London is also a really busy city, especially in the city center. You simply have to accept the fact that you will almost always be in someone's way—or them in yours. This is all part of London city life—not unlike New York—although make sure you stand on the right of the escalators in the underground if you don't fancy being tutted to death. Also, get used to the fine English art of queueing for literally everything, from the bus to the toilet!

Infamously known for its wet, cold, and dreary weather, spring (March through May) and summer (June through September) are the best times to visit, and you might be lucky enough to see the sun peek through the clouds. However, hotel prices and airfare will reflect this prime tourist season. December in London is also quite popular as locals and tourists alike visit for the magical holiday decor that decks the streets. Year-round it’s wise to pack an umbrella, as grey, misty days are likely regardless of the season.

No matter what time of year, though, London remains an international hub of culture, cuisine, and social activities. The city is also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in the world, and there isn't just one gay area, but many. The most famous being Soho right in the center, but further out you'll also find Vauxhall (for more of a We Party vibe), Shoreditch/East London (where all the cool hipster gays and queers hang out), and Camden (not specifically gay but alternative with one or two gay bars of its own). Many of our recommendations below are in and around these iconic gay areas of London.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

When traveling to London by plane, there are several airports to choose from, six in fact, and we're covering the three most popular. Heathrow is the most famous and the main hub for international flights. Just 14 miles (23 km) west of central London, it’s the easiest to travel into town and is served by the Piccadilly Line of the underground with stops at all five terminals. Trains run every few minutes and the journey from zone 1 takes about 45 minutes. Although expensive, the Heathrow Express is a train that takes you directly to Paddington Station in west London. Alternatively, National Express is a coach bus starting at Victoria coach station. Beware of London traffic that can make the trip take over an hour. A black cab or Uber is comfortable but pricey and it can also take up to an hour due to traffic. You can also book a private transfer in advance. Book private Heathrow airport transfer →

Gatwick is 25 miles (40 km) from the city center and consists of a north and south terminal. The distance from the city center can make it an expensive and time-consuming journey if you don’t book your transfer in advance. Gatwick Express, Southern, and Thameslink trains all service Gatwick’s station. However, be sure that your ticket matches the train line as it’s easy to get on the wrong one and face penalties. Gatwick also has its own taxi service to central London that takes about 90 minutes and is a bit pricier than public transit. A much more affordable option is easyBus as well as National Express coach buses to take you into town. Book private Gatwick airport transfer →

Very popular with budget flights and those to and from Europe, Stansted sits about 30 miles (48 km) equidistant between Cambridge and London in the countryside. Jump aboard the Stansted Express train for a 45-minute journey to London’s Liverpool Street as well as Totten Hale for connections to the underground and city center. The National Express coach buses are inexpensive and make trips to Stansted 24 hours a day and, depending on traffic, it can take anywhere between 50 minutes and almost two hours. For a taxi, pre-book for the best value as a black cab is very expensive. Book private Stansted airport transfer →

As for moving around the city once there, London has a very reliable – albeit busy – transport system with bus stops and underground stations always within easy reach. The Oyster Card is the city travel card which can be used on all transport and it's a good idea to purchase one upon arrival in the city and “top it up” with either money or a travel card for the duration of your stay – easily done in corner shops and underground stations. Alternatively, you can buy a paper travel card, which is valid for a day, 7 days or even a whole month – but pay attention to which zones they're valid within. Also, you can simply use any bank card to tap into the underground and ride buses across the city – just be sure to remember to tap out on the underground or you'll be charged a maximum fare.

Gay Hotels in London

There is currently no official gay hotels in London, but there are plenty of gay-friendly options.

Luxury

The LaLit London – right in the heart of London, The LaLit London is just a 5-minute walk from Tower Bridge, a 13-minute walk from Borough Market, and the Tower of London is 1,650 feet away. Luxurious rooms feature free high-speed WiFi, complimentary minibar, a flat-screen TV, comfy beds, and a private bathroom with bathrobes and slippers.

The Piccadilly London West End – 5-star hotel just 1,000 feet from Leicester Square and a 5-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus. The property has a fitness center and modern boutique bedrooms with free WiFi, mood lighting, and a luxury bathroom with free toiletries and fluffy bathrobes.

Haymarket Hotel – located in London’s theater district, this elegant hotel is just next door to the Theatre Royal and steps away from restaurants and bars. The hotel offers afternoon tea as well as a swimming pool, gym, and spa. Rooms have a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, and fully stocked minibar.

Mid-Range

Z Hotel City – in central London just a short walk from Chancery Lane and Temple tube station, this boutique property has compact, stylish, and cozy rooms with hand crafted beds and under-bed storage, a 40-inch Samsung HD TV, free WiFi and an en-suite shower room. Wheelchair accessible rooms are also available.

Park Plaza London Riverbank – on the south side of the River Thames and across from the Tate Britain gallery close to Westminster, the hotel features a fitness center, indoor pool, sauna and steam room. Every room has EU/US power sockets, a large work desk, laptop safe, and a minibar. Request a room with a river or skyline view.

Budget

Point A London Westminster – hotel in central London just a short walk away from the London Eye and Houses of Parliament. Every room is compact and well designed, featuring a comfortable Hynosis bed, en-suite bathrooms, free high-speed WiFi, USB charging point, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, and a safe.

Point A Hotel Kings Cross St Pancras – a 5-minute walk from King’s Cross train station and a mile from British Museum, the hotel offers free WiFi and compact, well designed rooms, featuring a comfortable bed, en-suite bathrooms, free high-speed WiFi, USB charging point, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, and a safe.

Stylotel – a 5-minute walk from Hyde Park, Stylotel is a state-of-the-art property set between two 19th-century townhouses, with ultra-modern, contemporary rooms. Each stylish room features satellite TV, a work area, and luxury private bathrooms including a walk-in shower and hair dryers.

Search Apartments on misterb&b

Sightseeing & Activities in London

Buckingham Palace – located in the heart of London, is the official residence of the British monarch and London's most visited tourist attraction. It is every bit as impressive in person as it is in pictures and simply walking up to its grand gates along the tree-lined avenue from Trafalgar Square is the quintessential London experience. The palace also has the mammoth Victoria Memorial in front of it and is surrounded by beautiful parks: St. James's Park, known for its picturesque lake and gardens; Green Park, a tranquil green space perfect for relaxing; and Hyde Park, one of London's largest parks, offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at 10:45am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, which lasts for 45 minutes – arrive around ten to get a good spot. As for going inside the palace itself, during the summer the Palace State Rooms open to the public through guided tours, where you can see royal collections, artworks and exquisite decor. Finally, Royal Mews – the palace stables – are open to visitors all year round, showcasing the carriages, horses, and historic vehicles used in royal ceremonies and state occasions. Book tour →

The National Gallery – located in Trafalgar Square in Central London, this is the nation’s art museum housing a captivating collection of over 2,300 paintings ranging from the mid-13th century to 1900. A Gallery entry ticket is free but must be booked in advance. Also, be sure to explore Trafalgar Square itself and see Nelson's Column, a towering tribute to Admiral Horatio Nelson, surrounded by four majestic lion statues. 

Tower of London – historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in Central London and home to the Crown Jewels, legendary Yeoman Warders, and the famous ravens. LGBTQ+ royal histories can be found throughout including Edward II, James VI, and I and Queen Anne. Book tour →

The Palace of Westminster – this iconic Gothic Revival building houses the UK Parliament. One of its most notable features is the Elizabeth Tower, better known as Big Ben, the famous giant clock. The best pictures can be taken from the Westminster Bridge behind it – just be mindful of the many people crossing at any time. Tours take place inside both the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, but require booking online well in advance. Book tour →

St. Paul's Cathedral – a magnificent Baroque-style cathedral known for its impressive dome, one of the largest in the world. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it offers breathtaking views from its Whispering Gallery. St. Paul's is also famously the site of the beloved – especially by the gays – Princess Diana's wedding to Prince Charles in 1981. Visitors can explore its beautiful interiors, crypt, and climb to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views of London.

Tate Modern – a renowned contemporary art museum housed in the former Bankside Power Station across the funky futuristic looking Millennium Bridge on the Thames. The museum showcases international modern and contemporary art, featuring works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The museum's striking industrial architecture and dynamic exhibitions make it a cultural landmark. You can also walk – or take a boat – down to the Thames to its sister museum the Tate Britain, a prestigious art museum known for its collection of British art from 1500 to the present day.

British Museum – in the Bloomsbury area of London, this window into the world was the first national museum to cover all fields of human knowledge. The collections span 2 million years of human history and culture as you view art and artifacts from around the globe. Entry to its over eight million works is free. Book tour →

London Eye – aka the Millennium Wheel, is one of the world’s largest observation wheels located on the South bank of the River Thames near the Waterloo tube station. Each capsule holds 25 passengers who enjoy epic views of the city below. The South Bank is also a wonderful place to walk around to enjoy the street performers, city vibes and many authentic English pubs in the area. Buy tickets →

Somerset House – considered London’s working arts center, Somerset House is a historic site that’s home to the UK’s largest and most vibrant creative community. View exhibits from fresh perspectives that support emerging artists and sheds light on current events while backing progress and championing openness.

Queer Britain – located in Kings Cross, this is the first LGBTQ+ museum in the UK where people can learn about British queer history. It has four gallery spaces, a gift shop, and there are plans for education and workshop spaces. Admission is free. 

Borough Market – A mecca for foodies, this covered market dates back to the 13th century making it the oldest in London. You’ll find a wide variety of delicious, affordable bites and small gifts to take home. It’s located in Southwark near the London Bridge tube station

Camden Town – a short underground trip to northwest London, can take you to this distinctive neighborhood famous for its alternative culture. Camden's streets are alive with music, street art, and an energy that attracts both locals and tourists alike – not to mention it was Amy Winehouse's drinking zone of choice! You'll find goths and punks everywhere, a host of rock pubs, cosmopolitan restaurants, shops selling alternative clothing and street markets selling anything you could possibly imagine .At the heart of the chaos is the iconic Camden Market, a bustling hub of independent shops, food stalls, and vintage treasures. A notable shop worth visiting is Cyberdog – an immersive futuristic store known for its rave-inspired fashion, neon lighting, techno music and space-age vibes. Book tour →

Hampstead Heath – a sprawling 790-acre park in North London, which most tourists don't know about, but Londoners adore. Many celebrities have mansions surrounding the park and it's especially renowned for the expansive view from Parliament Hill, where visitors can enjoy panoramic scenes of London’s skyline, including landmarks like The Shard and St. Paul's Cathedral. The Heath offers miles of lush woodlands to explore and ponds for swimming – one of which being a men-only pond with a clothing-optional area. In front of the pond is a popular gay hangout area during the summer, as is the huge and infamous cruising area on the other side of the heath – in the summer there seem to be more men there than trees! There are many access points to the heath, but the easiest is Hampstead Underground Station on the Northern Line and then a short walk.

O2 Arena – located in Greenwich, London, this premier entertainment complex is one of the largest in the world. Originally built as the Millennium Dome, it now hosts concerts, sports events, and exhibitions. However, the bold can visit any day to take part in ‘Up at The O2'—a guided climb over the roof of the arena for panoramic views of London from the summit.

Abba Voyage – thought seeing ABBA play live was impossible? Think again! Well, kind of: this groundbreaking concert experience features uncanny virtual avatars of the iconic Swedish pop group ABBA, known as “ABBAtars.” Launched in 2022, the show combines state-of-the-art digital technology with a live 10-piece band to recreate ABBA's legendary performances. The concert includes a setlist of their greatest hits—yes, including “Dancing Queen”—and newer tracks from their 2021 album, also titled “Voyage.” Housed in a custom-built venue located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (also worth exploring while you’re there), the innovative show celebrates ABBA's enduring legacy while pushing the boundaries of live entertainment.

Eating London Food Tours – this tour offers a historical encounter of the East End of London that tied in perfectly with the foodie stops. The short bursts of information-packed walks between the establishments are long enough to keep you intrigued but short enough to keep your attention. Each establishment is given its time to shine simply by sampling its featured dishes. Book tour →

Gay Tours in London

Explore Soho’s LGBTQ nightlife – this 3-hour private walking tour of the heart and soul of London's colorful LGBTQ+ scene can be personalized to your likes and interests and includes 2 drinks per person.  Itineraries can include Old Compton Street, Prince Edward Theater, Soho Square Gardens, and Fashion Space Gallery. Book tour →

LGBTQ London Private Tour – tour the vibrant Soho area of London with a local guide on this private 3-hour walking tour. Visit the best pubs, bars, and cocktail bars and learn about the history of London’s LGBTQ+ community as you pass by the Soho area, Piccadilly Circus, and Leicester Square. Book tour →

Cabaret Show in Magical Soho – step beyond the art-deco doors of the Phoenix Arts Club and experience a night of incredible entertainment. Acts change up weekly and you can expect stars from London’s cabaret scene performing burlesque, comedy, variety, drag, and more. Shows are about 2 hours and drinks are included. Book show →

Restaurants and Cafes in London

Balans Soho Society  – serving up Bohemian, sophisticated, and slightly eccentric bites like the infamous Balans burger and cheeky cocktails like the Porn Star and Burlesque-teez, make your way to this quintessential Soho experience for a relaxed and sociable breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. They now have two restaurants in Soho – Balans 60 and Balans 34 respectively – both with the same menu and that quirky quintessentially soho atmosphere.

Caffè Nero – found on the corner of Old Compton Street and Frith Street, this Italian coffee house chain is the place to go for small bites and a casual atmosphere. It's also an incredibly popular meeting spot for LGBTQ+ folks as it’s located in the heart of Soho. Enjoy excellent people watching or strike up a conversation with a fellow patron.

Bistrotheque – converted warehouse turned elegant dining establishment, Bistrotheque serves upscale European and British cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Perfect for a fancy night out or special occasion with a superb atmosphere including a live piano and modern decor.

Mildreds – with four London locations, this vegan and vegetarian restaurant offers small and large plates that are internationally inspired full of color and flavor in a quaint cafe setting. Some popular menu items are the mock chicken, veggie burgers, and delightful cocktails.

Randall & Aubin – Anglo/French Brasserie specializing in fresh seafood and succulent roasts served alongside a carefully curated wine list in the heart of Soho. Enjoy a relaxed, fun, and approachable luxurious meal underneath the golden chandeliers and a sparkling disco ball.

London Stock – this exquisite little restaurant near Oxford Circus serves European cuisine, sourced from British ingredients with innovative cooking techniques. Choose between a tasting menu and a three or four course meal, including such delicacies as glazed rabbit leg, lobster and chalk stream trout in buttermilk.

London Gay Bars and Clubs

Comptons of Soho – serving London’s gay community for decades, this gay bar has a traditional-style wood-paneled pub on the ground floor with a more chill lounge vibe upstairs. Attracting a more mature crowd, it's perfect for a weekday pint with a friend or a place to party on the weekend.

G-A-Y Bar – popular bar with affordable drinks in the heart of Soho attracting a fun-loving, young LGBTQ crowd. With 3 floors, the top level has a small terrace and is most popular on weekdays while the lower level is a bit more chic. Peak times are on the weekends.

The Yard – opposite the Rupert Street bar, this stylish London gay bar is popular for its garden courtyard and loft style upstairs that boasts exposed brick and wooden beams with shirtless cuties behind the bar. Here you’ll find a mature LGBTQ+ crowd and a tasty happy hour Monday to Thursday from 1-7 PM.

Ku Bar Soho – on the corner of Lisle Street and Newport Place, this “Award Winning Gay Bar” consists of three levels with a low-lit gay club downstairs. Stop by for the champagne bar, nightly DJs, friendly atmosphere, and a very attractive staff of (often shirtless) young men.

Bar Soho – not necessarily a gay bar, but legendary nonetheless, Bar Soho attracts a mixed clientele to its quirky and whimsical wonderland including a carousel horse, bathtubs as seats, and a drawing room fit for Oscar Wilde. Happy hour runs daily from 5-8 PM and the party vibe sets in later in the evening.

Heaven – it turns out Heaven is indeed a place on Earth and located under the arches of Charing Cross train station, Heaven is one of the world’s most famous gay mega clubs and has been around for decades. There are several different spaces with different music to suit your taste. It hosts the popular G-A-Y party and some of the biggest names in music have graced its stage.

Royal Vauxhall Tavern – from Victorian music hall to gay venue, Royal Vauxhall Tavern is an iconic London LGBTQ+ venue, which hosts everything from drag queen nights to themed club nights like the bear night Beefmince.

CIRCA The Club – less than a 10-minute walk from Heaven and near the Embankment tube station, this  gay night club is home to sophistication and sass and boasts an industrial yet modern feel. You’ll find resident DJs spinning for the large dancefloor with plenty of house and R&B classics on Friday and Saturday nights.

Eagle London – one of the most iconic gay clubs in London, Eagle London is a large and stylish space with a dance floor and garden (for smokers). On weeknights, it’s a late-night bar and the weekend club nights like Sunday night’s Horse Meat Disco attracts a mixed crowd dedicated to human happiness.

WE Party UK – typically held on the first Saturday of each month, this is one of the UK’s biggest and best dance parties featuring world-class DJs, amazing light shows and visuals, and gorgeous sexy dancers.

Dalston Superstore – welcome to your queer paradise. Dalston Superstore is an eclectic LGBTQ+ venue, cafe, gallery, and performance space with a full bar and weekend drag brunch and DJs. The menu features vegan plates, draught beers and ciders, and classic cocktails.

Club Kali – monthly club event since 1995 where DJs spin a mix of Bollywood, Bhangra, and Arabic tunes with Western pop songs. Here you’ll find dancing, drag shows, live performances, and a lively mixed crowd. Often at Kolis in Camden Town, the location varies so check their website for details.

Fold – a queer friendly techno club in North-East London with the best DJs and Berghain vibes. Sundays are ‘Unfold' the most popular night for techno loving LGBTQ+ folk.

Roast – this “beefy men” gay club is held twice a month on Saturdays in a venue hidden behind Angel metro station – a warehouse which once housed the legendary Slimelight goth club. The venue is massive with three floors packed full of sweaty men either hitting the EDM dancefloors or the intense darkroom on the top floor.

London Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Sweatbox Sauna – 24-hour gay sauna and gym attracting locals, tourists, and the late-night crowd after Soho bars have closed. It features a full gym, 40-man steam room, 14-man jacuzzi, steam maze, dark rooms, private cabins, lounge, and massage services. 24-hour and 48-hour passes are available for purchase.

Pleasuredrom – open 24/7, this sauna for gay and bi men has been running since 1996. Located near Waterloo Station, the facility offers a four-hundred locker changing room, London’s largest gay spa pool, two steam rooms, two saunas, private rooms, lounge, cafe, and bar with drinks and snacks sold 24/7.

Covent Garden Health Spa – In the heart of the Covent Garden you'll find The Covent Garden Health Spa, a smaller gay sauna in London previously known as Saunabar and The Stable. It doesn't have many cabins and the dry sauna is small, but they do have a wet sauna and a stunning swimming pool. The bar area is very pleasant and they serve nice cocktails.

The Locker Room – since Chariot's closed its doors, this is now the longest running sauna in London. Located in Kennington, there you can enjoy our 20-man sauna, large steam room, stylish lounge, erotic cinema and dark rooms.

Sailors – a small but popular sauna found in the East End of London. Open every day 12-10pm. There´s steam and sauna rooms, private cabins, chill out lounges, a rooftop terrace with garden and a massive twenty-man jacuzzi to fill.

MA1: The Bunker – below the streets of the trendy Shoreditch area is this huge cruising/fetish club. They have several areas including a video room, cabins, a maze, a dancefloor, fetish areas and a fully licensed bar.

Vault 139 – open at 1 PM Monday through Sunday, this lower-level gay night club and bar is just around the corner from Warren Street Station. A strict dress code is enforced (i.e. underwear only, no clothes, etc) and themed fetish nights. Entrance includes coat check, a drink, re-entry, and Wi-Fi.

HardOn – a popular gay cruise and fetish party held monthly at Union Club in Vauxhall, London. This raunchy event has a EDM/techno dance floor, dark rooms, fetish areas, live sex shows, and a strict dress code of rubber, leather, or uniforms.

London Gay Events

London Gay Pride– attracting over a million visitors near the end of June annually, this is the UK’s biggest and most diverse pride celebration with over 60 different events, parties, workshops, and cultural gatherings over a week’s time. With celebrations all over the city, the most famous is the parade that travels throughout London, including Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square.

UK Black Pride – Europe’s largest celebration for African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin-American, and Caribbean-heritage LGBTQ people during Pride Month. Additionally, a variety of activities are hosted throughout the year featuring education, the arts, cultural events, and advocacy.

Fetish Week London – biggest leather and fetish festival in London including various events at different venues like an opening social and bondage master class. The week culminates with the Full Fetish event at Coronet featuring a large dance floor and international DJs as well as themed cruising areas.

Day Trips from London

Brighton & Brighton Beach – an hour and a half car ride, or less than 60 minutes by train, the seaside resort town of Brighton is just 47 miles (75 km) south of London. It’s best known for Brighton Beach and you can even get a birds-eye-view of the coast by visiting the British Airways i360, where a futuristic glass pod takes you up 450 ft (138m) to enjoy the views. You’ll also find the oriental-style architecture of the Royal Pavilion, the amusement park rides and concessions of Brighton Palace Pier, and can soak in some history and culture at the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery.

Bath, Windsor Castle & Stonehenge – a day-long tour can be arranged to visit all three of these iconic sights starting at Windsor Castle, home of the British Royal family, to tour the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel. Then you’ll head west of London to Salisbury to explore the mysterious Stonehenge rock formation. At last, make your way to Bath to take in its iconic Georgian architecture and Roman baths. We recommend booking a tour that will include a guide and cover transport and entry fees. Book tour →

Oxford – just over an hour by train or car, Oxford is located about 50 miles (80km) northwest of London. Known around the world for its prestigious university, this medieval city has been coined the “city of dreaming spires.” Enjoy stunning city views from the top of Carfax Tower before making your way to the Covered Market to pick up provisions for a picnic in Headington Hill Park. Afterward, visit the 12th-century village church and check out Cowley’s trendy shops and music venues. Book tour →

The Cotswolds  – a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty, the Cotswolds are about 2 hours by car and well worth the trip to the rural rolling hills. This picturesque region is best known for its stone-built villages, lush green landscape, and old-world charm. Take time to slow down and discover the small towns and villages like Burford, Bibury, and Stow-in-the-Wold. You’ll feel as if you’re strolling through a painting of the English countryside. Book tour →

Leeds Castle – situated in Kent, England about an hour’s drive (40 miles/65km) southeast of London, you can explore Leeds Castle, Henry VIII’s grand Tudor palace. The castle is uniquely positioned on islands in a lake formed by the River Len just east of the village of Leeds. In addition to tours of the castle, the site includes family attractions like mini-golf and a playground as well as 500 acres of beautiful gardens and a Bird of Prey Center among other wildlife. Book tour →

Featured image: ©VisitBritain/Melody Thornton

Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You're not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting this site if you choose to use our link!