London plays host to some of the best LGBTQ+ club nights in the world, with a selection of safe and inclusive spaces offering live music and performances every night of the week. If you’re on the hunt for a great night out, here are 10 LGBTQ+ venues in London to keep on your radar.
Heaven
What? A cornerstone of London’s LGBTQ+ scene, Heaven first opened its doors to clubbers and party lovers in 1979, offering an energetic escape from Thatcher’s Britain. Bold, brave and unashamedly hedonistic, Heaven was the city’s answer to New York clubs such as Studio 54 and the Limelight. Today, the venue hosts a diverse selection of club nights, gigs and live shows, proudly toting its status as central London’s only 1,000-capacity venue.
Where? Under The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG
When? The legendary space opens its doors to clubbers from 11:00 pm until 5:00 am, Thursday to Monday.
Royal Vauxhall Tavern
What? A Victorian inn turned LGBTQ+ cabaret venue, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern sits at the centre of South London’s queer landscape. Open 7 nights a week, with a centre stage, high-end sound system and lighting setup, the space has time and time again proved itself to be more than just a venue. Winning numerous awards, including Best LGBTQ+ Cabaret Venue, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern is as intimate as it is exciting.
Where? 372 Kennington Ln, London SE11 5HY
When? The Royal Vauxhall is open 7 days a week, with full opening hours visible on their site.
Dalston Superstore
What? An East London favourite, Dalston Superstore is a bustling bar, club and cafe rolled into one. Known for its array of LGBTQ+ friendly events, the venue offers all manner of extravagant delights, including drag brunches, art exhibitions and club nights. With a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity, Dalston Superstore is a hotspot for both locals and visitors.
Where? 117 Kingsland High Street, London, E8 2PB
When? Open seven days a week, with events and club nights running until the early hours on weekends.
Eagle London
What? Eagle London is a historic LGBTQ+ venue situated in Vauxhall, with a longstanding rep for an inclusive atmosphere and vibrant parties. Boasting a range of themed events, including the legendary Horse Meat Disco, you’re never far from a night of surprise and excitement at Eagle. With no shortage of disco balls or cocktails, Eagle London provides a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate.
Where? 349 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 5QY
When? Open Wednesday to Sunday, with events and club nights that keep the energy high well into the night.
Village Soho
What? Eternally youthful and gloriously flamboyant (in their own words), Village Soho is another of London’s original LGBTQ+ spaces, celebrated for its lively atmosphere and diverse crowd. Since opening in 1991, the venue has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of live music, DJ sets, and themed nights.
Where? 81 Wardour Street, London, W1D 6QD
When? Village Soho is open every day, with extended hours from Thursday to Saturday for late-night festivities.
SHE Soho
What? It would feel wrong to discuss London’s LGBTQ+ scene without mentioning the city’s only dedicated lesbian bar; SHE Soho exists as a safe and welcoming space for queer women, non-binary individuals and friends. Known for its Wednesday drag karaoke, Thursday hip hop R&B dance hall, and occasional Monday pub quizzes, there’s no shortage of entertainment in this stylish subterranean bar.
Where? 23a Old Compton Street, London, W1D 5JL
When? Open daily, with various events throughout the week to suit every taste.
Two Brewers
What? Mention Two Brewers to any seasoned clubgoer, and they’ll tell you stories of lively drag cabaret shows, themed parties and night-long celebrations. Sat slap bang in the centre of Clapham, this is one of London’s most iconic LGBTQ+ venues, earning the space a number of awards, including the title of “Best LGBTQ+ Pub” in Britain.
Where? 114 Clapham High Street, London, SW4 7UJ
When? Open weekdays from 5, with extended hours on weekends for early starts and late-night celebrations.
Freedom Bar Soho
What? Sleek, stylish and sophisticated, Freedom Bar is a staple of any Soho night out. A big name in London’s LGBTQ+ scene for over two decades, Freedom is loved for its theatrical ambience and luxurious decor, offering a mix of live cabaret, burlesque shows, and world-class DJ sets. Whether you’re looking for an intimate night out with friends or a high-energy party experience, Freedom Bar attracts a lively and diverse crowd, including many West End performers.
Where? 60-66 Wardour Street, London, W1F 0TA
When? Open Monday to Saturday from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club
What: As far as venues go, Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club is an East End icon. Celebrated for its old-school aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere, the space’s wood-panelled walls and checkerboard floors set the scene for drag nights, burlesque shows, karaoke, comedy, and DJ sets.
Where? 42-46 Pollard Row, London, E2 6NB
When? Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club is open Wednesday to Saturday, with hours varying depending on the event.
Circa Embankment
What? Last but by no means least is Circa Embankment. Nestled in the historic Hungerford House, this is the go-to spot for an unforgettable night out in Central London. Whether you’re into house, R&B classics, live DJ sets or simply fancy a cocktail, an endearing amalgamation of industrial chic and original Grade II listed arches create a stunning backdrop for high-energy club nights and memory-making.
Where? Hungerford House, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 6PA
When? Open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
Looking to take your first steps into the world of music? Why not study at our new campus in the heart of London? Whether you’re looking to take your first steps into professional composition, performance or production, discover why so many choose to begin their journeys at ACM today.
