Navigating London's Vibrant Gay Scene: Bars, Saunas, and More

London is a welcoming city for LGBTQ+ travelers. Public displays of affection are generally accepted, and while homophobia can exist, UK law protects gay people from discrimination.

Soho: The Epicenter of Gay London

Soho remains the heart of gay London, even with recent gentrification.

The area, especially around Old Compton Street, is packed with gay bars and clubs. Remember that London is vast, so focus on specific areas each night to maximize your experience.

Gay Saunas: Relaxation and Socializing

London boasts a wide array of gay saunas, mostly concentrated in Soho, conveniently located near popular bars and clubs.

South of the river, Waterloo offers options like Pleasuredome, an industrial-themed sauna, and Chariots, which boasts the UK's largest sauna room and numerous dark rooms.

Chariots has a second location in Vauxhall, close to nightlife hotspots and is also the largest gay sauna in the UK.

Consider visiting smaller, local saunas on weeknights and reserving the bigger names for weekends and special events.

Staying Safe: Getting Tested

Getting tested for STIs in London is straightforward. Use the NHS tool to find clinics near your accommodation.

AIDSMap also offers a searchable database with service type filters.

Exploring London's Diverse Neighborhoods

• Soho: The original and most expensive heart of gay London, filled with unique restaurants, shops, and top-tier hotels.
• Shoreditch: A hipster haven with alternative shops, craft breweries, vibrant nightlife, and diverse street food.
• Hackney: A culturally diverse, up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of cool bars, cafes, restaurants (including some gay options), undergoing rapid gentrification.

Getting Around London

London's buses and Underground are generally easy to navigate, though connections can be tricky.

Avoid the Underground during rush hour for a more comfortable experience. London City Airport is closest to the center but primarily serves domestic flights; most international flights arrive at Heathrow or Gatwick.

From the airports, you can access the Underground.

An Oyster card is recommended for saving time and money on public transport. Check walking distances between stations, as it may be quicker than changing lines.

While the public transport system is comprehensive, taxis can be expensive. Cycling is an option with a vast network of cycle paths but is best for confident cyclists familiar with city traffic.

Car rental is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic.

Remember that UK roads operate on the left side of the road.

Must-Visit Gay Bars

• Rupert Street (Soho)
• Kings Arms (Soho)
• Comptons of Soho (Soho)
• Halfway To Heaven (Trafalgar Square / Embankment)
• Zodiac Bar & Club
• Eagle London