Best Gay Bars and Clubs in London for the under 30’s

London has long been established as a cultural Mecca for the LGBT crowd. Down almost any street you’re likely to come across gay bars or pubs. Which is fine and brilliant, but what if you’re navigating the London waters for the first time? Or you want to try something new? There are so many options that it can make your head spin, plus, placing your trust in an unknown venue is a hell of a risk to take on a precious Friday night.

Gay Bars London

Or maybe you’re looking for something for the younger crowd? Something with a more edgy feel to it. It could be any, all or a combination of those reasons. So, to make things easier for you, here’s a quick list of London’s top gay spots for the under 30s. First off, the quieter set:

1. If you fancy a bit of culture, a bit of history before you party later on, then the Royal Vauxhall Tavern in 372, Kennington Lane, Vauxhall and Oval is the place to go. It’s been a pub since the Victorian era and a focal gay point since WW2. It’s particularly well known as a drag venue, and, in fact, this was where Lily Savage kicked off her famous career.
2. If you’re specifically after an evening of drag cabaret, then the Old Ship on 17, Barnes Street, Limehouse, should be your port of call.
3. The Glory. For those looking for something a little more edgy, this is the perfect venue. It has a dual feel with a downstairs club and ground floor bar, meaning that you can have a cosy chat before you head downstairs for some crazy dancing! You can find this place on 281, Kingsland Road, Greater London.
4. The Retro Bar in 2, George Court, Charing Cross, is a little bit tucked away for a more sedate experience. It has great music in the background, making it a perfect place to catch up with old friends and family.

BUT, if you’re planning a bigger night of going out and staying out, then you should check out these hyper-cool LGBT venues:

5. The Dalston Superstore. Calm by day and crazy by night. They serve burgers and brunch during the day to get you all fuelled up for the night. Then you can have a warm-up drink in the upstairs bar before heading down to the real club action in the basement. There are regular events for the whole LGBT scene and you’ll find a real mix of characters there, meaning that you’ll slot right in, whatever your personality type. The address for this place is 17 Kingsland Rd (at Crossway), Dalston, Greater London.
6. Are you after something a bit different? Then head to Vogue Fabrics (or VFD as it’s also known). The entertainment ranges from spoken word events right through to traditional drag. However, featuring event titles such as Cuntmafia and Sassitude, this is not the venue for the faint-hearted or easily offended.
7. Lastly, the East Bloc club near Old Street is an underground funky garage club with plenty of rooms to roam in, giving it a grotto-like feel.