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24 hours in… London
in Gay Life
If you’re travelling around Europe this summer, we’ve got some awesome mini travel guides for you. Here’s the first of our “24 hours in” series, which covers the best things to see and do if you’ve got some time to spare in the capital of the United Kingdom.
Get brunch at Balans, Clapham Common
One of the tastiest brunch menus in London, and probably the most gay-friendly restaurant you could walk into, is Balans.
Our favourite branch for brunch is in Clapham, right next to the big gay green space of Clapham Common – perfect for walking off what you’re about to eat… which, by the way, we’d highly recommend to be The High Society Eggs Benedict, made up of; poached eggs, lobster, avocado, bacon, English muffin and hollandaise. You’ll need the calories for all your London exploring!
Have a beer on Old Compton Street, Soho
It’s the afternoon now, so a ‘cheeky pint’ is perfectly acceptable. And where better than Old Compton Street in Soho, London’s first gay village, and still a vibrant and incredibly popular LGBTQ+ area. There are plenty of gay pubs and bars to choose from, depending on your taste in men. If you like your guys a bit older, check out Comptons. If you like otters or bears, The Duke Of Wellington just around the corner is great. If you’re a fan of twinks, G-A-Y Bar or Village will suit you just fine. You can always come back again in the evening!
Take in the sights (or try the water) at Hampstead Ponds
One of London’s biggest, greenest and wildest outdoor areas, Hampstead Heath is home to the Victorian-era swimming ponds. They’re still popular today and the London gays have pretty much taken them over (which is obviously a good thing). The Men’s Pond gets very crowded, with a diving board, plenty of space to swim and a big grassy bank where the hottest dudes in London will be sunbathing, chatting and drinking in their shorts, undies and swimwear. That’s if the sun is out of course!
Catch a drag show at The Glory, Haggerston
One of the most diverse and inclusive cabaret venues in the world, The Glory is east London’s most fabulous theatre pub and LGBTQ+ community hub. From lipsync competitions to drag kings and off-the-wall performance art, The Glory has it all. Whatever night of the week you chose, there’s bound to be something wild, queer and entertaining.
Dance the night away at XXL, Southwark
The biggest gay club in London is also perhaps unsurprisingly one of the best. XXL is Europe’s longest-running men-only nightclub, attracting bears, cubs, otters and their admirers. It’s a club whose motto “One size fits all”, leaves no room for attitude or judgemental looks. It’s lots of fun, whatever your body shape and whatever kind of guys you’re into. Arrive early (before midnight) for a hairy happy hour.