Gay London
Writer Samuel Johnson famously said “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” No truer statement has ever been proclaimed – and he wasn’t even describing the city’s gay scene when he said it.
London is more than a destination. It’s an experience. Steeped in over a millennium of history, it’s the city of King Edward II, Oscar Wilde, Virginia Woolf and Sir Ian McKellan. It’s catching the eye of a local as you cruise down Old Compton Street and holding his hand four hours later as you sit on a bench by the Thames.
A quick trip through Soho is a welcome introduction to this world-class metropolis. Old Compton Street pulses as the pink heart of this corner of London, acting as the meeting point of the gay community and a convenient navigational guide from which to explore the nearby landmarks of Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
The East End’s Hoxton Square –famous for its collection of extreme artists and happening hotspots - is a marvellous conglomeration of bars, clubs and galleries. Be sure not to miss Brick Lane’s delectable curry palaces or nearby Petticoat Lane and its weekend market of fab fashions and second-hand treasures.
Go west, young man, to Knightsbridge, Kensington, Sloane Square and Chelsea for the chicest of clothes, adorable antiques, Harvey Nichols and Harrods – a temple worshipping the art of conspicuous consumption.
Earl’s Court is a step further in the same direction and formerly home to the bulk of the city’s gay population. You can still spot a few pink establishments catering to the local queer community, including a branch of Balans restaurant, magazine and DVD emporium Clone Zone, local drinking spot Brompton’s and The Philbeach Hotel – London’s largest gay-only place to rest your head.
The verdict? Johnson got it wrong: The man who is tired by London, has just had an amazing holiday!
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