The epicenter of all things hipster, Shoreditch and Dalston have rapidly gentrified – closing many queer spaces in the process – but east London still remains the home of alternative gay London. The likes of Comptons of Soho, The King’s Arms and the Duke of Wellington attract a regular, bearded crowd, while G-A-Y Bar, Ku Bar, Village and Rupert Street boast a younger, more style-conscious clientele. While Soho has seen many gay-bar closures, the busiest and best gay pubs in London can still be found here. The action centers in and around Old Compton Street, a virtual catwalk for the queer community and a perfect people-watching (read cruising) spot. Soho is the heart of the original gay scene in London. Spend time in these areas and you’ll find the coolest gay clubs and best gay bars in London. In a city so big, choosing a venue can be tricky, but, thankfully, there are just three main gay hoods: Soho, Shoreditch/Dalston and Vauxhall. One of Europe's top party cities, gay London offers up so many gay bars and clubs that there’s something for every LGBT traveler, whatever your style or musical taste.
