It’s time to paint the town rainbow, as London prepares to come alive in a kaleidoscope of colour this June and July. From London’s best queer bars to must-see exhibitions, standout LGBTQ+ businesses, and beyond, there are so many exciting ways to show your support to the community this Pride Month. We’re beyond proud to break it down for you all, not only touching on incredible things to do, but also the capital’s rich LGBTQ+ history and culture.
Expect a vibrant array of events to take over the city, like our renowned Pride parade and celebrations during Pride in London (although happening in July), as well as spectacular drag nights, art installations, and so much more. So without further ado, here are the best ways to celebrate and honour Pride Month in London
1. Take part in the Pride in London festivities
Now obviously, one of the main ways to honour Pride is by checking out the annual celebration that completely transforms central London into one of the capital’s biggest block parties.
Pride in London will be held on Saturday, July 5th this year, featuring a grand parade that includes a vibrant procession of floats, performers, and community groups. For more information, click here to read our overview.
There’s also a dazzling array of entertainment on offer from Trafalgar Square to Soho, as the streets are lined with thousands of spectators, performance stages, and a whole lot of colour! Expect a star-studded line-up of pop icons, drag, and queer performers to boot.
But it doesn’t stop there; London’s iconic LGBTQ+ bars and nightclubs will also be throwing major parties to mark Pride’s momentous return to the capital–stay tuned for more info as it comes.
2. Support London’s favourite LGBTQ+ bars and pubs
From pubs with live drag to London’s newest lesbian bar, the capital’s LGBTQ+ scene is continuously evolving, and sometimes for deeply upsetting reasons. However, there are still some iconic slices of history keeping the scene one of the world’s best. Following the closure of G-A-Y Late and Haggerston’s The Glory, there’s never been a more important time to keep these fabulous queer spaces alive and thriving. Check out a few of our recommendations below, or the full round-up of London’s best LGBTQ+ bars and pubs.
🏳️🌈 The Divine: This new addition to Dalston’s nightlife scene is a chic and stylish space with both eclectic music and electric vibes. 📍 33 Stoke Newington Rd, London.
🏳️🌈 La Camionera: One of London’s latest lesbian bars offers a sensually sapphic atmosphere that’s inviting and inclusive for all. 📍 243 Well Street, E9 6RG, London.
🏳️🌈 Friendly Society: This Soho gem boasts retro decor, fun music, and a relaxed vibe which makes it one of the area’s quirkiest queer bars. 📍 79 Wardour Street, London W1D 6QB.
🏳️🌈 Admiral Duncan: Another Soho favourite, this iconic and historic pub boasts a lively atmosphere and fabulous drag shows on the regular. 📍 54 Old Compton Street, London W1D 4UD.
3. Visit Queer Britain to learn some LGBTQ+ history
Queer Britain is the UK’s first national LGBTQ+ museum dedicated to showcasing and preserving the rich tapestry of queer history and culture. Located a short walk from King’s Cross St. Pancras, this pioneering institution offers a dynamic range of exhibitions, displays, events, and educational programs that highlight the contributions and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. For more information, click here.
4. Dance the night away at London’s LGBTQ+ nightclubs
If you’re looking to party this Pride Month, London has got you covered. Our LGBTQ+ nightclubs are legendary for being some of the best in the world, with electrifying energy, diverse crowds, and unforgettable nights jam-packed with music, dance, and fantastic vibes. Check out some of our favourites below or click here for our full round-up of nightclubs to visit this Pride Month. There’s even some free club nights if you’re on a budget!
🏳️🌈 Heaven: One of London’s most iconic LGBTQ+ nightclubs boasting an impressive line-up of international DJs and performers. 📍 Villiers St, London WC2N 6NG.
🏳️🌈 Dalston Superstore: Another Dalston hotspot, this bar and club is known for its diverse crowd and party vibes. 📍 117 Kingsland High Street, London E8 2PB.
🏳️🌈 Circa Embankment: Located directly on the Thames, Circa is known for its chic decor, top-notch DJs, and lively dance floor. 📍 Hungerford House, Embankment, London WC2N 6PA.
🏳️🌈 Fire: Famed for being the last club standing, this late-night club is the go-to gay bar for dancing the night away.📍 39 Parry Street Vauxhall, London SW8 1RT
5. Learn some LGBTQ+ history with this insightful exploration game
If you’re not much of a party person, then why not explore London’s legendary ‘gaybourhood’ Soho, and learn all about the city’s rich LGBTQ+ history with this awesome exploration game. Discover just how queer some of London’s most iconic landmarks are, and hear forgotten stories from the capital’s queer community. Book your spot here.
For something a little more rowdy, why not treat yourself to a silent disco walking tour with a drag queen? Strut your stuff through Fitzrovia and Soho with your drag queen host, Ms Christina Draguleira, and learn all about some of London’s most scandalous spots where pop legends faced their most outrageous moments. Get your tickets, here.
6. Head to some exclusive London Pride parties
If partying is your game, check out some of the exclusive events that are specially curated for Pride Month, happening all across London. From drag nights and star-studded closing parties to free events, stay tuned to hear more about some of the unmissable parties for some well-earned Pride pleasures.
✨A special mention goes to The Clapham Grand, who will host TWO parties straight (lol) after Pride. If you want to sing Girls Aloud tunes with Nadine Coyle, and bop to sets from Tulisa and Bimini, get your tickets here.
7. Pay a visit to the Leigh Bowery exhibition at the Tate
Leigh Bowery left a lasting impression not only in the art world, but London life and its queer scene. Discover the life and legacy of the world’s most famous club kid at this unmissable showcase at the Tate Modern. From stunning portraits of Bowery to their legendary costumes, it’s an exhibition you don’t want to miss this Pride month. For more information, click here to read our article.
8. Take on an LGBTQ+ art tour at Tate Britain
If you’re one of London’s many art lovers, check out Tate Britain’s LGBTQIA+ tours, adding some over-due queer context to their remarkable collection. A regular programme these LGBTQIA+ tours is operating at the beloved gallery, and they are an absolute must this Pride Month. The tours are led by volunteer guides with lived experience in the works and themes they are discussing. For more information, click here.
9. Delve into London’s incredible drag scene
Supporting local drag is a great way to celebrate and honour Pride Month. London’s ever-growing list of ground-breaking drag talent is second to none, and there are so many venues (including some free ones) showcasing their remarkable talents, especially throughout June. From brunches to drag bars, check out a few recommendations below or our full round-up of London’s best drag venues.
🏳️🌈 Bougie Drag Bottomless Brunch: As one of the best drag brunches in London, expect gag-worthy immersive performances, fierce lip-syncs, and killer looks. 🎫 Tickets & info
🏳️🌈 The Divine: As mentioned earlier, this East London gem knows how to treat their kings, queens, and everyone in between–with a fab selection of shows to choose from. 🌐 More information
🏳️🌈 Freedom Bar: This Soho bar knows how to put on a great show, with a continuous, diverse line-up of London’s best drag. 🌐 More information
🏳️🌈 Buff Bingo Rooftop Summer Brunch: Enjoy this fabulous bottomless brunch with drag performance galore, with a fabulous rooftop party afterwards in the heart of Vauxhall. 🌐 🎫 Tickets & info.
🏳️🌈 Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club: This adored hotspot made is our top spot when it comes to drag venues in London. 🌐 More information
10. Check out the outrageous Briefs at Outernet
While we’re on the topic of drag, one of the naughtiest shows in existence is back in London, and just in time for Pride, mind you! Briefs is a fabulous blend of cabaret, circus, drag, and burlesque, featuring high-energy performances by renowned queer performers, and it has a brand-new home at Outernet – the immersive entertainment venue in the heart of Tottenham Court Road. For more information and tickets, click here to visit their website.
11. Stock up on reading material at Gay’s the Word
Gay’s The Word is not your average bookshop – it is a beloved institution and a vital part of London’s LGBTQ+ community. Steeped in fascinating history, this iconic bookstore has been a beacon of acceptance, knowledge, and activism for generations of queer history. Gay’s The Word provides a safe and welcoming space where people can discover and celebrate queer culture, making it great to visit, not only during Pride Month but all year round. For more information, read our article here.
12. Support London’s LGBTQ+ owned businesses
We’ve already mentioned a couple, but supporting London’s LGBTQ+ businesses is a fantastic way to uplift and empower London’s queer community, while celebrating diversity and inclusivity. From brilliant breweries to the best bakeries, check out a handful of our favourite LGBTQ+ owned businesses below, and we highly recommend finding your favourites this Pride Month! Everywhere Is Queer is a worldwide map of queer-owned businesses, being the easiest way to find you new favourite businesses to support throughout Pride, and beyond! Or check out our round-up, here.
🏳️🌈 Queer Brewing: Fantastic brewery on a mission to challenge stereotypes and promote diversity in the craft beer industry. 🌐 Visit their website
🏳️🌈 Bistroteque: This chic restaurant in Bethnal Green serves up modern European cuisine in a sleek atmosphere. 🌐 Visit their website
🏳️🌈 Corner: Stunning corner café in New Cross with an incredible mural of queer bodies, perfect for a cup of coffee and a midday pick-me-up. 🌐 Visit their website
🏳️🌈 Toad Bakery: If you have a sweet tooth this Pride Month, head to Toad Bakery in Peckham for some drool-worthy treats. 🌐 Visit their website
13. Visit London’s first-ever, queer-dedicated cinema
While we’re on the topic of queer-owned businesses, a brand-new cinema has opened up in Bermondsey that’s billed as the capital’s first. From classic queer movies to the latest releases, it’s the perfect place to catch-up with some friends over a old-school flick. For more information, read our article here.
14. Head to The London Art Bar for their Pride events
From their awesome Pride Month Quiz Night to an unmissable screening of the film Pride (2014), The London Art Bar in Holborn is the place to be this Pride Month. Pick the event that sounds like a bit of you, and let the Pride-themed fun commence:
🏳️🌈 Pride Month Quiz: Celebrate Pride Month with a fun and inclusive quiz night that raises money for Stonewall. Tickets here.
🏳️🌈 Pride (2014) Screening: A heartfelt screening of the BAFTA-winning film Pride (2014), directed by Matthew Warchus. Tickets here.
15. See ‘After The Act’ at The Royal Court Theatre
“After the Act” is a verbatim musical that explores the impact of Section 28, a law in the UK that banned the “promotion” of homosexuality and LGBTQ+ issues in schools. This unmissable play uses interviews and real-life accounts to tell these heart-wrenching stories, blending them with 80s-inspired music and choreography. For more information and tickets, click here to visit the Royal Court Theatre website.
16. Visit the UK AIDS Memorial Quilt
Sticking with the Tate Modern, you can witness the UK AIDS Memorial Quilt in their impressive Turbine Hall from June 12-16. There will be a combination of 42 quilts and 23 individual panels on display, all echoing how the UK AIDS Memorial Quilt (c.1989-ongoing) was shown outdoors as a form of protest to raise awareness for the ongoing AIDS pandemic. There will even be readings by the installation on Saturday 14 June, at 11 AM and 2 PM. For more info, click here.
17. Treat yourself to a sex-positive stay at The Standard
This Pride Month, trailblazing queer rave and sexual wellness brand HOWL is teaming up with The Standard for an unforgettable celebration of pleasure, purpose, and unapologetic self-expression. Not only are they throwing an epic party, but you can also get yourself a love kit when staying at the luxe hotel from the 14th June to 7th July.
18. Pay a visit to this new café gallery in Fitzrovia
BOYS! BOYS! BOYS! is a brand-new gallery space and café in Fitzrovia that’s dedicated to gay and queer photography. From insightful chats and conversations with the community to pop-up exhibitions, it’s an absolute must if you’re looking to celebrate Pride through art! Read our article on this brand-new space, here.
19. Celebrate Pride at the queer-owned Kapara
The self-proclaimed ‘queer-owned party palace’, Kapara are going in hard for Pride this June. From Sunday 1st June to Sunday 6th July, this must-visit hotspot is turning up the volume with a line-up of tongue-in-cheek Pride cocktails and snacks, crafted to honour the LGBTQIA+ community. Sip on the Pisco Inferno, an alluring blend of Pisco, mango gazoz syrup, citric syrup and lime juice; or try the Proud Mary if you’re a fan of mescal. For bookings, visit their website.
20. Enjoy some live music with Greek Street live
Join Greek Street Live, The Room Where It Happens and The Other Place, three exciting live music spaces all under one roof, all of which will be cranking up the colour and bringing the house down this June, as well as during Pride in London early July! From drag brunches to sing-along sessions, themed cocktails and beyond, these fantastic spaces are perfect places to celebrate Pride, loud and proud. Click here to visit Greek Street Live’s website, or click here for The Room Where It Happens.
21. Get some cocktails at Mr. Fogg’s Pawnbrokers
It’s not a night out in Soho without a couple of cocktails, and Mr. Fogg’s Pawnbrokers are providing us with some stellar summer options so we can taste the rainbow all Pride long. Best of all, throughout June and July, the bar will be fundraising for LGBTI+ human rights organisation Kaleidoscope Trust, adding a discretionary £1 to every bill – making it a charitable affair if you’re looking to spend with some added love this month.
22. Explore the British Museum from an LGBTQIA+ perspective
Another place worth checking out this Pride Month is the British Museum, London’s biggest, oldest and arguably most popular museum. Plus, it’s mostly all free, so if all these summer festivals have been tough on the old wallet, then this is a perfect alternative.
The ‘Desire, love and identity’ trail highlights 15 different objects that have a connection with LGBTQ+ history, and following the route will only take around an hour. For more information on this insightful tour, visit the British Musem’s website. You can also check out out all-encompassing guide, here.
23. Nip across to iconic Carnaby Street for shopping joy
Carnaby Street is the famous, iconic shopping street. Some even say its the forebearer of high street fashion. It’s Soho’s chic neighbour, and since Pride is coming up sharpish, the throughfare has unveiled its gorj canopy – celebrating love, identity, and community. As well as taking in the beautiful prideful street decorations, Aesop, which is just around the corner from Carnaby, will be hosting a queer-focused event.
Aesop Queer Library: Returning for its fifth year, Aesop will host its annual Queer Library from 3rd–6th July. The store will offer complimentary books by LGBTQIA+ writers, with a collection exploring stories across queer and racial identities.
24. Plan the perfect summer that’s full of Pride
We’ve mentioned a couple of events that are happening outside of Pride Month, including Pride in London itself. Pride should never come to an end in June–with so much to celebrate throughout the summer. Whether you’re travelling to other nearby Pride events such as Brighton or Margate, or venturing further across the UK, Europe, and even further afield, Pride is officially all year long, and there are so many ways to show your Pride here in the capital.
UK Black Pride will be celebrating their 20th anniversary this year at Queen Elizabeth Park on August 10. And don’t forget about London Trans Pride, which takes in between on July 26. London Trans Pride is a protest; for more info, click here.