Gay & LGBTQ+ Bars and Clubs

1 Union Street, Belfast

The Maverick is one of Belfast's best-known LGBTQ+ bars, located in the heart of the city's vibrant Queer Quarter. Open seven days a week, it has built a reputation as a welcoming and inclusive venue where everyone can enjoy great cocktails, lively entertainment, and an unforgettable night out. Whether you're dropping in for after-work drinks or dancing into the early hours, The Maverick combines a friendly atmosphere with some of the city's best queer nightlife. Entertainment is at the heart of The Maverick, with an ever-changing weekly programme featuring drag cabaret, live vocal performances, karaoke, comedy, DJs, themed party nights, and special guest performers. Popular events such as Glamouroke, Drag Lab, Mega Mondays, Wild Saturdays, and Sunday cabaret keep the venue buzzing throughout the week, while free entertainment and regular drinks promotions make it a favourite with both locals and visitors. The stylish bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, beers, spirits, and premium drinks in a lively setting designed for socialising and celebrating. The Maverick is known for its welcoming staff, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to providing a safe space where people can relax, express themselves, and enjoy Belfast's thriving LGBTQ+ community. Whether you're visiting for a drag show, karaoke night, or simply a few drinks with friends, The Maverick delivers one of the city's most entertaining queer nightlife experiences. Address:1 Union Street, Belfast, BT1 2JK

27 Stanley St, Liverpool

The Navy Bar is one of Liverpool's best-known LGBTQ+ venues, located on the iconic Stanley Street in the heart of the city's vibrant Pride Quarter. A long-standing favourite on the local nightlife scene, the venue is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, energetic entertainment and unforgettable weekends filled with drag, music and dancing. Open every Friday and Saturday, The Navy Bar delivers an exciting programme of live entertainment featuring spectacular drag performances from the talented FunnyBoyz queens. Guests can enjoy live cabaret, comedy, lip-sync performances, audience interaction and themed party nights, creating an atmosphere packed with fun, laughter and personality. Resident DJs keep the dancefloor buzzing with an upbeat soundtrack of chart hits, pop classics, disco anthems and house music, ensuring the party continues well into the night. The venue is also home to the popular Freeday Fridays promotion, where guests can reserve a VIP booth and enjoy selected drinks offers while kicking off the weekend in style. One of The Navy Bar's unique features is its connection to Benidorm Bar and Dysco, located directly downstairs, allowing visitors to enjoy multiple nightlife experiences under one roof. Whether you're looking for singalong classics, camp party tunes, drag cabaret or a late-night club atmosphere, there's something for everyone throughout the venue. The Navy Bar proudly provides a safe, inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ people, allies and visitors can celebrate freely and feel completely at home. The venue is also available for private hire from Sunday to Thursday, making it an excellent choice for birthdays, celebrations, corporate events and exclusive parties. Address:The Navy Bar27 Stanley StreetLiverpool L1 6AA

57–59 Call Lane. Leeds

The The New Penny is one of the UK's most historic LGBTQ+ venues and proudly holds the title of Leeds' oldest gay bar. Originally opening as the Hope & Anchor in 1953 before becoming The New Penny in 1982, it is widely recognised as one of the longest continually operating gay venues in the UK and was awarded a Blue Plaque in recognition of its significant contribution to LGBTQ+ history. Located in the heart of Leeds' vibrant Freedom Quarter, The New Penny has been welcoming generations of locals and visitors with its friendly, club-style atmosphere, late-night opening hours and inclusive community spirit. The venue is known for its lively dancefloor, resident DJs, drag entertainment and themed party nights, making it a favourite destination whether you're enjoying a casual drink or dancing until the early hours. Over the years, The New Penny has hosted many legendary drag performers, including Lily Savage, Anna Glypta and other well-known cabaret artists, cementing its place as an important part of Leeds' LGBTQ+ nightlife. Today, it continues to play a key role in Leeds Pride celebrations and remains a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ people, allies and anyone looking for a fun, inclusive night out. With affordable drinks, regular entertainment, a relaxed atmosphere and a loyal community of regulars, The New Penny remains an essential stop for anyone exploring Leeds' LGBTQ+ scene. Address:The New Penny57–59 Call LaneLeeds LS1 7BT

18 Kent Street, Birmingham

The Nightingale Club – Birmingham's Iconic LGBTQ+ SuperclubLocated in the heart of Birmingham's Gay Village, The Nightingale Club is the city's oldest and largest LGBTQ+ nightclub. With a capacity of over 2,000 guests, three floors, four unique rooms, and multiple bars, it has been at the centre of Birmingham's LGBTQ+ nightlife for decades, welcoming generations of partygoers from across the UK.Known affectionately as "The Gale", the venue has built its reputation on unforgettable club nights, world-class entertainment, and an inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome to celebrate, dance, and be themselves.Three Floors of EntertainmentThe Nightingale offers a multi-room nightlife experience, allowing guests to explore different music styles and atmospheres throughout the evening.Highlights include:Three spacious entertainment floorsFour music roomsCapacity for over 2,000 guestsMultiple fully stocked barsLarge dance floorsVIP areasState-of-the-art lighting and sound systemsWhether you prefer chart hits, pop classics, house, R&B, dance anthems, or commercial favourites, there's a room to suit every musical taste.Live Shows & Special EventsEntertainment is at the heart of The Nightingale experience. Throughout the year, the club hosts an exciting programme of events featuring:Live drag performancesResident and guest DJsCabaret showsStudent nightsPride celebrationsThemed partiesSeasonal eventsSpecial celebrity appearancesOver the years, the venue has welcomed well-known performers, touring artists, and some of the UK's biggest drag entertainers, making every weekend feel like a special occasion.A Landmark of Birmingham's LGBTQ+ SceneFor decades, The Nightingale has been one of Birmingham's most important LGBTQ+ venues, providing a safe, inclusive, and vibrant environment where people from all backgrounds can come together.Its welcoming atmosphere, diverse crowd, and commitment to celebrating individuality have made it a favourite destination for locals, students, visitors, and those attending Birmingham Pride or exploring the city's famous Gay Village.Whether you're visiting for your first LGBTQ+ club experience or returning for another legendary night out, The Nightingale continues to be one of the UK's most iconic nightlife destinations.Why Visit The Nightingale?Birmingham's oldest LGBTQ+ nightclubOne of the UK's largest LGBTQ+ venuesThree floors and four music roomsCapacity for over 2,000 guestsRegular drag shows and live entertainmentResident DJs and themed club nightsModern lighting and sound productionLocated in the heart of Birmingham's Gay VillageLocationThe Nightingale Club18 Kent StreetBirminghamB5 6RDCombining massive club nights, diverse music, spectacular entertainment, and an inclusive community atmosphere, The Nightingale Club remains one of Birmingham's most celebrated LGBTQ+ nightlife venues and a true institution of the UK's club scene.

25 West Street, Old Market, Bristol

The Old Market Assembly is one of Bristol's most popular independent food, drink, and live entertainment venues, proudly serving the Old Market community since 2015. Part of the locally owned Assemblies Ltd group, the venue has become a vibrant social hub where great food, locally sourced drinks, live music, theatre, comedy, drag performances, and club nights come together under one roof. Located in the heart of Bristol's creative Old Market district, The Old Market Assembly offers a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere throughout the day before transforming into one of the city's favourite late-night destinations. The venue champions local breweries, independent producers, and seasonal ingredients, serving freshly prepared dishes alongside craft beers, ciders, cocktails, wines, and spirits from Bristol and the surrounding region. Entertainment is at the heart of The Old Market Assembly, with a packed programme of live gigs, drag shows, cabaret, comedy nights, DJ sets, theatre performances, spoken word events, quizzes, and community celebrations throughout the year. Its welcoming and inclusive approach has made it a favourite gathering place for Bristol's diverse creative and LGBTQ+ communities. The venue also features a spacious outdoor courtyard, making it a popular spot for drinks and dining during the warmer months. Private hire is available for birthdays, weddings, corporate functions, and special celebrations, with flexible event packages and dedicated spaces to suit a variety of occasions. As part of The Assemblies Ltd family, alongside The Canteen and No.1 Harbourside, The Old Market Assembly shares a commitment to supporting Bristol's independent culture through quality food, local drinks, live entertainment, and community-focused hospitality. Whether you're stopping by for brunch, enjoying a pre-show meal, watching live music, or dancing into the early hours, The Old Market Assembly offers one of Bristol's most welcoming and lively independent venues. Address:25 West StreetOld MarketBristol BS2 0DF

84 Wilson Street Merchant City, Glasgow

Located in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City, The Polo Lounge is one of Scotland's most recognisable LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations. For decades, the venue has been a cornerstone of Glasgow's nightlife scene, welcoming a diverse crowd with an inclusive atmosphere, energetic entertainment, and unforgettable nights out. Known for its mix of chart hits, pop anthems, disco classics, and late-night party vibes, The Polo Lounge offers a safe and welcoming environment where guests can socialise, dance, and celebrate individuality in one of the city's most popular LGBTQ+ venues. Multi-Level Entertainment Venue Spread across two floors, The Polo Lounge offers a variety of spaces, each delivering its own unique atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a lively dance floor, a more intimate social setting, or a private event space, the venue provides options to suit every occasion. Venue spaces include: Polo Club Club X Mezzanine Lounge Riding Room Private VIP booths Each area has been designed to accommodate everything from casual nights out to large celebrations and exclusive events. Music, Dancing & Weekly Events The Polo Lounge is renowned for its packed calendar of entertainment, featuring themed nights, guest performers, live vocal shows, and some of Glasgow's most popular LGBTQ+ club events. Guests can enjoy a variety of music styles throughout the week, including: Pop Dance R&B Disco Club classics Chart favourites With multiple rooms operating across the venue, visitors can experience different atmospheres all under one roof. Private Hire & VIP Experiences The Polo Lounge is also available for private hire, making it a popular choice for birthdays, celebrations, corporate events, product launches, performances, and private parties. Guests looking for an elevated experience can reserve one of the venue's VIP booths, complete with dedicated table service and exclusive drinks packages. An Inclusive Glasgow Institution The Polo Lounge has built its reputation on providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Visitors from across Scotland and beyond continue to make the venue a regular destination thanks to its friendly atmosphere, diverse crowd, and longstanding place within Glasgow's nightlife culture. Location The Polo Lounge84 Wilson StreetMerchant CityGlasgowG1 1UZ Telephone: 0141 559 6593 Whether you're visiting for a midweek social, a weekend celebration, or a private event, The Polo Lounge remains one of Glasgow's most iconic destinations for music, entertainment, and LGBTQ+ nightlife.

33 Sackville Street, Manchester

The Rembrandt – Hotel, Bar & Nightlife in Manchester's Gay Village Situated at the heart of Manchester's iconic Gay Village, The Rembrandt has been a cornerstone of the city's LGBTQ+ community for more than 60 years. Overlooking Sackville Gardens at the junction of Canal Street and Sackville Street, this long-established venue combines comfortable accommodation, a welcoming traditional bar, and one of Manchester's most popular retro nightclubs under one roof. Whether you're visiting for a weekend break, a lively night out, or one of the city's major LGBTQ+ events, The Rembrandt offers everything you need in one of Manchester's most vibrant neighbourhoods. The REM Hotel The REM Hotel provides comfortable, centrally located accommodation just steps from Canal Street's famous bars and nightlife. Its prime location makes it an excellent base for exploring Manchester city centre, attending concerts and sporting events, or enjoying Manchester Pride. Guests benefit from easy access to public transport, shopping, restaurants, theatres, and the city's renowned LGBTQ+ scene, all within walking distance. The REM Bar At street level, The REM Bar has built a reputation as one of Manchester's best-loved LGBTQ+ pubs. Friendly, relaxed, and full of character, it welcomes a diverse crowd of locals and visitors throughout the week. The bar offers: A wide selection of beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails Outdoor seating overlooking Sackville Gardens Regular entertainment and social events A welcoming community atmosphere Live sports shown on selected occasions Whether you're enjoying an afternoon drink in the sunshine or starting your evening on Canal Street, The REM Bar provides a warm and inclusive environment for everyone. Club Tropicana When the sun goes down, Club Tropicana comes alive with an energetic mix of classic pop, disco, and dance anthems. Famous for its fun atmosphere, resident drag DJs, and nostalgic soundtrack, the club specialises in the biggest hits from the 80s and 90s alongside feel-good party favourites that keep the dance floor packed until the early hours every weekend. Club Tropicana also serves as a popular venue for: Birthday celebrations Private parties Corporate events Community gatherings Special themed nights Entertainment & Community The Rembrandt has played an important role in Manchester's LGBTQ+ community for decades, offering an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone can relax, socialise, and celebrate. Throughout the year the venue supports Manchester's busy events calendar, including Manchester Pride, Canal Street celebrations, themed weekends, and seasonal parties, attracting guests from across the UK and beyond. Its unique combination of hotel, traditional pub, and nightclub makes The Rembrandt one of the most recognisable destinations within Manchester's Gay Village. Why Visit The Rembrandt? Over 60 years serving Manchester's LGBTQ+ community Prime Canal Street location overlooking Sackville Gardens Comfortable city-centre hotel Traditional LGBTQ+ bar with outdoor seating Popular Club Tropicana nightclub Drag DJs and retro party music Ideal for Pride weekends and city breaks Friendly, welcoming atmosphere Location The Rembrandt33 Sackville StreetManchesterM1 3LZ Located in the centre of Manchester's famous Gay Village, The Rembrandt continues to be one of the city's most established LGBTQ+ destinations, offering comfortable accommodation, welcoming hospitality, and unforgettable nightlife all in one iconic venue.

35 Newland, Lincoln

The Scene is Lincoln's premier LGBTQ+ venue, proudly serving the community since 2012 with an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere and an exciting programme of nightlife and entertainment. Open every night from 10pm until 6am, it is the city's only late-night LGBTQ+ venue, offering two unique spaces where guests can socialise, dance, and celebrate in a safe and friendly environment. Spread across two floors, The Scene offers a lively main bar and dancefloor, while The Attic provides an additional club space hosting themed nights, guest DJs, drag performances, live entertainment, student events, and special celebrations throughout the year. Regular club nights feature everything from pop anthems and chart hits to dance classics, ensuring there's something for every taste. The venue is well known for its friendly staff, diverse crowd, and commitment to creating a safe space where everyone can be themselves. Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of cocktails, spirits, beers, wines, soft drinks, and hot beverages while taking advantage of regular drinks promotions and themed events. Throughout the year, The Scene also supports local charities, Pride celebrations, fundraising events, and community initiatives, making it an important part of Lincoln's LGBTQ+ community. Whether you're looking for a relaxed drink with friends, an energetic night on the dancefloor, or one of Lincoln's popular drag and entertainment nights, The Scene delivers an unforgettable nightlife experience where everyone is welcome. Address: 35 Newland, Lincoln, LN1 1XP

48 Carr Lane, Hull, East Yorkshire

The Star is a vibrant day-to-night bar and social venue in the heart of Hull city centre, located on Carr Lane. Popular with a diverse crowd during the day and a favourite destination for the local LGBTQ+ community after dark, The Star has built a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere, lively entertainment, and late-night party scene. Open throughout the week, the venue transforms from a relaxed daytime pub into a bustling nightlife destination, hosting resident DJs, drag performances, karaoke, live music, themed party nights, and special events. From nostalgic 70s and 80s throwback nights to modern chart hits and weekend dance parties, there's always something happening to keep the energy high. The Star is well known for its friendly staff, inclusive environment, and commitment to creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone can enjoy a great night out. Whether you're meeting friends for an afternoon drink, celebrating a special occasion, or dancing until the early hours, the venue offers an enjoyable atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, beers, ciders, wines, premium spirits, and regular drinks promotions, making it a popular choice for everything from casual socials to weekend celebrations. The venue regularly shares its latest entertainment schedule, themed events, and promotions through its social media channels, ensuring there's always something new to look forward to. Combining live entertainment, great music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive community spirit, The Star remains one of Hull's favourite late-night venues and a popular meeting place for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Address:48 Carr Lane, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 3RF

2B Picardy Place, Edinburgh

The Street is one of Edinburgh's best-known independent LGBTQ+ venues, located in the heart of the city's historic LGBTQ+ quarter near Picardy Place. Established in 2004, it has become a popular destination for great food, handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment and late-night clubbing, welcoming LGBTQ+ guests and allies in a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Spread across two floors, The Street combines a stylish bar, eatery and nightclub under one roof. By day and early evening, guests can enjoy freshly prepared food served until late, alongside speciality coffees, premium cocktails, wines, beers and spirits. The venue also features outdoor smoking terraces on both levels, making it an ideal place to relax with friends throughout the day and evening. Entertainment is at the heart of The Street's identity. The venue hosts an exciting programme of drag performances, cabaret, DJs, themed nights, quizzes, live music and community events, while also supporting local artists through its in-house gallery and acting as a long-running Edinburgh Fringe venue. A vintage photo booth adds another memorable touch to every visit. As night falls, The Street Nightclub comes alive in the basement with resident DJs, guest performers and a lively dancefloor. The club is particularly famous for its legendary M.F.S.B. daytime discos, alongside regular weekend club nights that keep the party going into the early hours. The flexible venue is also available for private parties and special events. Whether you're visiting for brunch, cocktails, dinner, live entertainment or a late-night dance, The Street offers something for everyone and remains one of Edinburgh's most iconic LGBTQ+ venues. Address:2B Picardy PlaceEdinburgh EH1 3JT

59-61 Bretonside, Plymouth

The Swallow is Plymouth's original LGBTQ+ bar and show venue, proudly serving the community with a warm, inclusive atmosphere and unforgettable entertainment. Located on the historic Barbican, this newly refurbished speakeasy-style venue blends vintage charm with modern nightlife, creating a welcoming space where everyone—LGBTQ+ guests, allies, and visitors alike—can relax, celebrate, and feel at home. Known for its lively entertainment programme, The Swallow hosts weekly drag shows, cabaret performances, karaoke nights, tribute acts, live DJs, community socials, and Pride celebrations. Friday evenings are dedicated to spectacular drag and cabaret, while weekends continue the party with late-night music and dancing under a licence that runs until 2am. The stylish Showbar is also available for private hire, making it an ideal venue for birthdays, celebrations, private performances, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. Accommodating up to 50 guests, the dedicated event space offers an intimate setting with professional entertainment options and a friendly team ready to help create memorable experiences. For visitors travelling to Plymouth, The Swallow also offers accommodation directly above the venue, providing LGBTQ+ travellers and visitors with a convenient place to stay in the heart of the city's nightlife. Guests can enjoy the comfort of being just steps away from one of Plymouth's best-known queer venues. Community has always been at the heart of The Swallow. The venue champions diversity, inclusivity, and respect, providing a safe environment where people can meet friends, enjoy great entertainment, and express themselves freely. With friendly staff, quality drinks, handcrafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere, The Swallow continues its proud legacy as one of the South West's most established LGBTQ+ destinations. Address: 59–61 Bretonside, Plymouth, PL4 0BD

18 Kent St, Birmingham

The Village Inn – LGBTQ+ Cabaret & Nightlife Venue in BirminghamLocated in the heart of Birmingham's Gay Village, The Village Inn is one of the city's best-known LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations. Following its move to a newly renovated venue, The Village continues to deliver an exciting mix of live cabaret, drag performances, DJs, themed club nights, and late-night entertainment in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.Open from Thursday through Saturday, the venue has become a favourite for those looking to enjoy unforgettable nights out, whether you're visiting for live entertainment, dancing until the early hours, or celebrating a special occasion.Live Entertainment Every WeekendThe Village Inn is renowned for its lively programme of entertainment, featuring talented resident drag artists, guest performers, themed party nights, and energetic DJs.Guests can enjoy:Live drag cabaretResident and guest DJsThemed party nightsWeekend entertainmentSpecial guest performancesRegular club eventsEach weekend offers a unique atmosphere, making every visit a little different.Village UndergroundBeneath the main venue is Village Underground, one of Birmingham's biggest LGBTQ+ late-night club spaces. Open every Friday and Saturday, the underground club features resident DJs playing a mix of R&B, Garage, Bashment, Afrobeats, and club favourites, creating an energetic dancefloor that keeps the party going into the early hours.VIP Booths & Group CelebrationsPlanning a birthday, celebration, or group night out? The Village Inn offers private booth bookings, allowing guests to enjoy bottle service and drinks packages while experiencing the venue's famous weekend atmosphere.A Welcoming LGBTQ+ Community VenueThe Village Inn has long been an important part of Birmingham's LGBTQ+ scene, offering an inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to relax, socialise, and celebrate. Friendly staff, vibrant entertainment, and a diverse crowd help create one of the city's most welcoming nightlife experiences.Whether you're a regular visitor or discovering Birmingham's Gay Village for the first time, you'll find a venue built around fun, music, and community.Opening HoursThursday: 7:00pm – LateFriday: 7:00pm – 6:00amSaturday: 7:00pm – LateLocationThe Village InnEssex HouseLower Essex Street (Corner of 18 Kent Street)BirminghamB5 6RDCombining outstanding drag entertainment, lively club nights, and one of the Midlands' best LGBTQ+ atmospheres, The Village Inn remains a cornerstone of Birmingham's nightlife scene.