Gay London

There’s much more to London than Big Ben!  As the most populated city in the European Union, London offers not only an abundance of places to go, but many, many people to meet.  So come alone, or bring a friend…below are some ideas on what to see and do.    

The old City of London, occupying about a square mile—the full extent of the city during medieval times—in the center of London, still showcases ancient notables such as the Tower of London, the Tower Bridge, the London Stone (a roman-laid marker for the center of the city), and parts of the London Wall.  And the greater city of London as it is known today offers an even wider array of experiences and sites worth seeing. 

On the west side of London, the City of Westminster is where you will find the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey and, yes, Big Ben.  Westminster Palace, also known as The Houses of Parliament, is an expansive and ornate marvel of Gothic revival architecture which adorns the River Thames.  A building of both historical and contemporary importance, Westminster Palace, in its various forms, housed monarchs from the 11^th through the 16^th century; today it is an important site for state functions and ceremonies.  Westminster Abbey, a large gothic church located just to the west of Westminster Palace, is another edifice of beauty and significance—English monarchs have been crowned and buried there since 1066.  The world-renown clock tower and symbol of London, Big Ben, lies at the northeastern end of Westminster Palace.  Be sure to perk your hears up on the hour to hear the great clock chime before concluding your tour of Westminster Palace. 

The West End of London holds other attractions as well: the hub of gay London spans out from Old Compton Street, at the center of the Soho area in Westminster City.  There you will find a welcoming and multicultural community boasting a variety of attractive bars, restaurants, sex shops, and record shops all catering to the gay and lesbian community.  Neighboring Leicester Square is the center of the London theatre district and promises further entertainment only a short walk away.  For shopping opportunities, make your way to Oxford Street where you will find (literally) miles of boutiques.  And, while in the West End, don’t neglect to salute the controversial monument cum iconic statue of Piccadilly Circus fondly known as Eros.

While the English may not be known for their culinary skills, the cosmopolitan population of London has done much for city’s gastronomic reputation: both China Town and Brick Lane—an Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani neighborhood—offer enticing options for the hungry traveler.  You will also find a variety of European restaurants throughout London and many gay and gay-friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from, with a number of favorites located in Soho. 

With an abundance of museums, parks, and gardens, London will keep you busy on both rainy and sunny days.  Set some time aside to visit the British Museum—an absolute must-see during your stay.  Also, London is a great city for pedestrians—walking trails are marked throughout the city.  Put on your walking shoes, grab a map, and let us know what you find! 

See you in London!

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