Gay Heaven

Yes, it’s the go-to for fresh-out-the-closet queer kids and students, but let’s be real, Heaven is an institution. Going strong since 1979, it’s a rite of passage for every gay in London. If there’s one place that truly defined my early coming out gay years in London, it’s this legendary, sticky-floored, pop-fueled institution. Seby and I have danced, screamed, and (let’s be honest) dramatically stormed out of here more times than I can count.

I still remember my very first night at Heaven. I was young, naïve, and full of hope (read: vodka Red Bulls). One minute, I was nervously clutching my G-A-Y discount wristband like a Wonka golden ticket, the next, I was in a sea of shirtless twinks, dodging drag queens on roller skates, and watching a stranger perform a full-blown interpretive dance to Britney’s Toxic on stage. It was pure chaos. It was perfect.

Back then, it felt like every gay in London ended up here at some point in the night. You’d start with a “quiet drink” on Old Compton Street, swear you were not going out, and then… Bam! You’d wake up at 6 AM with a broken phone, a pocket full of glitter, and absolutely no memory of where your shirt went…

Tickets: Available at the door or online. Pro tip: grab a discount wristband from G-A-Y Bar on Old Compton Street before heading over, it’ll save you some coin for more drinks.
Where: Under The Arches, Villiers Street, Charing Cross, London.
When: Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each night has a different vibe, so check the GAY Heaven website and Heaven LGBT Club Instagram for the latest lineup.