Clapham Common

Clapham Common has been an outdoor cruising spot in London for decades. The active area is on the common's west side, where the trees and bushes get dense—about a five-minute walk from the tube.

Things pick up after dark and really get going once the pubs close. The crowd's a mix of ages and types. The park's big enough that the dog-walkers and joggers are long gone by the time it gets busy.

One warning: there have been documented homophobic attacks here. People who cruise at Clapham Common suggest going with someone else, sticking to visible areas, and staying out of isolated spots. It hasn't stopped the regulars, but it's good to know.