Pride doesn’t end in July. How London’s Queer Spaces Make Inclusivity Part of our London Neighbourhoods
When I was asked if I wanted to offer some reflections for Pride month, it made me think about how I feel now, compared to when I started in the industry ten years ago. But I realised that I did not want to make this a serious blog about my thoughts on what the industry still needs to do – because I honestly believe that overall, we are doing ok. Yes, there is still lots to do in the industry in terms of acceptance and diversity as a whole. But that will continue to take time; and we are fortunate the industry now has some incredible leaders who identify as LGBTQ+ (and allies) to continue the progression.
So instead, this Pride month I wanted to shine the light on a number of queer owned shops, restaurants and venues in our capital city that offer safe spaces for all the LGBTQ+ communities; at a time when, for some, it is needed more than ever.
These operators not only help curate amazing retail and hospitality concepts that diversify our high streets and neighbourhoods. They also proudly offer a safe space, support some amazing LGBTQ+ charities; and provide a place where everyone can be celebrated for who they are.
Rainbow flags are not just a trend’. They fly all year round. And I feel lucky to live in a place where as part of my work, I see spaces dedicated to celebrating my community every day.
That’s certainly something that makes me feel proud.
10 LGBTQ+ London Favourites:
Boys Boys Boys, Fitzrovia: A gorgeous gallery cafe. www.boysboysboys.org
Toad Bakery, Camberwell: LGBTQ+ owned bakery. https://www.toadbakery.com/
Bethnal Greens Working Mens Club, Bethnal Green: Nightclub/Bar. https://www.workersplaytime.net/
Gay’s the Word, Russell Square: The oldest LGBTQ bookshop in the UK, opened in 1979! https://www.gaystheword.co.uk/
Earl of East, multiple locations: LGBTQ+ owned lifestyle brand. www.earlofeast.com
La Camionera, Hackney: Lesbian bar. www.lacamionera.com
The Old Nun Head, Nunhead: Super fun gay pub where all are welcome. https://www.theoldnunshead.co.uk/
Bistrotheque Restaurant: Hackney LGBTQ+ owned destination with regular events and Queer acts. www.bistrotheque.com
Feminist Library, Peckham www.thefeministlibrary.co.uk
Queer Britain Museum, Kings Cross: History of LGBTQ+ in Britain https://queerbritain.org.uk/
Main image: Fitzrovia Gallery Cafe Boys boys boys.
Second image: Toad Bakery