LONDON

LONDONTHE OFFICIALGAY AND LESBIAN GUIDE2007/08FREESponsored by

10SightseeingTrafalgarSquare toBuckinghamPalace Tour11Buckingham PalaceSightseeingThere’s soooo much to see and do in London that it’s exhausting just thinkingabout it. So we’ve gone and made it that bit easier for you by putting togetherbundles of sightseeing gems – sort of mini package tours, to make the most ofwhatever timescale you’re working to. The idea is the featured places are all prettyclose to one another, and the time you spend on each of ‘em is entirely up to you –it’s all about getting as much out of London’s mind-blowing array of attractionswithout burning yourselves out (too much!). We hope you enjoy…Sponsored byGet yourself to Leicester SquareTube station and walk downCharing Cross Road. On your rightyou’ll pass the National PortraitGallery 1 , not only a fantasticjourney through the faces thatmake up the history of Britainbut the location of a fabulousrestaurant with a Mary Poppinsview over the rooftops. Round thecorner in Trafalgar Square – have alook at St. Martin’s-in-the-Fields 2one of London’s most famouschurches, as you go – you’ll findthe National Gallery 3 , one of theworld’s best collections of veryfamous paintings.You could spendthe rest of your life in here.Cross Trafalgar Square and gothrough Admiralty Arch 4 ontothe Mall, the grand run-up toBuckingham Palace 5 . On yourleft you have St. James’s Park –quaint, leafy, with pelicans and asurprisingly fine restaurant calledInn The Park.You can visit theinside rooms of Buck House(as the Palace is sometimescalled) in the summer and lookout for a fancy gold and redflag on top, which tells you ifthe Queen is there. Otherwise,take a right and explore thegrassy Green Park.National PortraitGallery2 St Martin’s Place, WC2Leicester Square/Charing Cross+44 (0)20 7306 0055www.npg.org.ukOpen: 10am-6pm, Mon-Wed, Sat,Sun; 10am-9pm Thurs, Fri.Admission: FreeNational GalleryTrafalgar Square, WC2Leicester Square/Charing Cross+44 (0)20 7747 2885www.nationalgallery.org.ukOpen: 10am-6pm, Mon, Tues, Thurs-5Green ParkGreenParkFINISHSt James’s ParkSun; 10am-9pm, Wed.Admission: FreeBuckingham Palaceand Royal MewsThe Mall, SW1Green Park/St. James’s Park+44 (0)20 7766 7300www.royal.gov.ukwww.royalcollection.org.ukOpen: State Rooms – early Aug, Sep,9.30am-5.30pm daily. Queen’sGallery – 10am-5.30pm daily: Closedearly Jan-early Feb. Royal Mews –Oct-July, 11am-4pm daily. Aug, Sep,10am-5pm daily.The MallLeicesterSquareSTARTTrafalgarSquare43Cross RdCharing12visitlondon.com/gay

Embankment12Sightseeing13the Changing of the Guards eachweekday at 11am, and 10amon Sundays. Walk through thearch and you’re into gloriousSt. James’s Park.May, June, Sept 9.30am-9pm daily.July, Aug 9.30am-10pm daily.Admission £12.50; £6.50-£10concessionsLondon AquariumCounty Hall, Riverside Building,Westminster Bridge Road, SE1Embankment/Waterloo+44 (0)20 7967 8000www.londonaquarium.co.ukOpen: 10am-6pm daily(last entry 5pm). Admission: £8.75;£5.25-£6.50 concessionsNational TheatreSouth Bank, SE1Embankment/Waterloo+44 (0)20 7452 3400Box Office: +44 (0)20 7452 3000www.nationaltheatre.org.ukAdmission:Variable. Seewebsite/specific shows for details.The London EyeLondon Eye TourTake a Tube to Waterloo 1 andfollow signs to the South Bank,where you’ll find The NationalTheatre, BFI Southbank, TheHayward Gallery, Queen ElizabethHall 2 , in short, the cream of theUK’s cultural life. Find out what’son and book up according to taste.Turn left when you hit the riverand walk past the recently refurbished50s masterpiece the RoyalFestival Hall 3 , with its handyparade of shops and cafes, and thedramatic Hungerford Bridge,beyond which – and you’ll havespotted it already – is the BritishAirways London Eye 4 , thehuge white wheel that gives youamazing views across the metropolisfrom dinky glass pods (hire aprivate one and have a champagnereception with your friends). Makesure you have lots of memory onyour camera. From here, turn rightwith your back to the river andpass County Hall 5 , which housesthe amazing London Aquarium,with its sharks, and Dali Universe,from where you can crossWestminster Bridge to Big Ben 6and the Houses of Parliament andone of the world’s biggestmedieval cathedrals, WestminsterAbbey 7 , all dotted aroundParliament Square. To your left, ifyou’re facing Big Ben, is Whitehall,the seat of the British government.Take a stroll up here, past DowningStreet 8 (it’s gated but you canget snaps through the bars) toHorse Guards Parade, where you’llsee liveried soldiers on horses, andBFI SouthbankSouth Bank, SE1Embankment/WaterlooBox Office: +44 (0)20 7928 3232www.bfi.org.uk/whatsonTickets: £8.20; £6.25 concessions.The Hayward GalleryBelvedere Road, SE1Embankment/Waterloo+44 (0)20 7921 0813Box Office: +44 (0)870 169 1000www.hayward.org.ukOpen During exhibitions: 10am-6pm Mon, Thur, Sat, Sun; 10am-8pm Tue, Wed; 10am-9pm Fri.Admission £9; Mondays are halfprice for everyone.British AirwaysLondon EyeSouth Bank, SE1Ticket Office: Riverside Building,County Hall, Westminster BridgeRoad, SE1Embankment/Waterloowww.ba-londoneye.comOpen: Oct-Apr 9.30am-8pm daily.Houses of ParliamentParliament Square, SW1AWestminsterHouse of Commons:+44 (0)20 7219 4272House of Lords:+44 (0)20 7219 3107Tours: +44 (0)870 906 3773www.parliament.ukSt James’sParkThe MallTrafalgarSquareFINISHHorse GuardsParade8WhitehallParliamentSquare7CharingCrossWestminster6Big Ben: Tours of the clock towercan be arranged in advance, and arefree – but are currently onlyavailable to UK residents, via priorarrangement through their local MP.Hungerford BridgeRIVERTHAMESWestminster BridgeWestminster Abbey4aterloo BridgeThe53BankSouth2START1WaterlooSee website for more details.Open: (when in session)House of Commons Visitors’Gallery 2.30-10.30pm Mon, Tues11.30am-7.30pm Wed; 11.30am-6.30pm Thur; 9.30am-3pm Fri.House of Lords Visitors’ Galleryfrom 2.30pm Mon-Wed; from11am Thur, occasional Fri.Tours summer recess only; phonefor details. Admission:Visitors’Gallery free. Tours £7.Westminster Abbey20 Dean's Yard, SW1Westminster+44 (0)20 7654 4900www.westminster-abbey.orgOpen:Various. For specific times,call the number above, or emailinfo@westminster-abbey.org.Admission: £8, £6 concessions;under-11s free with paying adult;£18 family.Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

14Sightseeing15SouthwarkSwitchboard: +44 (0)20 7887 8888Recorded information:+44 (0)20 7887 8008www.tate.org.ukOpen: 10am-6pm Mon-Thur, Sun;10am-10pm Fri, Sat.Admission: FreeThe view from Tate ModernTate TourStart at Pimlico Tube station andfollow the signs to Tate Britain 1 ,looking across the river to thecontroversial MI6 building 2 thatyou might have seen James Bondscrambling down. Inside TateBritain – with its lovely café andsuper smart restaurant – is thefinest of British art including theworld’s best Turner collection.From Tate Britain you can hop onthe Damien Hurst-designed TateBoat, which will take you downpast the London Eye 3 and theSouth Bank to Tate Modern 4 ,the world’s biggest (and mostexciting!) museum of modern art.Lose yourself in here (not forgettinga great and very funky restaurantwith views across the river onthe top floor): there’s usually anexciting exhibition in the massivehangar-like Turbine Hall as well asSponsored byThe Millennium Bridgethe permanent collection ofmodern masterpieces.If you turn right outside TateModern and walk along the river,you come to The Globe Theatre 5 ,a faithful reconstruction of thetheatre that staged Shakespeare’sgreatest hits: and you can stillcatch a play in the open-air spaceTate Britainfrom May till October. Retraceyour steps to Tate Modern andyou’ll see a skinny, spidery bridge(the Millennium Bridge 6 byNorman Foster) that will takeyou across the Thames toSt. Paul’s Cathedral 7 .Climb to the top of that dome(the second biggest in the worldafter St. Peter’s in the Vatican) orexplore the old-meets-ultra newstreets around the Fleet Streetand Old Bailey areas.Tate BritainMillbank, SW1PPimlicoSwitchboard: +44 (0)20 7887 8888Recorded information: +44 (0)207887 8008Admission: Freewww.tate.org.ukTate BoatTravelcard Holder: Single £2.85,River Roamer £4.90Adults: Single £4.30, River Roamer£7.30. Tickets are available atwww.tate.org.uk, from Tate Modernand Tate Britain or by calling+44 (0)20 7887 8888 (9.45am-17.50pm, Monday-Friday).Tickets are valid for use all day,and you can make as many tripsas you wish.The Tate Boat runs every 40minutes during gallery openinghours between Tate Britain andTate Modern and also stops at theBritish Airways London Eye.Tate ModernBankside, SE1Shakespeare’s GlobeTheatre21 New Globe Walk, Bankside,SE1 9DTMansion House+44 (0)20 7902 1400www.shakespeares-globe.orgOpen: Exhibition and tours 19 Oct-5May 10am-5pm daily. 6 May-9 Oct9am-noon Mon-Sat; 9-11.30am SunAdmission: £9St. Paul’s CathedralLudgate Hill, EC4MSt. Paul’s+44 (0)20 7236 4128www.stpauls.co.ukOpen: 8.30am-4pm Mon-Sat.Galleries, crypt etc. 9.30am-4pmMon-SatAdmission: Adults, £9.50 (withgroup rates available)PimlicoV1START2St Paul’s Cathedral37FINISHSt Paul’s64 5visitlondon.com/gay

16Sightseeing17that lady’s memory as, in thedress collection, there are a bunchof her posh frocks.On your way to the Palace,cast your eyes to your left andtake in the Albert Memorial 1 ,the fabulous gold monument toPrince Albert (Queen Victoria’shusband) and the Royal AlbertHall, both highly impressiveexamples of Victoriana.The River TourHyde ParkThe Parks TourStart at Hyde Park Corner tube(make sure you take the correctexit) and stroll into one of theworld’s great urban open spaces,Hyde Park, designed to look like awedge of English countryside,complete with a sandy trail forhorse-riders. It’s here you’ll see theHousehold Cavalry trotting alongin their finest at 10.30am (an hourearlier on Sundays) and in-lineskaters year round. Follow signsfor the Serpentine 1 and you’llfind an impressive boating lake;follow the signs for the PrincessDiana Memorial Fountain 2(in Kensington Park, which kindof melts into Hyde Park) andyou’ll find a controversial, avantgardestream-cum-fountain.The Serpentine Gallery 3 showscontemporary art while theSerpentine Gallery Pavilion is anannual experiment in architecturevery much worth catching.Kensington Palace 4 , which you’llremember for the fields of flowersfollowing Princess Diana’s death, isthe place to pay your respects toKensingtonnGardensBayswater RoadHyde ParkFINISH The Serpentine 14325Kensington RoadHyde Park &Kensington GardensHyde Park Corner/Knightsbridge/Lancaster Gate/Queensway+44 (0)20 7298 2100www.royalparks.gov.ukThe SerpentineGalleryKensington Gardens (nr. AlbertMemorial), W2Hyde Park Corner/Knightsbridge/Lancaster Gate/Queensway+44 (0)20 7402 6075www.serpentinegallery.orgOpen: 10am-6pm, dailyAdmission: FreeKensington PalaceKensington Gardens, W8High Street Kensington/Queensway+44 (0)870 751 5170www.hrp.org.ukOpen: Mar-Oct, 10am-6pm, daily.Nov-Feb, 10am-5pm, daily. Lastentry 1hr before closing.Admission: £11; £7.20-8.30 concessions;group rates available.KnightsbridgeMarbleArchPark LaneSTARTHyde ParkCornerGreenwichGet yourself to Embankment tubeand down to the Thames (with apullover!) for a lovely river tour.Once on board, you’ll probably veerright to pick up fellow passengersfrom The London Eye 1 then it’soff downstream taking in thepotted history of London.You’llpass the Southbank Centre 2 ,Tate Modern 3 and Shakespeare’sGlobe 4 , HMS Belfast 5 and theTower of London 6 , before nippingunder Tower Bridge 7 and into astretch of river where Dickensmeets the 21st century.Canary Wharf 8 is London’smini-Manhattan with skyscrapersand shiny new blocks and bridgesbased around an old dock (wellworth a short afternoon’s visit) andlook out for The O 9 2 the newincarnation of the eye-catchingMillennium Dome.Then chug downriver, passing everything from oldwarehouses to modern estates,until you get to Greenwich, a prettypalace- and park-filled outposthousing the Royal Observatory 10 ,the National Maritime Museum 11 ,and the Queen’s House 12 , built byInigo Jones for Charles I’s queen,Henrietta Maria.Royal Observatory &PlanetariumGreenwich Park, SE10DLR (Docklands Light Railway fromBank tube station) Greenwich orCutty Sark.Tel: +44(0)20 8312 6565oEmbankmentSTARTTower Bridgewww.rog.nmm.ac.ukOpen: 10am-5pm daily, until 6pmin the summerAdmission: FreeNational MaritimeMuseumRomney Road, SE10DLR (Docklands Light Railway fromBank tube station) Greenwich orCutty Sark.Tel: +44(0)20 8858 4422www.nmm.ac.ukOpen: July-August 10am-6pm daily;213 4 567rest of year 10am-5pm dailyAdmission: FreeQueen’s HouseRomney Road, SE10DLR (Docklands Light Railway fromBank tube station) Greenwich orCutty Sark.Tel: +44 (0)20 8312 6565www.nmm.ac.ukOpen: 10am-5pm daily(last entry 4.30pm)Admission: Free; occasional chargefor temporary exhibitions.8FINISH1112109Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

18SightseeingTel: +44(0)20 7942 5725. www.nhm.ac.ukAn awe-inspiring collection of everything naturalfrom life-size dinosaurs (some of them moving)through bugs to plants to, well, everything.Make sure you go up to the Earth Galleries.Science MuseumExhibition Road, SW7 South KensingtonTel: +44(0)20 7942 4000. www.sciencemuseum.org.ukThis mind-boggling state-of-the-art museum takesyou on a journey from Stephenson’s Rocket (a train!)to hyper-space. Lots to touch and press.Not forgetting the parks…If London is famous for one thing, it’s having themost impressive parks in the world, all free toenjoy. And these are just a few of them…Hyde Park and KensingtonGardensA huge chunk of countryside with lakes, restaurants,palaces and a statue of Peter Pan.Admission FreePhoto © Matt StuartThe V&AFabulousFreebiesHow do you get the most out of Londonwithout spending a single golden coin?Remarkably easily, as it turns out(though it would be nice to drop apound or two into the donation boxes).Here’s how to make the most of the citywithout ever dipping into your pocket.And this is just the start…Victoria and Albert MuseumCromwell Road SW7 South KensingtonTel: +44(0)20 7942 2000. www.vam.ac.ukThe world’s greatest collection of design, taking ineverything from furniture to costume, jewellery tostatuary and spanning time from Ancient Rome tomodern-day New York. And with a lovely garden.British MuseumGreat Russell Street WC1Russell Square/Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44(0)20 7636 1555. www.thebritishmuseum.ac.ukSimply, one of the world’s great museums crammedwith priceless relics from the world’s civilisations. Therecently added Great Court is one of London’sproudest new bits. Do not miss.National Gallery(and the National PortraitGallery round the corner)See page 11 for detailsMasterpieces of the world unite in this gloriousgallery while next door the faces of Britain’s finest –from Queen Elizabeth I to Kate Moss – stare backat you. Check out the restaurants in both places forsome not free but fabulous food.Somerset HouseStrand, WC2 Charing Cross/TempleTel: +44(0)20 7845 4600. www.somersethouse.org.ukThe courtyard and its dancing fountains are free tovisit, but you will have to pay for the winter ice rinkand the galleries inside.Tate Britain and Tate ModernSee pages 14 and 15 for detailsSome of the most exciting places for art in Londonwhether it’s the likes of Turner and Constable (Britain)or masterpieces of avant garde art (Modern). Simplyarchitecturally, both are gorgeous destinations.Natural History MuseumCromwell Road SW7 South KensingtonSt. James’s ParkWith Buckingham Palace in the background this ismore formal with bands, the fantastic Inn the Park, alake and even pelicans.Green ParkBig and green, as the name suggests, this sitsbetween Piccadilly and the Palace.Regent’s ParkFrom formal flower beds to stretches of green (includingthe famous Primose Hill) not forgetting London Zoo, theMosque and the Open Air Theatre. A gem.Richmond ParkOn the south-western outskirts of London proper, thisis more countryside than park. It even has its owndeer and superb views across London to St. Paul’s.Hampstead HeathA beautiful stretch of countryside in north Londonbetween the lovely ‘villages’ of Highgate andHampstead. Don’t miss the mens’/womens’ ponds(for unofficially gay swimming).Battersea ParkBeside an iconic power station and just across theriver from Chelsea, great for a morning jog.Soho SquareHardly a park, this bit of ‘green’ (the grass has beenworn clean through) is gay/lesbian central comesummer. Bring your own beer.A trip to London isn’t completewithout a visit to Tate Britain andTate Modern. See outstanding art,spectacular buildings and amazingexhibitions – all in the heart of London.Tate BritainPresents art from the world famous Tate collectionof British Art from 1500 to the present dayThe BP British Art DisplaysSupported by BPPimlicoMillbankTate ModernThe leading gallery of international modernand contemporary artOpening up artTate Modern Collection with UBSSouthwark/BlackfriarsBanksideTo find out more, visit www.tate.org.ukor call 020 7887 8888Charges apply for special exhibitionsSponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

Viewing20ViewingLondon is the world centre of theatre and there’sreally no argument about that. From cutting edgework by new writers through mega-musicals to theclassics and maybe even a Hollywood star ortwo gaining a little credibility from treading thoseWest End boards, it’s all here.Main venues forserious theatreBarbican CentreSilk Street, EC2 Barbican+44 (0)20 7638 4141www.barbican.org.ukThe cream of British and internationaltheatre gets showcased atthis most amazing of art centres,which is a veritable cultural townwith concert spaces, galleries,theatres, bars and restaurants. It’salso an architectural gem, if yougo for brutal utopian stuff.Drill Hall16 Chenies Street, WC1Goodge Street+44 (0)20 7307 5060www.drillhall.co.ukA tiny theatre space in Bloomsbury,this is where you’ll see the best ofOff-West End productions with aspecifically gay theme.English National BalletVarious locationswww.ballet.org.ukOne of the best ballet troupes inthe world, the company can turn itshand (or feet) to classics or moremodern pieces. Keep an eye out onlocations such as Royal Albert Hallfor their latest hit production.National TheatreSee page 12The range of productions at thisjewel in the crown of Britishtheatre is extensive, the onlySponsored bycommon thread being highquality. Plays like The History Boysand The Madness of King Georgehave started here, while the NTcan turn its hand equally well tocrowd-pleasing musicals. Thespace is iconic, the location divine.The Old VicThe Cut, SE1 Waterloo/Southwark+44 (0)870 060 6628www.oldvictheatre.comHollywood star Kevin Spacey hasbeen calling the shots at thisLondon theatre institution for acouple of years now, but itcertainly doesn’t need thesuperstar touch: The Old Vic hasmade a centuries old reputationon putting on an eclectic mix ofvery high quality work.Regent’s Park OpenAir TheatreRegent’s ParkBaker Street/Regent's Park+44 (0)8700 601 811www.openairtheatre.orgA summer institution, the gorgeouslittle Open Air Theatre mixesShakespeare with musicals, all in analmost pastoral setting (MidsummerNight’s Dream is an obvious winner).Mind you, you’re hostage to thatfamous British weather.Royal CourtSloane Square, SW1Sloane Square+44 (0)20 7565 5000www.royalcourttheatre.comIf you want to be challenged whenyou take your theatre seat, this isthe place to be. For half a centurythe Royal Court has been showcasingthe most intelligent in Britishdrama, often to controversial effect.Royal ShakespeareCompanyVarious locationswww.rsc.org.ukIf you need to see Shakespeare,you might as well come to thecompany that does it the best,enlisting the help of A-list moviestars if their skills are up to it.Shakespeare’s GlobeSee page15The idea of seeing Shakespeare’splays in the type of theatre theywere written for is exciting indeed.Stand in the round – in the open air– and live the history. (May-Oct.)Currently showing onthe West End StageAvenue QNoel Coward Theatre 0870 850 9175www.avenueqthemusical.co.ukBilly Elliot the MusicalVictoria Palace Theatre 0870 895 5577www.victoriapalacetheatre.co.ukChicagoCambridge Theatre 0870 890 1102www.cambridgetheatre.co.ukGuys & DollsPiccadilly Theatre 0870 060 0123www.piccadillytheatre.co.ukLes MiserablesQueen’s Theatre 020 395 5243www.lesmis.comMamma Mia!Prince of Wales Theatre 0870 850 0393www.mamma-mia.comMary PoppinsPrince Edwards Theatre 0870 850 9191The Sound of MusicLondon Palladium 0870 890 0149www.stoll-moss.comSpamalotPalace Theatre 0870 895 5579www.montypythonsspamalot.com.co.ukWickedApollo Victoria 0870 400 0751www.wickedthemusical.co.ukWIN AWEST ENDWEEKENDWIN A SENSATIONAL WEEKEND FOR TWO IN LONDON WORTH OVER £1,000• Two nights accommodation at the luxuriousLandmark London Hotel• A glass of champagne in the Landmark’s Mirror Bar• Afternoon tea for two in the hotel’s Winter Garden Restaurant• An hour-long ESPA massage each in the Spa and Health Club• Two tickets to a top West End Show*• VIP entrance and a bottle of champagne in the swankyShadow Lounge ClubTo enter, go to uk.gay.com/luxuryweekendGAY.COM terms and conditions apply. Competition runs until May 2008,with the weekend being taken when available after May 31st 2008. * Show tbc.

22 Eating23Asia de CubaEating=Useful InfoTo be on the safe side, book yourtable in advance where possible,and especially on Fridays andweekends.Tipping is standard inthe UK, with 10% - 15% beingthe norm (though a lot of= Great valuePerfect for breakfasts– = Price guideTo put it simply, London is the best place in the worldto eat. If you can think of it, London has it, and withnew restaurants (from family run cafés to Michelinstarredworld-beaters) opening up almost daily, it’shard to keep up. But this is our (tiny) selection!restaurants include ‘Service’as part of the final bill, socheck before you pay, otherwiseyou may tip twice!). And withthe nationwide smoking bantaking effect as of 1 July 2007,you won’t be able to smokeindoors, either.There’s no set time as towhen Londoners eat – thoughmost restaurants are at theirbusiest on weekdays from whenpeople leave work (around 6pm)up until 11pm. Weekends arebusy from midday onwards.Nocturnal munchers have thechoice of 24-hour eateries likeBalans in Soho or the Brick LaneBeigel Bakery in Shoreditch, orthe vast array of takeawaysacross the city – everythingfrom Turkish to Chinese togood old fish ‘n’ chips.SohoAmato14 Old Compton Street, W1Leicester SquareT: +44 (0)20 7734 5733www.amato.co.ukItalianUnpretentious, traditional Italiancafé with simple dishes, greatpatisserie, and friendly staff.Andrew Edmunds46 Lexington Street, W1Piccadilly Circus/Oxford CircusT:+44 (0)20 7437 5708Modern EuropeanIntimate dining, in a very rusticand homely setting. The perfect‘date’ restaurant.Balans60 Old Compton Street, W1Leicester SquareT: +44 (0)20 7437 5212www.balans.co.ukBrasserie24-hour ‘gay’ dining. When we say‘gay’, this place is like a make-shiftclub after the local bars have shut.Barrafina54 Frith Street, W1Leicester SquareT: +44 (0)20 7813 8010SpanishVery new, very stylish, and verypopular tapas bar.You can’t book,so be prepared to queue duringbusier periods.Bertorelli11/13 Frith Street, W1Leicester SquareT: +44 (0)20 7494 3491www.santeonline.co.ukModern ItalianContemporary Italian menu in chicsurroundings, with leather boothsfor more private moments.BiagioRistorante Biagio189 Piccadilly, W1Leicester Square+44 (0)20 7434 1921www.ristorantebiagio.co.ukItalianJust one of a clutch of theirrestaurants spread across theWest End, Biagio has become aby-word for authentic Italianfood served with a smile!Boheme Kitchenand Bar19 Old Compton Street, W1Tottenham Court Road/Leicester Square+44 (0)20 7734 5656www.bohemekitchen.co.ukModern BritishA Soho stalwart, popular withthe local media set. Looks sexy,the staff are friendly, and theoutdoor seating is perfect forpeople-watching down OldCompton Street.L’Escargot48 Greek Street, W1Piccadilly Circus/Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7437 2679www.lescargotrestaurant.co.ukFrenchEstablished in 1927, this stylishSoho favourite has been awardeda Michelin star each year since1996. Charming and incrediblysophisticated!Imli167-169 Wardour Street, W1Piccadilly Circus/Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7287 4243Modern IndianIndian tapas, in a casual butsophisticated environment, withsome innovative and bold dishes.Mildred’s45 Lexington Street, W1Piccadilly Circus/Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7494 1634www.mildreds.co.ukVegetarianVery popular vegetarian joint innewly spruced-up surroundings.No bookings, so prepare to wait!Randall & Aubin16 Brewer Street, W1Piccadilly Circus+44 (0)20 7287 4447www.randallandaubin.co.uk/sohoFishCounter-top eating, with oodles ofcharacter. The lobster is renowned!Natasha Bedingfield‘I love walking aroundthe Thames and goingover Waterloo Bridge,up to Trafalgar Squareand wandering round,then over to CoventGarden. And so manyrestaurants, but I reallylove Hakkasan.’Stockpot18 Old Compton Street, W1Tottenham Court Road+44 (0)20 7287 1066British-EuropeanFood like you used to get atschool, with absolutely no frills.Great for comfort-eating!Noho(‘North of Soho’, the other sideof Oxford Street)Eagle Bar Diner3-5 Rathbone Place, W1Tottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7637 1418AmericanGood ‘ole American dining inNoho. Pancakes, burgers as big asyour head, great cocktails andfriendly staff. Their breakfasts arenotorious (in a good way!).Hakkasan8 Hanway Place, W1Tottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7907 1888Modern ChineseThe place for out-of-this-worldDim SumSukaSanderson Hotel, 50 BernersStreet, W1Oxford Circus+44 (0)20 7300 1444www.sandersonlondon.comMalaysian fusionModern Malaysian with a Britishedge in sleek, Philippe Starcksurroundings – the Garden Terraceis perfect for stickier nights.Covent GardenAsia de CubaSt. Martin’s Lane Hotel, 45 St.Martins Lane, WC2Leicester Square/Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7300 5588www.asiadecuba-restaurant.comInternationalLike the hotel it sits in, jaw-droppinglymodern, sexy and über-▼Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

24 Eating25Automatstylish – with a clientele to match.L’Atelier de JoëlRobuchon13-15 West Street, WC2Leicester Square/Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7010 8600FrenchFrench food with razzmatazz instunning surroundings, fromFrench super-chef Joël Robuchon.Food for Thought31 Neal Street, WC2Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7836 0239VegetarianAn ever-rotating menu of internationallyinspired food (especiallycurries and pies). Gets crowded atlunch, when the local media typesqueue for something quick, cheapand healthy.The Ivy1-5 West Street, WC2Leicester Square/Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7836 4751www.the-ivy.co.ukBritishOne of the original celebrityeateries, specialising in nononsenseBritish nosh.BistrotequeJoe Allen13 Exeter Street, WC2Covent Garden/Temple+44 (0)20 7836 0651www.joeallenrestaurant.comAmericanAn old favourite with Londoners,American expats and celebrities –serving great food with greatservice.Orso27 Wellington Street, WC2Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7240 5269www.orsorestaurant.co.ukItalianPopular and straightforward Italianfood, in a classy yet relaxed environment.The tart of the day isusually a good bet.The PortraitRestaurant, NationalPortrait GallerySt Martin’s Place, off TrafalgarSquare, WC2Leicester Square/Charing Cross+44 (0)20 7312 2490Modern EuropeanSpectacular views over TrafalgarSquare are standard in this showstoppingrestaurant above theNational Portrait Gallery.Rules35 Maiden Lane, WC2Covent Garden/Leicester Square+44 (0)20 7836 5314Traditional BritishEstablished by Thomas Rule in1798, this is one of the oldestrestaurants in London, servingtraditional British grub, with anemphasis on game.Very eccentric,very English, very memorable!World Food Café1st Floor, 14 Neal’s Yard, WC2Covent Garden+44 (0)20 7379 0298GlobalVegetarians are especially wellcatered for in this ethicallyminded, slightly hippy food joint.Alcohol isn’t served, but you canbring your own.Mayfair & PiccadillyAutomat33 Dover Street, W1Green Park/Piccadilly Circus+44 (0)20 7499 3033www.automat-london.comAmerican50’s style New York diner with aLondon sensibility – and a veryfashionable crowd!Inn The ParkSt. James Park, SW1St. James Park+44 (0)20 7451 9999www.innthepark.comBritishA striking, wooden ‘Inn’ in aglorious location just off The Mall,between Buckingham Palace andHorse Guards Parade, with a fresh,simple, and very appealing menu.Maze10-13 Grosvenor Square, W1Bond Street+44 (0)20 7107 0000www.gordonramsay.com/mazeFrench Haute CuisineAnother Gordon Ramsay triumph,with an innovative approach toFrench cuisine. A grazing-stylemenu that offers a range oftasting plates, making a Ramsaymeal potentially that bit moreaffordable!Momo25 Heddon Street, W1Piccadilly Circus+44 (0)20 7434 4040www.momoresto.comAfricanA sometimes boisterous venuethat attracts a cosmopolitancrowd, with some truly eclecticdishes.NobuFirst Floor,The Metropolitan, 19Old Park Lane, W1Hyde Park Corner+44 (0)20 7447 4747www.noburestaurants.comJapaneseAs well known for its celebrityclientele as it is for its sushi.St. AlbanRex House, 4-12 Lower RegentStreet, SW1Piccadilly Circus+44 (0)20 7499 8558www.stalban.netModern EclecticLatest outpost from the peoplewho brought us the Wolseley, thisis the spot for a sophisticatedlunch.Hoxton GrilleThe Wolseley160 Piccadilly, W1Green Park/Piccadilly Circus+44 (0)20 7499 6996www.thewolseley.comBritishA grand eating experience in evengrander surroundings, whether it’sbreakfast á deux, afternoon teawith freshly baked scones andclotted cream, or a meaty, veryBritish supper.Best of the RestBistrotheque23-27 Wadeson Street, E2Bethnal Green+44 (0)20 8983 7900www.bistrotheque.comFrenchHoused in an industrial shed downan unsuspecting alley that’s a littlerough around the edges, this crazysexy-cooleaterie is a startlingtreat, with a cabaret bar forbouncier moments.Canteen2 Crispin Place, off BrushfieldStreet, Spitalfields Market, E1Liverpool Street+44 (0)845 686 1122www.canteen.co.ukBritishWinning ‘Best Restaurant’accolades left, right and all overthe place, with good reason.Simply, great British fare, inambient surroundings.Chutney Mary535 King’s Road, SW10Fulham Broadway+44 (0)20 7351 3113www.realindianfood.comIndian and PakistaniOnce London’s most fashionableIndian, the celeb count may havedwindled, but standards haven’t.Fish!Borough Market, SE1Borough/London Bridge+44 (0)20 7407 3803www.fishdiner.co.ukFishFish, fish and more fish, and onlythe best fish at that. Right slapbang in the middle of the bustlingand trendy Borough Market.GilgameshCamden Stables Market, ChalkFarm Road, NW1Camden Town, Chalk Farm+44 (0)20 7482 5757www.gilgameshbar.comOrientalCelebs are flocking here in theirdroves, as are fashionable typeshungry to try out this vast,eccentric and eclectic foodemporium that’s taken Camdenby storm.Hoxton Grille81 Great Eastern Street, EC2Old Street+44 (0)20 7739 9111www.grillerestaurants.comBrasserieStylish, in an understated way,with friendly staff, straightforwardfood, and a hip clientele.▼Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

28EatingGastropubsThe phenomenon of thegastropub seems unstoppable.By definition, the food is usuallyBritish and the cost reasonablylow – a good bet for a hearty,delicious meal in traditional Britsurroundings. Here’s our pick.The Albion10 Thornhill Road, Barnsbury, N1Angel, Highbury and Islington+44 (0)20 7607 7450www.the-albion.co.ukPretty location, with a mouthwateringmenu. If you’re feelingadventurous, try sharing the wholeroast suckling pig with friends!Anchor and Hope36 The Cut, SE1Waterloo+44 (0)20 7928 9898A relaxed, unpretentious pub – justwith excellent food!Easton22 Easton Street, WC1Farringdon+44 (0)20 7278 7608Intimate gastro experience, withretro wallpaper, art on the walls,and portions big enough to share.The Engineer65 Gloucester Avenue, NW1Chalk Farm+44 (0)20 7722 0950www.the-engineer.comPulling in the local glitterati ofPrimrose Hill, this is good food in astylish but relaxed setting.The Fox28 Paul Street, EC2Old Street+44 (0)20 7729 5708From the busy ground-floor bar,make your way upstairs to the hubof dark wood, mirrors, chandeliersand candles, or on warmerevenings the leafy outdoor terrace.Pig’s Ear35 Old Church Street, SW3Sloane SquareSponsored by+44 (0)20 7352 2908www.thepigsear.co.ukBritish with a continental twist, beprepared to grapple for a tablewith wealthy locals eager to tastea slice of ‘authentic’ Brit grub.The Gun27 Coldharbour, Isle of Dogs, E14Canary Wharf/South Quay DLR+44 (0)20 7515 5222www.thegundocklands.comAn 18th century pub with agreat choice of beers, and a freerickshaw service transporting Citytypesto and from Canary Wharf.The Well180 St. John Street, EC1Farringdon/Angel+44 (0)20 7251 9363www.downthewell.comA sultry, atmospheric pub with anemphasis on meaty dishes.Downstairs you’ll find chocolateleather banquettes, for a comfierexperience.Beyoncé‘London is likehome to me. There’sthis Indian restaurantthat I go to and it’ssooo good!’You’ll see theseeverywhereIf in doubt, this little lot oftrusted food chains can berelied upon to give you a good,tasty, usually pretty quickand reasonably-priced feed.Eatwww.eat.co.ukGood selection of sandwiches,soup and pies.Café Rougewww.caferouge.co.ukFrench style café, with nice dishesand a great French Onion Soup!Carluccio’swww.carluccios.comGreat chain of café/restaurantsselling authentic regional Italianfood, in bustling and modern urbanenvironments.Le PainQuotidienwww.lepainquotidien.comBread, bread and more bread, in anopen-plan, stylish setting. Greatfor breakfasts.PatisserieValeriewww.patisserie-valerie.co.ukShabby-chic French patisseries,serving everything you’d expect,with a normally up-market crowd.Pizza Expresswww.pizzaexpress.co.ukThe original posh pizza chain, inelegant surroundings.Prêt-a-Mangerwww.pret.comGreat coffee and sandwiches, allwith fresh ingredients andseasonal variations on the classics.Stradawww.strada.co.ukModern-retro pizza chain, with amore authentic Italian cocina thanother pizza outlets.

30Drinking31DrinkingPhotographs: info@eoinwhelanphotography.comCentralCENTRAL STATION37 Wharfdale Road, N1Kings CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7278 3294www.centralstation.co.uk= For boys= For girlsThere is certainly no shortage of places in Londonto get with the very English tradition of drinkinglots in a gay environment. Here are the maincontenders but be sure to check the weekly gaylistings for new-comers or special events. Cheers.A proper English gay pub withall sorts of events going onupstairs, downstairs and on-stageon the main bar. Mainly men.THE GLASS BARWest Lodge, Euston SquareGardens, 190 Euston Road, NW1Euston/Euston SquareRough around the edges andhidden in the depths of Euston,this is a hot favourite with olderwomen. Women only.HALFWAY TO HEAVEN7 Duncannon Street, WC2Charing CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7930 8312Traditional looking pub withcabaret and karaoke and amixed/older crowd. Mainly men.ADMIRAL DUNCAN54 Old Compton Street, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7437 5300Traditional and basic and rightin the middle of the gayest bit oftown. Good for a starting drink.Mainly men.BARCODE3-4 Archer Street, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7734 3342www.bar-code.co.ukAttracting a harder-lookingcrowd of slightly older guys, it’sdrinking upstairs, dancing down.Comedy Camp (a gay comedyclub) takes over on Tuesdays.Mainly men.CANDY BAR4 Carlisle St Soho LondonTottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7494 4041www.candybarsoho.comLondon’s hottest spot for upfor-itgirls. It can get pretty crazy,especially when they get thestrippers in. Mainly women.DUKE OFWELLINGTON77 Wardour Street, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7439 1274Traditional and straightforwardand slap bang in the heart of Soho.Mainly men.THE EDGE11 Soho Square, W1Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7439 1313www.edgesoho.co.ukStylish and extending overfour floors with lots of outsidedrinking on nice days, this is afavourite with pretty mucheveryone. Mixed.COMPTON’S OF SOHO52-55 Old Compton Street, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7479 7961www.comptons-of-soho.co.ukPacked no matter the dayor the hour, this traditionallooking place is home to manlymen of all shapes and sizes.Mainly men.ESCAPE10a Brewer Street, W1Leicester SquareTel: +44 (0)20 7734 2626Fun and young, this small butperfectly formed disco bar rocks.Mainly men.FRIENDLY SOCIETYBasement, 79 Wardour St, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7434 3805This kitschy and cool littlebasement bar is jumping withyoung stylish drinkers wiggling toDJs. Mixed.G-A-Y BAR30 Old Compton Street, W1Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7494 2756www.g-a-y.co.ukThe most fun you canhave with your clothes on, thistriple-decker bar – very big! – haswall-to-wall pop videos and tastydrinks offers. Mixed.THE KINGS ARMS23 Poland Street, W1Oxford CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7734 5907www.kingsarms-london.comParty central for bears and theiradmirers, this traditional-lookingpub actually has quite a cuttingedge. Mainly men.THE QUEBEC12 Old Quebec Street, W1Marble ArchTel: +44 (0)20 7629 6159Older men come to this cleanbut traditional-style bar to cruisewith each other and younger men.Mainly men.▼Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

32Drinking3379 CXR79 Charing Cross RoadPiccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7734 0769www.79cxr.co.ukNo frills drinking in this busytwo-floor American-style bar.Mainly men.THE BOX32-34 Monmouth Street, WC2Covent GardenTel: +44 (0)20 7240 5828www.boxbar.comCafé by day, muscle meetingjoint by night, this is light andmodern with huge windows andoutside drinking space. Mixed.FIRST OUT52 St Giles High Street, WC2Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7240 8042www.firstoutcafebar.comA café/bar with a modernfeel but old-fashioned values. Bigwith lesbians and lovers of veggiefare. Mixed (Friday mainly women)this has a studenty/indie vibe anda soundtrack to match. Mixed.Profile Bar56 Frith Street, W1Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7734 8300www.vespalounge.comThree floors of up-for-it funfrom the guys behind Gaydar – withfree internet access, and interactivetext screens, to add that extrafrisson! Mixed, mostly men.THE STAG15 Bressendon Place, SW1VictoriaTel: +44 (0)20 7928 7287Old-school boozing in atraditional pub. Mixed, mainly men.NorthBLACK CAP171 Camden High Street, NW1Camden TownTel: +44 (0)20 7428 2721www.theblackcap.comLegendary drag-spot withdancefloor, bar and patio. Mixed.KING WILLIAM IV75 Hampstead High Street, NW3HampsteadTel: +44 (0)20 7435 5747Local pub atmospherecomplete with beer garden. Mixed.The Green74 Upper Street, N1AngelTel: +44 (0)20 7226 8895www.the-green.co.ukStylish eating and drinking inIslington’s classiest gay bar. Mixed.EastTHE GEORGE & DRAGON2 Hackney Road, E2Old Street/Liverpool StreetTel: +44 (0)20 7012 1100It’s eccentric fun at thisShoreditch hang-out, which can bebursting at the seams with theweird and the wonderful. Mixed.THE JOINERS ARMS116-118 Hackney Road, E2Old Street/Liverpool StreetTel: +44 (0)20 7739 9854Local boozer with a surprisinglyedgy crowd. Lots of fun. Mixed.▼RUPERT STREET50 Rupert Street, W1Piccadilly CircusTel: +44 (0)20 7292 7141Bursting at the seams with anafter-work crowd that presses upagainst those windows with theirdrinks till home time. Mainly men.VILLAGE SOHO81 Wardour Street, W1Leicester SquareTel: +44 (0)20 7434 2124www.village-soho.co.ukTotally refurbed, this twofloorbar, with go-gos in thewindow and a young, fun crowd isSoho royalty. Mixed.THE YARD57 Rupert Street, W1Piccadilly TubeTel: +44 (0)20 7437 2652www.yardbar.co.ukIn summer it’s the place toTori Amos‘I love to walk aroundLondon. I like being inSoho, just wanderingaround and grabbing acoffee, aimlessly. I lovenot making any plans andjust seeing where a nightin London takes me.’be as a mixed bag of drinkerscrowd the courtyard and balcony.In winter it’s all inside action inthe upstairs and downstairs barswith their wooden floors andleather sofas. Mixed.KU BAR30 Lisle Street, Leicester SquareLeicester SquareTel: +44 (0)20 7437 4303www.ku-bar.co.ukRelocated and upgraded, thistwo-storey bar has it all: glamour,cute boys, video screens and afull programme of cabaret, filmclubs and special nights in thedownstairs club. Mixed.KUDOS10 Adelaide Sreet, WC2Charing CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7379 4573www.kudosgroup.comBusy with an air of sophistication,this attracts a mixed bunchincluding businessmen and youngAsian guys. Mixed.RETRO BAR2 George Court, (off the Strand)London, WC2Charing CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7321 2811Part of the Popstarz empire,two unique bar spaces in the heart of sohosoho’s only gay bar withan outdoor courtyardplus djs at the weekendTHELOFTescape the city in ourchilled upstairs bar withcocktails & champagne1pm - late every day | 57 rupert street soho london w1 | +44 (0)20 7437 2652 | info@redskyventures.co.ukSponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

34Drinkingwww.thehoist.co.ukGreat looking late-night cruisebar with strict dress code and aclientele of up-for-it guys. Men only.ROYAL VAUXHALLTAVERN372 Kennington Lane, SE11VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7840 0596www.theroyalvauxhalltavern.co.ukA legend in its ownlifetime, this seems like aregular English pub but thatdoesn’t account for the edgyand boisterous art-scene nightsit hosts. Hilarious. Mixed.TWO BREWERS114 Clapham High Street, SW4Clapham Common/Clapham NorthTel: +44 (0)20 7498 4971www.the2brewers.comMuch bigger than a bar butnot quite a club, the atmosphere isfun with drag shows and generalcarryings on. Mixed.Hotel BarsThey’re glamorous, attract a savvy, international crowd, andare amongst the coolest places to kick-start an evening on therazzle-dazzle.These are a few of the best:The Lobby Barstylish crowd that knows it. For@ One Aldwychmore intimacy, try the literallynamedPurple Bar.1 Aldwych, WC2Charing Cross/CoventGarden/Templemybar @ myhotelwww.onealdwych.comBloomsburyAn elegant bar with oversized art 11-13 Bayley Street, Bedfordinstallations, serving lovingly-made Square, WC1Rockwell @ Thecocktails to a stylish crowd – perfect Tottenham Court Road/ Trafalgar Hotelfor pre- or post-theatre drinks. Goodge Street2 Spring Gardens,Trafalgarwww.myhotels.comSquare, SW1Long BarEver-popular with style-savvyCharing Cross/Leicester Square@ The Sanderson locals, and within crawling distance www.thetrafalgar.com50 Berners Street, W1of Soho, mybar serves memorable With an enviable position facingTottenham Court Road/ cocktails in a friendly, enticing Trafalgar Square, the Rockwell is allOxford Circusatmosphere – with dinner, lunch or black leather and white lacquerwww.sandersonlondon.com even breakfast available should you and effortlessly sexy – oh, andLong (80 feet!), made of glowing get the munchies! And if you’re in there’s a tiny roof garden open inonyx, and fit to bursting with a west London, myhotel Chelsea’s the summer, but don’t tell anyone.CENTRAL STATIONKINGS X37 Wharfdale Road(2mins from King’s Cross Station)020 7278 3294www.centralstation.co.ukvisitlondon.com/gay(see p.52) mybar sports a similarvibe, and a well-heeled crowd!REFUEL Bar@ The Soho Hotel4 Richmond Mews, W1Piccadilly Circus/Oxford Circuswww.firmdale.comBumper-to-bumper media folk,sexy Soho regulars and passingthroughcelebs, in this busy,expensive but oh-so-cool cocktailhaunt in the heart of Soho.35BJ’S WHITE SWAN556 Commercial Road, E14LimehouseTel: +44 (0)20 7780 9870www. Bjswhiteswan.comBig, busy and boisterouswith drag, cabaret and strippers.Mixed, except for amateur stripWednesdays, which is men only.SouthKAZBAR50 Clapham High Street, SW4Clapham CommonTel: +44 (0)20 7662 0070Fun, buzzy, noisy and spillingout onto the street. Mixed.SOUTH CENTRAL349 Kennington Lane, SE11VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7793 0903This traditional looking barwith its beer garden plays host toa surprisingly edgy mixed-bag ofevents. Mixed, mainly men.THE HOISTRailway Arches 47b & 47c SouthLambeth Road, SW8VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7735 9972WestBROMPTONS294 Old Brompton Road, SW5Earl’s CourtTel: +44 (0)20 7370 1344Earls Court’s legendaryclubby pub (or pubby club) withstrippers, cabaret and a slightlyolder crowd. Mixed, mainly men.COCOLATTE SW5180-184 Earls Court Road, SW5Earl’s CourtTel: +44 (0)20 7244 0022www.cocolattesw5.comIt’s Earls Court: The NewGeneration in this glamorous andslinky bar cum lounge cum nightclub. Mixed.COLEHERNE261 Brompton Road, SW5Earl’s CourtTel: +44 (0)20 7244 5951It’s leathery and bikey andattracts all ages. Men.Sponsored by

36ClubbingClubbingSponsored by= For boys= For girlsIt’s not the location, it’s the party that counts and London seems to havebecome the world’s gay partytown with a non-stop schedule of hot nights thatreally is second to none. Here is just some of what goes on, but check theweekly gay freebies to keep up to the minute (and gingerbeer.co.uk forthe latest lesbian listings). Photographs: info@eoinwhelanphotography.comA:MFire, 39-41 Parry Street, SW8Vauxhallwww.fireclub.co.ukOpen: 11pm Fri-11am Sat £12Three rooms of all-night-typeguys getting down to hardishsounds. Mixed but mainly men.BootyliciousArea, 67-68 Albert Embankment,SW8VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7091 0081Open: 11pm-5am Sat (not everyweek, check listings) £12Soul, r’n’b, hip-hop, youname it: only the funkiest movesallowed in this loveliest of Vauxhallvenues. Mixed.CircusSoho Revue Bar, 11-12 WalkersCourt off Brewer Street W1Piccadilly Circus/LeicesterSquareTel: +44 (0)20 7734 0377Open: 10pm-4am £10An ex-strip joint becomesthe location for the dressing upparty of the week. Scene freaksand celebrities take it to the maxon the dancefloor and in theupstairs sing-a-longa bar.Club CaribanaFactory, 65 Goding Street, SE11VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 845 456 7686www.caribanaclub.comOpen 10.30pm-6am Sun £6The black gay communityputs on a hip hop party. Everyone’sinvited. Mixed.Club KaliThe Dome, 1 Dartmouth Park Hill,N19Tufnell Parkwww.clubkali.comOpen: 10pm-3am, 3rd Friday of themonth £8Kali sees its 12th birthdaythis year and remains undisputedas the nation's leading and originalAsian music night. Kali's colourfulmonthly party is driven by DJRitu's eclectic soundtrack,Bollywood visuals, wafts ofincense, and a host of flamboyantChutney Queens! Mixed.Crash66 Albert Embankment, SE1VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7793 9262www.crashlondon.co.ukOpen: 10.30pm-5am Fri; 10pm-6amSat; 10pm-5am Sun £5 Fri/Sun;£15 SatAlready legendary, this is downand-dirtyaction for an up-for-itcrowd of mainly manly men.DiscotecThe End, 18 West Central Street,Covent Garden, WC1Holborn/Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7419 9199www.discotecclub.comOpen: 10pm – 4am Thur £8A lovely clean and modernclub features a lovely not-quiteso-cleanand modern evening,where fashion and sexiness rules.DTPMFabric, 77A Charterhouse Street,Clerkenwell, EC1Barbican/FaringdonTel: +44 (0)20 7749 1199Open: 11pm-late Sun £15Sunday afternoons meandancing off the night before acrossmultiple dancefloors, to multipletypes of music at this megaclub.DuckieRoyal Vauxhall Tavern, 371Kennington Lane,Vauxhall, SE11VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7737 4043www.duckie.co.ukOpen: 9pm-2am Sat £5Mad as a hatter night out fortrendy indie types featuringcabaret and retro sounds thatsometimes move well into crazyterritory. A blast! Mixed.Exilio LatinoLSE, 3 Houghton Street, CoventGarden, WC2HolbornTel: 07931 374391www.exilio.co.ukOpen: 10pm-3am Sat £8Strange place for a club (it’sat the London School ofEconomics) but that doesn’t stopthose salsa feet moving. Mixed.G-A-YAstoria, 157 Charing Cross Rd,Soho, WC2Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7434 9592www.g.a.y.co.ukOpen: 11pm-4am Mon, Thur, Fri;10.30pm-4.30am Sat £3-£10A legend in its own lifetime,the massive G-A-Y has played hostto Madonna, Christina, Mariah(live!) and the cream of poproyalty, while the crowd goes madto easy pop dance on Mondays,Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.Ghetto5-6 Falconberg Court (behind theAstoria), Soho, W1Tottenham Court RoadTel: +44 (0)20 7287 3726www.ghettolondon.co.ukOpen: 10:30pm-3am Mon-Wed10:30pm-4am Thur, Fri; 10.30pm-5amSat; 10:30pm-3am Sun Free - £7Cutting-edge hi-jinksnightly including lesbian nightMiss-Shapes on Thursday, Cock onFridays and jumping-around-topop-trashWig Out on Saturday.HeavenThe Arches,Villiers St, WC2Embankment/Charing CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7930 2020www.heaven-london.comOpen: 10:30pm-late Mon, Wed, Fri,Sat £1-£15Moving with the times, thehuge Heaven has a number ofnights still drawing all the rightcrowds and gets decidedly saucylate night on Saturday.Horse Meat DiscoSouth Central, 249 KenningtonLane,Vauxhall, SE1VauxhallTel: +44 (0)20 7793 090337visitlondon.com/gay▼

38Clubbingwww.horsemeatdisco.co.ukOpen: 6pm-2am Sun £5It looks like just any oldpub, but come Sunday afternoonit’s packed with up-for-it guys,many of them bears, throwing itaround to great music. Mixedbut mainly men.LaterFire, 39-41 Parry Street,Vauxhall,SW8Vauxhallwww.allthingsorange.comOpen: From noon Sun £12Dance yourself dizzy of aSunday afternoon, whether you’vebeen out since last night or not.Already a Sunday institution.Mixed but mainly men.OrangeFire, 39-41 Parry Street,Vauxhall,SW8Vauxhallwww.allthingsorange.comOpen: 11pm Sun-11am Mon £10Party like it’s Saturday nighteven though most people are ontheir way to work. A shirts-offcrowd of hard-partiers. Mainly men.PopstarzScala, 275 Pentonville Road,King’s Cross, N1King’s CrossTel: +44 (0)20 7833 2022www.popstarz.orgOpen: 10pm-4am Fri £8A mega-club shrine to theindie sensibility, choose yourdance space and go for indie, popor r’n’b or a quiet drink in the bar.Sponsored bySlick and fun.Very mixed.Rude BoyzFire, 39-41 Parry Street,Vauxhall,SW8Vauxhallwww.allthingsorange.comOpen: 10.30pm-4am Thu £7Naughty goings-on in a clubthat fetishises all things workingclass from tracksuits to trainersand back with amateur strip andan upstairs play area. Men only.SalvationRenaissance Rooms, off MilesStreet,Vauxhall, SW8Oval/VauxhallOpen: 11pm-6am 1st and 3rd Satof month £15Cruising meets dirty dancing on ahuge dancefloor with outsize terraceand a maze (for some reason).Muscleboys love it. Mainly men.Shadow Lounge5 Brewer Street, W1FPiccadilly/Leicester SquareTel: +44 (0)20 7287 7988www.sohoclubsandbars.co.ukOpen: 10pm-3am Mon-Wed;9pm-3am Thu-Sat Up to £10on a Friday or SaturdayA funny, fabulous old placethat attracts celebs, fashiony boysand anyone up for a good old time,with waiter service and a pole forshowing off on. Salon on Tuesdaysis particularly hot and dressy.Soho Revue Bar11-12 Walkers Court off BrewerStreet, W1Piccadilly/Leicester SquareTel: +44 (0)20 7734 0377www.sohoclubsandbars.co.ukOpen: 5pm-4am Tue-Sat £10This old stripper bar hasbecome one of Soho’s hottesthang-outs with its dancefloor andupstairs lounge. Don’t missTrannyshack on Wednesdays,Shampoo on Saturdays andcabaret on Sundays.UltraArea, 67-68 Albert Embankment,SW8VauxhallOpen: 5.30-11.30am (Sundaymorning!) £10Gorgeous new Vauxhall clubArea puts on a party featuringeverything from hard house to funkytunes with a cool chill-out area.The Wayout ClubCharlie’s, 9 Crosswall (offMinories), EC3Tower Hill/Aldgatewww.thewayoutclub.comOpen: 9pm – 4am Sat.£10 (9-11pm), £12 (after 11pm).£7 for TGs and those in drag.Entertainment and acelebration of cross-dressingdiversity, every week. For boys,girls and inbetweenies!Club WoteverMasters Club,12 Denman Street, W1Piccadilly Circuswww.clubwotever.tk£4 before 11, £6 after.Transgender, 'wotever'!For gender-benders far and wide,identity’s the last thing onanyone’s mind. One of London’sleading trans clubs.XXLThe Arches, 51-53 SouthwarkStreet, SE1SouthwarkOpen: 10pm-6am Sat £12A huge venue for huge guys andtheir admirers, although the clienteleis becoming remarkably mixed. Greatsounds and sweeties. Men.

42 Shopping43Alexander McQueenShopping= Great value= For boys= For girls– = Price guideLondon is, simply, the best place in the world to shop. From mind-blowingdepartment stores to glamorous boutiques; high-street favourites to specialistmarkets; cute, eccentric little shops to high-fashion emporiums, everything– and we mean everything! – is covered.AreasWith a city as huge as London,it’s pretty impossible to covereverything. It’s pretty impossiblejust to cover a small fraction, butto make things that little biteasier, here’s a brief guide toLondon’s most renownedshopping areas.West EndA trip to London isn’t completewithout exploring the three greatshopping streets of London’s WestEnd: Bond Street, Oxford Streetand Regent Street, which betweenthem boast more shops thananywhere else in the world.This renowned district offerseverything in classic, cool orcontemporary fashion. Eighty newshops have opened in the WestEnd in the past three years aloneand more are opening all the time.Oxford Street is also home toprobably the world's bestdepartment store (Selfridges),and TopShop’s flagship storewhich is a cutting-edge fashion ona high-street budget (be preparedto jostle for those bargains witha few AAA-list celebs!).North of Oxford Street isMarylebone, a quaint, prettyand very well-heeled part of townthat still retains its village feel,stacked full of gorgeous littleshops selling gorgeous things.Marylebone High Street is themain bit, with highlights includingthe Edwardian timewarp that isDaunt Books, the tiny weekendmarkets at the top end of the HighStreet in the shadow of St Mary’sChurch, and the Conran Storeopposite, which is design-ledluxury for your home. Morerefined than Oxford Street areBond Street, Regent Street andSavile Row. This batch of regalstreets covers the upper end ofthe market, on the east side ofMayfair. Bond Street is bumperto-bumperhigh-fashion (Chanel,Prada,Yves Saint Laurent, CalvinKlein, Gucci, Burberry, Cartier,Tiffany and Co. etc.); Savile Rowis, well what Savile Row’s famousfor (the best tailoring in theworld!), plus Abercrombie & Fitchhas recently opened its first UKshop there; while Regent Streetis a grand old avenue with traditionalBritish brands (like Hackettand Mulberry), the interiorsemporium that’s practically agay cliché in itself (Habitat), aswell as arguably the most beautifuldepartment store in the world –Liberty. Discover more atwww.newwestend.comSpitalfields MarketEastsideAnyone with their finger onthe pulse will tell you it’s allabout the East End – or Eastside,as it’s becoming known. Fastemerging as the alternative tothe West End for those lookingfor an edgier, artier and quirkiershopping/ eating ‘n’ drinkingexperience, there’s a clutchof hot, happening and oh-sotrendymarkets (includingSpitalfields), shops and eatingdens, as well as some of the besthotels in town. Not to mentionBrick Lane for authentic Indianand Bangladeshi food.Carnaby Street, Sohoand Covent GardenStraddling the east side of RegentStreet is Carnaby Street which,whilst having lost the fiercelyindependent streak that made itfamous in the ‘60s, still retains afair bit of charm. The cobbledalleys off Carnaby Street arewhere the one-off boutiques are,and wandering further easttowards the gay ‘village’ of Sohoyou’ll find anything from sexshops to independent recordsellers to gorgeous delis. As forCovent Garden, this place covers itall. There’s the trainers mecca thatis Neal Street, Floral Street with itsdesigner boutiques like Paul Smithand ‘street’ favourites like TedBaker, the bohemian Piazza sellingmostly paraphernalia, and the verycute Seven Dials area, with itsdesigner/ urban/vintage mix.Charing Cross Road and itsadjoining streets are famous fortheir book stores.Chelsea,Knightsbridge andBrompton CrossCatering for the super-rich ofWest London, these three areashave a huge emphasis on luxuryand anything very expensive.Knightsbridge is home to theinfamous Harvey Nichols (or‘Harvey Nics’) and Harrods;Brompton Cross is more off-thebeaten-trackwith high-endfashion and design shops; whilstthe King’s Road is basically theWest End for Chelsea residents.Kensington HighStreet, Notting Hill,Westbourne Groveand Ladbroke GroveThink Chelsea, Knightsbridgeet al, but edgier. It’s designerboutiques most of the way(as well as your recognisablehigh-street outlets), but also lotsof vintage clothing shops thathelp this part of London maintainits more avant-garde reputation.The deliriously eccentric andphotogenic Portobello Road inNotting Hill is, most days, afrantic mix of wealthy locals,thrifty students and enthralledtourists, whilst Westbourne andLadbroke Groves do the trendything in a more twee way, withcute cafés peppered betweenthe fancy boutiques.Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

44ShoppingUseful infoMost shops across London areopen every day from 10am till6pm – though some still haverestricted Sunday hours, usually12pm till 6pm. In the West End,late night shopping is Thursday(till 8pm), though increasinglythe bigger shops are open till atleast 7pm on most nights, withsome even staying open till 9pm.Late night shopping in Chelseaand Knightsbridge, however, isWednesday. If in doubt, checkwith the specific shops!FashionAbercrombie & Fitch7 Burlington Gardens,Savile Row, W1Oxford Circus/PiccadillyCircus/Bond StreetT: 44 (0)20 7297 9400www.uk.abercrombie.com|Preppy basics, with that oh-sodesirablelogo (and scantily-clad'assistants' by the door) – in storesthat could double as nightclubs.Alexander McQueen4-5 Old Bond Street, W1Bond Street/Piccadilly CircusT: +44 (0)20 7355 0080www.alexandermcqueen.com|The flagship London store of oneof the world’s great designers.B Store24a Savile Row, W1Oxford CircusT: + 44 (0)20 7734 6846www.bstorelondon.com|A boutique showcasing newdesign talent, as well as a bunch ofwell-knowns. Their own-brandrange is also making waves!Burberry21-23 New Bond Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7968 0000www.burberry.comSponsored by|True Brit refinement, that’s had apretty big resurgence of late.Concrete35a Marshall Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7434 4546www.concretelondon.com|Tiny boutique off Carnaby Street,home to gorgeous and uniquefashions, curios and the celeb-faveUnconditional label.Fred Perry14 The Piazza, WC2Covent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7836 3327www.fredperry.com|Authentic British street style,synonymous with Paul Weller(and tennis!).Hackett143-147 Regent Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7494 1855www.hackett.com|British preppy chic with anemphasis on quality.Koh Samui65-67 Monmouth Street, WC2Covent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7240 4280|Hilary Duff‘Whenever I’m inLondon I love going toVivienne Westwood’sshop on Conduit Street -I always end up spendinga lot of time there!’Show-stopping boutique for girlswith (lots of) pennies to spend.Merc10 Carnaby Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7439 7750www.merc-clothing.com|The place where mod fashionstill rules, and one of the fewhangers-on from original ‘60sCarnaby Street. Great for skinnysuits, without the Dior price-tags.New Look500-502 Oxford Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7290 7860www.newlook.co.uk|Surprisingly on-trend fashions atrock-bottom prices, with a knack forpicking up on current catwalk trends,especially the women’s stuff.Primark499-517 Oxford Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7495 0420www.primark.co.uk| |A shopping phenomenon, and theultimate bargain basement forstylish types, on a budget, lookingfor just-out-of-season designerfinds and catwalk copies.Pringle112 New Bond Street, W1Bond StreetT: +44 (0)20 7297 4580www.pringlescotland.com|The name in classic fashionconsciousknitwear, with a heavynod to its Scottish roots.Rokit42 Shelton Street, WC2Covent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7836 6547www.rokit.co.uk|The second-hand store of choicefor budget-conscious fashionistason the lookout for a bargain.▼

46Shopping47SelfridgesSefton196 Upper Street, N1 and 271Upper Street, N1Highbury and IslingtonT: +44 (0)207 226 7076and 020 7226 9822|Chic north London boutiques sellinga great selection of designer names,including McQueen, Comme desGarçons and Marc Jacobs.Vivienne Westwood44 Conduit St, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7439 1109www.viviennewestwood.com|With a design ethic that is arguablythe most recognisable in the world,Aunty Viv continues to inspire anarmy of club kids, fashion glitteratiand anyone with a daring streak!TopShop/TopMan216 Oxford Street, London , W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7636 7700www.topshop.com|Inspired by the catwalk without thecatwalk prices. Reputed to be thebiggest fashion store in the world.Warning – the crowds can get crazy!!Paul Smith40/44 Floral Street, WC2Covent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7379 7133www.paulsmith.co.uk|Traditional English luxury, with aneccentric and ultra-recognisabletwist.Jungle7 Earlham St, London, WC2Covent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7379 5379www.jungleclothing.com|Club gear, army surplus andvintage gems. Great for cheapcombats, vests and boots.Department storesHarrods87 - 135 Brompton Road, SW1KnightsbridgeT: +44 (0)20 7730 1234www.harrods.comThe world’s most famousdepartment store, completewith shrine to Princess Dianaand Dodi (the owner’s son).Harvey Nichols109 - 125 Knightsbridge, SW1KnightsbridgeT: +44 (0)20 7235 5000www.harveynichols.comImmortalised by AbsolutelyFabulous and frequented by celebs,this is high-end stuff, with a foodhall and restaurant to die for.John LewisOxford Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7629 7711www.johnlewis.comRenowned for its outstandingcustomer service, this functionalstore covers everything from deepfatfryers to digital cameras.LibertyRegent St, W1Oxford CircusT: +44(0)20 7734 1234www.liberty.co.ukHeart-stoppingly gorgeous, thisTudor-style store is sheer class.Selfridges400 Oxford St, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)8708 377 377www.selfridges.comFor the fashion-conscious on atight schedule, this is the onlydepartment store you’ll ever need.DesignHabitat121 – 123 Regent St, W1Piccadilly CircusT: +44 (0)8444 991 134www.habitat.netReasonably priced design-warefor your home, and a renowneddraw for design-savvy gaySunday shoppers.Skandium86 Marylebone High St, W1Bond StT: +44 (0)20 7935 2077www.skandium.comLovely modern pieces with aScandinavian feel, great for standoutbits and bobs for you home,office or garden.The Conran Shop55 Marylebone High St, W1Baker StT: +44 (0)20 7723 2223www.conranshop.co.ukThe posher version of Habitat(which is also Conran-owned).Less ‘commercialised’ and moreexclusive design-ware, with theresulting bigger price-tags.HarrodsBooksBorders120 Charing Cross Road, WC2Tottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7379 8877www.bordersstores.comGreat for picking up foreign mags,not as comprehensive as others,but handy for Soho and thereforeusually a good smattering of gays.Daunt Books83-84 Marylebone High Street,W1Baker StreetT: +44 (0)20 7224 2295www.dauntbooks.co.ukThree levels of Edwardianloveliness, with oak galleriesand books arranged by country.Great for travel literature.Waterstone’s203-206 Piccadilly, W1Piccadilly Circuswww.waterstones.co.ukBritain’s book-selling giant! Theviews from the top floor restaurantof this branch (the biggest bookstore in Europe) are incredible!MusicBlack Market Records25 D’Arblay Street, W1Tottenham Court Roadwww.bm-soho.com▼Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

48Shopping49Dance specialists in the heart ofSoho.HMV150 Oxford Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7631 3423www.hmv.co.ukHuge music store, selling everythingyou’d think it would sell!Fopp1 Earlham Street, WC2Covent Garden orTottenham Court RoadT: +44(0)20 7379 0883www.fopp.co.ukA fledgling chain specialising inlow-priced cult and popular CDs,vinyl, DVDs and books. Continuallyrotates its selection of ridiculouslylow priced stuff (£3 for a DVD!).Vinyl Junkies94 Berwick Street, W1Oxford CircusT: +44(0)20 7439 2923www.vinyl-junkies.comDestination shop for DJs, artistsand amateurs alike, coveringhouse, disco, funk, techno, newjazz beat, soul, you name it!MarketsBorough Market8 Southwark Street, SE1Noon-6pm Fri; 9am-4pm SatSouthwarkwww.boroughmarket.org.ukThe market for foodies, sellinganything from tapas to venison,from exotic teas to chocolatebrownies, from fish to real ale (andfictional home of Bridget Jones!)CamdenCamden MarketCamden High Street, NW1.9.30am-5.30pm dailyCamden LockCamden Lock Place, off ChalkFarm Road, NW1.10am-6pm dailyCamden Town/Chalk FarmA flea-market sensibility andthe spiritual home of the vintagecraze, with everything fromarmy surplus to ‘40s eveningwear, via rubber pants, joss-sticksand hard-to-find vinyl. Bewarethe crowds!Dover Street Market17-18 Dover Street, W1www.doverstreetmarket.com11am-6pm Mon-Sat(11am-7pm Thurs)Green Park/Piccadilly CircusOpened by Comme des Garçonsfounder Rei Kawakubo in 2004,this is market shopping in themost avant-garde way imaginable(think four floors inside a concreteshell!) – a venue for not onlyComme des Garçons lines, but aBjork‘I’ve always had thatrelationship with Londonthat it was this placewhere everyone wasplaying music, where allthe DJs were, and therewere amazing recordshops. I remember thefirst time I came, when Iwas 16 – it was heaven!’whole bunch of modern, edgy andsometimes outrageous fashionsand objets d’art, from the likes ofJunya Watanabe, Azzedine Alaïaand Haider Ackermann.Columbia RoadFlower MarketColumbia Road, E28am-2pm SunLiverpool Street/Bethnal Green/Old Street (but be prepared to walk!)www.columbiz-flower-market.freewebspace.comMasses of plant and flower stalls,but also an eclectic range of cafés,shops and colourful locals.Riverside WalkMarketUnder Waterloo Bridge,Southbank10am-5pm Sat, SunWaterlooBooks, books and more books.Great for really cheap paperbacks.Portobello RoadMarketPortobello Road, W10, W11General: 8am-6pm Mon-Fri; 9am-1pm Thurs; 7am-7pm Fri, Sat.Antiques: 4am-6pm Sat.Ladbroke Grove/Notting HillGate/Westbourne GroveWorking its way from theNotting Hill end with its antiqueshops to Ladbroke Grove with itsdesigner and vintage stores,Portobello Road is jam-packedwith charm and people!Spitalfields MarketCommercial Street, E1Antiques: 10.30am-4pm Thurs.General: 10.30am-4pm Mon-Fri,Sun. Food 10.30am-4pm. Fashion10.30am-4pm Fri.Liverpool StreetA favourite haunt of the EastLondon fashion pack, Spitalfieldshas the huge covered market –selling anything from junkjewellery to movie posters –at its core, with über-cool shops,bars, cafés and restaurantspeppered all around.Especially gayClone Zone64 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1Piccadilly Circuswww.clonezone.co.ukThe original gay store, filled withnaughty goodies and sexy outfitsperfect for saucy nights in or out.Coffee, Cake and Kink61 Endell Street, WC2T: +44 (0)20 7419 2996www.coffeecakeandkink.comCovent GardenHailed as ‘the best thing sincestrap-ons and sliced bread’, aunique hybrid of café, shop anderotic art gallery – winner of theErotic Awards ‘Innovation of theYear’ prize.Gay’s The Word66, Marchmont Street, WC1Russell SquareT: +44 (0)20 7278 7654Coffee, Cake and Kinkwww.gaystheword.co.ukThe UK’s largest gay and lesbian bookstore and much-loved institution!Prowler Soho3-7 Brewer Street, Soho, W1Piccadilly CircusT: +44 (0)20 7734 4031www.prowlerstore.co.ukFantastic gay emporium sellingeverything you’ll ever need: adultmags, books, DVDs and clothes.SH!39 Coronet Street, Hoxton, N1Old StreetT: +44 (0)20 7613 5458www.sh-womenstore.comRun by women for women, sip acup of tea whilst your other halffingers through the selection ofsex toys and other erotic fancies.Silver Moon @ Foyles113-119 Charing Cross Road, WC2Leicester Square/Tottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7440 1562silvermoon@foyles.co.ukEurope’s largest women’s interestbook shop – official!Rob London24/25 Wells Street, Fitzrovia, W1Tottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 3073 1010www.rob.nlRubber and leather specialists,served with discretion.Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

50Sleeping 51The SandersonSleepingWhether it’s show-stopping old school glamour,fancy-pants modern or just a bed and a basin for yourbasic needs, London has the accommodation thingcovered. Here’s our pick of what it has to offer…LuxurySwishy, swanky, fancy, anythingelse ending in ‘y’.This lot don’tcome cheap, but they’re worth itfor showing off purposes alone.Sponsored byClaridge’sBrook Street, Mayfair, W1K 4HRBond StreetT: +44 (0)20 7629 8860F: +44 (0)20 7499 2210E: info@maybourne.comwww.claridges.co.ukJaw-dropping and ever-so-Englishopulence slap bang in the middleof swanky Mayfair and its showyboutiques, restaurants and oldeworld townhouses. Famed for‘Tea at Claridge’s’ and GordonRamsay’s flagship restaurant.Fancy barely covers it.CoventGarden Hotel10 Monmouth Street, CoventGarden, WC2H 9HBCovent GardenT: +44 (0)20 7806 1000F: +44 (0)20 7806 1100E: covent@firmdale.comwww.firmdale.comNo-nonsense gorgeousnesson a super-cute street, strollingdistance from Covent Garden’sbest shopping/eating/drinkingbits. Swathes and swathesof chocolate brown antiqueloveliness, with a contemporaryattention to detail that pulls inthe movers ‘n’ shakers, and theodd AAA-list movie-star.The DorchesterPark Lane, Mayfair, W1K 1QAHyde Park CornerT: +44 (0)20 7629 8888F: +44 (0)20 7629 8080www.thedorchester.comBordering on the unbelievableluxury, a home from home for manya Hollywood starlet, perched on theedge of Hyde Park. Can’t move forLouis Vuitton cases in the lobby.Haymarket Hotel1 Suffolk Place, nr. St James,SW1Y 4BPPiccadilly CircusT: +44 (0)20 7470 4000F: +44 (0)20 7470 4004E: haymarket@firmdale.comwww.haymarkethotel.comBrand-spanking new with all thetop-notch detailing to prove it,The Haymarket is classic-cumcontemporaryloveliness housedin a John Nash landmark building,perfectly placed for just abouteverything. Muted colours withglitzy splashes, 50 individuallydesigned rooms, the ShootingGallery with its original architecturalfeatures… and that’s beforewe get to the spectacular pool.Hazlitt’s6 Frith Street, Soho, W1D 3JATottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7434 1771F: +44 (0)20 7439 1524E: reservations@hazlitts.co.ukwww.rookeryhotel.comThis is like walking into someone’shouse – if that someone happened tobe Lord Something-or-other with hisimmaculate taste, priceless periodfurnishings, and a penchant for thefinest things in life. A townhouseamidst the 24-hour bustle of Soho,with old school luxury you just wantto eat up. P.S. It’s not very big, sodon’t tell anyone!The Hempel31-35 Craven Hill Gardens,Enjoy more!Superior room accommodation, bottle of wine onarrival and continental breakfast, all from only £104.00 *per room, per night.Chose to relax in the hotel’s onsite day spa, Serenity, orexplore the city and all of London’s top attractions.Sherlock Holmes Hotel, 108 Baker Street, London W1U 6LJT: +44 (0) 20 7486 6161 E: ppshres@pphe.comwww.parkplaza.com*Excluding VAT and subject to availability.Paddington/Bayswater, W2 3EABayswaterT: +44 (0)20 7298 9000F: +44 (0)20 7402 4666E: reservations@the-hempel.co.ukwww.the-hempel.co.ukAnouska Hempel’s mouth-wateringlyminimalistic boutique space,a hop and a skip from KensingtonGardens in West London. It’s all cleanlines, über-sexiness and Zen-likesimplicity, with a garden to die for.Plaza on the RiverRiverbank Park Plaza18 Albert Embankment, SE1 7TJT: +44 (0)20 7958 8000F: +44 (0)20 7769 2400E: rppres@pphe.comwww.riverbankparkplaza.comRelax in unprecedented comfort inyour guest room – each of their394 rooms offers a haven forescape and ample space to work –in an impressive location on theSouth Bank, opposite Tate Britain.Plaza on the River18 Albert Embankment, SE1 7TJVauxhallT: +44 (0)20 7769 2525F: +44 (0)20 7769 2524E: guestrelations@plazaontheriver.co.ukwww.plazaontheriver.co.ukLondon’s finest luxury all suitehotel, comprising 66 suites – in theheart of Vauxhall’s gay ‘village’, anda short hop to Tate Britain andWestminster.visitlondon.com▼

52SleepingClaridge’sSanderson50 Berners Street, W1T 3NGOxford CircusT: +44 (0)20 7300 1400F: +44 (0)20 7300 1401www.sandersonlondon.comCrazy-sexy-cool madness insidean inconspicuous 50’s block justoff the retail madness of OxfordStreet, it’s a no-holds-barred IanSchrager/Philippe Starck combo –Cocteau-esque surreal, all brightand shiny, scarily hip, and therestaurant’s Alain Ducasseperfection. Summer nights in thecourtyard and it’s bumper-tobumpermodels ‘n’ fat wallets.The Soho Hotel4 Richmond Mews, Soho,W1D 3DHTottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 7387 1515F: +44 (0)20 7383 2054E: soho@firmdale.comwww.firmdale.comEclectic and eccentric chic withinSponsored bycrawling distance of Soho’s mostpopular gay joints, with spacious,individually designed rooms anda way-above-average head-countof celebs and media-types in thehotel bar (where Espresso Martinisare a must!).St Martins Lane45 St. Martin’s Lane, CoventGarden, WC2N 4HXCovent Garden/Leicester SquareT: +44 (0)20 7300 5500F: +44 (0)20 7300 5501www.stmartinslane.comEverything about this place isunbridled sexiness, from thedazzling light displays to themodern design-classic furnishingsto the renowned Asia de Cubarestaurant to the impossiblenot-to-impressrooms with theirvery own light installations thatyou can play around with andeverything! It’s dreamy urbanhotel to a T, and then some.myhotel BloomsburySomewherein betweenThese places are lovely, just notas demanding on the old pursestrings/wallet strings/parents.myhotel Bloomsbury11-13 Bayley Street,Bedford Square, WC1B 3HDTottenham Court RoadT: +44 (0)20 3004 6000F: +44 (0)20 3004 6044E: bloomsbury@myhotels.comwww.myhotels.comTerence Conran was on hand tocreate this East-meets-Westboutique on the edge of literaryBloomsbury, where a deliciouspick ‘n’ mix of urban designelements have been thrown intoa feng shui-ed space perfectlylocated for the hustle ‘n’ bustle ofthe West End.myhotel Chelsea35 Ixworth Place, Chelsea, SW33QXSouth KensingtonT: +44 (0)20 7225 7500E: +44 (0)20 7225 7555E: chelsea@myhotels.comwww.myhotels.comThey don’t get much morecharming than this… quietluxury with contemporaryleanings, the emphasis is oncomfort, with a distinct Englishsensibility. City living, in acountry house kind of way.Trythe red rooms for the decadentthing, or the Thai Suite for yourown steam room and Jacuzzi.▼

54SleepingSt Martins LaneThe Colonnade2 Warrington Crescent, LittleVenice, W9 1ERWarwick AvenueT: +44 (0)20 7286 1052E: rescolonnade@theetoncollection.comwww.theetoncollection.comOn a cute-as-a-button street insuper-swanky Little Venice, TheColonnade is everything you wantin a boutique hotel, plus somemore (Frette Egyptian sheets,Molton Brown bathroom products,tapas and cocktails in the e-bar…)that make this a pull for thediscerning visitor as well as thelocal glitterati.The CumberlandGreat Cumberland Place, MarbleArch, W1A 4RFMarble ArchT: +44 (0)870 333 9280F: +44 (0)870 333 9281E: enquiries@thecumberland.co.ukwww.thecumberland.co.ukFrom its art deco exterior tothe mad installations in thebeyond-vast lobby to its location(perched on the Hyde Park end ofOxford Street with views acrossMarble Arch), the recentlySponsored byre-swished up Cumberland issuper-stylish accommodation,with the clientele to match.Grim’s Dyke HotelOld Redding, Harrow Wield,Middlesex HA3 6SHT: +44 (0) 20 8385 3100F: +44 (0) 20 8954 4560E: reservations@grimsdyke.comwww.grimsdyke.comThis Grade II listed country househotel on the outskirts of Londonwas once the home of Gilbert ofGilbert and Sullivan fame, whichwould explain the many G&Srelatedevents.The restaurant isgrand and gorgeous, the lushgrounds a delight.Park Plaza Sherlock HolmesMalmaisonCharterhouse Square,Clerkenwell, EC1M 6AHBarbicanT: +44 (0)20 7012 3700F: +44 (0)20 7012 3702E: london@malmaison.comwww.malmaison-london.comEasily the best ‘chain’ hotel groupon a contempo-luxury hip, London’sonly Malmaison outpost is hushedelegance meets cutting-edge designflourishes, deep in super-trendyClerkenwell.Park Plaza SherlockHolmes Hotel108 Baker Street, London W1U 6LJBaker StreetT: +44 (0)207 486 6161www.parkplaza.com/londonuk_sherlockholmesA design-led hotel thatflawlessly combines traditionwith a contemporary styleoffering 119 air-conditionedluxurious guestrooms and suitesand beautifully decoratedprivate meeting rooms thatprovide the ideal venue forcorporate meetings and stylishprivate events; then there’sSerenity, the recentlyrefurbished Health Club.The Portobello22 Stanley Gardens, Notting Hill,W11 2NGNotting Hill Gate/Holland ParkT: +44 (0)20 7727 2777F: +44 (0)20 7792 9641E: info@portobello-hotel.co.ukwww.portobello-hotel.co.ukHoused in a gorgeous convertedneo-classical mansion in the thickof chi-chi Notting Hill, this is thetype of hotel that makes charmseekers(and celebrities) moist.Lush furnishings, lavish perioddetail, four-poster beds in roomsyou’ll want to ship home – and thedeliciously eclectic PortobelloMarket on your doorstep.The ZetterSt. John’s Square, 86-88Clerkenwell Road, Clerkenwell,▼

56Sleeping57EC1M 5RJBarbican/FarringdonT: +44 (0)20 7324 4444E: info@thezetter.comwww.thezetter.comHotter than hot, the Zetter becamethe hangout du jour for cocktailsippers and trendsetters in one fellswoop of its retro-heavy cool-ness(floor-to-ceiling windows in therooftop studios, and hot waterbottles for chillier London nights).On a budgetSometimes you just want tosave those extra pennies forshopping benders…!Admiral LincolnHouse Hotel33 Gloucester Place, W1Baker Street/Marble ArchT: +44 (0)20 7486 7630F: +44 (0)20 7486 0166www.lincoln-house-hotel.co.ukAdmiral Lincoln HotelA delightfully hospitable gay-friendlyB&B hotel providing English andvegetarian breakfasts, in the heartof the West End, offering Georgiancharm with modern comforts,and en-suite rooms with fast, freewireless internet connection. Closeto Oxford Street’s shopping, theatreland,London’s diverse lesbian andgay scene and on airports’Air busroutes. For special offers anddiscounts visit the website.easyHotelSouth Kensington/EarlsCourt/VictoriaSouth Kensington/Earl’s Court/VictoriaOnline booking onlywww.easyhotel.comThe hotel arm of budget airline‘easyJet’ offers exactly what it sayson the bright orange packaging –an affordable ‘sleep and shower’ inunpretentious surroundings. Andwhen we say affordable, one nightis the price of a vodka-tonic insome joints.The Hoxton81 Great Eastern Street, Hoxton,EC2A 3HUOld StreetT: +44 (0)20 7550 1000F: +44 (0)20 7550 1090E: info@hoxtonhotels.comwww.hoxtonhotels.comWith its roaring fires, flat screentellies, duck-down duvets, free ‘lite’The Hoxtonbreakfasts and fancy-pants restaurant(The Hoxton Grille), this ‘urbanlodge’ in cutting-edge Shoreditchjust seeps class at every turn.Theprices – considering the levels ofservice and high-end design ethic –are staggeringly good.Philbeach30 Philbeach Gardens, Earls Court,SW5 9EBEarl’s CourtT: +44 (0)20 7373 1244F: +44 (0)20 7244 0149E: reservations@philbeachhotel.co.ukwww.philbeachhotel.co.ukGay-owned, gay-run, in oldschool-gayEarls Court, Philbeach isa bit of an institution. With itstheme nights in Jimmy’s bar and alfresco dining come the summermonths, the emphasis is verymuch fun, friendly and, well, gay!PiccadillyBackpackers12 Sherwood Street, Piccadilly,W1F 7BRPiccadilly CircusT: +44 (0)20 7434 9009www.piccadillybackpackers.comAmongst the most centralback-packing accommodation inLondon, this is your basic needscovered, from £12 per night. Andwith 700 beds, it’s the perfectplace for meeting like-mindedmoney-savers/friends/lovers.Come with mates and take over asleeps-six room.Unilet, University ofWestminsterVarious central London locationsT: +44 (0)20 7911 5181F: +44 (0)20 7911 5037E: uniletvacations@wmin.ac.uk/uniletwww.wmin.ac.ukYep, student accommodation.Obviously restricted to universityvacation periods, but for not muchmoney you get good sized rooms,basic amenities, all in a centralLondon location.YHAVarious central London locationswww.yha.org.ukThe internationally recognisedhome of hostelling,YHA has sixLondon outposts, each offeringexactly what you’d expect – awhole bunch of up-for-it holidaymakerson a thrifty budget.HOUSING ADVICE FOR ALL LESBIANS,GAY MEN, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER PEOPLEMONDAY10am - 1pm on the phone020 7359 57672pm - 3.30pm in personLondon Friend, 86 CaledonianRoad, N1WEDNESDAY2pm- 7pm on the phoneTUESDAY2pm - 5pm onthe phone020 7359 5767020 7359 57675.30pm - 7pm in personDean Street Hostel, 91 Dean Street,W1 (entrance on Diadem Court)THURSDAY10am - 1pm on the phone020 7359 576710am - 1pm on the phone - every 1st and3rd Thursday of the month specialistadvice about housing and domestic abuse@ Broken Rainbow on 08452 60 44 602pm - 3.30pm in person,St Giles Centre, 64-68 Camberwell ChurchStreet, SE55pm - 7pm in person - every 2ndThursday of the month specialist advicefor black and minority ethnic LGBT peoplePeckham Pulse, 10 Melon Road, SE15FRIDAY10am - 1pm on the phone020 7359 5767SPECIALISTSERVICES INCLUDE:BLACK & ETHNICMINORITY PEOPLEYOUNG PEOPLEDOMESTIC ABUSEHATE CRIMEALL SERVICES ARE FREE ANDCONFIDENTIALMINICOM: 020 7359 8188www.stonewallhousing.orgTHERE'S NOTHING GRIMABOUT GRIM'S DYKEThe country air, to wander amongst tranquil gardens and on a whimventure into the woods, stop to feed our rescued ducks swimming abouton the moat and then maybe return to your garden suite or balconygarden room. Freshen up for a gourmet experience in Gilbert's awardwinning restaurant or camp it up in a unique Gilbert and Sullivan OperaDinner on a Sunday evening, or even a Murder Mystery Dinner. SpoofWacky Weddings are new and just as hilarious.The grounds are stunning, the house charming, the bedroomscomfortable discreet and quiet. Perfect for that get away from Londonbut not too far, no risk of steaming on the M4 in a traffic jam.Civil Partnership Ceremonies and receptions are very welcome also.All this and only 30 minutes from Marylebone or a little longer on theJubilee and Metropolitan lines!!! Its London’s retreat by tube!!!THERE'S NOTHING GRIM ABOUT GRIM'S DYKEIT’S ALL VERY ENTERTAININGGRIM’S DYKE HOTELOld Redding, Harrow Weald, Middlesex, HA3 6SHTel: +44 (0) 20 8385 3100 Fax: +44 (0) 20 8954 4560Email: reservations@grimsdyke.comWeb: www.grimsdyke.comAARestaurant RosetteSponsored byvisitlondon.com

58MarryingMarryingRSA135m in the air, gazing out acrossLondon (when you’re not staringinto your other half’s eyes!), onone of the most popular touristattractions in the world? Yourguests will be pretty impressed!RSA8 John Adam Street, WC2Charing Cross+44 (0)20 7930 5115www.thersa.org/weddings/cpFor a memorable setting steepedin history, there’s the RSA (RoyalSociety for the encouragement ofArts, Manufactures and Commerce),just off the Strand. RSA House –built by Robert Adam in the 1770s– offers the knock-out grandeur ofthe Great Room or for candlelitintimacy, the Vaults. In-house chefscan create a bespoke menu for yourday, with Wedding Co-ordinatorstaking care of every last detail.Now that same-sex couples can get hitched likeeveryone else in the UK (hooray!), venues acrossLondon are jumping on board and offering theirservices for the big day. These are just a few.Civil Partnerships – to give themtheir official name – give gayand lesbian couples the samerights (and responsibilities!) asstraight couples when theymarry. Before you get ‘married’,though, you need to haveresided in your chosen area forseven days – then, you’ll have towait another 15 days before theceremony can take place. Also,you can’t just choose anywherethat takes your fancy – yourvenue needs to have a license tocarry out the ceremony. Formore information, go towww.stonewall.org.ukSponsored byBertorelli11/13 Frith Street, W1Leicester Square+44 (0)20 7494 3491www.santeonline.co.ukCelebrate in the elegance of thenewly licensed private room, orenjoy a contemporary Italian menuin chic surroundings, with leatherbooths for private moments – rightslap-bang in the heart of Soho!British AirwaysLondon EyeSouth Bank, SE1.Ticket Office:Riverside Building, County Hall,Westminster Bridge Road, SE1Waterloowww.ba-londoneye.comHow about doing it in a stylish pod,VinopolisVinopolis1 Bank End, SE1London Bridge+44 (0)870 241 4040www.vinopolis.co.ukLocated under dramatic arches onBankside, between Tate Modernand Tower Bridge,Vinopolis is awine (and other alcoholicbeverages!) lover’s dream, and astylish place to tie the knot.Choose from a variety of unusualspaces from the dramatic vaultedarches of the Great Halls to thecontemporary Mezzanine.There’salso an excellent culinary serviceand event management team tomake your day extra special.

Essentials60 61EssentialsSome bits ‘n’ bobs you may find useful ifyou’re planning on coming to visitBefore you arriveDo as much research as possible!We’ve listed loads of websites inthis section that will help, and ifyou’re calling here from outside theUK, remember the Country Code –44 – and then drop the first ‘0’ fromthe full UK telephone number.PassportYou’ll need a valid passport (or EUidentity card) to enter the UK!Check with your nearest BritishConsulate if you’re unsure as towhether you’ll need a visa. Noinoculations are required, butmedical insurance is recommended.MoneyIt’s still pound sterling in the UK,and you can bring in as much asyou like. Credit cards are acceptedat most places, and ATM machinesare dotted throughout London.TippingTipping is standard (10-15%) inmost restaurants, though manyinclude Service in the final bill, solook out! Tipping is usually onlystandard in more exclusive bars, butis always at your own discretion.Tipping is becoming less standardin black cabs and private taxis, asfares are increasingly high – butagain, it’s at your discretion. Hotelstaff normally expect small tips.ElectricityVoltage in the UK is 230v. A threepronged adapter plug is required –you can get these at airports.HIV/AIDSGovernment policy does notdiscriminate against visitors whoare HIV+ or have the AIDS virus,therefore entry will not be refused.Ensure all prescription medicinesare carried in their originalcontainers and clearly marked,together with a letter from yourdoctor stating that these are yourprescribed drugs. NationalHIV/AIDS Helpline: Freephone0800 567 123 (24hrs)Age of Consent16. The same for everyone!In an EmergencyFor police, the fire service or anambulance, dial 999.WeatherBe prepared for four seasons inone day, but generally seasonalwith cold winters – with somesnow - and warm, increasingly hotsummers.Average daytime temps:Jan 6c/43fFeb 7c/44fMar 10c/50fApr 13c/55fMay 17c/63fJune 20c/68fJuly 22c/72fAug 22c/72fSep 19c/66fOct 14c/57fNov 10c/50fDec 7c/44fPublic HolidaysSpring Bank Holiday – 28 May 07Summer Bank Holiday – 27 Aug 07Christmas Day – 25 Dec 07/08Boxing Day – 26 Dec 07/08New Year’s Day – 1 Jan 07/08Good Friday – 21 Mar 08Easter Monday – 24 Mar 08May Day – 5 May 08Driving in LondonIf you can help it, don’t! Roadsare busy, parking is expensive,traffic wardens are ruthless, andthere’s the Congestion Charge(www.cclondon.com). MostLondoners stick to public transport.Public TransportYep, it can be overcrowded, and canbe expensive if you’re paying bycash – so get an Oyster Card! It’sthe new-ish and very efficient waymost Londoners pay to get aroundand they can be used on theUnderground (Tube) and on Londonbuses, and it works out a good50% cheaper than if you were topay by cash.You can get an OysterCard at all Tube stations, and manynewsagents. NB.You can’t use anOyster Card in black cabs (yet!).Tube – runs daily from around5.30am (later on Sundays) at moststations, closing around 11.30 pm,but later (around 12.30pm –midnight) at central Londonstations. See map P64.Buses – every journey (long orshort!) is £2 (but only £1 if you geta pre-paid Oyster Card!). Manybuses now insist you pay beforeyou get on, so if you don’t have anOyster Card, and there’s a ticketmachine at your stop, you’ll haveto pay using that then show theticket to your driver. See map P65.Taxis – The famous black cabs areLondon’s licensed taxis, and areusually hailed from the street (theglowing yellow ‘For Hire’ signmeans it’s available!). They’reroomy – fitting five people – andoften have TVs these days! Theycan be expensive, but if there arefive of you, it often works outcheaper than getting the Tube,especially on short journeys.Minicabs cannot be hailed andmust be booked by phone or byperson in the relevant cab office.BEWARE unlicensed cabs – blokesoffering to take you home fornot that much money – of whichthere are many hanging around,especially at night, and especiallyaround Soho and other popularnight spots. These can bedangerous, especially for womentravelling alone.Go to www.tfl.gov.uk or call+44 (0)20 7222 1234 for moreinformation .AirportsHeathrow+44 (0)870 000 0123www.heathrowairport.comLost property: +44 (0)20 8745 7727To and from London:By train: Heathrow Express, to andfrom Paddington station. Runsevery 15 minutes, between 5amand midnight, and takes about 20minutes.+44 (0)845 600 1515www.heathrowexpress.co.ukBy Tube: Piccadilly line, direct tocentral London. Takes about anhour.By taxi: Can be expensive. Up to£50. Takes at least an hour.Gatwick+44 (0)870 000 2468www.gatwickairport.comLost property: +44 (0)870 000 2468To and from LondonBy train: The Gatwick Express, toand from Victoria station, takesabout 30 minutes into London.Single fare, £14.+44 (0)845 850 1530www.gatwickexpress.co.ukBy taxi: Can be expensive. Up toand over £60. Takes at least anhour and a half.Stansted+44 (0)870 000 0303www.stanstedairport.comLost property: +44 (0)1279 663 293To and from London:By train: The Stansted Express,direct to Liverpool Street station,takes about 40 minutes, and costs£15 single-way.By taxi: Can be expensive! Over£65, taking at least an hour anda half.Luton+44 (0)1582 405 100www.london-luton.co.ukLost property: +44 (0)1582 395 219To and from London:By train: Shuttle service to Luton’sParkway Station, then a 30-40minute service to King’s Crossstation. Single fare is around £10.By taxi: Anything from £60 andtakes up to an hour and a half.London City+44 (0)20 7646 0088www.londoncityairport.comLost property: +44 (0)20 7646 0088To and from London:By train: Take the Docklands LightRailway, which is part of the Tubenetwork, straight into town.By taxi: About £20 into the centreof town, taking about half an hour.MagazinesFor up-to-date info on the gayscene, Boyz and QX are the weeklymags to look out for, and are freein gay venues. Diva is the only UKlesbian monthly, whilst Attitudeand GT (Gay Times) remain themonthly glossies for discerning gaygentlemen. For a general overviewof what’s going on in London, TimeOut is always reliable.WWW.gay.comThe comprehensive gay website,with news and reviews.gaydar.co.ukgaydargirls.comShopping for a good time!lounge.uk.netSophisticated socialising for theprofessional lesbian.▼Sponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

62 Essentials63me-me-me.tvEntertainment, gossip, and theLondon party scene – with anirreverent gay twist!Sightseeing ToursPrivate Guided Tours+44 (0)20 7993 6901e: reservations@uk-guided-tours.comwww.uk-guided-tours.comThe luxury and convenienceof a personalized tour. Go whereand when you want driven by aBlue Badge Tourist Guide in acomfortable car.Gay Tours London+44 (0)20 7737 1800e: rainbow@gaytourslondon.comwww.gaytourslondon.comQualified Blue Badge TouristGuides to look after you inLondon and the UK. Themed walks,museum and historic site visits,private driving tours and, ofcourse, local knowledge ofshopping, shows, restaurants, clubsand much more. Tours undertakenin a variety of languages.Urban Gentry44 (0)20 8149 6253e: london@urbangentry.comwww.urbangentry.comTailor-made tours for the styleaware,with inside knowledge onLondon's art, design, fashion andother creative scenes - making youfeel like a stylish local.Gay Groups andServicesMayor of London’s LGBTResource Guidewww.london.gaydata.co.ukLondon Lesbian and GaySwitchboard+44 (0)20 7837 7324www.llgs.org.ukInfo, from HIV to travel to asympathetic ear.CrimeGalop+44 (0)20 7704 2040www.galop.org.ukConfidential hate crime helpline. Inan emergency, always dial 999.DisabilityVisit London accessibility guidewww.visitlondon.com/city_guide/accessible_londonREGARD National Organisationfor Disabled LGBT peoplewww.regard.org.ukEmbassiesAmerican+44 (0)20 7499 9000Australian High Commission+44 (0)20 7379 4334Canadian+44 (0)20 7258 6600French+44 (0)20 7073 1250German+44 (0)20 7824 1300South African High Commission+44 (0)20 7451 7299Spanish+44 (0)20 7235 5555Faith GroupsLGCM-L&G Christian Movementwww.lgcm.org.ukIMAANwww.imaan.org.ukSupport group for LGBT MuslimsKairos in Soho+44 (0)20 7437 6063LGBT social action centre in Soho.HealthTerrence Higgins Trust+44 (0)8451 221 200www.tht.org.ukInfo and advice concerningHIV/AIDS.Orange Clinic+44 (0)845 811 6699West London Sexual Health centreMortimer ClinicMortimer Market, Capper St., offTottenham Court Road, WC1+44 (0)20 7530 5050Free sexual health clinicAntidote LGBT Serviceswww.thehungerford.org/antidote.aspDrugs, alcohol and mental health.NHS Direct+44 (0)845 4647www.nhsdirect.nhs.ukGeneral health information fromqualified nurses.Human RightsStonewallwww.stonewall.org.ukCharity working for lesbian andgay equality. Excellent resource!ImmigrationUK Lesbian and GayImmigration Groupwww.uklgig.org.ukSupport and advice on immigrationissues for same sex couples andlesbian and gay asylum seekers.ProfessionalJakewww.jaketm.orgNetworking for gay professionals.Gay Business Associationwww.gba.org.ukCity Pinkwww.citypink.co.ukFor professional lesbiansVillage Drinkswww.villagedrinks.co.ukSocial networking.Tha Sistahoodwww.thasistahood.orgFor professionally-minded blacklesbiansRace and EthnicityBlack Gay Men’s Advisory Groupwww.bgmag.org.ukBlack Lesbians UKwww.bluk.org.ukUK Blackoutwww.ukblackout.comNaz Projectwww.naz.org.ukwww.planetkiss.org.ukIncluding DOST group for men andKISS group for women.Long Yang Clubwww.lyclondon.comGay Oriental guys and theirfriends.Lesbian and Gay CoalitionAgainst Racismwww.naar.org.uk/lagcarSportsOut For Sportwww.outforsport.orgLesbian and gay sports groups inLondon.Older PeoplePolariwww.polari.orgWorking for better services forolder LGBT people.YouthFreestyle Londonwww.freestylelondon.org.ukChallenging homophobic prejudicefaced by young LGBT people.TransgenderTV/TS Community Newswww.tv-ts.co.ukPress for Changewww.pfc.org.ukFTM Londonwww.ftmlondon.org.ukSponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

64 Tube & Bus Maps65139 to West Hampstead1323Westbourne Park StationLadbroke GroveSainsbury’s390Notting HillGate91074to Putney11PaddingtonStationScienceMuseumVictoria &Albert Museum14to Putney Heath15QueenswayKensingtonGardensRoyalAlbert HallAlbertMemorialto HammersmithKey bus routes and tourist attractions in central LondonLadbroke GroveEdgware RoadNaturalHistoryMuseum274LancasterGateHarrods8453HydeParkWellingtonArch7324159MarbleArchRoyalMewsVictoria StationGreen Park74BuckinghamPalaceWestminsterCathedralLondonZooRegent’s ParkRoyalAcademy12PiccadillyCircusSt. James’sPalaceSt. James’sParkEros24Madame Tussaud’s andLondon PlanetariumRegent StreetVictoria StreetNew Scotland YardOxford StreetWardour StreetWestminsterAbbeyNationalGalleryTelecomTowerAdmiraltyArchHorseGuardsHouses ofParliamentNelson’sColumnWestminster14RoyalFestival HallRV113Cleopatra’s NeedleSavoy PierFestival PierLondonEyeWestminsterPierBritishMuseum188CoventGarden9ImperialWar Museum390to Archway10Royal Courtsof JusticeWaterloo139153 73to Finsbury ParkRoyal NationalTheatre274Sadler’s WellsTheatreBarbicanCentreSt. Paul’sCathedralGlobeTheatre159 to Streatham 12 to Dulwich 4531123153HMS BelfastTower ofLondonRV18TowerBridge15188River ThamesSloane SquareChelseato Fulham BroadwayKnightsbridgeLisson GroveSouthKensingtonVictoriaCoach StationMaryleboneStationGloucesterPlaceMarbleArchPark LaneBelgrave RoadBerkeley SquareGreen ParkStationHyde ParkCornerPimlico Grosvenor Roadto Golders GreenLord’s CricketGroundBakerStreetBondStreetWestminsterCathedralRegent’sParkThe ZooGt. PortlandStreetOxfordCircusto Hampstead HeathCamden TownMornington CrescentWarrenStreet Gower StreetGoodgeStreetTottenham CourtRoad StationCambridgeCircusShaftesburyAvenueKennington RoadLeicesterSquareCamdenRoadEustonStationTrafalgar Squarefor Charing CrossHolbornStationYork WayAgar GroveKing’s CrossSt. PancrasRussell SquareChanceryLaneKingswayAldwychFleetStreetCaledonianRoadElephant & CastleWalworth RoadCuming Museumand LibraryHolborn Viaductfor City ThameslinkLudgate Circusfor City ThameslinkBlackfriars PierUpperGroundTateModernIslington AngelSt. JohnStreetBarbican StationMoorgateBankSt. Paul’sCathedralTemple of MithrasCannonStreetMansion HouseBankside PiertoDeptfordEssex Road StationLiverpool StreetStationMonumentLondon BridgeCity Pierto Seven SistersTower HillTower PierLondon BridgeDuke Street HillRoute 8Route 9*Route 10Route 11Route 12Route 13Route 14Route 15*Route 23Route 24Underground interchangeNational Rail interchangeDocklands Light RailinterchangeEurostar interchangeLondon River ServicesinterchangeShoreditchTower BridgeRoadto BowTowerGatewaytoBlackwallto NorthGreenwichRoute 73Route 74Route 139Route 153Route 159Route 188Route 274Route 390Route 453Route RV1* Heritage Routemaster available on parts of these routesSponsored byvisitlondon.com/gay

66ViewingKenwood House, Hampstead HeathLondon:the movie starWhether it’s a declaration of undying love on theSouth Bank, zombies wandering across WestminsterBridge or Julia Roberts fingering the merchandise inPortobello Road market, London has provided a superstar background for any number of movies. Here aresome locations to keep a look out for.It may have looked like the heartof the English countryside, butthe Regency house Julia Roberts’character, Anna Scott, was filmingat in the 1999 movie Notting Hillwas in fact Kenwood, on northLondon’s too-perfect-to-be-truemega-park, Hampstead Heath.The house has a great little café onthe side and a minute’s walk away isa stupendous view over the heathand then the whole of London.Borough, by London Bridge, willseem very familiar as the lair ofRenee Zellwegger’s Bridget Jonesfrom both those movies and mayalso ring a bell from Guy ‘Mr.Sponsored byMadonna’ Ritchie’s Lock, Stockand Two Smoking Barrels. A greatarea for a wander for its organicmarket, its Dickensian feel and forthe dazzling new Mayor’s officeten minutes away in More London.Even the delicious Clive Owenwas upstaged in Oscar-nominatedCloser by the London AquariumBorough, by LondonBridge, will seem veryfamiliar as the lair ofRenee Zellwegger’sBridget Jones(it has sharks and everything)when he turns up – so he thinks –to meet a hot girl he’s beenchatting to on the internet (it wasreally Jude Law – just think! – buthe did get to meet Julia Roberts).The perfect spot for romance:it’s a short walk up the River fromwhere Andie McDowell receivedHugh Grant’s declaration in FourWeddings and a Funeral.Considering it is now a verychi-chi area, Shad Thames, downby Tower Bridge often gets castto recreate the murkier, moredangerous side of Dickensian London(it’s certainly got the architecture ifnot the atmosphere now it’s hometo some great waterside restaurantsand the brilliant Design Museum).See it take its close-up in TheElephant Man and The FrenchLieutenant’s Woman.One of the most overlookedparts of central London, Lincoln’sInn Fields by Holborn Tube is rarelywithout a film crew: it looks likeOxford or Cambridge and can passfor anytime in the last couple ofhundred years, not that Sliding Doorsneeded to go that far back. Havelunch at The Terrace in the middle ofthe park and visit the divinely quirkyJohn Soames Museum on the northside of the square.The maddest train station everbuilt (it looks more like a gothiccathedral), St. Pancras, up onEuston Road next to the newBritish Library is a very hardworkingbuilding: the St. PancrasChambers, apart from appearing inthe Spice Girls’ ‘Wannabe’ video,are a veteran of films like Batman,Chaplin and Howard’s End. Soon tobe converted into one of thegrandest hotels in London.Hampstead Heath may haveappeared in The Omen and MontyPython’s Holy Grail, but GreenwichPark has starred in Oscar-winningSense and Sensibility and the classicThe Go-Between, both set in the19th century, so you get the picture.For movie maps of London seewww.visitlondon.com/whatson/cinema/movie_maps.htmlSoho MapEatingDetails, pages 22-231. Amato2. Andrew Edmunds3. Balans4. Barrafina5. Bertorelli6. Boheme Kitchen and Bar7. L’Escargot8. Imli9. Mildred’s10. Randall & Aubin11. StockpotDrinkingDetails, pages 30-331. Admiral Duncan2. Barcode3. Duke of Wellington4. The Edge5. Compton’s of Soho6. Escape7. Friendly Society8. G-A-Y Bar9. The Kings Arms10. Rupert Street11. Village Soho12. The Yard13. 79 CXR14. Profile BarClubbingDetails, pages 36-381. Shadow Lounge2. Soho Revue Bar3. G-A-Y4. GhettoOxford Circus9Poland Street9D’Arblay Street2Broadwick StreetLexington StreetOXFORD STREETBerwick StreetGreat Windmill StBrewer StreetVauxhall BridgeRIVERTHAMES8VauxhallWandsworth Road3Miles StWardour Street2 610 1 11710 312Rupert StreetArcher St2Carlisle StreetPiccadilly Circus1Parry St2Albert EmbankmentSouth Lambeth Road135Dean StreetSoho St4SohoSquareFrith Street144Greek StreetSutton RowSHAFTESBURY AVENUE4Kennington Lane58TottenhamCourt RoadManette St7Old Compton StreetLisle Street3Falconberg Ct64Goslet Yard111Romilly StreetCHARING CROSS ROAD13LeicesterSquareVauxhall MapClubbingDetails, pages 36-381. Area2. Fire3. Renaissance Rooms4. Royal Vauxhall Tavern67visitlondon.com/gay