West London’s queer scene takes a little more seeking out, but there are still places with a personality of their own. Ted’s has its specialist nights on North End Road, Little Venice offers comedy and cabaret above a pub, and Portsea brings a smaller sauna close to Marble Arch. Different outings for different moods, with community events adding more reasons to get together across this part of town.
West Kensington and North End Road
Ted’s Place
Website tedsplaceuk.co.uk
Address 305A North End Road, London W14 9NS
Nearest station West Kensington
Small, longstanding and very much its own place, Ted’s gives west London a queer night out beyond the Soho circuit. Its programme includes social nights for trans people and cross-dressers, alongside separate men’s cruising sessions. Different crowds, different evenings, plenty of personality in an intimate setting. The event listing will tell you which is which, including dress and entry details. Pick the one that’s for you and head down to North End Road. West London may have fewer queer doors to knock on, but this one has a following.
Little Venice
Canal Café Theatre
Website canalcafetheatre.com
Address Delamere Terrace, Little Venice, London W2 6ND
Nearest station Warwick Avenue
A little theatre above a pub in Little Venice, with comedy, cabaret and satire doing the talking. Canal Café keeps things intimate, so you’re close to the performers and very much part of the room. NewsRevue is a familiar name on its programme, alongside visiting acts and smaller productions that deserve a look. It’s a mixed venue with plenty to tempt a queer audience, rather than an exclusively LGBTQ+ theatre. The auditorium is upstairs, so consult the access information if steps are a concern. Otherwise, pull up a seat and enjoy.
Marble Arch and the edge of the West End
Saunabar Portsea
Website www.gaysaunabar.com
Address 2 Portsea Place, London W2 2BL
Nearest station Marble Arch
A smaller men’s sauna near Marble Arch, Saunabar Portsea puts massage alongside sauna and steam facilities. Its more intimate size offers a different feel from the larger London complexes, with room to take things at your own pace. Come for a treatment or some time away from the noise of the West End. You’re close to Oxford Street, although this is a rather different way to work up a little warmth. Ask about massage bookings if that’s what you fancy, then leave the shopping bags and pavement crowds behind.
More queer company out west
West London Queer Project brings people together through its community programme across the area. Have a look at what’s on if you’d like to meet a few more local faces.
For another pub option, City of Quebec near Marble Arch features in our London gay bars guide. Or head into central London and Soho for a bigger helping of bars, books and browsing.
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