This long-running cruise venue is beloved by countless gay Londoners fond of fleeting encounters — why not join their numbers this Spring?
Say the name Vault139 to a gay man in London and you’re guaranteed one of two responses — either a wry smile and several seconds of reflective silence as hundreds of smutty memories flash before their eyes, or a baffled stare and an apology that they’ve not seen any of the previous 138.
If you’re already familiar with the venue, chances are you’ve been won over by its unique charms and frequently pay a visit. However, if you’re completely unaware of it, let us fill you in, so to speak.
Vault139 is a cruise bar that’s been hidden away in a quiet corner of Central London for the past sixteen years, standing firm against the threat of hook-up apps and the disappearance of other sex-driven venues. Its popularity is no mystery. Head down the steps into the subterranean venue and you’re greeted by
a bar and a low-lit maze of cubby holes and cabins branching off. Visitors normally grab a drink (the first is included in the entry price) and take stock of their surroundings — some lingering eye contact here, a smile there. Then, it’s off into the darker corners for… well, we’ll leave that to your imagination. But yes, it’s exactly what you’re thinking.
Of course, you’re more than welcome to do nothing more than soak up the atmosphere and nod your head to the pumping beats that come courtesy of the three resident DJs — Danny Pitman, Jesus RedSoul and Little Rob.
One of the best things about Vault139 is the changing dress code throughout the week. Sometimes, it’s a fully-dressed session which means you can get to cruising while still wearing your everyday get-up. On other occasions, you’ll have to strip down to your underwear or even go fully naked. This way, exhibitionists and the more shy each have a time in the week when they can go at their own pace. On weekend evenings, it’s the turn of ALL or NOTHING, which gives punters a chance to wear exactly what they want — fetish gear is a pretty popular option during these times.
Entry is only £13 for non-members and £12 for members, but there are times in the week when you could pay even less than that — nothing, in fact. On Wednesdays and Sundays, anybody aged 25 or under can get in for free, while students, Blue Light and CAC cardholders get the same privilege on Tuesdays.
And that’s all you need to know really. What’s stopping you from becoming one of the many Vault139 regulars?
Vault139, 139-143 Whitfield Street, W1T 5EN
Nearest Station: Warren Street
