London doesn’t let many nightlife spots hold their crown for three whole decades, but Ku Bar isn’t just any bar. It’s a rite of passage, a first-kiss backdrop, a dance-’til-closing-time favourite, and next month it officially hits the big 3-0. To celebrate, we caught up with the man who kicked it all off, Gary Henshaw.
And yes, he’s still got the same spark he had back in ’95.
From Charing Cross Road to Queer Royalty
Gary remembers Ku’s opening night perfectly. In December 1995 he was running The Gay Tea Dance at The Limelight and took a chance on a little week-to-week sublet just off Charing Cross Road. He decorated it with posters from his Ibiza days, slapped the name “Ku” on the door, crossed his fingers, and hoped someone would turn up.
Plenty did. Ku immediately became a much-needed coming-out space filled with young, excited, wide-eyed LGBTQ+ Londoners. “It was definitely a twink bar,” Gary says, “but it was exactly what people needed — a fun, friendly place to find their feet.”
What was meant to be temporary is now an institution. “We rented it week by week, so I never imagined we’d still be here 30 years later.”
All Grown Up, Still Full of Energy
Today, Ku has evolved far beyond its tiny original home. With the move to Lisle Street, the launch of Little Ku and the opening of SHE Soho, the brand has grown into a major West End player.
Its look has changed, the crowd has broadened, and the energy has matured — but the core welcome hasn’t shifted an inch. “Our 30th anniversary tagline says it all,” Gary explains. “Your first gay bar, all grown up. We’ve kept up with the times while staying open to everyone.”
Gary’s proudest achievement? “The friendly, professional team. That’s what makes Ku what it is.”
A Birthday Blowout Month
Ku’s rolling out a whole month of celebrations from Monday 3 November, including a very tasty 30 percent off all drinks. Consider it a thank-you to the millions who’ve walked through the doors over the years.
The big event lands on Saturday 6 December with resident queen Vicki Vivacious plus special guest Sandra London, who entertained Ku crowds back in the 90s. Expect bubbles, a free raffle, gift bags and DJs Lloyd-Paul Dixon and Dan Devlin playing well into the night. Gary’s hoping for a full reunion of ex-staff, regulars and old friends.
“It’s been such an incredible ride. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”
What’s Next for Ku?
Once the confetti settles, the team’s diving straight into the future. The Ku app, KUDOS, is becoming a key part of the experience, offering big discounts, queue jumps, and extra perks — including the birthday offer.
Christmas at Ku is always lively, and New Year’s Eve is set to be just as big. Planning has already started for Spring/Summer, with a big focus on Ku’s popular outdoor terrace.
As for Gary’s own 30th? “A massive VIP party at The Limelight,” he laughs. “Although I was actually 31 when Ku opened… which gives the game away a bit.”
Ku Bar has grown, evolved, and welcomed countless people through its doors over the last three decades. Here’s to the next milestone.
Visit Ku Bar during its birthday month:
📍Ku Bar, 30 Lisle Street, WC2H 7BA.
🚇Nearest Tube: Leicester Square
🧑💻 ku-bar.co.uk
