East London Gay and Lesbian Bars and Pubs

Vodka cranberry with lime. Copyright istock

East London is home to an arty, design and fashion-forward crowd. It also boasts a lively collection of gay and lesbian pubs, bars, and funky drinking spots. Whether you fancy a traditional pub or drag cabaret, it's all here.

The Angel

Camper than a pair of Elton John's pants, The Angel never sees a dull moment. Strip shows, drag acts and karaoke keep the crowd boisterous, and the drinks at this traditional-looking East End boozer are often refreshingly cheap.

The Black Horse

Recently refurbished, this huge, unpretentious venue is renowned for its drag cabaret. If you're looking for somewhere to boogie, the dancefloor here should beckon: the best news is The Black Horse opens till 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Charlie's Bar

Line up a strawberry dacquiri from the huge cocktail menu at the moroccan-themed Charlie's Bar and immerse yourself in an intoxicating programme of alternative entertainment and, on weekends, funky house.

The East

With free pool, go-go dancers, DJs and X-Factor wannabes (or karaoke, to me and you) on various nights of the week, The East, a sister venue to the infamous King's Cross joint, is full of eastern promise!
Open Wed, 5.30pm-1am; Thur-Sat, 5.30pm-2am; Sun, 1pm-midnight

The Joiners Arms

Fashion meets tradition at classic East End boozer, The Joiners Arms. This bustling boozer unites the East End of old and new, and is a hive for the lithe on the weekends. Plus it's home to the legendary Mashed Up party on Sunday.

The Pleasure Unit

With its ripped sofas, slanting dancefloor, raucous live music and club nights, The Pleasure Unit is hardly the place to bring your grandmother for her birthday dinner. Great retro fun, though.

Royal Oak

A cool, dark ambience and some soothing upbeat tunes make Royal Oak a great place for the bleary eyed to wind down after a heavy Saturday night. Thanks to the nearby flower market, it opens at 8am on Sundays – bloomin' lovely!
Open Mon-Sat, 1-11.30pm; Sun, 8am-10.30pm

The Old Ship

The Old Ship is a friendly, vibrant venue that will truly put the wind in your sails before a night's clubbing. Not many sailors, though, sadly.

BJ's White Swan

BJ's White Swan has been flying the old rainbow flag for over 2 decades. The secret of its success? Traditional values with a bit of colourful cabaret thrown into the mix.
Open Mon, 9pm-1am; Tue-Thurs, 9pm-2am; Fri-Sat, 9pm-3am; Sunday, 5.30pm-midnight