Gay London
About London
Writer Samuel Johnson famously said 'When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life'. No truer statement has ever been proclaimed - and he wasn't even describing the city's gay scene when he said it.
London is more than a destination. It's an experience. Steeped in over a millennium of history, it's the city of King Edward II, Oscar Wilde, Virginia Woolf and Sir Ian McKellan. It's catching the eye of a local as you cruise down Old Compton Street and holding his hand four hours later as you sit on a bench by the Thames.
A quick trip through Soho is a welcome introduction to this world-class metropolis. Old Compton Street pulses as the pink heart of this corner of London, acting as the meeting point of the gay community and a convenient navigational guide from which to explore the nearby landmarks of Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
The East End's Hoxton Square - famous for its collection of extreme artists and happening hotspots - is a marvellous conglomeration of bars, clubs and galleries. Be sure not to miss Brick Lane's delectable curry palaces or nearby Petticoat Lane and its weekend market of fab fashions and second-hand treasures.
Go west, young man, to Knightsbridge, Kensington, Sloane Square and Chelsea for the chicest of clothes, adorable antiques, Harvey Nichols and Harrods - a temple worshipping the art of conspicuous consumption. Earl's Court is a step further in the same direction and formerly home to the bulk of the city's gay population. You can still spot a few pink establishments catering to the local queer community, including a branch of Balans restaurant, magazine and DVD emporium Clone Zone, local drinking spot Brompton's and The Philbeach Hotel - London's largest gay-only place to rest your head.
The verdict? Johnson got it wrong: The man who is tired by London, has just had an amazing holiday!